Tuesday, August 20, 2013

TIME MARCHES ON

As I approach another birthday I can't help but look at my life and its ups and downs. The challenges and opportunities. The failures and the achievements. I feel blessed to be here and sadness for a brother who died way too young. My daughter is grown and doing well. I live a comfortable life and am pursuing a dream deferred for too long. I see myself reaching another goal within the next year or two.  I long to travel and see the world and God willing, I will do that.

A lesson learned is that life is too short and moves at lightning speed, especially after 40. Say "I love you" to your friends and family. Express gratitude for your blessings and never take anything or anyone for granted. Persue your dreams with fervor and determination. Thank your mentors and cheerleaders but forgive those who didn't have your back or expressed jealousy or envy. Life is too short to hold on to bitterness or anger. 

Remember the lessons of karma - that what you put out there always comes back to you. Be happy for your friends' successes, express joy and thankfulness. Your life will be better because of this.

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

As Our World Changes

Recently it's been in the news about the latest Cheerios commercial that include a bi-racial child with her white mother and black father. The commerical is incredibly cute and clever. But there have been derogatory posts and some negative responses to the ad. This seems hard to believe. Racism is still alive in the United States. In 2013 some people still have trouble accepting interracial relationships and marriages. Isn't this like not accepting the digital age and the advancement of technology? I believe love is love regardless of the color of the individuals.

There have always been people who bucked the system and sometimes, their families, to marry someone outside their race. Why do some people refuse to accept this? Maybe the racism is  ingrained, maybe they're ignorant or maybe they cannot accept change.

America is changing folks. Minorities are no longer the minority. Many young people are marrying outside of their race. I have three black girlfriends whose daughters have married white men.

Isn't it time for people to get over this? Why hold on to hate? I just don't get it. It's time to embrace change rather than fight it.

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Make Every Moment Count

Recently on a visit to Los Angeles it became so apparent how quickly time passes. Some of my friend's children are getting married. So, really they're not children anymore. They're young adults. I look at my own daughter who has matured into a person I'm so proud of. She's a confident, working professional who owns up to her mistakes and challenges. She has journeyed from the confused teenager who believed the world revolved around her and her desires. She is a gracious, giving adult who looks forward to the future and is taking charge of her life.

My point is that everything changes with time and we've got to accept these changes. The one thing we can count on in life is change, right? Don't hold on to a past that's evaporated. Deal with the now because that's all we really have. Live your fullest life and make every moment count.