Linda's Blogspot

  The Healer Setting: A quiet, modest room in a weathered community center. Candles flicker in glass jars along the walls, their light dancing across a circle of people sitting on mismatched chairs. Outside, the sound of rain whispers against the windows. The healer, a weathered figure in their late 40s with kind but piercing eyes, stands in the center of the room, their simple clothing reflecting their grounded demeanor. The air is heavy with tension, the group restless with unspoken fears. The healer begins to speak, their voice warm and steady, carrying both authority and compassion.* Monologue: (Steps into the center of the room, hands loosely clasped in front, their eyes scanning the group with quiet intensity.) I know why you’re here. I know the weight you carry, the questions that haunt you. You’ve tried everything, haven’t you? Medicines, therapies, prayers. And still, you wonder why the pain lingers. Why the struggle feels endless. (Pauses, letting their words settle, then...

    The Healer’s Conviction Setting: The same quiet, candlelit community center. The rain continues to patter against the windows. The group includes Clara, a middle-aged woman carrying visible emotional weight, an elderly man named Walter with a persistent cough, and a young man, James, nursing a bandaged arm. The healer stands in the center, their presence both grounding and electrifying. (The healer begins speaking, her voice steady and warm.) Healing isn’t a gift that comes wrapped in certainty. It’s a choice—a hard one. And that choice begins not with what’s happening around you but with what’s happening within you. What are you binding to your heart? What are you loosing into the world? (Pauses, letting the words resonate, then continues with a story.) I once knew a man, Samuel. He’d lost his family, his health, and his faith all at once. He told me he was done. He believed the doctors when they said he’d never walk again. He tied himself to their words like an anchor. B...

 Theatrical Monologue: The Healing of Silence (The woman stands center stage now, her presence calm yet commanding. She paces slowly, her hands clasped loosely in front of her. A soft spotlight follows her movements, leaving the rest of the stage in shadows. Her voice carries a quiet strength as she begins to speak.) You know what I think my country needs right now? Silence. Not the awkward kind, not the defeated kind, but the healing kind. The kind of silence that wraps around you like a blanket and whispers, Stop. Breathe. Remember who you are. We’ve been tearing each other apart—word by word, insult by insult, like children who don’t know how to share the same sandbox. Bitter. Divisive. Hateful. And for what? Power? Pride? Some imagined victory that leaves us emptier than before? (She pauses, looking out as if addressing the audience directly, her voice tinged with sadness.) We’ve forgotten how to listen. Not just to each other, but to ourselves. To that still, small voice insid...

The Healing of Silence (The woman stands center stage now, her presence calm yet commanding. She paces slowly, her hands clasped loosely in front of her. A soft spotlight follows her movements, leaving the rest of the stage in shadows. Her voice carries a quiet strength as she begins to speak.) You know what I think my country needs right now? Silence. Not the awkward kind, not the defeated kind, but the healing kind. The kind of silence that wraps around you like a blanket and whispers, Stop. Breathe. Remember who you are. We’ve been tearing each other apart—word by word, insult by insult, like children who don’t know how to share the same sandbox. Bitter. Divisive. Hateful. And for what? Power? Pride? Some imagined victory that leaves us emptier than before? (She pauses, looking out as if addressing the audience directly, her voice tinged with sadness.) We’ve forgotten how to listen. Not just to each other, but to ourselves. To that still, small voice inside that says, There’s a bett...

Spring a symbol of renewal Spring, when properly understood, symbolizes the supreme spiritual experience, which is the regeneration of mankind. It is a season of renewal, of casting off the weight of old fears and limitations. We were not meant to remain forever confined by the shadows of misunderstanding, nor were we designed to dwell in a world of separation and strife. The promise of spring calls us to awaken to our true spiritual nature, to shed the works of darkness, and to step forward into the light with clarity and strength. In this time of awakening, we are like the earth after a long winter, ready to embrace the sun’s warmth and the fresh breath of possibility. Just as the flowers burst forth from the soil, each of us has the potential to rise above past struggles, to be reborn in the light of higher understanding. We are called to go forth clothed in the shining armor of light—our hearts and minds open to the divine presence that is always with us, guiding us forward. The wo...

One Spanking Should Be Enough: Learning Life's Lessons with Grace A lesson from Emmett Fox Great souls often learn profound lessons from the smallest events, reminding us that personal growth does not require grand or dramatic circumstances. For most of us, life's challenges—be they disappointments, frustrations, or misfortunes—offer a unique opportunity to reflect and grow. This article explores how we can approach these moments of discomfort as teachers, helping us evolve into wiser, more resilient individuals. Life as a Mirror of the Mind The idea that "nothing can happen to you unless it finds some kind of correspondence in your own mentality" encourages a deep look inward . Life's external events often reflect our internal beliefs, attitudes, and choices. When something vexes or harasses us, it signals a chance to uncover something "off-balance" within ourselves. By analyzing these moments with a calm, dispassionate mindset, we can identify missteps...

The Weight of Hearts (Spotlight on a single character, standing center stage. She appears contemplative, holding an object—a small mirror, perhaps, or a simple heart-shaped token. She take a deep breath before speaking.) Character: I’ve spent so much time protecting the hearts of others. (Pauses, looking down at the object in her hand.) I don’t even know when it started—this… calling. Maybe it was when I first realized how sharp words could be, how they cut like glass if thrown carelessly. Or maybe it was when I saw someone crumble, right there in front of me, because no one bothered to look past their faults to see… their soul. (Paces slightly, thoughtful.) We’re all imperfect, aren’t we? (Softer, to herself.) God, we are so imperfect. We stumble, we lash out, we make a mess of things. But I’ve always wondered—what if, just once, someone paused? What if they looked beyond the clumsy words, the anger, the mistakes? What if they saw the fragile heart beneath it all? (Looks out at the a...

The Democrats failed us. They ignored and denied that Open Borders was a problem or a crisis. They disrespected our sovereignty as a nation. The worse part about it is that they accommodated illegal entry. I remember when Trump said there is a process to becoming a citizen. He was shunned for saying it. It made sense to me. Trump kept illegals on the other side of the border in Mexico which was a deterrent.   Biden lifted what was in place and caused chaos. Insane logic to appear more human. Being invaded is not a liberal matter. Totally absurd behavior. The Democrats even laughed at the thought of building a wall. It made sense to me. I did Google searches and read about the problems of forced migration by illegals illegally entering Eastern Europe countries.  Harris even lied in an interview saying our borders are secure. She was asked early on if she was going to the border she responded like she didn't know why she was even asked the question. She treated the quest...

Life as a Deck of Cards: Playing the Hand You’re Dealt Life, at its core, is often unpredictable. Like a game of cards, we don't get to choose the hand we're dealt. Circumstances—family, health, opportunities—are handed to us, and while some seem to have a winning hand, others feel as though they’re starting with nothing. But here’s the truth: your success in life isn’t determined by the cards you hold but by how you play them. To truly understand life in this way, we need to set aside emotional reactions, ego, and feelings of inferiority. Instead, let’s focus on practical strategies to navigate life’s challenges, using the cards we have to their fullest potential. 1. Understanding Your Hand Your “hand” in life consists of your circumstances: your talents, resources, challenges, and opportunities. Some people receive a hand filled with advantages, while others face hardships from the start. Rather than comparing your cards to someone else’s, take a moment to assess your own. Wh...

Why Nations Build Walls: Protecting Borders and Resources Throughout History Throughout history, nations have constructed walls and fortified barriers to protect their borders, secure their resources, and safeguard their populations. These structures often arise in times of perceived threat, reflecting the need to defend against external forces while maintaining internal stability. From the Great Wall of China to modern border walls, these efforts reveal a recurring theme: the struggle to balance openness with protection. The Great Wall of China: A Historical Model The Great Wall of China, one of history’s most iconic border defenses, exemplifies how nations have responded to external pressures. 1. Defending Against Nomadic Threats: The wall was constructed over centuries, primarily to deter invasions and raids from northern nomadic tribes such as the Xiongnu, Mongols, and others. These groups threatened China's agricultural economy and settled communities. By building a physical b...

The Great Wall of China The Great Wall of China was primarily constructed to defend against invasions and raids from nomadic tribes of the Eurasian Steppe, especially the Xiongnu, Mongols, and other northern groups. These nomadic peoples often posed a threat to the agricultural and settled civilizations of China. Here's a breakdown of the key groups and the context behind the wall's construction: 1. The Xiongnu Period: During the early construction of the wall, particularly under the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE), the Xiongnu were the primary adversaries. Why They Were Feared: The Xiongnu were skilled horsemen who conducted raids on Chinese villages, stealing goods and livestock. Their mobility and military tactics made them a significant threat. 2. Later Nomadic Tribes Over centuries, other nomadic groups, such as the Turkic tribes, Jurchens, and Mongols, became targets of the wall's defense. For example: The Mongols, under Genghis Khan, eventually breached Chinese defenses an...

Border Walls and National Sustainability: A Complex Reality The debate over border walls in the United States reflects a critical tension between compassion and sustainability. While the U.S. has long been a beacon of opportunity for those seeking refuge and a better life, the challenges posed by an uncontrolled influx of migrants demand pragmatic solutions. A secure border, including physical barriers, is not a matter of malice but a recognition of the finite resources and infrastructure available to support both citizens and newcomers. A Matter of Sustainability The U.S. is grappling with the reality of cities and states being overwhelmed by unprecedented levels of migration. Communities like New York City, Chicago, and El Paso have reported severe strains on housing, healthcare, education, and public services. These are not abstract concerns: the influx of migrants has real-world consequences, including: 1. Overburdened Social Systems: Schools, hospitals, and housing programs face s...

Sunu Thiossane: The Making of an African Dream is a 2023 short documentary directed by Mamedjarra Bousso Diop from Senegal.  This 28-minute film commemorates the 10th anniversary of the Sunu Thiossane Youth Development Organization, which aims to empower African youth through education, cultural engagement, and social projects.  The documentary captures the organization's journey in fostering growth, cultural awareness, and connections between Africa and its diaspora. It highlights impactful initiatives, such as establishing summer camps and year-round programs to provide quality education and promote self-expression, creativity, and compassion among young people. Mamedjarra Bousso Diop, the founder of Sunu Thiossane, is passionate about using arts and sciences to inspire socially conscious projects that empower youth. She has spoken at the United Nations and collaborated with NGOs in Senegal and the U.S., showcasing her commitment to cultural enrichment and education as tools...

The Changing Context of Emma Lazarus’s “The New Colossus” When Emma Lazarus penned her iconic poem “The New Colossus” in 1883, she crafted a vision of America as a haven for the oppressed. Her words—“Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free”—were later inscribed on a plaque inside the Statue of Liberty, cementing the statue as a symbol of hope and refuge for immigrants. While these ideals have inspired millions, the world has changed dramatically since then, and the modern realities of migration present challenges Lazarus could never have imagined. A Poem Born of Its Time Lazarus wrote her poem during a period when the United States was eager to grow its population and economy. Immigration was seen as a key to nation-building, with newcomers helping to settle the vast land, fuel industrial growth, and contribute to a burgeoning society. For the immigrants fleeing poverty, persecution, and oppression, the Statue of Liberty became a symbol of freedom an...

" Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free..." It is from the poem "The New Colossus" written by Emma Lazarus in 1883. The poem was not spoken in a particular moment but was written to help raise funds for the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty.  In 1903, the poem was engraved on a bronze plaque and mounted inside the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty, associating it with the monument's symbolism of welcome and freedom.  The context in which Emma Lazarus wrote “The New Colossus” in 1883 is very different from the complex realities of migration today. The poem was written during a time when the United States was seeking to grow its population and economy, and immigration was seen as a crucial part of nation-building.  However, in today’s world, migration and border policies face entirely different challenges, including issues of national security, economic concerns, and the sheer scale of modern displacement crises. Differences B...

Golden Key Prayer for Africa's Youth and the World Divine Presence, Infinite Source of Love and Wisdom, We turn to You now with open hearts, Holding Africa’s youth—and the youth of the world— In the light of Your boundless grace. May their minds awaken to their power, To shape their lives and the world around them With thoughts that heal, words that uplift, And actions that bring harmony to all. Every day, in every way, May they grow better and brighter. May their hearts remain full of wonder, Their spirits grounded in respect— For one another, for the elders who guide them, For the earth that sustains them, And for the beauty of life in all its forms. May they be mindful, even in their energy, To tread gently upon this world, To nurture the soil, the rivers, the skies, And to cherish the hands they hold along the way. Let them be lovers of life, Creators of peace, And stewards of a future where all can thrive. We Golden Key this vision, Turning from fear and doubt, Fixing our mind...

  The Medicine of Thought Imagine, if you will, a tiny vial, Not filled with pills or potions vile, But with whispers soft, both kind and true, A remedy crafted deep within you. Émile Coué, with gentle hand, Showed us a truth so simple, so grand: Our thoughts, like streams, shape where we go, Their currents unseen, yet steady they flow. No prescription needed, no doctor’s decree, Just words you repeat to set yourself free: "Every day, in every way, I am getting better," you softly say. Picture it now, your mind as a field, Where thoughts you plant will grow and yield. With care, you sow the seeds of grace, And watch them blossom in time and space. This is the medicine Coué imparts, A balm for the soul, a salve for the heart. Not taken in haste, but slow, with intent, A daily ritual, a life well spent. Feel the warmth of belief take hold, As dreams awaken, as courage unfolds. The mind, a healer, the thoughts, the cure, A process so humble, yet wondrously pure. So let your thou...

The phrase "Every day, in every way, I am getting better and better" was coined by Émile Coué, a French psychologist and pharmacist. He developed the method of conscious autosuggestion, which became known as the Coué Method in the early 20th century. Coué believed that repeating positive affirmations with conviction and regularity could influence the subconscious mind and improve mental and physical well-being. This particular phrase is one of his most famous affirmations, encouraging self-improvement through optimism and repetition. Article: The Power of Positive Autosuggestion – Émile Coué's Legacy In the early 20th century, French psychologist and pharmacist Émile Coué revolutionized the way people thought about self-improvement through his method of conscious autosuggestion. Central to his approach was the now-famous affirmation: "Every day, in every way, I am getting better and better." Coué believed in the profound influence of the subconscious mind on phy...

  Joy and being light-hearted You ever notice how the world feels heavier some days? Like you're carrying a backpack full of invisible bricks, trudging through life, waiting for someone—or something—to take the load off? But here's the thing: we can set it down. Sometimes, we forget that joy is lighter than air and can lift us if we let it. Light-heartedness—it’s not just a fleeting emotion or a break from the serious. It's a choice, a mindset, a practice. It’s not about pretending everything is perfect. It’s about learning to see the beauty despite the imperfections. Let’s start with the way we talk to ourselves. Words are powerful—spoken or unspoken. If you want to feel light-hearted, try this: when you wake up, instead of dragging yourself into the day, say, “What little wonders will today bring?” It’s simple, but it sets the tone. When life feels overwhelming, whisper to yourself: “I release what I can’t control.” “I breathe in ease and breathe out worry.” “There’s beau...

  Light as a Feather When the weight of the world feels too much to bear, Pause for a moment—breathe in the air. Whisper softly, “This load isn’t mine,” And let your thoughts drift, like leaves on a line. Speak to yourself with words that heal, “I release this burden; I choose to feel.” Feel joy in the ordinary, wonder in the small, Life’s hidden beauty is the greatest gift of all. Marvel at sunlight that dances on trees, At the song of a bird, carried by the breeze. Laugh at the little things, let your heart play, Be curious—what magic will visit today? Say to yourself, “I’m light as a feather, My spirit unbroken, no matter the weather.” In stillness, in motion, let joy take the lead, For light-hearted living is all that you need. Hold not to sorrow, nor cling to despair, There’s freedom in knowing the light’s always there. Speak kindness within, let grace be your guide, And find in each moment the joy you can’t hide. Life is a marvel, a dance, a refrain, A treasure that’s waiting...

Light as a Feather You ever notice how the world feels heavier some days? Like you're carrying a backpack full of invisible bricks, trudging through life, waiting for someone—or something—to take the load off? We can set it down. Sometimes, we forget that joy is lighter than air and can lift us if we let it. Light-heartedness—it’s not just a fleeting emotion or a break from the serious. It's a choice, a mindset, a practice. It's the way we let the sunshine find its way through the cracks of our worries. You don't have to wait for perfect conditions. Joy doesn't need permission to exist. Think about a child blowing bubbles in the park. They aren't worrying if the bubbles will pop; they just watch them float, marveling at their brief shimmer. When did we lose that? Somewhere along the way, we traded wonder for worry and spontaneity for strategy. But the spirit of joy—it’s still there. It's waiting for us to blow the bubbles, laugh at the silly, dance in the ki...

 The New York State Education Department (NYSED) is responsible for overseeing public education across the entire state of New York, from pre-kindergarten through higher education. Its primary role is to ensure all students receive a quality education and to support schools, educators, and students. Here's what it does: 1. Policy Development and Oversight Establishes statewide education policies and standards, including curriculum requirements and graduation criteria. Administers the New York State Regents Examinations for high school students. Oversees accountability measures to ensure schools meet state and federal guidelines. 2. Funding and Resource Allocation Distributes state and federal funding to local school districts. Ensures equitable allocation of resources to address disparities in education access and quality. 3. Licensing and Certification Certifies teachers, school administrators, and other educational professionals. Monitors professional development to maintain high...

The New York City Department of Education (NYC DOE) oversees public education for the largest school system in the United States, serving over one million students across more than 1,800 schools. Its responsibilities include: 1. Managing Schools Operates public schools in New York City, including elementary, middle, and high schools. Provides support and oversight to charter schools and special education programs. 2. Setting Educational Standards Establishes curriculum guidelines to ensure students meet state and federal academic standards. Aligns instruction to New York State Common Core Learning Standards. 3. Supporting Teachers and Staff Recruits, trains, and evaluates teachers, principals, and other school staff. Offers professional development opportunities to improve teaching quality. 4. Student Support Services Provides programs for students with disabilities, English language learners (ELLs), and gifted students. Oversees social-emotional learning initiatives and mental health ...

The U.S. Department of Education is a federal agency that oversees education across the country. Its primary mission is to promote student achievement and ensure equal access to educational opportunities. Here's what it does: 1. Policy Development Creates policies related to federal education funding and ensures these funds are used effectively. Advises the President on education matters and supports state and local governments in implementing education programs. 2. Funding and Grants Administers federal financial aid programs, including Pell Grants and student loans. Provides funding for schools, particularly those serving low-income families. 3. Civil Rights Enforcement Ensures all students have equal access to education, prohibiting discrimination based on race, gender, disability, and more. 4. Research and Data Collection Conducts and supports research on education trends and challenges through the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Shares data to help policymaker...

The Hidden Nature of American Laws: A Call for Transparency In a nation founded on principles of liberty and justice, the question of how laws are created, interpreted, and applied often goes unexamined. While the United States Constitution stands as a symbol of democratic ideals, the mechanisms behind its interpretation and the development of modern laws can sometimes feel obscured from public view. This opacity creates a paradox: a country that prides itself on freedom, yet operates under a legal system that is not always transparent to the people it governs. From the influence of corporate lobbying to the complexities of judicial interpretation, the laws that shape everyday life are often crafted and enforced in ways that the average citizen cannot fully see or understand. The Constitution is heralded as a living document, capable of adapting to the times. But who decides how it evolves? Court decisions, executive orders, and legislative acts often redefine its meaning, leaving ordi...

Exploring Food Education and Sustainability at SARE Skillshare on Institutional and Private Market Access for Black Farmers in NYS.  On November 12th, Black Farmers Fund hosted a  Skillshare event that brought together individuals passionate about food education, sustainability, and local farming practices.  This unique gathering functioned as a mini-conference, featuring breakout sessions that allowed participants to engage directly with one another, exchange insights, and discuss collaborative ideas. The event drew attendees interested in promoting knowledge on critical issues like school lunch programs, urban gardens, and the farm-to-table movement. The purpose of attending this Skillshare was for me to gain perspectives on enhancing Wikipedia content related to food issues, farmers, and community gardening.  Several breakout sessions offered valuable insights on educational efforts and policies surrounding food sustainability and accessibility, as well as the cha...

 After the intense and consuming presidential election, it feels like the right time to step away from it all.  Today, I’m choosing to refocus on something greater, something timeless—the natural wonders of Yosemite National Park. Turning our attention from the human world of noise and urgency to the serene and magnificent beauty of the earth reminds us of the lasting, grounding presence of nature. Majestic Rock Pillars Standing Guard Yosemite is defined by its towering granite formations, almost like ancient guardians of the landscape. Among these are the majestic rock pillars—El Capitan and Cathedral Spires, each a testament to nature’s incredible power and artistry. El Capitan, one of the park’s most iconic formations, rises over 3,000 feet vertically, its sheer rock face drawing climbers and sightseers alike. The Cathedral Spires, with their sharp, jutting peaks, reach upward like natural steeples, inviting a feeling of reverence and awe. Standing at the base of these gian...

Beyond the Battle; Turning the page Character: A woman in her mid-40s, thoughtful, wise, and reflective, addresses the audience directly. Her tone is calm and resonant, inviting contemplation. Monologue: I’ve heard the voices, loud and clear, calling out the flaws in men. I’ve seen the eyes rolling, the hands waving dismissively, the words dripping with contempt. And I know… I know where that anger comes from. The weight of centuries of silencing, of restraint, of all the ways our strengths, our minds, were told to be small. I feel it too. The frustrations, the injustices—they are real, and they matter. But… let us think deeply, sisters. We have the strength now to do so. What do we gain by turning that weight into a weapon? By seeing men as our adversaries? Have we not learned enough about the pain of division, the loneliness of fighting alone? Let me ask you this: Have you ever watched a dance where only one dancer moves, leaving the other frozen in place? The beauty isn’t just in th...

Athena: Goddess of Wisdom, Strategy, and Innovation Athena, one of the most revered figures in Greek mythology, is the goddess of wisdom, strategic warfare, and crafts. Known for her keen intelligence and sense of justice, she plays a critical role both in the lives of mortals and within the divine hierarchy of Mount Olympus. Unlike Ares, the god of chaotic and brutal conflict, Athena embodies the disciplined and thoughtful side of warfare. Her influence extends far beyond the battlefield, touching aspects of everyday life, invention, and learning. The Power of Wisdom and Strategy Athena's wisdom is perhaps her most defining quality. Known as "Pallas Athena," she is both a wise counselor and a skilled strategist. Her advice has helped heroes like Odysseus, Perseus, and Achilles achieve victory through cleverness and foresight rather than mere physical power. Athena represents the intellectual side of war, championing thoughtful planning and the careful application of forc...

The Influence of Corporately Owned Celebrities on Political Elections In recent years, there has been growing concern about the power and influence of corporately owned celebrities in political elections. With vast followings and platforms that reach millions, celebrities backed by major corporations have the ability to shape public opinion and steer conversations in ways that can impact voting behavior and election outcomes. However, this influence often raises questions about representation, authenticity, and the potential dangers of allowing corporate-backed figures to dominate the political landscape. The Rise of Celebrity Influence in Politics The influence of celebrities on politics is nothing new, but in today’s hyper-connected world, the scale and immediacy of their impact are unprecedented. Social media allows celebrities to share their views directly with millions of followers, bypassing traditional media and becoming primary sources of news and opinion for many people. When ...

Globalist: An Overview The term “globalist” is used to describe a person who advocates for globalization, which is the process of increased interconnectedness among countries through trade, communication, technology, and cultural exchange. While the term itself is neutral, its meaning and implications vary depending on context and perspective, and it can be viewed positively or negatively. Positive Aspects of Globalism In a positive sense, globalists are often seen as advocates for international cooperation. They support initiatives that transcend national borders and aim to address issues like climate change, poverty, health crises, and economic stability on a global scale. Proponents argue that working together can lead to solutions that benefit all of humanity, with benefits like: Economic Growth : By promoting free trade and open markets, globalists argue that countries can share resources, labor, and technology, creating growth that raises living standards worldwide. Cultural Exch...