Greetings Global Villagers and Urban Angels, LLC:
TGIF!!
We have had great discussions this week about triggers. But not all triggers are negative nor do all of them evoke adverse feelings. Some triggers are positive and evoke friendship, support, trust, and commitment.
Urban Angels, LLC is a diverse group of over 1800 members. One of the great benefits of being a member is that we can network with each other and have access to various resources. For instance, one of the leaders of the group reached out to me for support with a major project that he has been working on for three years. Through word-of-mouth, relationship-building, and connecting, he entrusted my input and expertise. This triggered feelings of gratefulness, humility, and honor within me.
Hopefully, as we begin working together, we will build a friendship that will last beyond Facebook and other social media networks. Also, my hope is that this Flying-By-Friday blogspot will inspire members to share how they were positively triggered by someone else in the group. Maybe, just maybe, this will begin a pay-it-forward within Urban Angels, LLC.
Wanna join the V-formation? I hope so...
Why?
Because Urban Angels fly by with greatness!!
Friday, July 15, 2011
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Thriving-In-Transition Thursday!!
Greetings Global Villagers:
All this week we have been talking about triggers. As a reminder, Marcia Perkins-Reed, the author of Thriving in Transition, declared that we are always in transition!!
In order to live our most effective lives, we must learn how to transition even after we have experienced painful and traumatic events. On last Thriving-In-Transition Thursday, we discussed various ways of operating at The New Zero by going with the flow of change. One of those ways is to allow for unpredictability.
What are the correlations of being triggered by past events to allowing for unpredictability to thriving in transition? I'm glad you've asked!! Perkins-Reed identified the Coper, which are those of us who have "chosen immature and maladaptive strategies" [to manage life. Also, Copers are those of us who] don't believe that we have any other choice, but to react as we have in the past" (p. 32).
We are triggered during unpredictable occurrences in our lives. Like I've shared on this Introspective Tuesday, I never intended to burst into tears when I smelled oregano for the first time in 7 years. It was an unpredictable occurrence. On the one hand, I could have 'coped' by choosing the immature strategy of never using or eating food seasoned with oregano again because of my initial reaction and how much it reminded me of my mother. On the other hand, I could have 'thrived' by allowing myself to transition from a place of grief and loss to a place of openness and freedom. I chose the latter. At that time, I chose to allow myself to cry, experience the sense of loss, and talk about my pain with my friend. Currently, I am thriving; I am free to eat food seasoned with oregano with no adverse feelings.
Are you a Coper? How do you handle your triggers? Do you go with the flow of unpredictable occurrences? Do you perceive that you have options? Just some food for thought...
Why?
Because you have the greatness to thrive in transition!!
All this week we have been talking about triggers. As a reminder, Marcia Perkins-Reed, the author of Thriving in Transition, declared that we are always in transition!!
In order to live our most effective lives, we must learn how to transition even after we have experienced painful and traumatic events. On last Thriving-In-Transition Thursday, we discussed various ways of operating at The New Zero by going with the flow of change. One of those ways is to allow for unpredictability.
What are the correlations of being triggered by past events to allowing for unpredictability to thriving in transition? I'm glad you've asked!! Perkins-Reed identified the Coper, which are those of us who have "chosen immature and maladaptive strategies" [to manage life. Also, Copers are those of us who] don't believe that we have any other choice, but to react as we have in the past" (p. 32).
We are triggered during unpredictable occurrences in our lives. Like I've shared on this Introspective Tuesday, I never intended to burst into tears when I smelled oregano for the first time in 7 years. It was an unpredictable occurrence. On the one hand, I could have 'coped' by choosing the immature strategy of never using or eating food seasoned with oregano again because of my initial reaction and how much it reminded me of my mother. On the other hand, I could have 'thrived' by allowing myself to transition from a place of grief and loss to a place of openness and freedom. I chose the latter. At that time, I chose to allow myself to cry, experience the sense of loss, and talk about my pain with my friend. Currently, I am thriving; I am free to eat food seasoned with oregano with no adverse feelings.
Are you a Coper? How do you handle your triggers? Do you go with the flow of unpredictable occurrences? Do you perceive that you have options? Just some food for thought...
Why?
Because you have the greatness to thrive in transition!!
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Wonderfully-Sexual Wednesday!!
Happy Hump Day Global Villagers:
Instead of picking up where we left off from last week, I want us to continue on the topic of triggers from this week's Introspective Tuesday blog spot!
As we've shared on yesterday, the term trigger is used within the recovery community. In addition, people who are grieving may be triggered by something that reminds them of their deceased loved one. On this Wonderfully-Sexual Wednesday, let's discuss how people who have been sexually traumatized may be triggered.
Sexual trauma refers to sexual situations, in which we are unprepared for, that cause intense fear, powerlessness, shame, and guilt. People who have been sexually traumatized are left to deal with long-term emotional, psychological, and interpersonal problems, to name a few. Triggers from sexual trauma are automatic responses to present-day stimuli.
Like we discussed on yesterday, triggers of sexual trauma can be experienced as adverse emotions. Moreover, some triggers from sexual trauma may be experienced as physical sensations in the body. Even certain sexual acts can trigger our sexual trauma. Some people who have experienced sexual trauma may also experience post-traumatic stress disorder, known as PTSD, which is a type of anxiety disorder that is triggered by a traumatic event.
The Sexualization Circle of the Five Circles of Sexuality by the Advocates for Youth, refers to the use of sexuality to influence, control, or manipulate others. Forms of sexualization range from rape, incest, sexual harassment, withholding sex, to seduction and/or flirting. If a person has experienced sexual trauma, then the other person used his or her sexuality as a form of control.
To learn more about how present-day stimuli may trigger your past sexual trauma, consider taking my 8-session psycho-educational intervention titled, Demystifying Sexuality and the Impact of Trauma. For more information, please feel free to contact me at helpingyou@latishaferrara.com.
Why?
Because every aspect of you was wonderfully created with greatness!!
Instead of picking up where we left off from last week, I want us to continue on the topic of triggers from this week's Introspective Tuesday blog spot!
As we've shared on yesterday, the term trigger is used within the recovery community. In addition, people who are grieving may be triggered by something that reminds them of their deceased loved one. On this Wonderfully-Sexual Wednesday, let's discuss how people who have been sexually traumatized may be triggered.
Sexual trauma refers to sexual situations, in which we are unprepared for, that cause intense fear, powerlessness, shame, and guilt. People who have been sexually traumatized are left to deal with long-term emotional, psychological, and interpersonal problems, to name a few. Triggers from sexual trauma are automatic responses to present-day stimuli.
Like we discussed on yesterday, triggers of sexual trauma can be experienced as adverse emotions. Moreover, some triggers from sexual trauma may be experienced as physical sensations in the body. Even certain sexual acts can trigger our sexual trauma. Some people who have experienced sexual trauma may also experience post-traumatic stress disorder, known as PTSD, which is a type of anxiety disorder that is triggered by a traumatic event.
The Sexualization Circle of the Five Circles of Sexuality by the Advocates for Youth, refers to the use of sexuality to influence, control, or manipulate others. Forms of sexualization range from rape, incest, sexual harassment, withholding sex, to seduction and/or flirting. If a person has experienced sexual trauma, then the other person used his or her sexuality as a form of control.
To learn more about how present-day stimuli may trigger your past sexual trauma, consider taking my 8-session psycho-educational intervention titled, Demystifying Sexuality and the Impact of Trauma. For more information, please feel free to contact me at helpingyou@latishaferrara.com.
Why?
Because every aspect of you was wonderfully created with greatness!!
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Introspective Tuesday!!
Greetings Global Villagers:
On this Introspective Tuesday, we will focus specifically on triggers.
The term trigger is used in several contexts. Those in the recovery community use the term trigger in reference to people, places, or things that evoke the desire to return to drugs and/or alcohol use. To avoid relapse, those in recovery are taught how to deal with their triggers. The first step is to identify those things in life that tempt them to use drugs and/or alcohol.
The term trigger is also used by those who are grieving a loss. Certain movies, smells, places, pictures, activities, or songs may trigger one's thoughts about their deceased loved one. These types of triggers can occur unexpectedly. For instance, my mother seasoned her food with oregano more often than anyone cared for. Seven years after her death while I was cooking dinner at a friend's house, I grabbed the oregano and began seasoning my food. I immediately burst into tears. Unbeknown to me, that was the first time I smelled oregano since her death. Unconsciously, I stopped using oregano because it reminded me of my mother. On that day, my grief was triggered and I experienced the feelings associated with losing her.
The point I'm trying to make on this Introspective Tuesday is that we are all triggered by someone or something. Most times, what others say or do, certain places, or specific things evoke adverse feelings or responses within us. When feelings or responses are brought to the surface we have to introspectively ask ourselves, "What is going on within me that is causing me to be in this state?" "Why is this (person, place, thing, or circumstance) bothering me?"
Please ponder the following concept:
Why?
Because you must address anything that hinders the fulfillment of your greatness!!
On this Introspective Tuesday, we will focus specifically on triggers.
The term trigger is used in several contexts. Those in the recovery community use the term trigger in reference to people, places, or things that evoke the desire to return to drugs and/or alcohol use. To avoid relapse, those in recovery are taught how to deal with their triggers. The first step is to identify those things in life that tempt them to use drugs and/or alcohol.
The term trigger is also used by those who are grieving a loss. Certain movies, smells, places, pictures, activities, or songs may trigger one's thoughts about their deceased loved one. These types of triggers can occur unexpectedly. For instance, my mother seasoned her food with oregano more often than anyone cared for. Seven years after her death while I was cooking dinner at a friend's house, I grabbed the oregano and began seasoning my food. I immediately burst into tears. Unbeknown to me, that was the first time I smelled oregano since her death. Unconsciously, I stopped using oregano because it reminded me of my mother. On that day, my grief was triggered and I experienced the feelings associated with losing her.
The point I'm trying to make on this Introspective Tuesday is that we are all triggered by someone or something. Most times, what others say or do, certain places, or specific things evoke adverse feelings or responses within us. When feelings or responses are brought to the surface we have to introspectively ask ourselves, "What is going on within me that is causing me to be in this state?" "Why is this (person, place, thing, or circumstance) bothering me?"
Please ponder the following concept:
"It's never about other people or external circumstances. It's always about us and the problem lies within us. Until we look within ourselves and figure out what needs to be sorted through, we will always be triggered in that area, wherever that area is."Selah...
Why?
Because you must address anything that hinders the fulfillment of your greatness!!
Monday, July 11, 2011
Magnificent Monday!!
It's a Magnificent Monday Global Villagers:
I hope you had a great weekend!!
It's a new day and the beginning of a new workweek. I want us to remember the definition of magnificent, which means to be great indeed or exceptionally fine. I want to ask you a question. What personal attributes do you possess that are great indeed? Oftentimes, we know our weaknesses. More often, we spend time trying to improve our weaknesses.
Let's try something different this week. Take some time on this Magnificent Monday to write down your attributes and strengths. After writing them down, then assess what needs to be done to strengthen them. For instance, I am the developer and facilitator of two 8-session group-level, psycho-educational curricula on human sexuality. One of my curricula is titled, Demystifying Sexuality and the Impact of Trauma. I am very confident in my group facilitation skills and my knowledge base of human sexuality as you can see in my Wonderfully-Sexual Wednesdays blog posts.
Excitedly, I was recently reintroduced to Toastmasters International, which provides a mutually supportive and positive learning environment for people to develop communication and leadership skills. I am considering joining the Philadelphia First Toastmaster Club to sharpen these specific skills.
So, let's make it a Magnificent Monday by strengthen your strengths this workweek. In turn, everything that you do will be great indeed.
Why?
Because it's a Magnificent Monday and you were created with greatness!!
I hope you had a great weekend!!
It's a new day and the beginning of a new workweek. I want us to remember the definition of magnificent, which means to be great indeed or exceptionally fine. I want to ask you a question. What personal attributes do you possess that are great indeed? Oftentimes, we know our weaknesses. More often, we spend time trying to improve our weaknesses.
Let's try something different this week. Take some time on this Magnificent Monday to write down your attributes and strengths. After writing them down, then assess what needs to be done to strengthen them. For instance, I am the developer and facilitator of two 8-session group-level, psycho-educational curricula on human sexuality. One of my curricula is titled, Demystifying Sexuality and the Impact of Trauma. I am very confident in my group facilitation skills and my knowledge base of human sexuality as you can see in my Wonderfully-Sexual Wednesdays blog posts.
Excitedly, I was recently reintroduced to Toastmasters International, which provides a mutually supportive and positive learning environment for people to develop communication and leadership skills. I am considering joining the Philadelphia First Toastmaster Club to sharpen these specific skills.
So, let's make it a Magnificent Monday by strengthen your strengths this workweek. In turn, everything that you do will be great indeed.
Why?
Because it's a Magnificent Monday and you were created with greatness!!
Friday, July 8, 2011
Flying-By-Friday!!
Greetings Global Villagers and Urban Angels, LLC:
What's up? I trust everyone had a great week, especially since it was a short one!!
One of the Angels of Preach My Sister (PMS), the for women only Facebook group of Urban Angels, LLC, and I landed at a quaint spot in East Falls. During our time together, we talked, ate, laughed, cried, exhorted, educated, enlightened, and even checked one another. It always fascinates me to connect with other women on what I consider to be 'gut level.' Very rarely do I find a woman who is willing to expose herself with another woman, especially one that she does not know. Better yet, a woman will not expose herself to another woman whom she met via Facebook.
Most times, women operate from a place of brokenness, competition, rejection, hurt, pain, mistrust, dishonesty, and pretense; consequently, they guard themselves from other women. This is not the case with PMS. The founder, Jena Williams, spreads her wings and leads the V-formation through the air for her Angels to follow. It is because of her that some of the women of PMS have met and connected. Friendships are being formed, support is being offered; love is being spread.
So on this Flying-By-Friday, I salute all of the Angels of PMS. Soar, Angels soar!!
Do I see you spreading your wings? I should be...
Why?
Because Urban Angels, LLC members fly by with greatness!
What's up? I trust everyone had a great week, especially since it was a short one!!
One of the Angels of Preach My Sister (PMS), the for women only Facebook group of Urban Angels, LLC, and I landed at a quaint spot in East Falls. During our time together, we talked, ate, laughed, cried, exhorted, educated, enlightened, and even checked one another. It always fascinates me to connect with other women on what I consider to be 'gut level.' Very rarely do I find a woman who is willing to expose herself with another woman, especially one that she does not know. Better yet, a woman will not expose herself to another woman whom she met via Facebook.
Most times, women operate from a place of brokenness, competition, rejection, hurt, pain, mistrust, dishonesty, and pretense; consequently, they guard themselves from other women. This is not the case with PMS. The founder, Jena Williams, spreads her wings and leads the V-formation through the air for her Angels to follow. It is because of her that some of the women of PMS have met and connected. Friendships are being formed, support is being offered; love is being spread.
So on this Flying-By-Friday, I salute all of the Angels of PMS. Soar, Angels soar!!
Do I see you spreading your wings? I should be...
Why?
Because Urban Angels, LLC members fly by with greatness!
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Thriving-In-Transition Thursday!!
Greetings Global Villagers:
I know that you have been thriving-in-transition. I have and it has been such an awesome experience!!
Last week, we discussed how Marcia Perkins-Reed described the concept of The New Zero, which is accepting that change is the norm. On this Thriving-In-Transition Thursday, we will review ways of operating at The New Zero when circumstances in our lives shift. Remember, as life changes we must go with the flow. We can no longer manipulate our circumstances for the sake of self-comfort (p. 27).
Let's look at a few ways that we can go with the flow:
Why?
Because you have the greatness to thrive-in-transition!!
I know that you have been thriving-in-transition. I have and it has been such an awesome experience!!
Last week, we discussed how Marcia Perkins-Reed described the concept of The New Zero, which is accepting that change is the norm. On this Thriving-In-Transition Thursday, we will review ways of operating at The New Zero when circumstances in our lives shift. Remember, as life changes we must go with the flow. We can no longer manipulate our circumstances for the sake of self-comfort (p. 27).
Let's look at a few ways that we can go with the flow:
- Be fluid, not stable
- Allow room for unpredictability
- Know that life has multiple, simultaneous transitions
- Operate from a cyclical paradigm; life is not linear
- Be flexible
- Embrace diversity
- Take the courage to change careers if need be
- Stop procrastinating
- Be internally authentic
- Take self-responsibility (p.27)
Why?
Because you have the greatness to thrive-in-transition!!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Wonderfully-Sexual Wednesdays!!
Happy Hump Day Global Villagers:
Oftentimes when I share with people that I have written two curricula on the topic of human sexuality, they are either really leery or really interested!!
It still shocks me that this topic is still so taboo when our society is inundated with sex from billboards to Prime Time TV. Recently in late June, Governor Cuomo of New York just signed the same sex marriage bill into law. Moreover, back in April Ashley Judd disclosed her childhood sexual trauma in her memoirs titled, All That Is Bitter and Sweet.
The point I am trying to make is that people are engaging in sex, talking about sex, Skypeing sex, sexting, abusing others sexually, etc., but they are not learning about human sexuality. The five circles of sexuality provide a clear understanding that our sexual beings function as a system.
Advocates for Youth has created The Circles of Human Sexuality handout. Please click the link, review the handout, and comment below. Let's talk about this maturely and end the taboo.
Why?
Because every aspect of you was wonderfully created with greatness!!
Oftentimes when I share with people that I have written two curricula on the topic of human sexuality, they are either really leery or really interested!!
It still shocks me that this topic is still so taboo when our society is inundated with sex from billboards to Prime Time TV. Recently in late June, Governor Cuomo of New York just signed the same sex marriage bill into law. Moreover, back in April Ashley Judd disclosed her childhood sexual trauma in her memoirs titled, All That Is Bitter and Sweet.
The point I am trying to make is that people are engaging in sex, talking about sex, Skypeing sex, sexting, abusing others sexually, etc., but they are not learning about human sexuality. The five circles of sexuality provide a clear understanding that our sexual beings function as a system.
Advocates for Youth has created The Circles of Human Sexuality handout. Please click the link, review the handout, and comment below. Let's talk about this maturely and end the taboo.
Why?
Because every aspect of you was wonderfully created with greatness!!
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Introspective Tuesday!!
Greetings Global Villagers:
Boy, have I had plenty of opportunities to engage in introspection this past weekend!! I love my life! I am meeting so many different types of people and doing some great things.
Because I am open to the life lessons from every social interaction, I glean from each person I meet. Whether I view interactions as positive or negative, I still come out better than I was before the engagement.
On this Introspective Tuesday, I want us to ponder on two words: authenticity and transparency. According to Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary, to be authentic means to be real, actual, and true to one's personality and character. To be transparent means freedom from pretense and deceit and readily understood.
When you interact with people for the first time do you send your representative or are you authentic? Are you transparent and easily understood, not leaving the other person wondering what you meant or are you vague and unclear?
Let's return to living our greatest lives by following the golden rule: Treat others the way you want to be treated. If you want honest interaction, then be honest. If you want to have a clear understanding of the grounds of the new relationship, then provide clarity. If you want to truly know the person you are dealing with, then be authentic and transparent.
Being authentic and transparent sheds light on other people's pretense and deceit. Make a vow to yourself today to allow your 'little light to shine.'
Why?
Because your greatness is authentic; so, don't darken it with pretense!!
Boy, have I had plenty of opportunities to engage in introspection this past weekend!! I love my life! I am meeting so many different types of people and doing some great things.
Because I am open to the life lessons from every social interaction, I glean from each person I meet. Whether I view interactions as positive or negative, I still come out better than I was before the engagement.
On this Introspective Tuesday, I want us to ponder on two words: authenticity and transparency. According to Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary, to be authentic means to be real, actual, and true to one's personality and character. To be transparent means freedom from pretense and deceit and readily understood.
When you interact with people for the first time do you send your representative or are you authentic? Are you transparent and easily understood, not leaving the other person wondering what you meant or are you vague and unclear?
Let's return to living our greatest lives by following the golden rule: Treat others the way you want to be treated. If you want honest interaction, then be honest. If you want to have a clear understanding of the grounds of the new relationship, then provide clarity. If you want to truly know the person you are dealing with, then be authentic and transparent.
Being authentic and transparent sheds light on other people's pretense and deceit. Make a vow to yourself today to allow your 'little light to shine.'
Why?
Because your greatness is authentic; so, don't darken it with pretense!!
Monday, July 4, 2011
Magnificent Monday!
Greetings Global Villagers:
Not only is it a Magnificent Monday, but it's Independence Day!!
So, let's use our independence to be safe and positive; live our lives to the fullest; enjoy our family and friends; and get some much needed rest!
Why?
Because you were created with greatness!!
Not only is it a Magnificent Monday, but it's Independence Day!!
So, let's use our independence to be safe and positive; live our lives to the fullest; enjoy our family and friends; and get some much needed rest!
Why?
Because you were created with greatness!!
Friday, July 1, 2011
Flying-By-Friday
Greetings Global Villagers and Urban Angels, LLC:
It's Flying-by-Friday and the Urban Angels have landed right here on Ms. Latisha Helps Blogspot!!
However, this is not the only place they landed this week. Two Urban Angels met on Wednesday in the Germantown section of Philadelphia and had a 'grown folk' conversation. The conversation went 'full circle' as my fellow Angel and I rapped for over two hours. We talked about family, work, children, race, politics, the food industry, peoples' characters...Man, it was an awesome experience!!
The point I am trying to make is that Facebook and the various groups that are created on it serves a great purpose. Like everything else in life, we are the architects of our Facebook experience. For instance, my fellow Angel shared his heart for children with me and I shared my passion for writing and connecting with people. In our sharing, we were able to brainstorm on ways that we can connect and support one another's efforts. I must admit that if it were not for Facebook and the Urban Angels, LLC group, I would not have ever been blessed by his presence.
So as you are enjoying your Independence Day weekend, be the sole architect of your experiences. Make your life great!!
Do I see you spreading your wings? I should be...
Why?
Because Urban Angels, LLC members fly by with greatness!!
It's Flying-by-Friday and the Urban Angels have landed right here on Ms. Latisha Helps Blogspot!!
However, this is not the only place they landed this week. Two Urban Angels met on Wednesday in the Germantown section of Philadelphia and had a 'grown folk' conversation. The conversation went 'full circle' as my fellow Angel and I rapped for over two hours. We talked about family, work, children, race, politics, the food industry, peoples' characters...Man, it was an awesome experience!!
The point I am trying to make is that Facebook and the various groups that are created on it serves a great purpose. Like everything else in life, we are the architects of our Facebook experience. For instance, my fellow Angel shared his heart for children with me and I shared my passion for writing and connecting with people. In our sharing, we were able to brainstorm on ways that we can connect and support one another's efforts. I must admit that if it were not for Facebook and the Urban Angels, LLC group, I would not have ever been blessed by his presence.
So as you are enjoying your Independence Day weekend, be the sole architect of your experiences. Make your life great!!
Do I see you spreading your wings? I should be...
Why?
Because Urban Angels, LLC members fly by with greatness!!
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Thriving-In-Transition Thursday
Happy Thriving-In-Transition Thursday!!
Global Villagers, what transitions have you made this week? Did you take the challenge from this week's Magnificent Monday blog to write out your 10-year life plan?
For some of us, planning out our lives 10 years in advance may require us to make mental, emotional, and spiritual transitions. Last week, we discussed the ways that we may operate at The Old Zero, which is living in denial, refusing to take responsibility, and refusing to grow in all areas of life. Today, we will discuss Perkins-Reed's concept of The New Zero, who wrote,
So continue to make the mental, emotional, and spiritual transitions that are needed to plan out your greatest life while embracing that change is the norm.
Why?
Because you have the greatness to thrive-in-transition!!
Global Villagers, what transitions have you made this week? Did you take the challenge from this week's Magnificent Monday blog to write out your 10-year life plan?
For some of us, planning out our lives 10 years in advance may require us to make mental, emotional, and spiritual transitions. Last week, we discussed the ways that we may operate at The Old Zero, which is living in denial, refusing to take responsibility, and refusing to grow in all areas of life. Today, we will discuss Perkins-Reed's concept of The New Zero, who wrote,
"The New Zero is a fluid, dynamic, discontinuous life map. [It] requires that we develop the ability to flow with the changes that confront us rather than resisting them and to accept that change is the norm and not the exception" (pp. 10, 24).It is imperative to embrace this concept of operating at the baseline of "The New Zero" when developing a 10-year life plan. Life is constantly shifting. In order to thrive-in-transitions we must set goals and make plans, which helps to keep us grounded and focused on living our greatest lives.
So continue to make the mental, emotional, and spiritual transitions that are needed to plan out your greatest life while embracing that change is the norm.
Why?
Because you have the greatness to thrive-in-transition!!
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Wonderfully-Sexual Wednesday
Happy Hump Day Global Villagers,
It's a Wonderfully-Sexual Wednesday!! So, what do you think about the 5 circles of sexuality, which are
It's a Wonderfully-Sexual Wednesday!! So, what do you think about the 5 circles of sexuality, which are
Sensuality
Intimacy
Sexual Identity
Sexual Health and Reproduction
Sexualization
When I first learned of this context of sexuality, I was immediately intrigued. This context broadened my scope of human sexuality. Also, I gained insight into my own sexual being. I learned that my context was formed based on my sexual experiences, both positive and negative. Thus, my context was socially-formed, according to Tracey Steele.
What context was your sexuality formed from? Religious? Political? Social? Please review the respective hyperlinks and comment on this blog. I would like to hear about your views on the context of sexuality.
Why?
Because every aspect of you was wonderfully created with greatness!!
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Introspective Tuesdays
Greetings Global Villagers,
Today is Introspective Tuesday and I want us to reflect on creating 10-year life plans. On yesterday, I encouraged you to write out your 10-year life plan. Today, I want you to reflect on where you were emotionally, spiritually, physically, and psychologically this time last year.
When I think back to June 28th, 2010, I had just became a pescatarian, I was exercising five days a week, eating home-cooked meals regularly, and drinking 1/2 gallon of water daily. Today, I am still doing all of these things, but not at the same momentum. During one of my recent moments of introspection, I asked myself, "What happened to my disciplined lifestyle?"
I had not considered the two major outer transitions that occurred in my life back in September 2010. Then, I had to accept that I did not make the inner transitions to remain disciplined. One of my outer transitions evoked disappointment and the other evoked excitement. For example, I began traveling to Baltimore every weekend, which was very exciting to me. As a result of my new venture, I allowed my emotions to take over. Thus, instead of being rational and thinking forward by packing prepared meals and workout clothes, I fell back from exercising regularly and began dining out more.
Reflecting on the example I just gave, ask youself, "Where was I this time last year? Have I fallen back, remained at status quo, or are am I excelling at a task?" Just something to ponder...
Why?
Because you must know that you were created with greatness!!
Today is Introspective Tuesday and I want us to reflect on creating 10-year life plans. On yesterday, I encouraged you to write out your 10-year life plan. Today, I want you to reflect on where you were emotionally, spiritually, physically, and psychologically this time last year.
When I think back to June 28th, 2010, I had just became a pescatarian, I was exercising five days a week, eating home-cooked meals regularly, and drinking 1/2 gallon of water daily. Today, I am still doing all of these things, but not at the same momentum. During one of my recent moments of introspection, I asked myself, "What happened to my disciplined lifestyle?"
I had not considered the two major outer transitions that occurred in my life back in September 2010. Then, I had to accept that I did not make the inner transitions to remain disciplined. One of my outer transitions evoked disappointment and the other evoked excitement. For example, I began traveling to Baltimore every weekend, which was very exciting to me. As a result of my new venture, I allowed my emotions to take over. Thus, instead of being rational and thinking forward by packing prepared meals and workout clothes, I fell back from exercising regularly and began dining out more.
Reflecting on the example I just gave, ask youself, "Where was I this time last year? Have I fallen back, remained at status quo, or are am I excelling at a task?" Just something to ponder...
Why?
Because you must know that you were created with greatness!!
Monday, June 27, 2011
Magnificent Mondays
It's a Magnificent Monday Global Villagers:
I hope you were able to plan and enjoy some relaxing events over the weekend. I did! I attended JB Productions Professional Friday's, The Comeback 2011--Philly Style hosted by IM3Media, and Chef Smiley's Luau. It was a great and eventful weekend filled with fun and laughter!!
On yesterday while I was preparing for this week, I was reminded through a message I was listening to by world renowned, Dr. Cindy Trimm, that 2011 was the beginning of a new decade. Can you believe that over half of the year has passed already? Whew!!! In the message Dr. Trimm stated, "What you did in the first quarter of the year/decade will determine the remainder."
As a writer, I am constantly journaling and taking notes. So, I went over my journals and reflected on the things I have done this year thus far. It was refreshing to know that I've accomplished more this year than I did last year around this time.
Dr. Trimm challenged her listeners to envision and write a 10-year plan for their lives. I took the challenge and categorized my 10-year plan by personal, professional, and spiritual goals that I want to accomplish by 2020.
In turn, I want to challenge you to do the same. As you are planning for the week, take some time and ask yourself this question, "Where do I see myself in December 2020?"
Why?
Because it is a Magnificent Monday and you will fulfill your greatness in 2020!!
I hope you were able to plan and enjoy some relaxing events over the weekend. I did! I attended JB Productions Professional Friday's, The Comeback 2011--Philly Style hosted by IM3Media, and Chef Smiley's Luau. It was a great and eventful weekend filled with fun and laughter!!
On yesterday while I was preparing for this week, I was reminded through a message I was listening to by world renowned, Dr. Cindy Trimm, that 2011 was the beginning of a new decade. Can you believe that over half of the year has passed already? Whew!!! In the message Dr. Trimm stated, "What you did in the first quarter of the year/decade will determine the remainder."
As a writer, I am constantly journaling and taking notes. So, I went over my journals and reflected on the things I have done this year thus far. It was refreshing to know that I've accomplished more this year than I did last year around this time.
Dr. Trimm challenged her listeners to envision and write a 10-year plan for their lives. I took the challenge and categorized my 10-year plan by personal, professional, and spiritual goals that I want to accomplish by 2020.
In turn, I want to challenge you to do the same. As you are planning for the week, take some time and ask yourself this question, "Where do I see myself in December 2020?"
Why?
Because it is a Magnificent Monday and you will fulfill your greatness in 2020!!
Friday, June 24, 2011
Flying By Fridays
Greetings Global Villagers and Urban Angels, LLC!!
Today brings a close to the launching of my new weekly series and today is the beginning of Flying By Fridays. This assigned topic is inspired by one of my Facebook networking groups titled Venus vs Mars, which was developed by Jena Williams, the founder of Urban Angels, LLC.
This group began in December 2010 and has grown to over 1700 members. Once a month, the Urban Angels join with Jamahal Boyd's JB Production's Professional Friday's and lands in the three-dimensional realm. Professional Friday's provides a landing for professional men and women to share resources and develop opportunities for growth. The next Professional Friday's will be held tonight from 5 pm to 10 pm at Mad River Manayunk in Philadelphia.
Every Friday, the Urban Angels will land right here on mslatishahelps.blogspot. Without disclosing identifying information, you will have the opportunity to be enlightened by some of the mature conversations between the women (Venus) and men (Mars) of the group. For instance, a fellow Urban Angel and I landed this week in North Philadelphia. During our landing, we conversed on the topic of sweat equity, which is an agreement made upon a person's efforts. We concurred that we both use our unique gifts, cooking and writing, respectively, as sweat equity in making connections and sealing deals. We sealed the deal that Urban Angels, LLC was the reason for our connection and it was the beginning of a great friendship.
Do I see you spreading your wings? I should be...
Why?
Because Urban Angels, LLC members fly by with greatness!!
Today brings a close to the launching of my new weekly series and today is the beginning of Flying By Fridays. This assigned topic is inspired by one of my Facebook networking groups titled Venus vs Mars, which was developed by Jena Williams, the founder of Urban Angels, LLC.
This group began in December 2010 and has grown to over 1700 members. Once a month, the Urban Angels join with Jamahal Boyd's JB Production's Professional Friday's and lands in the three-dimensional realm. Professional Friday's provides a landing for professional men and women to share resources and develop opportunities for growth. The next Professional Friday's will be held tonight from 5 pm to 10 pm at Mad River Manayunk in Philadelphia.
Every Friday, the Urban Angels will land right here on mslatishahelps.blogspot. Without disclosing identifying information, you will have the opportunity to be enlightened by some of the mature conversations between the women (Venus) and men (Mars) of the group. For instance, a fellow Urban Angel and I landed this week in North Philadelphia. During our landing, we conversed on the topic of sweat equity, which is an agreement made upon a person's efforts. We concurred that we both use our unique gifts, cooking and writing, respectively, as sweat equity in making connections and sealing deals. We sealed the deal that Urban Angels, LLC was the reason for our connection and it was the beginning of a great friendship.
Do I see you spreading your wings? I should be...
Why?
Because Urban Angels, LLC members fly by with greatness!!
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Thriving in Transition Thursdays
Great Day Global Villagers:
It's Thriving in Transition Thursday!!
Last week, we began to understand Marcia Perkins-Reed's concept of operating at Old Zero, which is the denial of our inner experiences and the refusal of taking responsibility through life's transitions (p .9). When we operate at Old Zero we are also denying and refusing personal and spiritual growth. Perkins-Reed describes transition as, "a shift from one situation or state of being to another, whether gradual or abrupt" (p. 21).
Undergoing daily transitions or encountering life-changing events forces us to be decisive. It is up to us whether we are going to resist or to be open to and fluid with the process. Another way to understand transitioning is to consider yourself as "passing from one state to another" (p.21).
For instance, I am a widow. I have underwent the states of being single, never married, to being married, to being separated, to being widowed. During each state, I have experienced inner and outer transitions. Each state brought its own challenges where I had to make a decision to either remain in the previous state or transition into the next state. When I was first married I had to learn to share my chocolate ice cream with my husband. This may be trivial, but I had to transition from knowing that when I came home from work that my chocolate ice cream was waiting for me to coming home with the possibility that my husband ate it.
My Old Zero operation was selfishness. It was not just about the chocolate ice cream because I quickly learned that I was selfish in other areas of our marriage. I grew personally and spiritually when I began to flow as a considerate sharer. I want to encourage you to think about the different states of being you have transitioned through. What challenges did they bring? What did you learn about yourself during those transitions? In what areas do you see growth?
Why?
Because you have the greatness to thrive in transition!!
It's Thriving in Transition Thursday!!
Last week, we began to understand Marcia Perkins-Reed's concept of operating at Old Zero, which is the denial of our inner experiences and the refusal of taking responsibility through life's transitions (p .9). When we operate at Old Zero we are also denying and refusing personal and spiritual growth. Perkins-Reed describes transition as, "a shift from one situation or state of being to another, whether gradual or abrupt" (p. 21).
Undergoing daily transitions or encountering life-changing events forces us to be decisive. It is up to us whether we are going to resist or to be open to and fluid with the process. Another way to understand transitioning is to consider yourself as "passing from one state to another" (p.21).
For instance, I am a widow. I have underwent the states of being single, never married, to being married, to being separated, to being widowed. During each state, I have experienced inner and outer transitions. Each state brought its own challenges where I had to make a decision to either remain in the previous state or transition into the next state. When I was first married I had to learn to share my chocolate ice cream with my husband. This may be trivial, but I had to transition from knowing that when I came home from work that my chocolate ice cream was waiting for me to coming home with the possibility that my husband ate it.
My Old Zero operation was selfishness. It was not just about the chocolate ice cream because I quickly learned that I was selfish in other areas of our marriage. I grew personally and spiritually when I began to flow as a considerate sharer. I want to encourage you to think about the different states of being you have transitioned through. What challenges did they bring? What did you learn about yourself during those transitions? In what areas do you see growth?
Why?
Because you have the greatness to thrive in transition!!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Wonderfully Sexual Wednesdays
Happy Hump Day Global Villagers!!
You may be wondering Hump Day...Wonderfully Sexual Wednesdays...What is this all about? I'm so glad you asked. Remember...this is a new week and a new day!! Every Hump Day, we will be exploring topics surrounding human sexuality.
The contextual framework for our discussions on Wonderfully Sexual Wednesdays is adapted from Life Planning Education created by Advocates for Youth, which is located in Washington, DC. Dennis M. Dailey, Professor Emeritus, University of Kansas, derived the five circles of sexuality based on the initial work of Harvey Gochros.
We are mental beings, emotional beings, physical beings, social beings, and spiritual beings; similarly, we are sexual beings. And yes, there are five circles or aspects to our sexuality. Oftentimes, we confuse sex and intimacy or we identify our sexuality based on our sexual behaviors. In other words, we view our sexuality from a narrow scope. Let's enlarge our mental territory and embrace our sexuality in its totality.
The five circles of our sexuality are:
You may be wondering Hump Day...Wonderfully Sexual Wednesdays...What is this all about? I'm so glad you asked. Remember...this is a new week and a new day!! Every Hump Day, we will be exploring topics surrounding human sexuality.
The contextual framework for our discussions on Wonderfully Sexual Wednesdays is adapted from Life Planning Education created by Advocates for Youth, which is located in Washington, DC. Dennis M. Dailey, Professor Emeritus, University of Kansas, derived the five circles of sexuality based on the initial work of Harvey Gochros.
We are mental beings, emotional beings, physical beings, social beings, and spiritual beings; similarly, we are sexual beings. And yes, there are five circles or aspects to our sexuality. Oftentimes, we confuse sex and intimacy or we identify our sexuality based on our sexual behaviors. In other words, we view our sexuality from a narrow scope. Let's enlarge our mental territory and embrace our sexuality in its totality.
The five circles of our sexuality are:
Sensuality
Intimacy
Sexual Identity
Sexual Health and Reproduction
Sexualization
Did you know that you even had five circles to your sexuality? Now that you are enlightened to the five circles, I want us to look forward to our purposeful discussions about this topic to gain a broader scope and deeper understanding of our sexuality. Please note that every aspect of our beings has a purpose and an intent. Let's get back to the intentionality of our sexuality and make it wonderful!!
What are your thoughts? Comment on them.
Why?
Because every aspect of you was wonderfully created with greatness!!
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Introspective Tuesdays
Great Day Global Villagers:
I trust you had a Magnificent Monday!! Again, this week launches my new series and today begins the assignment of Introspective Tuesdays.
Introspection is the open, candid examination of our own thoughts and feelings. Each of us is busy. Do not mistaken what I am going to say; we must be productive in order to fulfill our greatness. However, there are times that we are so busy with completing our day-to-day tasks that we forget to schedule in times of self-reflection.
Although we were created with greatness, we are still fallible. We can discern people and situations incorrectly; the motives of our actions may be impure; or simply, we may be ignorant to some things. Either way, it is inevitable that we will experience both success and failure as we are fulfilling the greatness in our own shoes. The question is, 'How are we going to handle our failures?'. Are we going to make excuses, blame others, or ignore them altogether? I hope the answer is, 'NO!'
Any unresolved issue, negative feeling, or misconception may potentially hinder the fulfillment of our greatness. Thus, Introspective Tuesdays will afford us with the opportunities to be honest with ourselves.
Why Introspective Tuesdays?
Because we need to remove anything that obstructs our greatness!!
I trust you had a Magnificent Monday!! Again, this week launches my new series and today begins the assignment of Introspective Tuesdays.
Introspection is the open, candid examination of our own thoughts and feelings. Each of us is busy. Do not mistaken what I am going to say; we must be productive in order to fulfill our greatness. However, there are times that we are so busy with completing our day-to-day tasks that we forget to schedule in times of self-reflection.
Although we were created with greatness, we are still fallible. We can discern people and situations incorrectly; the motives of our actions may be impure; or simply, we may be ignorant to some things. Either way, it is inevitable that we will experience both success and failure as we are fulfilling the greatness in our own shoes. The question is, 'How are we going to handle our failures?'. Are we going to make excuses, blame others, or ignore them altogether? I hope the answer is, 'NO!'
Any unresolved issue, negative feeling, or misconception may potentially hinder the fulfillment of our greatness. Thus, Introspective Tuesdays will afford us with the opportunities to be honest with ourselves.
Why Introspective Tuesdays?
Because we need to remove anything that obstructs our greatness!!
Monday, June 20, 2011
Magnificent Mondays
It's a Magnificent Monday Global Villagers:
I hope you enjoyed your Father's Day weekend!!
It's a new day and I am thriving in transition!! I want you to thrive with me as MsLatishaHelps Blogspot transitions into greatness. Each weekday, there will be a central theme for our discussions. Today is the inception of my weekly series titled, Magnificent Mondays.
The definition of magnificent is to be great indeed or exceptionally fine. I want us to begin every workweek with this concept, which may challenge us to undergo a paradigm shift. According to cognitive behavioral therapy, a form of psychotherapy, we can overcome our difficulties by changing our thinking, behavior, and emotional responses. With that being noted, if we begin our workweek angry, frustrated, or disgusted about what occurred over the weekend or about having to return to work, then our behaviors and emotional responses will reflect those thoughts.
So, let's make it a Magnificent Monday!! Let's begin every workweek from this day forward knowing that things are great indeed or that things will turn out exceptionally fine.
Why?
Because it's a Magnificent Monday and you were created with greatness!!
I hope you enjoyed your Father's Day weekend!!
It's a new day and I am thriving in transition!! I want you to thrive with me as MsLatishaHelps Blogspot transitions into greatness. Each weekday, there will be a central theme for our discussions. Today is the inception of my weekly series titled, Magnificent Mondays.
The definition of magnificent is to be great indeed or exceptionally fine. I want us to begin every workweek with this concept, which may challenge us to undergo a paradigm shift. According to cognitive behavioral therapy, a form of psychotherapy, we can overcome our difficulties by changing our thinking, behavior, and emotional responses. With that being noted, if we begin our workweek angry, frustrated, or disgusted about what occurred over the weekend or about having to return to work, then our behaviors and emotional responses will reflect those thoughts.
So, let's make it a Magnificent Monday!! Let's begin every workweek from this day forward knowing that things are great indeed or that things will turn out exceptionally fine.
Why?
Because it's a Magnificent Monday and you were created with greatness!!
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