tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13739330778500130062023-06-20T08:01:41.842-05:00Freda Says "Change Starts With ME!!!"A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-51055096734611153412009-07-08T21:22:00.005-05:002009-09-29T21:41:38.941-05:00DONE DEAL-I posted at Paulo Coelho's Blog<span style="font-family:arial;color:#990000;">Hi friends and family,<br /><br />I submitted my story about gifts and power to Paulo Coelho's blog and if you don't know who Paulo Coelho is, then...., it's a good time to find out who he is.<br /><br />http://www.paulocoelho.com.br/engl/bio.shtml<br /><br />Some of my favorite Coelho titles are The Witch of Portobello, The Alchemist, and the Pilgrimage.<br /><br />Yea!!! one todo thing "posting to Coelho's blog", has been crossed off my to do list.<br /><br />I feel accomplished!!! :-))</span>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-2377045639849129192009-06-28T22:17:00.008-05:002009-07-08T20:35:03.081-05:002009- Gifts and Hidden Powers<span style="color:#990000;">It's been quite a while since my last post, and I feel compelled to write because I want to share my blog thoughts at Paulo Coelho's blog.<br /><br />At his blog Mr. Coelho invites to talk of hidden powers, to share how those powers are elaborated, and the difference those powers have made in our lives.<br /><br />My powers - the gifts that God has given me are the gift of visualization and the ability to call forth what I envision.<br /><br />Last year, I quit my job. You can read more about the why of it in my post of May 2008.<br /><br />After quitting my job I decided to go to Africa which was something I had wanted to do for many years.<br /><br />Prior to leaving, I was very concerned about taking such a journey without having secured employment. In order to try and insure that I traveled with no since of regret, the day before my trip, I envisioned myself being interviewed for a post I had applied for. In the vision I was in this beautiful office filled with lots of windows and light. The interview flowed easily and the conversation was very relaxed. During the middle of this visualization my telephone rang and the phone call was from a representative of the organization whose position I had applied for. They phoned to ask if I wanted to come for an interview.<br /><br />I had the interview before leaving for Africa, and the office and the interview were just as I envisioned. When I left the interview I knew the job was mine.<br /><br />A year ago I had a dream that I was at the airport leaving for Africa, specifically I was traveling to Accra, Ghana. In the dream I traveled in the first class section of the air plane. In the vision/dream the seat was grey leather and and the trip came with all the amenities of first class travel, champagne, special menus, and flight attendants at the beckoned call. It was an amazing vision/dream. </span><br /><span style="color:#990000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#990000;">And during my trip to Africa I traveled first class for the first time in my life and the amenities were just as I had envisioned.<br /><br />I traveled first class with the help of a friend who secured a "friends and family" pass for me for a fraction of what it would cost had I paid the tickets list price.<br /><br />How do I elaborate such visions?<br /><br />I believe that I am deserving of everything I envision and specifically, as a child of God I believe that I am deserving because God said that it is so.<br /><br />Matthew 7: 7-8 "Asks and it shall be given to you...."<br /><br />How do I elaborate such visions?<br /><br />I elaborate these visions by understanding who I am and understanding my purpose for this lifetime.<br /><br />To this end I believe that my life is a part of a continuum and that there are specific things or appointments that were preordained for my life. I believe that if I don't act on these things and keep the process moving, someone one, or some happening along the process will be looking for me wandering what happened, why didn't I show up to help keep things flowing.<br /><br />Being mindful of my gifts results in a life that is committed to purpose. Purpose produces a focus at completing the chain of events predestined for my life.<br /><br />Visualization - that's the gift - the hidden power God has granted.<br /><br />And for this gift I am grateful.</span>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-28755110518922455172008-05-30T17:47:00.004-05:002009-06-28T19:20:29.081-05:00It's Been A While- And a Profile in CourageHello blog community,<br /><br />It's been a while since my last post and since that time so much has changed.<br /><br />After three and a half years, I resigned from my position at Citibank.<br /><br />Here's why.<br /><br />Mine is a story of redemption and a refusal to dishonor the legacy of my ancestors, ancestors like Ms. Rosa Parks, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who stood for justice and equality.<br /><br />And because of the legacy of these ancestors, I decided to take a stand, after repeated humiliations suffered me from my supervisor, whose last request was that I have his shoes shined.<br /><br />I am of African-American descent, and I have worked in corporate America for a leading financial institution for the past three and a half years.<br /><br />I recently tendered my resignation because I could no longer dishonor the legacy of Ms. Rosa Parks, the “mother of the civil rights movement.<br /><br />I worked with Ms. Parks in the 1980’s in Congressman John Conyers, Jr. congressional office. Ms. Parks and I served as Staff Aide to Congressman Conyers.<br /><br />I could no longer dishonor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, whose home church, Ebenezer Baptist was the place where in 1955 I was baptized and spent most of my formative years.<br /><br />The decision to leave my job was not a difficult decision. I grew up with a family that taught me the importance of standing with conviction and courage, with a willingness to fight any injustice before me.<br /><br />Dr. King, Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, Nelson Mandela and others are the central leaders in my life, compelling me to challenge any injustice, as they give me the courage to reclaim my dignity in the face of adversity.<br /><br />I am not worried - not in the least, about what my future holds, even though I left full-time employment with no job before me.<br /><br />My life has been filled with challenges – loss of a business, which I founded and created. And at one time, I lived in my office with no running water and toilet amenities.<br /><br />Through ever adversity I have managed to turn my life around. And I am presently four classes short of completing masters in business.<br /><br />My story is a story of courage; it takes courage to let others know that integrity is important, and having the ability to look ones self in the mirror is also important.<br /><br />I hope this story encourages others to stand with conviction against any injustice.<br /><br />For in the end, conviction and courage I believe, will duly be rewarded.A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-65792106918442534022007-02-09T21:47:00.000-05:002007-02-09T21:48:07.599-05:00THE INITIATIVE- Let's Start With Children Continues<div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:verdana;">It's called "Children Helping Others"</span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></strong> </div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">On January 31, I posted my thoughts surrounding the creation of an initiative that helps children develop a social conscious. The project now has a name. It's called "Children Helping Others".</span></div><div align="center"><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#660000;">Project CHILDREN HELPING OTHERS<br />Initiative created by Freda L. Thomas and Marilyn Roberts<br />“Imagine”<br />Brainstorming Participants<br /><br /><br />GOAL:<br />Introduce to school age children, the importance of kindness and helping others.<br /><br />OBJECTIVE:<br />Using public school classrooms as a channel, introduce to children the significance of kindness and helping others. <br /><br /><br />HOW IT CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED<br />Adult volunteers visiting classrooms, engage school age children in dialogue regarding domestic and global problems.<br />Share stories profiling children helping others and the positive impact their involvement has had<br />Invite children to get involved in helping others<br />Offer potential projects, also ask students for suggestions and project ideas.<br /><br />POTENTIAL PROJECTS<br />Assist both children and adults living in shelters<br />Survey the needs of children in public schools, i.e. food, clothing, etc., and help supply those needs<br />Help resolve issues abroad, people dying of AIDS, starvation, etc.<br />Assist persons in hospitals<br />Any project suggestions from the children<br /><br />GETTING STARTED<br />Recruit volunteers to become involved in this initiative<br />Locate New York area schools, contact administrators, in order to introduce the project<br />Seek publicity for the project under the “Imagine” initiative at Idealist.org - draw on talent and resources available at Idealist<br />Set launch target date for introduction at target school<br />Create tasks for follow up after introduction at initial school and classroom, i.e. next steps after discussion, how do we get started helping others, what can children do until next meeting and gathering, create within children a sense of urgency to act now<br />Create timeline for deliverables above<br /> </span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#660000;">If you would like to become involved, please contact me at my email or post your comments at this blog. <br /><br />The link below tells the story of six year old Ryan Jreljac raising money to build a well in Kenya, East Africa.<br />http://www.myhero.com/myhero/hero.asp?hero=RYAN_HRELJAC</span></div>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-57311210695684316762007-02-09T21:40:00.000-05:002007-02-09T21:45:29.582-05:00LinkEd Effecting Change in Public Education<div align="center"><strong>LinkEd is an online resource for all people, organizations, and foundations effecting change in public education</strong><br /><br />Please join *LinkEd's* <<a href="http://www.linkeducation.org/" target="_blank">http://www.linkeducation.org/</a>> Kick-Off > > event > > > > *Wine and Cheese Reception** > > **Tuesday, February 13, 2007** > > *6:30 to 9:30 p.m. > > > > *chashama > > *217 East 42nd Street > > between 2nd and 3rd Avenues > > > > $35 single ticket > > $50 pair of tickets > > > > Includes open bar, hors d'oeuvres, > > and a *DonorsChoose* < <a href="http://www.donorschoose.org/" target="_blank">http://www.donorschoose.org/</a>> gift certificate > > > > 7:30 p.m.: Program including theater performance by *Striking > > Viking*<<a href="http://www.storypirates.com/" target="_blank">http://www.storypirates.com/</a>> > > > > *Please visit ** linked.eventbrite.com* <<a href="http://linked.eventbrite.com/" target="_blank">http://linked.eventbrite.com/</a>> > *to > > purchase tickets* or e-mail > > *<a href="javascript:parent.ComposeTo(">linkeducation@gmail.com</a>*< > <a href="javascript:parent.ComposeTo(">linkeducation@gmail.com</a>?subject=Kick-Off%20Event%20RSVP> > > > > *LinkEd* is the education sector's one-stop, online community uniting > people > > across the country in the fight to close the achievement gap. Through our > > website, LinkEd connects individuals, organizations, and resources to > > implement programs promoting high academic achievement for all students. > > With the latest collaborative and social networking technologies, we can > > multiply our impact and truly build a national movement to overcome > > educational inequity. <a href="http://www.linkeducation.org/" target="_blank">http://www.linkeducation.org/</a> > > > > The *Striking Viking Story Pirates* are New York's fastest growing > adsurdist > > sketch comedy show for kids and adults. Often described as "Schoolhouse > Rock > > meets Monty Python," they are an ensemble of professional actors who take > > hilarious stories written by kids all over the world and faithfuly adapt > > them into sketches and songs. Adults are treated to a riotous view inside > > the heads of their children, and kids end up feeling like celebrities, > > because their own stories are the star of the show. <a href="http://www.storypirates.com/" target="_blank">http://www.storypirates.com/</a> > > > > *DonorsChoose* is a simple way to provide students in need with resources > > that our public schools often lack. At this not-for-profit website, > teachers > > submit project proposals for materials or experiences their students need > to > > learn. These ideas become classroom reality when concerned individuals, > whom > > we call Citizen Philanthropists, choose projects to fund. A DonorsChoose > > gift certificate enables you to fund project(s) of your choice and to > > receive the classroom acknowledgement. <a href="http://www.donorschoose.org/" target="_blank">http://www.donorschoose.org/</a> > > > > > > > ></div>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-73908414125687926732007-02-03T22:14:00.000-05:002007-02-03T22:20:34.268-05:00"Imagine" Update from Ami<div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Special Message from Ami </span></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">Next week, between Monday, February 5th, and Sunday,>February 11th, thousands of people will be meeting>in 70 countries to imagine a better world and to>start building it by connecting people, ideas, and>resources in every possible way.>>264 meetings have been scheduled so far, and if there>is one near you, it'd be great if you could take part>in it. The meetings are all listed at:>><a href="http://www.idealist.org/meetings" target="_blank">http://www.idealist.org/meetings</a>>>For more details about this initiative, please see><a href="http://www.idealist.org/imagine" target="_blank">http://www.idealist.org/imagine</a>>>You can also watch this two-minute video that I>taped today for the people who are attending these>meetings:>><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xodhAHn-qg" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xodhAHn-qg</a>>>And also this one, with comments from people who>attended a brainstorming meeting we had in New York>last week:>><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KARJ5BFm4X4" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KARJ5BFm4X4</a></div>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-69586027073514632132007-02-01T00:20:00.000-05:002007-02-01T00:28:07.290-05:00Practical Exercises for Persons Seeking Employment<span style="font-family:verdana;"><strong><div align="left"><br /></strong><br />I’ve been there. I was unemployed for three years.<br /><br />Here are some tips and practices that helped me get through the difficulties.<br /><br />TO DO<br />1. Make a to do list with at least 10 things you will act on every day towards getting a job.<br />A. Get up the same time every morning. Make sure you are out of bed by 7:30AM. Get dressed, showered, etc. as though you have an appointment, even if you do not. This can help create a sense of anticipation.<br />2. Look over your list. The list should comprise the following, or create your own set of tasks, things that work for you:<br />TO DO LIST<br />A. Call 10 employment agencies, ask if they have openings or if they anticipate any openings in the near future. Make sure you know how to forward your resume.<br />B. Follow up on resumes mailed the previous week, get as much feedback as you can, the name of persons you need to speak to regarding the position you applied for. Request feedback on your credentials<br />C. Role play, stand in front of a mirror and act as though you’re on an interview, anticipate the questions that will be asked, and how you will respond<br />D. Talk to someone who can help lift your spirit. Find someone who can help you stay focused and encouraged </div><div align="left">E. Make a list of the top (10) companies you would like to work with, and learn as much as you can about those companies. Knowledge is power.<br />F. If you have a computer, improve on your skills, typing, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.<br />G. Leave your house. Go for a walk.<br />H. Develop a new thought. For instance, if you’ve been saying to yourself, I’m not going to go out today. There’s no point. There’s nothing out there. Try a different thought, something positive, over and over. If you keep trying the same things over and over, you will get the same results.<br />I. If you don’t have a computer, visit a library and use their computer. Research interviewing tips, how to get the dream job, using Goggle’s search engine. You can also Google, “recruiting new employees and New York companies”<br />J. You can also call the Human Resources departments at various companies, asking if they are recruiting, and learning more about their recruitment process<br />k. Work until 5:30PM every day or later if you are so inclined.<br /><br /><br />OTHER THINGS TO DO/CONSIDER<br />Tell everyone that you know that you are looking for work, the mail carrier, the sanitation worker, the grocery story clerk, librarians.<br />Note any buildings under construction, check for postings regarding employment.<br />Volunteer. But only volunteer after 5:30PM. 9AM to 5:30PM should be about locating work.<br /><br />AFFIRMATIONS TO HELP LIFT THE SPIRIT<br />I am not a failure. I can do and achieve anything.<br />The job I am seeking is seeking me.<br />I will get a job at $__________ a year by ____month___date.<br />I claim it and it shall be.<br /><br />I know it’s not easy, but stay focused. Ask for help when you need it.<br /><br />Success is yours. Stop at nothing until you achieve it!!!<br /></div></span>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-43717482751827251592007-01-31T22:52:00.000-05:002007-01-31T23:07:00.708-05:00Let's Start With Children<div align="center"><strong></strong> </div><div align="left"><strong></strong></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span>At the "Imagine" Brainstorming session, Ami, after his introduction and sharing of thoughts, asked if there were comments or ideas to help bring about change in our world.</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">I had this idea.</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><strong>IDEA</strong></div><div align="left">Get children involved in social conscious initiatives.</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><strong>HOW CAN THIS BE ACCOMPLISHED</strong></div><div align="left">1. Visiting schools, introducing concepts, i.e. what can be done to help persons who are homeless, without shelter, or a permanent address, etc.</div><div align="left">2. Get the word out regarding this initiative through Public Services Announcements, both print and broadcast media.</div><div align="left">3. Seek mature adults involvement as well as children, recruiting them to become involved</div><div align="left">4. Additional suggestions and ideas are welcomed</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Participants at the brainstorming session expressed interest and one such participant is working on preliminary concepts to help launch this initiative.</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Anyone wanting to join us, feel free to contact me at <a href="mailto:fritolay830@aol.com">fritolay830@aol.com</a>, or post any comments at this blog.</div><div align="left"></div>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-12523360982501058452007-01-31T22:20:00.000-05:002007-01-31T22:25:08.418-05:00Thought for the Day by Jeff Cooper 1/31/07<div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;">A Demonstration of God's Work</span></strong></div><br />In my actually experience that I had in my demonstration of God's Blessings in my life. I am currently taking a class at Long Island University Brooklyn Campus toward my accreditials with the state of New York for counseling substance abusers. The class that I am taking is entitled " Treatment Approaches for Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselors". In this class the professor explained that we needed to get a particular book for the class that cost over hundred and fifty dollars! My mind immediately became flooded with thoughts of how in the world will I be able to buy this book with no money available. I then immediately changed that first negative thought, and recalled what I have read on metaphysics and the thought process connecting with the total abundance of the universe and recited this mantra to myself, and continue to do it to this day, ' I am now open to my good and gather in the harvest of endless opportunities,' I started saying this over and over, the more that I became fearful of not being able to buy this book and thinking that I would have to drop this class and going down that whole negative thought process that I go down when something does not appear to go the way that I think it should go, I mean, I was saying I will not be able to pay my rent, I am going to lose my job, etc, etc. I stopped myself and said " there is just God here" and continued my mantra over and over again and new thoughts entered my mind and spirit and I felt better. All of this was going on on my bus ride to the train to get to work. When I got to work, I was speaking with a co-worker about not being able to buy the book and she said, " Why don't you ask the program director if she can give you the money from program funds for it, since it is job related?" I thought to my self, "Why not?", So I asked her and she immediately began writing out a voucher for request for the money. I was filled with the Spirit and began thanking God in my heart and soul! I was suppose to meet with another classmate to get copies of the next chapter reading assignment and had left her a message in the morning to call me at work, immediately when I got down to my desk space I received a call from her and she stated " A fellow classmate made copies of all the chapters for everyone in class so you do not have to buy the book" I was all aglow in the glory of the divine spirit in the universe! On top of that I was trying to figure out how I was going to pay for the class. I had asked a former classmate and I was instructed to call the financial office at school and speak with them and I did and I was informed that the money for the class was taken out already, that explained my bank account funds being low. The person in financial aid department said that If I ever needed for them to hold a payment from being processed for a while to call her and it will be done. I have no doubt in my mind, body and spirit that if you ask for God's blessings and stay the course by replacing your negative thoughts and align them with the Spirit of God's universal good and get out the way, there is nothing to fear, only the care and unconditional love of God! Amen! Be Blessed.<br /><br />(Jeff Cooper)<br />1/27/07A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-79503926795900540052007-01-24T23:27:00.000-05:002007-01-25T00:00:16.054-05:00"Imagine" Brainstorming with Idealist 1/24/07<span style="font-family:verdana;">"Imagine", the brain child of </span><span style="font-family:verdana;">Ami Dar, Executive Director of Idealist, launched a brainstorming session tonight at the New School here in NYC. Nearly 100 people showed up, bringing their enthusiam, passion and ideas to help influence </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">change. For details read Thought for Today 1/19/07.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">In a very relaxed and informal setting, Amir explained his vision, introducing a focus on fundamental values, global warming, while providing an opportunity for brainstormers to introduce their own issues and concerns. Amir is also focused on how to easily bring people together while keep things decentralized.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I was hooked at the offset, ready to sign up for any mission that would help us launch, especially after Dar mentioned having fun in the process.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">After introducing the basic concepts surrounding "Imagine", Amir opened the floor to questions and comments. Participants spoke about fears, many had already begun projects related to global warming, and there were specific solutions for getting the word out through advertising and other such mediums.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Afterwards, I had the good fortune of meeting Amir, and he graciously thanked me for sharing here at my blog, a link for both "Imagine" and Idealist.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">In turn, Amir has linked my blog, <em>this blog,</em> to the front page of the Idealist website. Go to <a href="http://www.idealist.org">www.idealist.org</a>, at the section, "Thanks for The Blogging", you'll see my name highlighted. W</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">hen you click my name, it feeds you to my blog.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">How cool is that?</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">But on a serious tip, any persons in New York interested in knowing more, feel free to email me or post a comment, and I will provide more details.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Change is in evitable. Why not be a catalyst for change right now, at this hour, for <strong><em>the</em> <em>good.</em></strong></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">You can join the "Imagine" initiative by connecting with others of like mind, helping to make things better for both our planet and for all those who dwell within it.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Peace and love,</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Freda</span>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-52984759777032459542007-01-21T21:19:00.000-05:002007-01-24T23:09:54.881-05:00Thought for Today 1/21/07 From Sister DeloresFROM MY SISTER DELORES HARPER<br /><br />Delores is as close to a sister as I will probably ever have. She was my mother's friend first, and now I claim her as my own. She emailed me, with the suggestion of posting this message below. I find it profound, and I hope you will too, and be blessed by it.<br /><br />Thank you Delores.<br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />A nurse took the tired, anxious serviceman to the bedside. "Your son is here," she said to the old man. She had to repeat the words several times before the patient's eyes opened. <br /><br />Heavily sedated because of the pain of his heart attack, he dimly saw the young uniformed Marine standing outside the oxygen tent. He reached out his hand. The Marine wrapped his toughened fingers around the old man's limp ones, squeezing a message of love and encouragement. <br /> <br />The nurse brought a chair so that the Marine could sit beside the bed. All through the night the young Marine sat there in the poorly lighted ward, holding the old man's hand and offering him words of love and strength Occasionally, the nurse suggested that the Marine move away and rest awhile. <br /><br />He refused. Whenever the nurse came into the ward, the Marine was oblivious of her and of the night noises of the hospital - the clanking of the oxygen tank, the laughter of the night staff members exchanging greetings, the cries and moans of the other patients. <br /><br />Now and then she heard him say a few gentle words. The dying man said nothing,only held tightly to his son all through the night. Along towards dawn, the old man died. The Marine released the now lifeless hand he had been holding and went to tell the nurse. While she did what she had to do, he waited. <br /><br />Finally, she returned. She started to offer words of sympathy, but the Marine interrupted her. <br /><br />"Who was that man?" he asked. <br /><br />The nurse was startled, "He was your father," she answered. <br /><br />"No, he wasn't," the Marine replied. "I never saw him before in my life." <br /><br />"Then why didn't you say something when I took you to him?" <br /><br />"I knew right away there had been a mistake, but I also knew he needed his son,and his son just wasn't here. When I realized that he was too sick to tell whether or not I was his son, knowing how much he needed me, I stayed .." <br /><br />The next time someone needs you ... just be there. Stay. <br /><br />We are not human beings going through a temporary spiritual experience. <br /><br />We are spiritual beings going through a temporary human experience. <br /> <br />GOD WILL BLESS YOU ! <br /><br />THIS IS WHAT WE ARE PUT ON THIS EARTH TO DO ANYWAY. RIGHT ?A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-15640372572264518992007-01-20T15:10:00.000-05:002007-01-24T23:10:33.709-05:00Thought for Today 1/20/07 Drawing Outside The Lines<div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;"><strong>Drawing Outside the Lines is Much More Exciting & Fun</strong></span></div><div align="left"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></strong></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">The above was a comment I made to a colleague at work yesterday, and she found it hilarious. </span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">We were talking about expressing ourselves without inhibition, and I shared that as a child, I thought it my moral imperative to draw outside the line. You remember those coloring books we were given as children with a box of crayons, and told to "draw inside the lines." I always wandered why should I stay within the lines.</span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">It is inherent in me to ask why and be a risk taker while engaging in those things that are outside the box and outside the norm.</span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">This posting is a deviation from my norm, but I believe it's important to encourage free expression, in order to know the full potential of who we are.</span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I'm glad my parents let me </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">draw outside the lines. It certainly was a lot more exciting, and it sure was fun.</span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-15620083277903119482007-01-20T13:58:00.000-05:002007-01-24T23:11:37.671-05:00Word for Today 1/19/07 Idealist and "Imagine"<div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;"><strong>The Good I Am Seeking is Seeking Me</strong></span></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></strong></div><div align="left"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></strong></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span> </div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Sometimes I don't get enough sleep because often I stay up late at night, involving myself in world initiatives, and taking care of the things I believe need taking care of. It seems that I will never be able to accomplish all that I can in the time allotted.</span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">But in the last couple of days, a revelation came to me. The </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">good that I am seeking is seeking me.</span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Case in point, several years ago I registered at the site called Idealist.org. At Idealist you can <a class="highlightBasic" href="http://www.idealist.org/if/idealist/en/Invite/default?sid=">imagine</a> a better world, <a class="highlightBasic" href="http://www.idealist.org/if/idealist/en/Connect/default?sid=">connect</a> with people who want to help build it, <a class="highlightBasic" href="http://www.idealist.org/en/ReachOut/index.html?sid=">reach out</a> to others, <a class="highlightBasic" href="http://www.idealist.org/if/idealist/en/Post/default?sid=">post</a> and <a class="highlightBasic" href="http://www.idealist.org/if/as/Find?sid=">find </a>nonprofit jobs, find volunteer opportunities, events, and more, and <a class="highlightBasic" href="http://www.idealist.org/if/idealist/en/Donate/default?sid=">donate</a> to support all this. </span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Ami Dar, Executive Director of Idealist, recently contacted me, inviting me to participate in an initiative to imagine a better community a better world, and to see how we can build it together.</span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><strong>THE INITIATIVE IS CALLED "CAN YOU IMAGINE A BETTER WORLD" WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT FROM AMI DAR:</strong></span></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></strong></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">"Very briefly, we believe that:1. All over the world there are many people who share similar values, dreams, and challenges. 2. With all the tools we have now, we can communicate like never before. 3. If all of us had more opportunities to connect and work together, online and face-to-face, in neighborhoods, villages, schools, and workplaces, the world would be a different place. How different? We don't know, but together we can find out."</span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><strong>HOW TO GET INVOLVED</strong></span></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></strong></div><div align="left"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></strong></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Attend or host a start-up meeting in New York during the week of February 5-11. During that week, people all over the world will meet in neighborhoods, schools, and workplaces to talk about how to create more opportunities for action and collaboration for everyone. </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">To sign up for a meeting, or to host one please visit <a href="http://www.idealist.org/meetings" target="_blank">http://www.idealist.org/meetings</a></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Once I, we, decide to do a "thing", the WHOLE universe rushes in to help us accomplish it. "The Good I am Seeking is Seeking Me". </span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">If you would like to participate in this initiative you are invited to join me at the NYU meeting on February 8. Your presence and participation is most welcomed.</span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">For my friends outside of New York, meetings are taking place throughout the U.S., as well as the world. You can also get involved.</span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Maybe now I can get a bit more sleep.</span></div>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-70163076516809828912007-01-18T20:05:00.000-05:002007-01-24T23:12:09.259-05:00Thought for Today 1/18/07 Art Buchwald Died Today<span style="font-family:verdana;">Art Buchwald died today, and in an interview with Tom Brokaw I saw this man with physical impediments, wiping his mouth after drooling, and yet there was something about him which I found compelling and graceful. Buchwald did not appear hampered that he might not be shown in the best light. What did come through is that Brokaw and Buchwald were friends. What shown was their love for one another, pure, unadulterated. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">So often in life I am concerned about how others see me. Did I use the correct diction? Was I understood by another in a way that shown me in good favor? </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I must be clear that I am not overtly fixated on appearances. But the manner in which I am perceived, sometimes, is of great importance to me.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">What Art taught me is that in an instant, life changes. We get older, we develop impediments, things happen that are beyond our control. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">How we handle <em>all</em> of it is what matters.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Having dignity when bodily functions are giving way to an appearance that is less than dignified, is truly a feat.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I envy Art Buchwald, because from all appearances he had mastered, long before his demise, both nobility and dignity.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I pray that I might develop such qualities before my final curtain, so that someone might look upon me one day, as I looked upon Art Buchwald, with both awe and admiration.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-84407948078576549072007-01-17T22:58:00.000-05:002007-01-19T00:33:42.404-05:00Thought for Today on Dr. M.L. King's Birthday<span style="font-family:verdana;">Children are the gift from the creator, and today, I was surrounded by many children as I participated in the volunteer event, "Children for Children". I met Novelle there, five years old and smart. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I asked Novelle about himself and he shared details, speaking eloquently, clearly. He had opinions, friends, and energy to burn. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">We made alphabet books together for children in pre-k. As we cut out pictures and wrote the alphabets associated with each pix, I asked Novelle to name the illustrations. He looked at me as though I were being silly, and said, "cat, dog, etc. Silly me; of course a five year old can identify pictures, right. But Novelle was communicating more than just that. Through his expressions I believe he was telling me that he was smart and capable of much more than identifying some silly old pictures for an alphabet book, and soon into our project together, I was watching as Novelle took over the work. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Children, resurrecting joy - teaching us that God is still at work, creating new lives to lead us - generation to generation.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Whenever I volunteer, it is I who benefits. I am introduced to new and exciting people, who make me believe in possibilities.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Meeting Novelle uplifted me, inspired me, helped me to relax, knowing indeed, when I depart this planet, I will leave behind capable spirits like Novelle.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Lift up the children. Know them as God knows them. See them as the divine!!!</span>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-5596166232972417242007-01-17T22:55:00.000-05:002007-01-18T21:17:43.086-05:00Poem "LIFE"<div align="center"><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#663366;"><strong>Life<br />I want to<br />Cuddle it<br />Touch it<br />Laugh with it<br />Meander in it<br />Eat it<br />Drink it<br />Hear it<br />See it<br />Laugh with it<br />Revel in it<br />Look at it<br />Rejoice in it<br />Sing<br />Be glad in it<br />Immerse myself in it<br />Love it<br /></strong></span></div>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-38078441342243154352007-01-17T22:42:00.000-05:002007-01-17T22:45:09.102-05:00PURPOSEFUL LIFE-Poem by Freda<span style="font-family:verdana;color:#663366;"><strong>Purposeful Life<br />Stop focusing on what you don’t have<br />Come to a solution<br />Get what you want<br />Living in the land of lack and limitation<br />Prepares you for nothing<br />But Lack and Limitation<br />Come up to where God is<br />Know the fullness of all that Is<br />There - you will find joy, peace<br />All things purposeful, good and right<br />In the dominion of what you don’t have<br />Are monsters<br />Waiting to gobble you up<br />Bearing no resemblance to joy<br />Instead of residing with monsters<br />Take up residence in the land of<br />The Living, intent on your purpose<br />Focused on getting as much as You want<br />From this experience - The Life<br />Sucking every bit of it down to the marrow<br /></strong></span>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-66047508338651808302007-01-11T20:46:00.000-05:002007-01-24T23:12:47.144-05:00Thought for Today, 1/11/07 Joyful, Calm, Serene<div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:verdana;">"I Am Joyful, Calm and Serene"</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span></strong><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I had lunch with a new friend today, and upon greeting her I asked, "How is your day going?" She responded that she was wonderful.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I was taken aback; gladly, I might add. Because in this world where our thoughts are filled with wants and desires, it is truly lovely when someone has no complaints.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I knew she and I were off to a good start, destined to have a lovely time during repass from work.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Stephanie is my new friends name. She was such a blessing to me today. She reminded me that every moment is a gift, not to be squandered or taken for granted.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I am blessed to have had an opportunity to share such a special moment with a new friend.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Thank you Stephanie for the blessing that you are, and for reminding me that truly lif is "wonderful."</span></div>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-8570359498520099412007-01-11T20:28:00.000-05:002007-01-18T21:11:34.676-05:00HOW TO POST A COMMENT<span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Please post your comment(s) by clicking on any link, and then click where it says "comment". From there, simply follow the instructions.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;">Thank you.</span>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-20998088015284623092007-01-11T00:41:00.000-05:002007-01-19T00:34:45.617-05:00In Celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr.<div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;">A Call to Act</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;">"Everybody can be great because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love</span>. "</div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;"><strong>Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.</strong></span></div>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-60759496668816243352007-01-11T00:11:00.000-05:002007-01-24T23:13:22.474-05:00The "Word" for Today, 1/10/07 "Peace"<span style="font-family:verdana;">Peace brothers and sisters,</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">What does the word peace mean?</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I use the word peace as my call to meditation. When I prepare to meditate, I chant the word over and over, until my mind is free of any disruptive thoughts. Sometimes I chant, "Peace be still", until quietness takes over. After repeating the word several times, I feel a shift inside me. I start to move away from my human self as I began connecting with my spirit.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Peace, both the word and the feelings the word invokes, take me to a place where there is calm and serenity.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">When I say "peace" to myself or another, I am hoping to call forth visions of soothing waters, a bridge over troubled waters, thoughts of the omnipotent one, God, Allah, Jehovah, Oshun, Buddah, whatever spirit(s) that help guide and sustain, while on the path and the journey.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Peace is what I wish for each person residing on the planet. Peace is what I pray for in the middle east, among elected officials, for persons in pain, suffering with terminal illness, single parents, troubled teenagers, you and me.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I wish you peace my brothers and sister. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Won't you join me in this constant pray for peace, for our families, for our politicians, clergy, for the planet?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">If we call it forth, it shall be!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-71893499848168804012007-01-08T21:29:00.000-05:002007-01-18T21:13:22.960-05:00Word for Today January 8 "Tenderness"<div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;">TRY A LITTLE TENDERNESS</span></div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">January 8, 2007</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">I am sensitive. I admit it. I am sensitive to loud noises, shouting, yelling, and people saying hurtful things to one another.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">I believe that part of the reason the world is suffering is because s</span><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">o often words are spoken with reckless abandon.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><strong>My Thought for Today</strong></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Before you speak, give some thought to the impact your words, facial expression, and intonation might have on another.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">It only takes a milli second to do harm, causing someone to hurt or have a bad day.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">I believe that harsh words and expressions can cause the planet great harm.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Here are some words and phrases that I use daily to </span><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">invoke feelings of compassion and tenderness:</span><br /><br /><br /><ul><li><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Beloved</span></li><li><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Sweetheart</span></li><li><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;">Sweetie</span></li><li><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;">You are so sweet</span></li><li><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;">That's very kind of you</span></li><li><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">I use "I'm sorry", when I don't understand what someone is saying</span></li><li><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Dearest</span></li><li><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Thank you so much</span></li><li><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;">Yes, I'm listening</span></li><li><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;">It's my pleasure</span></li><li><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;">I love you</span></li><li><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;">You are special</span></li></ul><p><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Try a little tenderness.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">I would love to hear of your experience(s) after trying some of these suggestions. </span></p><p><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span></p><span style="font-family:verdana;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-2959161712019454772007-01-07T15:55:00.000-05:002007-01-24T23:14:03.767-05:00THOUGHT FOR TODAY 1/7/07 Share Whatever You Have<span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">On the streets of New York, every day I pass by a man or woman asking for money or something to eat.<br /><br />Yesterday, I gave a pretty young woman money, and I asked her why she was on the street. She did not speak much English. I wrote on a piece of paper, "for help, contact the Food Bank of New York." I do not know if she will seek interpretation of what I wrote, but I do know that it makes a difference to engage people in conversation, and acknowledge their presence. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><br />If someone one asks me for food, I will stop to feed them, and if I don't have the money to do so, I will extend a prayer for blessings and protection.<br /><br />Consider today, tomorrow, whenever you pass someone in need, do an act of kindness. Say hello, ask the person about their day. If someone asks you for assistance and you have it to share, extend yourself.<br /><br />There are blessings and miracles awaiting each of us.<br /><br />Today, let each of us start by acknowledging the presence of another, and extending a simple greeting, a nod, a simple hello might help make someone's day.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-5513321545901413272007-01-07T14:37:00.000-05:002007-01-18T21:14:39.863-05:00SCHOLARSHIP FUND<p><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">In 2003 The Freda L. Thomas Scholarship fund was created providing financial assistance for women in need, and especially for single mothers, residing in battered women’s shelters. The scholarship helps pay for job training through organizations such as the Grace Institute of New York, a 100-year old educational organization that offers practical skills necessary to obtain employment, develop self-sufficiency and improve the quality of a person’s life.<br /><br />Additionally, the fund offers training and resources related to job development.<br /><br /><br />PREVIOUS SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS<br /><br />In 2005, Ms. Heavenly Gaines a single mother, who was unemployed at the time of the award, was the recipient of a $1,750.00 scholarship.<br />The fund helped pay for Heavenly’s sons tuition to the Brooklyn Friends School, an independently run institution for children, built on a foundation of acceptance and compassion.<br />In 2003 Ms. Darlene Tanner, also a single parent, was living in a battered women's shelter. After ten years of temporary work, Darlene was seeking full-time employment. I introduced Darlene to a recruiter - She interviewed, and was hired as a Teller at Citibank in New York City.<br />Ms. Shauna Rivers, single parent was also residing in a battered women’s shelter. Shauna was the first scholarship recipient. Shauna’s award provided her an opportunity to attend the Grace Institute. The scholarship helped pay for books and fees.<br /></span><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span></p><p><span style="font-family:verdana;">To recommend potential scholarship candidates, please contact me at the address below, or email me at <a href="mailto:fritolay830@aol.com">fritolay830@aol.com</a></p></span><p><span style="font-family:verdana;"><br />CALL FOR DONATIONS to the FUND<br /><br />Donations are welcomed.<br />□ $25.00<br />□ $50.00<br />□ $100.00<br />□ $125.00 or more<br /><br />Please make your check payable to:<br />Freda L. Thomas Scholarship Fund<br />244 Fifth Avenue, #N-214<br />New York, NY 10001-7604<br /><br />PLEASE INDICATE IF YOU REQUIRE A RECEIPT FOR TAX PURPOSES.<br /><br />THANK YOU.<br /><br /><br />Freda L. Thomas</span></p>A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1373933077850013006.post-46611018859854816972007-01-04T22:29:00.000-05:002007-01-18T21:18:58.019-05:00Newsday Article --Reaching Out to the Homelesshttp://www.newsday.com/mynews/ny-p2bottom23371301jul15,0,7666381.story<br />From Down-and-Out to Reaching Out<br /><br />Katti Gray<br />Katti Gray's e-mail address is kgray@ newsday.com.<br /><br />July 15, 2003<br /><br />Freda Thomas moved 16 years ago from her native Atlanta to the Big Apple, enticed by its standing as one of few cities with the capacity to make a girl heady and sober her up all at once.<br /><br />Feeling called to a Northern life, she enrolled and earned a degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology. Eventually, she started graduate studies at New York University but stopped, preferring instead to be in the marketplace. Because she is an artisan, Freda chose to work designing wardrobes for the stage. Then, she created and sold greeting cards to boutiques and discount retailers from an office loft in the old, now gentrifying Brooklyn Navy Yard. Today, she is a consultant to small businesses and temp worker in a multinational bank.<br /><br />She, too, is a self-appointed counselor to the homeless, having tested those waters personally and, in that, learned firsthand what are a homeless being's needs. "This Is A Resource Pamphlet Providing Places To Get Food, Medical Care, Counseling and More ... " are the big words blaring from the front of a brochure she drafted and laid out on her very own home computer, had printed and passes out to the homeless at places where they gather. The brochure lists locales and informational hot lines from Nassau County and throughout parts of New York City, neighborhoods where a bad economy and sinfully inflated housing costs have pushed out of doors more people than many of us care to admit. It also lists hopeful words about having the faith to fly.<br /><br />For half a decade, beginning around 1996, Freda had no roof of her own. The greeting card business had imploded and, with months of unpaid rent on her tab, the Navy Yard threw her out and has since begun signing up tenants with much deeper pockets.<br /><br />For those five years, Freda stumbled through, sleeping on a couch in her office loft until that eviction notice came. Unobtrusively as she could, she began bunking out with friends, using one's shower and extra bedroom, another's stove and another's air-conditioning. Some whom she counted as friends did the favor of handing her keys to their front doors. Some did not. Sometimes a friend would allow her inside and, perhaps without intending, make her feel unwelcome, a bother. A housed woman's temperament can collide with the bruised tenderness of a woman forced out of doors. Ambivalence of that sort, from a friend doing a favor, made Freda cry.<br /><br />At her lowest, she considered suicide but figured her spirit would not rest knowing that a daughter dying that violent death would surely kill her mother back in Georgia. So Freda suffered and in the midst of it, vowed that if - no, when - she emerged from the muck, she would provide a meaningful service.<br /><br />"I wrote down, like in 1997, the things I wanted to accomplish once I came through the darkness. I kept those things and as soon as I moved into the apartment, I put them on the wall," said Freda, who is back on her feet again.<br /><br />Untouched, the list remained there until the U.S. militia launched into its latest war in the desert. That made her angry and fueled her desire to do a deed that might forward the cause of humanity. And what came to her mind was that list on the wall and her vivid remembrance of dragging her bare essentials from one friend's borrowed bathroom to the next.<br /><br />Homelessness made Freda feel "like God had abandoned me. I thought I was being punished. I could not imagine what I had done to deserve this.... Homelessness made me know what it was like to be hungry, like continuously, a long time."<br /><br />She burst out laughing at that juncture.<br /><br />"I knew various stages of hunger," she said, her words garbled by her unabated guffaw. "There's hunger where you can drink two or three glasses of water and, for four or five hours, you will be all right. There's hunger that is so prolonged that you can have a headache for four or five days.... When the food runs out, it's not like you're Jesus Christ, where you can pray over that macaroni-and-cheese and it will last until Sunday. Once you eat, it's gone."<br /><br />That she can deliver that comedic punch - when the heart of the story is not funny - is proof of her rising through the pain and having the courage to talk about it.<br /><br />Many of us forget that the potentially homeless also are regular people a paycheck or corporate scandal away from losing their shelter. The needy to whom Freda extends herself are senior citizens, children, men and women of almost every stripe and resume, color and size.<br /><br />They are people stripped by homelessness and often hoping still. Outside the Church of the Epiphany on the Upper East Side - where I, curious, played some bit part as Freda's assistant in brochure delivery the other day - stood a pretty older woman, an immigrant with a tan face, wearing lipstick, copper earrings I coveted and a skirt of gauzy white cotton. She took a brochure. So did the young woman in a Victoria's Secret baseball cap, who asked whether any of the shelters listed received woman guests. So did the guy wondering what's on the menu at some other soup kitchen. He hates meat loaf and, oops, he did not mean to sound ungrateful, for he appreciates Epiphany's mealtime.<br /><br />"I said, 'Honey, if you don't like it, you don't like it. It doesn't matter how hungry you are,'" said Freda, who accepts helpful hints for the homeless at fltconsult02@aol .com.<br /><br />So far in her effort with the brochures, Freda said, "I have yet to meet anyone who is volatile or hostile. These people are meek and mild and touch me: They are just so thankful for a piece of paper with a little bit of information on it. ... They've asked me how come I'm doing it. I say, 'When I look at you, I see myself.'"<br />Copyright © 2003, Newsday, Inc.A Change in Thinking Changes ALLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18243044808701828970noreply@blogger.com0