As the aroma of my first cup of coffee tickles my senses; I am mentally gearing up for the start of a new job as well as returning back to school for the winter quarter. While the steam of my first morning brew brushes against my cheek, I take a sip, exhale and relax. In realizing that the start of new job always raises my anxiety level, I refuse to allow my mind to become a battleground for emotional overload. I allow the coffee to work its magic and take this opportunity to be thankful; thankful for being able to find a job in an economy that has seen its highest unemployment rate sense 1987. With each sip, I reflect on the promise of hope and become invigorated by each breath I take. Life is never promised and should never be taken for granted. So as I began this day, I send a message of love and hope. I hope that you would take this opportunity to relax, be thankful for life and enjoy your first morning brew.

Image Bashing









We are all familiar with the power of images. They play a large role in our perception of the world around us by contributing to the way we think, feel, act and interact with people daily. Images have the power to entice, persuade and dissuade in addition to stimulating emotions of fear, dismay or anxiety. The list is never ending, and we often dismiss the power of images; never questioning—our inner selves—to make sure that our first reaction is the best one.


What would you do?

What is your first reaction when you realize that you are on a flight with several Muslims? Do you automatically go into panic mode by assuming that he or she is a terrorist? Do you blatantly study their actions; looking for any odd behavior that may be “strange” to you? For nine passengers yesterday on an AirTran flight, being Muslim and having casual conversation about airplane safety was obviously a crime. Although the conversation was between a husband and his wife (who were traveling with their young children on vacation) other passengers were also removed due to their religious practice and race.
With the Images of 911 being etched in the minds of Americans, many of us continue to harbor unresolved resentment towards a group of individuals merely for his or her religious belief. Though all of the passengers were detained, questioned and released by the FBI, AirTran refused to accommodate the passengers with a new flight.
http://muslimmatters.org/2009/01/02/nine-muslim-passengers-removed-from-airtran-flight/



After discovering this article, I was completely outraged by the ignorance that continues to saturate today’s society. Although we want change, circumstance as this one illustrates a lack of acceptance for those who do not fit into the “norms”.





In moving towards a better you, issues as this one should matter. Each of us can play a role by starting with self. What roles do Images play in your beliefs about a culture, religion, race etc..?




You can start by being honest with you!



"milestone in the comprehensive system of a self-knowing – self-analytic vehicle that empowers a person to pilot his or her own self-growth and success in life”
http://www.imagepsychology.com/

Be Inspired

"Deliverance is not found in the action, but sought in the sacrifice"

"Humility is an experience that should be met with grace"

"The path must be embraced before it is understood "

"Hope is renewed each day you wake up"

Quotes by senasmiles

Boldog u'j e'vet!

When the ball drops, how do you say Happy New Years?

Is this a social phrase that recognizes cultural differences or have social norms negated other forms of expression when bringing in the New Years? Let’s start the New Years of right by exploring others ways of saying Happy New Year.

In reflecting on 2008, what goals did you accomplish? In sharing your accomplishments you may influence someone else to go for their dreams.In 2008, a pivotal moment for me was returning to college after a 15 year hiatus and graduating from Community College of Philadelphia with a 4.00 grade point average. This was no easy task and required a great deal of sacrifice, but the mere joy of walking down the aisle was worth all the hard work. As I continue my educational endeavors, I hope that you will take a risk and make your dreams a reality.

senasmiles

It is time to Forgive!

With 4 days left to the New Year, look into the mirror and Face those demons that have pulled you down far too long. When we keep secrets in the dark, they often lead to a bitter heart and a dying spirit. As the year comes to an end, take this opportunity to Face and Forgive yourself or someone else. Seize this opportunity and let your Heart be Free.

I am choosing to forgive myself and my husband. I am letting go of the hurts and pains and pushing forward.

What am I faced with today?

As 2009 approaches, I have been recycling the last 361 days in preparation for brining in the New Year. Although the past year has been a roller coaster ride of academic achievements, unemployment and marriage woes; I am filled with hope and optimism. I am determined to face the past year—for all it offered—joy, love, disappointments and pains by embracing the power of chose; the power to look in the mirror and be Face 2 Face with the past, present and future. The reflection in the mirror tells a story that cannot be avoided. In facing myself, I willingly sacrifice my pride in order to explore the most intimate details of self.

In bringing in the New Year, are you willing to be Face 2 Face with you?