Monday, February 22, 2016

Pelvic Politics

     Opinions vary on who has the right to control our bodies, who should decide what is right or wrong, legal or illegal.  Birth control, abortion, and homosexuality are subjects some religions and some politicians think should not be left up to the individual.  Be very careful when anyone begins to play pelvic politics.
     What goes on in the bedroom, who we choose as a partner, how we plan our families, and what goes on between a patient and doctor should be private matters.   Religions can state their opinions on recommended behavior, but our democracy is not a religion.
   
      

Sunday, February 21, 2016

Addiction

                                                                                                                                                                  

     Facing reality, relieving stress, and feeling pleasure are goals for a healthy life; however, some pleasures, some stress-relievers, feel good temporarily, but in the long run may stunt emotional and psychological maturity.  Some pleasures can become addictive, unhealthy for ourselves and for those around us.
     Physical addictions brought on by substance abuse can destroy lives.   Behavioral and emotional addictions are also destructive.  Avoiding and preventing addiction is the best goal.  Teens and adults need to develop emotional maturity and become independent and responsible for their behavior.  Find pleasure in healthy pursuits and contentment within yourself.  Reduce stress and find productive ways to cope.  Don't search for shortcuts to avoid reality.
     Get your act together; show and teach your children how to recognize and appropriately express emotions.  Appreciate reality, develop talents, create and maintain healthy relationships, have some fun, and keep optimistic.  Grow up.  Use healthy ways to satisfy your wants and needs. 

















Monday, February 15, 2016

Baggage

     Pack your personal belongings for taking a trip.  Don't forget the essentials. The more stuff, the heavier the suitcase.
     Don't pack burdensome memories or long-held opinions that weigh down your journey.   Leave room for a change of mind.
     Fill your bag of tricks with talents, resources, and strategies to help meet goals.
     Eliminate baggage that impedes intellectual, emotional, and social development.
     Don't expect others to do your heavy lifting.
     When planning to travel through life, don't drag around anything that will encumber your progress or impede your adaptability.  Be sure your luggage contains only what you really need.  Be free and travel light.
    
    

Sunday, February 7, 2016

Sacrifice


      Many religions practice sacrifice to increase spiritual awareness.  In the distant past, members of certain cultures would sacrifice human beings.  In the Old Testament, believers would sacrifice animals as part of religious ceremonies.  Christians believe this was also a symbol of Christ's sacrifice.
     Today, some people practice fasting: going without food and drink or not consuming meat or avoiding a food chosen by the believer.  During Lent, some Christians believe they should give up something in order to better prepare for Easter. Sacrificing time to help others is also advised.
     We can practice sacrifice all year long that can benefit our own development and improve the lives of others.  We may consider this a part of religion or just a part of being a better human being.  Mothers sacrifice their bodies for nine months and for years thereafter.  Fathers also assume their role of sacrifice for the family.  Family and friends give time and support to each other.  Being charitable to everyone is part of a civilized existence.
     Plan your life, set goals, and design ways to get where you want to be in the future.  Realize what it takes to meet your goals which sometimes requires sacrifice.  

Friday, February 5, 2016

Sentimental

     When your attitude, thoughts, and judgments are based mainly on emotion instead of reason, you are being sentimental.  Emotions are essential to being human, but being overly nostalgic can distort memory and dwelling in exaggerated highs and lows is unhealthy and can cloud judgment.
     We can be manipulated with sentimental appeals and advertising.  These tactics are designed for you to bypass reality and good judgment. Some politicians wish to turn back the clock on the progress being made concerning women, LGBT, and immigrants by promoting sentimental ideas about embryos, traditional marriage, and being born in the USA.  Politicians want your vote and advertisers want your money.  Products are promoted using the sentimental ideas of tradition, holidays, and showing love through commerce.
      Some  people self-impose sentiment on their attitudes and judgments about ideas, people, and animals.  Your choice of heroes and behaviors you consider honorable may be based on sentiment.    These emotional opinions may not be realistic.   Pet lovers spend endless time, money, and love on animals who live better than many human beings.  Some vegetarians even go so far as thinking animals should not be used as food.  Many people get a sense of pride for having these sentimental attitudes.
     Human beings need to recognize and express emotion and at the same time be reasonable. Someone once said, " Don't allow your heart to shut down your head."  
         

Monday, February 1, 2016

February

     Many of you may be hoping that the weather will be cloudy on Feb 2, Groundhog Day.  According to folklore, no shadow means spring will come early.  Better to trust your local weather station.
     Millions will be watching Super Bowl 50 on Feb 7.  Denver Broncos vs Carolina Panthers.
     Many of us in NOLA, will be celebrating Mardi Gras on Feb 9 this year.  For weeks beforehand,  parades and King Cakes are the norm everywhere.  School break lasts all week.  That gives time to party and time to recover.  And for some, time to begin thoughts of Lent.   
      Feb 14 prompts us to show our love by buying cards, candy, and flowers.  Retailers feel very loved.  More important would be to show your love every day.
     This year is Leap Year so Feb 29 is an extra day added to 2016.  Continue to wish for spring, be a part of a parade, and express your love.