Living Free and with Intention

Happy new year!!!  Am I the only one wondering how 2012 flew by so quickly?

Most people have generated a long list of things they hope to accomplish, or resolutions.  I believe that resolutions are often fruitless.  You're setting yourself up for disappointment.  How many people truly end up accomplishing the long list of things they resolve to do in one year?  Anyone?  Most resolutions fail, for lack of realism, planning, and accountability.  So, why do people keep falling into the 'resolution trap'?

How about living with intentions, not resolutions? 

It has only been a few weeks, yet 2013 has been filled with lots of joy, surprises, and a new feeling of "the-world-is-my-oyster".  Why am I feeling this way? I set an intention that 2013 is my year of living free, following my bliss. 

The way I see it, you have two choices on how you choose to live.  You can live it with no purpose other than to make it through another day, or you can learn how to live within the field of intention — an energy that we all have within us that can make things happen — and change the way we perceive life.

Everything you will accomplish starts with an intention.  An intention is not something you do, like a resolution.  Intention is a state of being, something you connect and surrender to.  It doesn't matter what your intentions are.  It could be your desire to get healthy, live everyday with gratitude, etc.  All that is required is that you REMAIN connected to and trust the source of that desire-- your intuition, inner self, etc.

"For the meaning of life differs from man to man, from day to day and from hour to hour. What matters, therefore, is not the meaning of life in general but rather the specific meaning of a person’s life at a given moment."- Vikotr Frankl

In 2013, I intend to live authentically, going for what burns inside me.  Yes, those things that I have been thinking about that I have been hesitant to explore, because I was afraid.  Not any more.
Life doesn't have to be about the same and fearing what is outside the box.  Life is an art.  Keep designing and creating your life.  Keep up with what makes you feel alive and filled with purpose.  THAT is the MOST important gift you can give your life.

Remember, the most courageous, world changing minds have had to step out of the box to create mind blowing realities.

Don't fear!  Be Bold!  Live in 2013!  love+live.life!

It's All Good: The Encounter at 7-Eleven (part 2)

(for part one, click here)

As our conversation continued, he reflected on the events that are part of his life's tapestry.  He was not sad, nor did he appear bitter.  He said, "I know that I had to go through all that to get where I am now".  "I see all these kids trying to become big time dealers, but none of them have the guts to do what it will take to get there," he mused.  According to him,  'it's all good'.  He believes that his experiences--the poor decisions and adversity--have taught him humility and to focus on what is most important, the next chapter in his life's story. 

I asked if he knew what this next chapter is going to be.  He responded definitively, "YES"!  Through his church, he hosts 'Brother-to-Brother' conversations with young black men, who are at risk or seeking direction in their life. Through his testimony, he shares the reality of what life on the streets and in prison was like with these young men. They dialogue about the challenges they face daily, and develop action plans to stay out of danger.  I was VERY impressed.  He learned to develop strategies for sustainable change not in a classroom, but on the streets 'managing drug runners'. (Here I am spending thousands of dollars to receive a Master's degree in Organization Development (OD)).  He is using knowledge and lessons learned from the streets to help others.  He has reached the 'Freedom to Live' stage of the heroic monomyth (also known as the Hero's Journey).

Joseph Campbell's monomyth or the Hero's Journey from his book- The Hero with a Thousand Faces

Him?  A hero?  Yes, we are all heroes.

According to Joseph Campbell's theory of myth cycles, a hero answers a call and takes a journey from the known to an unknown world.  Along the way, the hero faces tasks and trials that (s)he must face, either alone or with helpers, tools, maps, mentors, and enemies. The hero will face a severe challenge, a place (s)he must go because that is where the lesson is--the whole point of the quest.  If the hero survives, the hero may achieve a great gift (the goal or "boon"), which often results in the discovery of important self-awareness.  The hero then decides whether to return (the return to the ordinary world) with this boon, often facing challenges on the return journey.  If the hero is successful in returning, the boon or gift may be used to improve the world (the application of the boon).

If you're having a hard time with how the journey happens, think Martin Luther King Jr., Gandhi, Star Wars, The Matrix, Celie from Color Purple, Frodo Baggins, Harry Potter, Jesus Christ, and yes, your own life story.  We've all had that hero's call to something that could possibly transform our lives.  Those of us brave enough to answer the call, withstand the trials, and survive the challenge to receive the gift, also have a responsibility.  We have to share what we have learned with others.  We must do so with no regrets of the past and freedom from the bonds of space and time.  We live in the present and make it count!

That's what this encounter at 7-Eleven was about.  It was a reminder that I am on my own hero's journey.  I have the opportunity to share what I have learned with others through this blog, thereby making my world a better place. There is more to come, so stay tuned.  What about you? What journey are you on?  Is there a journey you need to embark on, yet you resist or ignore it?   Are you ready to answer the call? 

A word of advice:  Answering the call has a price and it will cost you; however, it has the power to transform you into the person you are meant to be! 

PS: I was so wrapped up in my exchange with the gentleman at 7-Eleven, I forgot to ask his name. Oh well, it's all good! love+live.life!

It's All Good: The Encounter at 7-Eleven (part 1)

Jim Rohn image courtesy of 74 Lime Lane

This is my first post that will address the issue of faith and spirituality.  I am a Christian, but this post is not about religion, but something deeper.  It is about those unplanned moments we encounter, that have the potential to affirm or make you think twice about what you are doing with your life, and what you believe.  I had such an experience on Friday night.

I am a big believer in nothing happens by mistake.  There are no coincidences.  Everything that happens has a meaning and a purpose.  You might say that my INFP personality is driven by my desire to find meaning in everything, but I might see things differently.  To really honor the lesson and awareness I have gained from this "Encounter", this post will be in two or three parts.  I hope that by sharing this story, you become awakened to those encounters that can lead to great self-awareness of the biggest lesson of all--  You were born for a reason and you matter!

The Encounter...

After an evening of celebration with friends, I was homeward bound and thirsty.  I decided to stop at a 7-Eleven to get some ginger ale and what happened next, as I paid for my drink, was quite unexpected.  My companion had struck a conversation with the employee cashier, which peaked my interest.  The gentleman told us about how he ended up working at 7-Eleven for $500 a week, when he used to take home $5000 a week... as a drug dealer.

It turns out that he used to be a big time drug dealer in the area, who ended up doing six years for his crime.  Upon his release, he got a management job at a construction company, where he earned $1200 a week (I am in the wrong field).  Well, that didn't last long.  As he described it, "I still lived by street codes and the rules in corporate are very different.  I didn't know that."  He witnessed one of the laborers he managed, verbally harass a girl.  After several warnings and no change, he decided to "teach him that you do not speak that way to someone's daughter. " (I'll leave that statement to your imagination).  His misguided act of chivalry cost him his job, hence he now works the late shift at 7-Eleven.

During this encounter, I was struck by how humbled he appeared.  He seemed at peace with how his life has turned out. Something inside me was stirred, because I recognized that peace.  He quietly, yet joyfully began to tell us that he knows it is all part of God's plan.  I knew what he meant.  I have had those why-do-these-things-keep-happening-to-me experiences that no one can explain.  No, I haven't dealt in drugs, nor have I been to jail but in many ways, I been in a different sort of prison.  Just like the man that stood before us with a  peaceful presence and smile on his face, I have learned that being knocked off your plan or being humbled by your life's events, is always for a reason... (click here for part 2)  love+live.life!

Getting To Zero: World AIDS Day 2012

2012 World AIDS Day theme

 December 1, 2012 is World AIDS Day!  A day to remind people from around to world to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, safe sex practices, HIV testing, and demonstrate international solidarity in the face of the pandemic.  After 30 years of the global response to HIV and AIDS, only 24% of young women and 36% of young men in low- and middle- income countries are knowledgeable about HIV transmission and prevention.  These numbers have to get better!!!

According to the Center for Diseases Control (CDC),

• Estimated number of people around the world with HIV: 33.3 Million
• Number of people living in the US with an AIDS diagnosis: 479, 161
• Estimated number of people in the US living with HIV: 1.2 Million
• African Americans, who make up only 14 percent of the U.S. population, make up 44 percent of the HIV-positive population.
• Latinos face three times the HIV infection rates as whites.
• Men who have sex with men represent 2 percent of the U.S. population but account for 61 percent of all new HIV infections.

If these numbers don't make you ask why we are still fighting an uphill battle against HIV/AIDS in 2012, maybe the images will hit home.

 Globally:

Courtesy of World Health Organization

AIDS affects us all!! Infections can be prevented.  Factors that contribute to new infections include:  unprotected sexual encounters, sex with multiple partners, domestic violence, intravenous drug use (sharing needles), homelessness and unstable housing, lack of adequate sexual education, and other risky behavior. 

Contrary to some of the nonsense I've heard from people in my community, THERE IS NO CURE!! YES, you can become infected with HIV and other sexual transmitted infections (STI's) through oral and anal sex.  Until there is a cure, think about what behaviors can put you at risk for infection.  GET TESTED!!  

You can find information on where to get tested, here. love+live.life!

Make your own Facing AIDS declaration at http://facing.aids.gov/

Giving Thanks Week in Pictures

A few shots from my iPhone over the Thanksgiving week.  love+live.life!

Hope in Moving FORWARD!

President Obama and VP Biden, November 2012.  Photo by Pete Souza

After a long and hard fought presidential election season, President Barack Hussein Obama has been re-elected as the President of the United States of America and I am THRILLED!  Along with millions of people, I did my part to get him elected in 2008 and the second time is no different.  I am glad that in the end, community organizing, truth, and the small contributions of ordinary people, thwarted the machinations of those interested in taking the country back to the policies of the 1950's.

GOTV on election day with the Obama campaign in Richmond, VA

This was an ugly presidential election season.  The barrage of negative ads from both the Democratic and Republican camps has ushered in a disappointing new era of what to expect during future presidential campaigns.   No thanks to the Supreme Court's disappointing ruling on Citizens United .
Let's not kid ourselves, this election forced everyone to dig in on their beliefs and values.  As a woman, I am gobsmacked at the thought that some elected officials believe there is such a thing as 'legitimate rape'.  Furthermore, the apparent total disrespect for the President and his Office by the GOP, made it very clear that this election was not all about policy differences.  It had the undertone of something much uglier. 

"I am not concerned with your liking or disliking me... All I ask is that you respect me as a human being." - Jackie Robinson

Well, it is over now and we have to move forward.  It is my hope that much has been learned that will cause our elected officials to put aside the bickering and partisanship to focus on what is best for the country.  This will require collaboration, compromise, effective leadership, and yes, some healthy conflict resolution.  Hmm, sounds like I should offer some organization development services to Congress.  Maybe some team and group development intervention?

As a strong Obama supporter, I have no illusions that this second term will be easier.  I do believe that we will see a modified leadership approach from the President. Our elected leaders will have to work together and those who refuse, will be dealt another shellacking in 2014.  I also hope that 'we' do our part to embrace the rich diversity of people, opinions, beliefs, and values that make living in the U.S a wonderful place to be.

We are all responsible for what happens next, not just the President and Congress.  We are responsible for what happens in our lives and how we respond to the the challenges we will face.  I encourage you to think about what personal visions, goals, dreams, and aspirations are sitting on the shelf.  It is time to dust them off, be creative, develop a strategy, and make them happen.  It takes hope and the belief that if you can see it, you can achieve it.  It will also require hard work, honesty, dedication, and PASSION!  This much I have learned is possible from President Obama's journey and I thank him for being an inspiration. love+live.life!


Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Single Girl's Guide to Surviving Sandy

Oh, Sandy!!  Leave it to women to pack a whopper!  Batten down your hatches and fill up your bath tubs.  Hurricane Sandy's paying the East Cost a BIG visit!  I've braved the weather outside, long lines, and bought 'essentials' to sustain me, if the power goes out.  My friends kid that I'm always prepared (thank you, Brownies) in the event of a catastrophe, but I have to.  As a single woman, I have to rely on Me, Myself, and I.

In honor of Sandy's visit, I've complied the "The Single Girl's Guide to Surviving Sandy".

1. Be a Hoarder

 

On any normal day, I’d never tell you to hoard (unless you're applying for a spot on AMC's show), but under these circumstances, it makes sense to stock up on food and supplies.  Non-perishables like canned soup are preferable for obvious reasons– I recommend the ones with the pull-tab tops in the unlikely, but still horribly frustrating event that something happens to your can opener.

2. Make sure to stock up on batteries!

Batteries are the most essential items to stock on.  Besides the obvious need to see if your power goes out, they can do a lot to preserve your sanity.  Imagine no TV or internet access, how's a girl to stay entertained?  Be creative, think of the multiple ways batteries are a girl's best friend. 

You’ll need several light sources, including flashlights, headlamps, and lanterns.  Store extra batteries for anything that is battery-powered.  Invest in a good quality emergency radio that is battery powered.  If it comes with a solar charger, that’s even better.

One of the best inventions EVER!!!

3. Charge EVERYTHING!

Self explanatory. If you find yourself getting nervous, create a smooth jazz or relaxing playlist on your mp3 player to help calm your nerves. This will also keep those who haven't picked up a book in years sane!

4. Take a shower at 6:30 pm (before the power goes out)

Ladies, just because a hurricane's coming through does not mean you should neglect what's really important--Personal Hygiene.  For those dating, you never know when you might get a 'visitor' to keep you safe when the eye of the storm hits.  Always be prepared.

5. Stock up on water and fill your pots, bathtub and buckets with water.  

 Another important essential.  Ladies, I know we are often watching our weight, however 'weight loss by dehydration' is not a smart fad you want to embark on.  We need to stay hydrated for several reasons:

1. Your body needs water to keep your organs functioning properly.  Plus, drinking water helps flush out the toxins in your system, hence drinking more water = frequent visits to the bathroom.
2. A well hydrated person often has clear healthy skin.
3. Your body needs enough water to regulate your body temperature. This will be key if your power goes out.
4. Water keeps your body from dehydrating after Lolatini's, Martini's, and the other hurricane alcohol concoctions of your choice. You won't wake up with hangovers. 

5. Catch up on your reading or those books collecting dust in your library

6.  Keep calm and have a glass of wine!

At the end of the day, stress, and panic get you nowhere. You might as well make the most of the situation.  Stay indoors, stay safe.  Enjoy your time off, grab a book, a throw or blanket, relax on the sofa and a have glass of wine. love+live.life!