Be True to Thy Self!!!

A Woman’s Worth Is Far More Than Rubies. Proverbs 31:10

Woe is me… A popular song women choose to sing on certain holidays and during this time of year. Tis the season! Wedding bells are ringing, extravagant cakes with four to five tiers are being baked, expensive wedding gowns and bridesmaid dresses are shopped for as we speak. Although, through it all there are female participants in the festivities and bystanders wondering, moaning… “Why not me?”

Always a bridesmaid never a bride.

A couple of female friends and I sit comfortably in my living room sipping wine and playing catch up. The conversation is wonderful then here it comes. The mood takes a turn that I have no interest in because they always hate my outlook. I’m not wielding pom- poms! All from one jealous statement. “Why is Susan getting married?” “When will it be my turn?” Faces turn red, eyes are rolled! Negative and slandering statements are made about the soon- to- be bride. The male bashing begins!!! I reach for my wine in aggravation! Thinking about the character of each woman as a glance around the room. Two, are not married for good reason!!! No shade! My friends are quite aware of how I feel.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not perfect! If I was, I would not be single. I’m the woman who tries to fix men. I will find a bad boy and dress him in a suit and tie and call him “reformed”. LOL!!! But, if I know nothing else… I know my worth! As a woman, the one thing we should not do is measure ourselves against another woman. What is even more deplorable is stomping on another woman’s success. Shame on you!

The woman in the mirror!

Instead of standing in the mirror taking duck-faced selfies, look into the depths of yourself. Again, I am not throwing stones. I have one or two duck- faced photos of myself on Instagram. Although, when I look into the mirror I rather speak positivity into myself. Mantra’s like:

“I am beautiful; We may hear it from men constantly but it means the world when you say it to yourself.”

“I am strong; It helps me through the times that I feel weak.”

“I am successful; Quiets the voice that says, you will fail.”

“I am who I say I am; Powerful against all self- doubt.”

Ever heard the saying… Why buy the milk if you can get the cow for free? I asked the women that question. Of course, I giggled at the looks of contempt. So, I explained myself. Half naked pictures advertising that you’re single. More than willing to sell your virtue for dinner and a movie. Maybe a trinket or a trip here and there. Why in hell should he put a ring on it? Newsflash ladies: Men are looking for a woman, not a girl using her looks and body for an opportunity.

Who can find a virtuous woman?

Listen for a moment! Do you hear that? Men are asking their counterparts, married homeboys, and mothers… Where do I find a virtuous woman? My brothers, guy friends, workmates, business partners ask me that very question. They claim to want a woman who is going to add stability to my life. I need an equal! You would not believe how men truly feel about women.

“Women are just as aggressive as men. You don’t have to work for it!”

“It’s ok for a one night stand but I would never take her home to meet mom.”

“She’s not wife material.”

“Women nowadays are golddiggers.”

If this is the type of woman I have to look forward to then why commit? So, men rather play the field and drink the milk of all the free cows roaming around. Once they get their fill or use up one, they move on to the other. You, my friend, are left empty and wondering what went wrong. Did you think he was the one?

You are powerful!

Stop giving up your power! He does not define who you are. Find your worth within yourself and you will attract he who is worthy of you. Decide what you can and will bring to the table and whether he is worthy to take a seat! It’s okay to eat alone!!! Once you realize that you’re worth more than rubies you will never again settle for being treated like costume jewelry.

Don’t worry ladies, I know there are two sides to a coin. Part two will talk about those men who are “dazed and confused”.

 

Stop Complaining! Do Something Positive!

“I must die. Must I then die lamenting? I must be put in chains. Must I then also lament? I must go into exile. Does any man then hinder me from going with smiles and cheerfulness and contentment?”

I was led to write this post because I’m so tired of hearing people complain so much lately. Over the last two years, the weeping and whining of American citizens have grown to unbearable heights. This has become very unacceptable for me! It seems no matter where you are the grocery store, mall, even the florist. Who can be mad while purchasing flowers? Why not channel all this bottled up discontent into making things better?

I love the scene in Batman: The Dark Knight when the Joker (Heath Ledger) said: “Why so serious?” I find myself wanting to ask people that question. Not because I live my life with my head buried in the ground but because there is no sense in complaining if you’re not going to do anything about it.  We may not have the ability to fix all of the issues in our country or the world and even our lives, but we can make steps to make things a little better. Instead, all I hear is worthless murmuring with no alternatives mentioned.

Yin and Yang

The ancient Chinese Yin- Yang symbol represents the existence of opposing forces that interdependent. They work in perfect harmony; one cannot exist without the other. So, why dwell in the negative? In my opinion, doing something positive would be much more productive.  Bathing ourselves in the negativity in our home, workplace and the country does nothing to make life better. Balance out the negative by attempting to make changes and that which we cannot change substitute with an affirmative action. Of course, it will not bring an ed to that which we detest, but the good vibes that we release into the universe are pleasing to our spirit.

Spread positivity.

It would be great to hear a conversation that ended with a positive outlook. After lamenting about our current president, taxes, rights, and other issues end with what you can and will do to make a difference. Encourage others to make a difference as well. Put your selfishness aside for a moment to realize that we are all on the same sinking ship. We all have two choices, do what we can to help ourselves and others survive or give up and go down with the ship. I don’t know about you, but I have enough fight and positivity in me for the both of us. I challenge you to engage a stranger with a smile and talk about the beautiful the day.

 

 

 

 

Adopting A Healthy Lifestyle 40 and Over

In 2 months and 15 days, I will be 40 years young. Even though I feel like I am in my twenties and in the prime of my life, ready, willing and able to take on the world, my health is at the forefront. Not just for cosmetic reasons but for longevity and quality of life. Many of us in the 40 and over club share this concern. So as an ex- personal fitness trainer of 8 years, allow me to shed some light on the subject for all of us.

The Battle of “Fort Bulge.”

Okay, so most of my life I always had a flat tummy. Once I began weight training and studying for my ACE fitness trainer certification, I earned rock hard abs that many women would kill to have. It takes hard work and dedication to get them toned and defined. Your diet must be ‘clean’ as we say in the fitness world and you must put in the time and effort. I will go in depth about that shortly.

Currently, I am at war with my body and have been fighting against its pursuit to build “Fort Bulge” right around my waistline. This new unwanted construction has been in effect for a year now but mostly due to my sedentary lifestyle. I do not know if any of you remember from prior posts, but I spent a year on the road with Jimmy( my love), who drives an 18 wheeler. I embarked on the adventure looking good and feeling great; it ended with me 20 pounds heavier and feeling achy and fatigued. Now that I have been home for three months it is time to answer the war cry. Whoever would like to join me in battle, I humbly invite you. We can take up arms together!!!

Where do I start?

If I had a dime for every time a new client asked me that question; I would not be rich, but I would have a nice nest egg for retirement. Detox!!! If you are putting junk in your body, it’s imperative to flush it out. Most people are not aware that we should clean our bodies periodically, it does not matter if you are a carnivore, herbivore, or vegan. Think of your body like your car; you tune it up regularly to keep your engine in good condition. Well, we must do the same for our body. There are many ways to flush your body, colonics, herbs and fasting. What’s most important is you choose what is best for you and consult your physician. Personally, I prefer natural herbs due to my fear of synthetic medicine.

You have had a tune up now it’s time to put the good stuff. Vegetables, protein, carbs, water, water and more water. When you are changing your eating habits, there is a method to the madness. Fifty percent of your meals should be vegetables, 20% protein, 10% carbohydrates and the remaining 20% water. The secret that completes the formula is meal configuration. What to eat and when! Always and I do mean always plan for your heaviest meal around your most active time of the day. Consume your carbs at that time as well; they contain sugar and convert to fat. The body will use the sugar in carbohydrates for energy.

For those who love a thick juicy steak or burger, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it’s time to cut back or stay away from fried foods. Remember we are at war not only against ‘Fort Bulge’ but also high cholesterol is lobbying for a seat. My plans are to go back to a vegetarian lifestyle. After over ten years of vegetarianism two years ago I started with chicken and graduated to occasionally eating red meat. Needless to say at first, I was very ill, but I was a glutton for punishment. Jimmy loves his pork chops and ribs; he will not be giving them up! Over time I developed acne, fatigue, headaches and gradual weight gain. Well, my friends, I am tired of being sick and tired. Pun intended!!!

What is this thing called exercise?

LOL!!! Let’s not make getting in shape more than what it has to be. No, you don’t have to give your right arm, leg, blood and your first born child to the exercise gods. That statement used to be an excellent icebreaker with new clients. I required newbies to do 45 minutes of cardiovascular training four days a week. Week two we incorporated exercises using their body weight. The third week, I put on my drill sergeant hat, handed them some weights and start teaching form. Suddenly in week four, drill Sargent Lydia is wielding a double barrel shotgun and barking orders. No Pain No Gain was the flag I erected in their minds, and they marched to my beat, happy about the what they hoped to accomplish. Not to pat myself on the back or anything but all my clients received results. Well, maybe a slight pat.

Choose an exercise regimen that will be comfortable for you. A trainer and the gym is not for everyone. At this point, my workout consists of Zumba and Yoga classes with an occasional workout with light weights at an all women’s gym. Just get active. Physical activity will guarantee great results but also increase your energy.

It is Now or Never.

I’m afraid if I don’t start now while it is bugging the hell out of me, I will get complacent. Putting off until tomorrow what I should start today. So as I embark on my journey, I invite others to join me. I am here for advice or encouragement, just comment on this post or email me personally at lydiaoyetunji77@gmail.com.

 

 

 

 

 

Open Your Eyes: It’s An American Issue.

Control the Options: Get Others to Play with the Cards you Deal

The best deceptions are the ones that seem to give the other person a choice:  Your victims feel

they are in control but are actually your puppets.  Give people options that come out in your

favor whichever one they choose.  Force them to make choices between the lesser of two evils,

both of which serve your purpose.  Put them on the horns of a dilemma:  They are gored wherever they turn.

• Robert Greene, Author: 48 Laws of Power (Law #31)

 

I wrestled with myself about whether I should write about the present events in America. Naturally, I decided to share my feelings, but I struggled again with what I should say and how I should say it. As a seeker and a speaker of the truth, I am unable to say what people want to hear. As I writer I am always prepared for any backlash due to the voicing of my views, but I refuse to follow the masses. We are not dealing with a race issue, it’s an American issue.

A week ago the actor Jesse Williams, accepted the humanitarian award at the BET Awards and used that time to go on a five-minute rant about racial injustice and how the black community will mobilize and restructure their function and ours (paraphrased). This was the wrong speech to be given as a recipient of a humanitarian award and a bi- racial American. Mr. Williams, a teacher, should be aware of the power of words and how they mislead when not adequately clarified. He used his fame and the given platform to throw fuel on a small fire. If he honestly felt that police are failing to de- escalate situations, then he should have used that time to attempt to do so himself. Thus showing himself to be a true humanitarian. Mr. Williams is a shadow caster!

Black Lives Matter, #BlackLivesMatter… NO! All Lives Matter.

The trending and popular slogan “Black Lives Matter” is widely used by protesters, celebrities, media and our POTUS. My slogan is “All Lives Matter”. Genesis 1:27 compels me as a Christian to love all people and not harbor hate in my heart, no matter how another person may feel about me. Racism does still exist; I have never experienced it until I went out on the road with my husband. My response was not with anger, negativity and judgment of all Caucasians. Instead, I killed her ignorance with kindness! A smile, loving tone, peace in your heart and extending blessings is enough to convict her spiritually. I would protect a klansman or skinhead from being brutally beaten or murdered by another because that is what a Christian does. Their lives matter!

Black Lives Matter is a tarnished organization. The founder Charles Wade is facing charges of human trafficking and prostitution. The life and chastity of the seventeen-year-old girl did not matter. This man who used the charities donations for his benefit is also a financial scammer. Mr. Wade alleges that conservatives have unfairly targeted him. Moral values and self- respect will not allow me to associate with this cause.

Killings by Law Enforcement is an American Issue.

The number of African Americans killed at the hands of law enforcement is high. BUT…. Yes there is a but. Let’s look at the number of Caucasians and others died at the hands of police that does not get media time. Just because it is not trending on social media or highly televised does not mean it is not happening. Here are the names of a few Americans who were murdered by police officers.

• Caroline Small a mother of two was shot and killed by Glynn County, Georgia police officers. The officers joked about how they watched her head explode from the bullet. Ms. Small did not have a weapon and the officers were said to be justified in their actions.
• Ryan Keith Bolinger was seen dancing in the street by an officer who thought he was either mentally ill or drunk. Mr. Bolinger was allowed to reenter his car and engaged police in a slow speed chase at 35 miles per hour. After the chase, the victim exited his vehicle and allegedly started to approach the officers car with a purpose. The officer shot through her rolled up window striking Mr. Bolinger in the torso; he died later at the hospital. The police faced no charges.
• Gilbert Flores was being questioned by officers outside of his home after a domestic violence call. Officers claimed the victim had a knife in his possession. They proceeded to order Mr. Flores to put his hands up, and he complied. A witness stated a few seconds after he raised his hands in the air police shot
• Autumn Steele killed by the officer who escorted her to the home she shared with her husband to retrieve her belongings. An argument between Mrs. Steele and her husband began outside, and the officer was attempting to break up the altercation. The family dog continued to be playful with the officer, but he was startled by the dog and proceeded to shoot. Autumn was struck in the chest and killed.

Caucasian Americans are murdered at the hands of police just as much as African Americans. Caucasians will file lawsuits, write their congressman or engage in quiet protests. It is easier to stir the wrong type of reaction from the black community. Killing cops and white people is not the answer. African Americans must take the time to realize who is the real enemy. Government and the judicial system is the blame for poorly trained officers and for their veiled attempt to divide and conquer. We are all in the same sinking ship together.

As a writer, I regularly encourage my readers to seek the truth; remove the veil. It is important that we read between the lines of what you see on TV and in the media. There are many sides to a story, and they will tell and show American citizens what they want them to know. Why hasn’t our presidential candidates come forward to speak to the issue? Hillary supporters, what is she doing to bring an end to this travesty in society? If she is the favorite among the black community and cares so much for the well- being of African Americans. What is she doing or going to do to stop the killings? Understand when pawns are being used to cause dissension between the races and when you are just a vote needed to gain office.

Work on the Hearts and Minds of Others

Coercion creates a reaction that will eventually work against you.  You must seduce others into

wanting to move in your direction.  A person you have seduced becomes your loyal pawn.  And

the way to seduce others is to operate on their individual psychologies and weaknesses.  Soften

up the resistant by working on their emotions, playing on what they hold dear and what they fear.

Ignore the hearts and minds of others and they will grow to hate you.

• Robert Greene, Author: 48 Laws of Power (Law # 43)

The purpose for my writing about this issue is because too many people have died. Misplaced anger and hatred is a tool that in your possession and used against you. Violence begets violence and means more meaningless deaths. No one wins! You can no longer hold a race of people responsible for the actions of their ancestors. Every occurrence is not racially motivated, research the facts and make an educated decision. Strategically fight the good fight but fight the real enemy and not innocent people. We shall overcome if all Americans pull together as one demanding justice.

 

  

 

We The People….

“It must be, I thought, one of the race’s most persistent and comforting hallucinations to trust that “it can’t happen here” — that one’s own time and place is beyond cataclysm.”
― John Wyndham, The Day of the Triffids

 

How many more times will we have to donate funds, hold vigils and extend our condolences in the face of a terrorist attack? When will our leaders realize they need to do something different in the way of how they protect us in our backyard? They ask us to stand strong as a nation, Newsflash! We have been doing so since the birth of this great country. This nation’s strength and ability to come together on all occasions is what makes us great. Our government’s national security process as it is to date is failing to secure the American people.

Are our leaders not ashamed that it took the murder of 49 innocent people for the Senate to entertain putting more laws in place? Explain to me the rationale for proposing additional laws or bills when those already instead of enforcing current laws. The federal agencies are sitting on their hands; it does not take a rocket scientist to see the writing on the wall. The warning signs were there if we go by the little information released in the media. No explanation of the ignored signs came out. Usually, “where there is smoke, there is fire.” In the case of the terrorist, this was a three alarm fire and they turned a blind eye to the potential danger. Shame on You. Due to their nonchalant investigative procedures, the deranged anti- American lunatic was able to obtain not only a handgun but a semi- automatic rifle. Law abiding citizens and veterans must jump through hoops and give the blood of their first born child to purchase a weapon to protect their family. A veteran is more heavily scrutinized than purchasing a firearm than a person on the no- fly list and national watch list.

The media states that the San Bernadino terrorists were hard to locate. They were living normal American lives. Let’s see,  Normal Americans have jobs, pay bills, own credit cards or bank accounts, visit family and friends, shop for food, clothes, and entertainment. Wouldn’t all of these things leave a trail? So, I guess they were supposed to wear a t- shirt indicating that they are the next person to commit an act of terrorism. Better yet, they should hang a flag at their home announce their allegiance to a terror group. These people will never be that blatant that is why the vigilant investigation of people on these lists or social media spouting hateful rhetoric is needed.

What is even more interesting is, once a person placed on the terror watch list, whether convicted or not they should in no way have the right to purchase a weapon of any kind. When the person attempts, that person deserves to be arrested questioned, held pending further investigation and prosecuted for breaking the law.

I am not a Trump supporter, although I do agree with the following statements about our leaders made at a rally in Atlanta last Wednesday.

• “They have to get tougher; they have to get sharper, they have to get smarter.
• “If we do not solve it, it is going to eat our country alive,” he said of America’s security threat.

We are a nation united under God. A family. This country founded on love, freedom, family, culture, diversity and the list goes on. American’s trust in the ability of the government to keep us safe is dwindling. We as a nation are growing tired of idle promises from the low-hung heads of government representatives. It is time for action. They will not thwart every attack, but the frequency and success of these occurrences will lessen the loss of precious lives. In the meantime, we as citizens must do what we can to protect our loved ones and diligently keep watch in our communities.

Quote courtesy of Goodreads.

Images courtesy of Pixabay and Flckr.

 

 

 

 

 

America: Never Bite the Hand that Feeds You!

It’s 3 AM EST and while you are asleep in your comfortable bed, my husband and millions of other truck drivers are moving freight. Ensuring the comfort and the productivity of America! I had to write this article due to the occurrence of events hours earlier. Let me take you back!

Jimmy and I along with maybe a hundred other truck drivers were at Flying J (#634) truck stop in Temple, Georgia. Well, for those of you who don’t know the process, you scan your Pilot card at a kiosk to utilize a shower credit if you have any or you pay $12. We fuel with them so much that we have credits to use, so we did. That particular truck stop has 10- 12 showers at that time there were no showers available for use. So we grabbed a seat in the drivers lounge to wait patiently. During our 45 minute wait we watched drivers exit the shower area but no attendant in sight. Jimmy checked to see if the attendant was held up in a shower room cleaning, no one was available. Meanwhile, another truck driver stormed off in frustration stating… “this is ridiculous”. Jimmy came from the shower area and went to the fuel desk to complain as well. He had to pass the disgruntled truck driver on his way because he returned worse off than he was when he left and threw down his bag and himself into a chair. I knew then this was not going to end well. A couple of minutes later here comes my mild-mannered husband who is not easily angered looking just as pissed as the other driver. We wait for another 10 minutes and we all are antsy. Totally aggravated, I hurry out to the truck to get the cellphone in attempt to call Flying J corporate. I thought! I kindly asked the two lazy managers at the fuel desk for a comment card or their corporate number and they immediately give me a little soft shoe. They are all out of comment cards and they don’t know the corporate number but they can handle all complaints in store. Yeah right!!!

How dare you inconvenience me!!!

I’m the kind of person gives people the chance to right their wrong. The teacher in me, felt the need make them aware of the six drivers waiting for showers. As if in a Broadway musical they continued their song and dance with a look of inconvenience. Karen(manager), gave me a look that read “how dare you and the other drivers want or even ask us for a shower!” Remaining calm, cool and collected, I walked off. Ten minutes later our shower number was called. The attendant was the same guy we noticed in a golf cart hauling trash off the fuel line. He was very apologetic and stated he is working alone. His duties include emptying all outside trash cans. Cleaning the men and women’s bathrooms and all showers with no assistance. Yet, at the front counter stands two managers and a cashier. This man is definitely being overworked, my vow to him, Jimmy and another veteran truck driver was that I would complain.

Your complaint will fall on death ears. Nobody cares!

Heart broken and drawn to tears almost inconsolable. The veteran driver had many more years in the business than Jimmy. He said the disrespect and maltreatment of drivers has been going on for years. It’s not going to change! How dare American citizens bite the hands that keep their families clothed and fed?

Not only is it insanity but it is downright “Un American”. These men and women are constantly rolling. There is not a moment of the day that a truck is not hauling freight. Transporting the goods that you as citizens need and want to survive. Look around you! There is nothing that you can set eyes on that is not available due to the efforts of a driver. Whether it be the cars you drive and the fuel it holds, the materials that built your home and all of its amenities, the clothes on the backs of you and your loved ones. The place in which you work every day stands due to a truck driver bringing the supplies to build that establishment. The nerve to look down your nose at these men and women is sickening. They chose to leave behind families to serve their country and for some this is continued service after exiting the military. We put our keys into the doors of our homes 2 maybe four days a month. Child’s first steps are missed, birthdays, anniversaries, proms and graduations. We don’t sit at Starbucks and chew the fat with friends. Drivers are too busy making sure your local Starbucks has cups, coffee and all the other supplies they need to serve you.

Count Your Blessings. Thank a truck driver!!!

While you go throughout your day running errands. Take a minute to think about if the shelves of your local Wal-Mart or Target were bare. How would you feel if you went to the pharmacy and there was no medicine for you or your child? The hospital had no supplies to treat patients. That would mean drivers are no longer hauling freight and its’ partly due to the disrespect and lack of appreciation shown by American citizens. What do you do then? No matter what you do a truck driver cannot and will not be replaced. They are the heartbeat of America and the master-key to your survival.

 

 

 

Welfare… Take The Load off Taxpayers Backs!

The American Welfare System, which was modeled after the English’s “Poor Laws” is a government program that was introduced in 1935 and available to Americans in 1939. Welfare is a government program or aide for the under privileged to be used as a stepping stone to a better life. When a person applies for welfare they are offered the following benefits:

• Monthly cash assistance.
• Healthcare/ medical aid.
• Food assistance.
• Housing subsidies.
• Energy and utility subsidies
• Education and childcare assistance

 

The welfare system is a $2 Trillion-dollar price tag divided among American taxpayers. This astronomical cost only accounts for federal welfare benefits payouts. With that being said we can only imagine the actual amount spent yearly. Obviously, I have a problem with the trillions of dollars taken from hard working people. Some who still struggle to get by working 60 hours a week. I truly believe in helping those less fortunate. Although, at some point we must determine who truly is in need.

“A man who ‘REFUSES’ to work should not eat.”

Statistics states that by 1991 the work effort of those dependent on public assistance declined by 50%, only 11% worked full time or a full year. Welfare recipients average $44,000.00 a year for a family of four. This yearly allotment was supposed to be “Temporary Assistance for Needy Families”. When my research uncovered the average yearly allotment issued out, the following questions came to mind.

• What does the government consider “temporary”?
• Does the allotment include all benefits?
• What is the weaning process?
• Are people actually being reformed? If so, then why the 50% drop in employment of recipients?

The ultimate purpose of the Welfare Reform Act was to provide short term assistance and steer people into employment. Which in my opinion failed and is continuing to fail miserably! Let’s take a step back. Prior to the Welfare Reform Act, the federal government gave states a blank check allowing them to determine the needs as far as welfare. Welfare Reform came with a clause called the “Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act”. The states remained in control of welfare but now they had stricter guidelines to follow. When the Welfare Reform Act was approved the federal government should have taken control of the welfare system or monitored it more closely. President Bill Clinton attempted this by giving each state a flat rate based on population. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) would supposedly require an employment “search” in exchange for assistance. News Flash!!! Not all “needy” Americans wish to become self-sufficient. It’s easier to fabricate a job search and continue to receive financial assistance. How many social workers actually uphold the federal requirements and investigate their cases?

Who will protect the taxpayer?

It’s well past the time in America where we all must pull our weight in society! The American taxpayer is carrying the burden of others while trying to keep themselves and their families afloat. When or will we ever be relieved of the trillion-dollar load forced upon our backs? Think about the hard working college graduate and mother of two barely making $44,000.00 a year. A married couple working hard to pay mortgage and save for their children’s college education. Indeed, there are those who are needy but we must weed out the lazy or opportunists.

Subsidize welfare and give to those who are truly deserving of help.

Five years of assistance and reformation is too long!!! Temporary Assistance for Needy Families should have a three-year lifetime limit. The requirements should be strict and closely monitored on the federal level. Thus, weeding out the truly needy from those sitting on their hands looking for a handout. Money saved from welfare cut backs can be redirected to who need it the most.

• Elderly sixty and over who are forced to enter the workforce due to low social security benefits.
• Mentally and physically disabled that are deemed unable to work.
• Active military and veterans should receive any and all need requested. Including but not limited to healthcare, housing, continuing education, monthly allotment. These are the people who fight for our country and keep us safe.
• Free breakfast and lunch in our schools.

As a taxpayer, I would rather see my hard earned money go to any of the above. Why should I be punished for being responsible and ambitious? As Americans we can #MakeAmericaGreat!!!

Money: Image courtesy of Maklay62 via Pixabay

Woman Helper: Image courtesy of PublicDomainPictures

Financial Burden: Image courtesy of Clker-Free- Vector- Images

 

International Women’s Day!!!

“The day will come when men will recognize woman as his peer, not only at the fireside, but in councils of the nation. Then, not until then, will there be the perfect comradeship, the ideal union between the sexes that should result in the highest development of the race.”   – Susan B. Anthony

 

Happy International Women’s Day! As a female entrepreneur and writer this day is a very important day. Today we celebrate being a female world- wide. Sometimes, as women in society with all that we do, we don’t get enough praise or recognition. Women wear many hats! It does not matter where you live in this beautiful world, women are a driving force in society. We are working mothers, business owners, wives, doctors, the list goes on. Often pulled in so many different directions at once. Women are not forced to play these roles, it is our innate ability. We handle these different roles with the utmost grace!!!

Behind Every Successful Man There Is a Woman.

Remember when there was a time when we were not allowed to own a business, be a soldiers, or a working mom? Those times began to end on February 28, 1909, the first Women’s Day observance was held in New York. The march was the first outward protest for equality. As the universe revolved, time went on and women evolved. No longer satisfied by our mediocre position in the world. We not only demanded but claimed our right to be more as well as do more in the world. Thanks to the delegates consisting of 100 powerful women from 17 countries who promoted the end of suffering and oppression of the female gender. After 1977, International Women’s Day was made a popular event. United Nations General Assembly proclaimed March 8 as the UN Day for women’s rights and world peace. No longer standing behind men but leading and walking with them. The fight for equal pay continues but proud of the accomplishments made thus far. Indeed we have come a long way.

Girl Power! 

The stigma attached to women stating that we cannot work together and support one another is a thought of the past. Women are encouraging and supporting each other more than ever. Realizing, who better to support our goals and aspirations than another woman. Yes, our families are a strong support system. Although, outside influence is needed and appreciated as well. It is important to surround yourself with like minded people. The theme for International Women’s Day 2016 is “Planet 50- 50 by 2030: Step It Up for Gender Equality”. Celebrate by finding a local event near you. Visit the International Women’s Day website to search for events in your city, there are many ways to get involved. Women working together in perfect harmony for empowerment is beautiful. So on this joyous day I say to women everywhere “Happy International Women’s Day” (wine glass raised). Cheers!!!

A Truckers Right to Bear Arms.

Support our truckers!!!

a truckers life

The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution states… “A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

Gun rights and laws were a sensitive subject over the last few years and remains a topic for debate. The cause for alarm among American citizens due to all of the mass shootings is understandable. It’s an appalling fact that as our troops fight on foreign land to protect us, we have to fight random acts of violence and terrorism in our own backyard. As a result of these troublesome occurrences, there are some who lobby for stricter gun laws. Who wish to do away with our second amendment rights. Would this solve the problem? While Americans stand, divided regarding gun laws and its effects on society. It’s imperative to weigh the pros and not allow the…

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New Music| Lady Gaga~Till It Happens To You

Thanks Lady GaGa for speaking out about sexual assault against women.

Womenwithgifts.org

This song and video gives a true account of what happens to both women and men daily. Forget daily,think hourly..SEXUAL ABUSE is real. We can attempt to keep this subject taboo but when we act as if sexual abuse doesn’t exist in our nation these acts will only triple in numbers. Thank you Lady GaGa for sheading light on sexual abuse…

Lady Gaga, born Stefani Germonatta, is a pop artist and cultural icon whose antics, onstage and in video, and wild fashions have earned her attention worldwide. Her hits, Bad Romance, Poker Face and Love Game have sold millions of copies.

Listen to her song below:

Till It Happens To You

You tell me it gets better, it gets better in time
You say I’ll pull myself together, pull it together, you’ll be fine
Tell me, what the hell do you know? What do you know?
Tell me how the hell…

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