CG Chronicles ~ New Content

Monday Moxie ~ Cultivating of the Relational Kind

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:04 PST

Cultivate relationships with those who can teach you. Let friendly intercourse [communication] be a school of knowledge, and let culture be taught through conversation. Thus you make your friends your teachers and mingle the pleasures of conversation with the advantages of instruction. Sensible people enjoy alternating pleasures: you are rewarded with applause for what you say and you gain instruction from what you hear. We are always attracted to others by our own interest, but in this case it is of a higher kind. Wise people frequent the houses of great nobility as theaters of heroism not temples of vanity.

The Art of Worldly Wisdom
~ Baltasar Gracián
☀ ☀ ☀

What do you think, fam?
Do you see any value in this approach to life lessons?

Monday Moxie ~ The Shining

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:39:52 PST

"I was once told that a star in the night sky could have died out long ago but since the light it generated takes years to travel to the earth, we see the star as if it is still there. In short, the star may be dead but its light goes on forever. We too are light and energy. While we live, we generate - through our actions, service, and love - our own glow. Some of us burn brightly; through our passion, deeds, goodness and love, we enlighten the world of others. Some of us play small, dimming our truth through fear, negativity, cynicism or apathy. This world needs our brilliance now for there is far too much darkness - it yearns for us to ignite our being in both small acts and spectacular displays. And when we are eventually gone, if we have been determined in our way, like the stars afar, the light of our lives will continue, it will go on forever, illuminating and inspiring generations to come. (For my ancestors of blood and spirit, I may not even know all your names but I walk in your light.)"

~ Newark Mayor Cory Booker

Twitter ♦ Facebook

Mayor Booker's assertion that we all walk in the light put forth by those who've paved the way for us, whether blood related or not, really spoke to me. I've been researching my genealogy over the past few months. It began without any real intention because I doubted there would be much beyond what I already knew. For years I didn't think I wouldn't be able to patch together some pieces of my paternal ancestry. My dad didn't talk much about some members of his family due to a misunderstanding years before I was even a thought in my parent's minds. Depending on who I'd ask about, he'd either give a tad bit of info or get irritated and change the subject. I didn't prod much and just accepted it for what it was in abstract terms -- empty branches on that side of the family tree.

Much to my surprise, so far I've found a plethora of information dating back to 1830. One relative after another, almost as if they were yelling "hey, what took you so long to find us!" Initially, it touched my heart to just to see the names and birth dates. I recall some of the names being mentioned by other family members, but seeing the info in black and white helped me gain a clearer understanding of the relationships on a basic level. Why my dad chose to estrange himself from some members of his family is a long story. It was a deeply personal choice that I think he may have regretted to some degree later in life, but was too stubborn to admit. Despite this, uncovering these connections has allowed those branches to flourish and paint a rich history. Happily, their light shines on :-)!

Twenty Eleven

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 19:33:07 PST

Truth be told, by the time February rolls around, any resolutions I've made are long forgotten. I know that very few will be realized no matter how good the intention. While I fully expected 2011 to be a milestone year of fire and new things, it ended up being one full of eye-openers and confirmation of some things I already knew to be true but needed the proverbial nail the coffin situation to seal. Going forward I'll do a short year in review instead. Out with stale thinking, people and situations.

Although it's extremely ridiculous, even at 40+ you have to teach some people how to treat you.
An insecure and empty person will often project their shortcomings towards you. Sadly, they may not realize it, but I don't think it's always your responsibility to point it out. You have the choice to eliminate that type of nonsense from your life...
Always choose substance and character over the physical.
I never realized the significance of the [overused] quip "get a life!". Some folks really do need to get a life in order to stay out of your business and see how much they've tried to control others.
This has to be said in alllll caps...

I WILL NEVER…EVER, EVER….IGNORE MY INTUITION AGAIN. PEOPLE DO SOME LOW DOWN, WAY DOWN LOW THINGS.

I saw it coming, even dreamed about it twice…what more does it take to realize you’re making the wrong judgment call?
I'm pleased that I've made several new friends who keep me laughing and viewing life from a variety of perspectives.
Don't sweat the small things...or small people.
No matter how many male friends, boyfriends, etc. you've had, you always remember those who are true gentlemen. Recently reconnecting with an old friend reminded me that some people simply reside in your heart forever.
"Closure" is some bullshiggity, you don't need it to move on with your life. Simply...make...the...decision...and...stick...to...it...
We have control over very few things in our lifetime, spend time on people and things that really matter.

Any given year is as happy as you make it. I wish you the best year yet!

Monday Moxie ~ Stir Up the Gift

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:12:18 PST

You can choose to recognize, and act on, your vast inner wealth in this very moment. What would happen if you did?
~ Nona Jordan

Growing up, my dad would often say that I needed to focus on my tasks at hand because I was essentially playing around while everyone passed me by. That was his perception, I never gave it much thought until recently. Yep, I was the girl who'd rather do fun things, laugh, dance...anything but work on stuff that required me to sit down and essentially waste/b.s. with my time. I managed to get decent grades, etc. but perhaps he saw something in me that I didn't or couldn't at the time. Maybe he was partially correct.

When I read Nona's status update it seemed like a response to a conversation I had the day before with one of my besties. Immediately after reading it I had one of those lightbulb moments that sting a little but serve a purpose. While I'm successful in my own right, I know that my ultimate goals and lifestyle are on injured reserve. How is it that many of my peers and friends I've helped over the years have accomplished the goals and dreams they imagined for their lives? Visions that I co-signed, funded through encouragement and watched grow. Yet....I've started countless projects that slid into the pile of blah due to lack of interest, etc. In my case, it's largely due to not using what I know to be my strengths as a means of creating the life I desire. Yep, the onus is on me, no room for finger pointing or whining.

Given what I know now, I believe it's imperative to take time to be selfish in a way that benefits your best interests. Don't wait for the "right" time, generally, there is none. Don't fall into the mode of "as soon as" because life rarely aligns as planned. Even if for only a short time, find that innate sparkling nugget of clarity and inspiration each of us have. Every dream should be considered a viable option, especially those that challenge you to throw aside the fluffy blanket of comfort. Consider taking the time and effort to identify the strengths and talents that are beckoning for recognition and nurturing.

Your turn...how will your life change if you act on what Nona suggested?

Got Boobies?

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 22:25:50 PST

{ source }

The title is a tad bit titillating <insert eye roll>, but this is a serious post. Needless to say we all have breasts and this is just my story, one I hope will help someone.

Journeying back some 10 years ago, the 2001-2003 timeframe was one of the stormiest periods of my life. Inside of a couple years, I made quite a few major life strides, but was also set back a few notches through the loss of my mom. She passed in February 2002 and I was still in transition by the time 2003 rolled around. My gynecologist discovered a breast lump during an annual exam that summer. This news not only emphasized the fact that my rock was no longer a phone call away, but that I didn't have the comfort and benefit of hearing her consistently encouraging and positive outlook on life. I knew then I would have to manage this one on my own. Talk about a dark, lonesome period of life. Unless something is really bothering me I deal with it and try not to dump unpleasant news on others. During this time, I also realized that unless you’ve experienced a similar situation it’s hard to relate, explain or even empathize.

Back to the main point...

In the summer of 2003, one of the most skilled breast surgeons in the area removed the fibroadenoma (a common non-cancerous tumor) and everything was fine.

The doctor suggested I have an annual mammogram to keep an eye on it, but I haven't…

This past January a slightly painful inflammation popped up, but it went away quickly so I wasn’t too alarmed and presumed it was “just a cyst”. I mentioned it to my doc and by the time she checked there was enough there to prompt her to give me a mammogram referral to rule out anything abnormal. Fast forward eleven months...winter blizzard, hot as hell summer...and I still hadn’t scheduled the appointment. I asked my sis if she would schedule hers on the same day, I knew that would keep me from delaying this further. Why wait so long? Honestly, I’m not worried or scared so I’m not exactly sure. We had our mammos last week and I also had a sonogram. The radiologist called me into tell and show me a lump that's present...again. I wonder if he thought it was strange that I wasn't stressed and basically had an "oh, that again" reaction. I'm scheduled to have it biopsied in mid-December and expect the same results as last time.

It took me a couple days to finish this post. Not because writing this would stir up unpleasant memories, but because I sincerely want to be an effective advocate for preventive health care. To reach those who have minimal experience with the system and all the cogs that make it work (or in many cases, fail to work) in a straightforward manner. Many of you have not reached the wonderful gateway to 40, neither had I when this happened the first time which emphasizes the importance of having an annual preventive care exam. In my case, if not for the standard clinical breast exam neither of the lumps would have been found as early as they were.

So after all of this background info, my main point to remind and encourage everyone to familiarize yourselves with and stick to the recommended preventive exam guidelines. If for nothing more than your peace of mind.

Just a few parting thoughts...

Ladies, get to know your breasts and body in general. Self exams only take a few minutes and help familiarize yourself with what's normal for you. Heck make it a team effort and ask your spouse/significant other to assist you *wink*. Make a mental note of any changes (no matter how slight) and mention it during your annual well woman exam. Believe me, it's better to know if something is going on rather than wait. The current clinical guidelines related to the age to begin and frequency of routine mammograms are being debated, but as with all personal health matters please consult your physician.

Guys, you’re not off the hook. Your preventive care exams are equally important.

Wishing you the best of health!

Resources

For clinical-based information on all things gynecology-related, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists' website is a good resource.
If you are uninsured or under-insured, check out your local community health center for quality low-cost or free health services.

And, of course, the obligatory disclaimer -- This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.

Monday Moxie ~ Fortify Your Dwelling With Determination

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:12:01 PST

{ Art by Frank Morrison }

Be there. Go there now and never leave. Imagine that your dreams have already come true. Live your life from that mindset. Predicate your behavior on that reality, not the illusions that now surround you. Filter every thought, question, and answer from there. Let your focus shift and be born again - because dwelling from, not upon, the space you want to inherit is the fastest way to change absolutely everything. See the difference?

~ Mike Dooley

❣ ❣ ❣

CG Side Note:
Believe it or not, in my late teens/early 20s I accomplished a great deal living with this perspective ingrained in me. I didn't even know of this concept at the time. It was effortless to target a goal and feed it with passion, confidence and conviction. Voila! In no time a dream, thought or goal became reality. Much of this was the result of being raised by parents who not only believed in me, but who genuinely desired for me to live a life free of limitations. My determination was not clouded by overbearing expectations nor regrets of lost time and unrealized dreams selfishly cast upon me. Over time I lost focus and allowed doubt and other distractions to creep in and hamper me. I'm back on the road so all is not lost, but I want to encourage anyone who's in a period of stagnation to give yourself the space and time to regroup and recoup.

When you look in the mirror take time to imagine the person you want to become. S/he lives already resides within you and just needs permission to make an appearance :-).

Have a great week, fam!

Monday Moxie ~ Show & Tell Through Authenticity

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:13:34 PST

“One’s authentic self will always reveal itself,
despite the layers of masks he/she may wear.”

Do your behaviors/actions align with your words? It is quite easy to use words to paint a picture to the world as to who you are (or in some cases who you want to be); but does your behavior support your verbal depiction?

Do you say you are honest, but you do not honor your intuition by telling your truth, even if it may be uncomfortable for the recipient?

Do you say you are responsible, although you do not take responsibility for your behavior and/or words?

Do you say you are a person of integrity, yet gossip about others?

Do you say you are ‘blessed and highly favored’ but live in constant fear and worry about things?

Do you say you cherish your relationship/significant other, yet you are disrespectful, rude, inconsiderate, etc towards him/her?

Do you say your friendships are important to you, but you neglect them (lack of cultivation)?

If the words and behaviors of someone are not aligned always default to their behavior; or in the words of Maya Angelou (with adaptation by Oprah), “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.”

Many thanks to Misha of Love Grows: The Relationship Consultants
for sharing these (and many more) seeds of thought and wisdom!

Facebook | Twitter | Web

❦ ❦ ❦

CG Side Note: This entire post hit home with me for a number of reasons, but I highlighted the words above in particular because this has been my year to heed this lesson. Not only do people show, if you listen closely they often tell you before you even get to a point of having to decide whether it's worth the effort. It's up to you to actually listen and proceed with caution or learn the lesson the hard way, but always try to ensure YOU words and deeds are authentic.

Call Me A Liar

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:13:58 PST

deceit so deeply planted it manifests in truth

gripping to a life that in no way mirrors its roots

falsely appeared to be on a path to a higher groove

call me a liar for seeking a deeper you

hand grasping hand, down for the core fight

crumbled with an entwining on that indigo clouded night

ardor injected from heart to lips yet had it spit back so cold

call me a liar despite the truths I told

accept who you really are, your esteem shouldn’t be a mystique

repeating the same tired letdowns to whom you care not reach

returning it in a spirit of mutual honesty not an option but a must

call me a liar for generously spreading the basis of trust

“keepin’ it moving” and “no love lost” is trendy shit to say

when the sun caresses the twilight sky your unfulfilled dreams are on full display

framed in a life where inadequacy reigns beneath a fortified façade

call me liar for finding humor in how false declarations of “doin’ you” receive the applause

embracing your true character is a feat you’re not ready for

displayed as acrid remnants of friendship left behind on ego’s false bottom floor

quiet confidant to contemplations of a few

call me a liar for revealing your life doesn’t mirror your own advice nor its supposed views

conveying burdens of past mistakes onto the backs of the blameless

in moments of hazy optimism and alliance

casually practicing on hearts and minds heavily returned tenfold

call me a liar when a soul is left dead...void…forlorn…deservingly cold

Lyrical Fire ~ Comes To The Light (Everything)

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:14:18 PST

This is not a new Jilly tune but it speaks to me on a different wavelength at this point in my life. Whether you are on the receiving or giving end of something questionable or done out of spite, we know this adage to be true. Strengthen your spirit and intuition with what you know undoubtedly is the right thing to do or say. Seems simple enough, but some folks struggle with it...

Guest Post: Hope ... Even In the Mist

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 07:03:43 PDT

This one chance journey called life is hard but not always fair
Sometimes it’s easy other times it seems like more than you can bear
It’s during these times that your faith will get you thru it all
When you are against the wall with nothing else left to do but fall
Fall all the way down on your knees and begin to pray
Sometimes you have to hum because you can’t find the words to say
“Thank you Father! I still believe, praise and worship you
Because without you, where would I be, what would I do”
Without His love, His mercy and His grace
There is no way you can survive in this crazy earthly place
When you are struggling and your faith is being tested
You can rest assured the path He chose for you, He’s already blessed it
So as you sit down and write out your “Things I’m Thankful For” list
One of those things is having hope even in the mist

~ My True Essence

~*~*~*~*~

May this piece speak to the hearts and minds like it did mine.

Make sure to stop by to visit and follow My True Essence :-).

Monday Moxie ~ Lovin' Y-O-U!

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:13:18 PST

For crying out loud, stop comparing and start living! And you’ll be happier with your life, I guarantee. This is crucial: the most difficult thing in the world is to be who you are not. Pretending and trying to be someone else is the official pastime of the human race. And the easiest thing in the world is to be yourself. Be happy. Live! There must be a reason why God made you tall or short or fat or thin or bumpy all over. Love who you are!

~ Bo Sanchez

Just Wonderin'...

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 12:34:13 PDT

One of my family members works for an organization that recently started to get into social media, etc. She mentioned how someone briefed them on the importance of establishing working relationships with bloggers in the field, etc. Of course I’m thinking…."that’s so 2008" but let it go at that. With the exception of my niece, a very few friends and family know that I even have a blog. Not that it’s a secret but I don’t see any value in telling them about it.

Are your closest friends and family aware you blog? If so, how has that worked out?
If they’re not aware, is there a reason you’ve keep the door to your secret place locked?

Monday Moxie ~ The Message Beneath Silence

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 01:05:00 PDT

:: source ::

Monday Moxie ~ Experience, Reflect and Release

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 16:31:00 PDT

The bottom line is this: thoughts come and go, relationships come and go, pain comes and goes. I've discovered that clinging to my stories about what I think I want and need is a surefire recipe for suffering. Today I've come to a place of real peacefulness, of letting go and accepting things as being just what they are and nothing more.

~ Marci Shimoff

Monday Moxie ~ "Tiers" of Glee

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 04:22:00 PDT

There are three different levels of happiness:
momentary, progressive, and suprasituational.

Human beings living on the momentary level look for immediate gratification like children trying to get a lollipop, or adults looking into the sunset with their significant other believing that it is the best moment of their lives. The only moment they are happy. It is a moment of contentment and that is what they understand happiness to mean.

People in the progressive state understand and measure happiness by their own ability to monitor, and more importantly, achieve their life goals. For some, it is being the cool kid on the block who smokes cigarettes, for others it is becoming a successful businessman and achieving respect in their society. Even for others it is starting a family and providing for them by balancing financial and emotional considerations.

I submit to you, that the top of the pyramid, the highest level of happiness, is suprasituational happiness, that is, the ability to be okay, even when everything works against your plans. And there, you have it. True happiness is to survive with dignity and grace the worst times of your life.

:: source ::

Monday Moxie ~ Support Yourself

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 05:14:58 PDT

This harsh truth became crystal clear the other day when something I've thought for months, that our newest co-worker is often overlooked and misinformed when it involves our day-to-day work (meetings, etc.), was confirmed more or less. From what I can tell, she's not offered a helping hand when it's obvious she has no idea what the established process is for a given project. Considering the multitude of complex tasks we manage, it's nearly impossible to make any headway without someone who's at least partially in your corner and will look out for your growth.

I can't say it's an oversight, but more of a lack of emphasis placed on mentoring and support of new staff. I've experienced it to a degree and realized years ago that I had to make my own way to learn, progress and succeed within a corporate web that leaves anyone lacking the skills to "ease on in" stressed and disheartened. I offer help when I can, but at times I suggest she take time to do her own networking and research. Not ideal, but it worked for me and I'm still learning. The good thing in this situation is that (most) people are happy to help when you reach out to them.

All this said, when you realize people aren't necessarily putting out the golden welcome mat there could be numerous reasons why. There's no need to take it personally, it should represent the waving of a red flag, one that prompts you to find a way that works so you're just as successful and productive...with or without their help.

Have an awesome and cooool week!

Lyrical Fire ~ Olamide Faison

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 04:14:00 PDT

Live at SOB's

"Dear Lamz" Live at the Bitter End

Given the age of the dreaded auto-tune and overrated "talent", live performances are becoming a thing of the past. Thankfully some artists are not letting this fall by the wayside and still bring the fire with real instruments and lyrics that actually have meaning.
Twitter
YouTube

Monday Moxie ~ Intuition In Action

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 04:24:00 PDT

Simple message this week, fam.

Embrace your intuition + take action = transformation
Heed your intuitive nature, it's a gift for a reason.

Just A Touch

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 04:06:00 PDT

"Men who reported frequently kissing or cuddling with their partners were on average three times as happy with their relationships as men who reported limited interaction."

- Huffington Post based on The Kinsey Institute's "Sexual Satisfaction and Relationship Happiness in Midlife and Older Couples in Five Countries" Study

I'm touchy feely at times, it's how I build personal connections with those I have genuine affection for. "He" mastered the art of touch, teaching me the true meaning of physical intimacy. His touch was deliberate at times yet it meant the most when slight and without a methodical approach, just reaching out to connect and show affection. Shame on me for taking him for granted ~~and deleting his number~~...

Since parting ways I've encountered a couple "Tin Men" who don't appreciate nor identify with the value of touch. How can you claim to be passionate and not have mastered this on some level? In some cases, I think this has something to do with being desensitized from watching too much porn or a twinge of insecurity that hampers one's ability to create a solid intimate bond, but hey, I'm no expert.

The Kinsey Institute research findings are quite interesting, bumping against the common belief that men ascended from the cave school of love and have no interest in cuddling unless it leads to adult aerobics. No doubt this depends on the guy, but it is refreshing to see that embracing the importance of intimacy increases with age. In my opinion, this also speaks volumes about the hormonal rollercoaster most women experience in our late 30s/early 40s, while men's testosterone levels decline steadily after 40.

The physical intimacy variables (kissing/cuddling, partner touch/caressing and, to a lesser extent, importance of partner’s orgasm) unexpectedly predicted relationship happiness for men only, whereas frequent kissing and cuddling and frequent partner touching and caressing were important for both men’s and women’s sexual satisfaction. The degree to which physical intimacy (that was not necessarily sexual) was rated as important to men’s but not women’s relationship happiness was striking, suggesting a need for reconsideration of the role of physical affection and its meanings for each gender in longer term relationships.

Source: "Sexual Satisfaction and Relationship Happiness in Midlife and Older Couples in Five Countries"

Depending on how you view physical intimacy, a couple of the survey questions are good points of discussion with a potential mate:

How important is it to you to reach orgasm yourself during sex with your partner?
How important is it that your partner reaches orgasm when you have sex together?

One thing I should note is that the findings are based on feedback from a participant group with an average age of 55 (men) and 52 (women), and 25 year relationship. Undoubtedly, this is the group we should learn from rather than our divorce-prone, sexually disillusioned generation. Nonetheless, check out the study and let us know if there were any eye-openers.

~*~*~*~*~*~

On another note, word has it that Mr. TramueL purchased a copy of a book I also picked up "The Seven Levels of Intimacy: The Art of Loving and the Joy of Being Loved" by Matthew Kelly. Hoping we can get him to break down the concept for us :-).

Monday Moxie ~ The Price Is Always Right

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 03:44:05 PDT

{ source }

I used to think lending a helping hand was a good way to build a portfolio. Not only did I fail to create a portfolio, but I also realized that you're ultimately responsible for determining the value of everything you're engaged in. Sure, there's a reason to volunteer and give back, but there's also a need to clearly state that you charge for your time and service when necessary. And, yes, this also includes your dear friends and family (especially them!). The only possible exception being a situation that not only gives you an experience/connection/skill-building opportunity, but also has the potential to lead to a well-paying job or consulting gig.

Bottom line, you determine your worth in all aspects of your life, so tread wisely and leave little room for animosity and overzealous expectations. The price is always right when your time, resources and talents are involved.

Guest Post: Who Owns Your Image?

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:27:47 PDT

A picture is worth a thousand words, and with the recent semi-nude "mirror photo" and "planking" fads, the images are speaking volumes -- and probably not what the subjects of these photos intended. It is apparent that folks want to be seen, admired, and appreciated. Some are even getting their narcissistic complex going and using words/captions: "Sexy", "Fine", "Hot", "Luscious", or "Swag". However, there are some of the viewers' who don't share the same words and use "Vulgar", "Nasty", "Stupid", and "Shameful". Different perspectives? Not really. Most of the time, in spite of the First Amendment and "Artistic License", people are fully aware of what they post, but do it anyway. Only when there is a public outcry do folks either apologize or vehemently defend a photo.

Not preaching censorship, but preaching OWNERSHIP. An embarrassing photo/picture can't be leaked if it ISN'T taken. But impulsive posting, "trying to fit it", or "seek attention via photo comments" gets people in trouble every time. It also does something that folks don't really take seriously...it gives others "power" over your "likeness" or image through labels, comments, etc. Your image is your "marketing" of yourself. In a highly superficial world, people look at images and form their opinion before they get to know you. Don't believe me? How often do you friend someone on FB who hasn't posted a profile pic? When you change your profile pic, do people immediately notice?

With that said, is there any photo in your FB Album or that you currently have posted that you feel could cause some embarrassment if an employer, professional organization, or family member saw it? Are there any images that a few months or years down the road won't communicate your values or what you represent? If so, it might be time to make an adjustment. :)

Yes, FB and social networking are supposed to be fun. But not everyone has fun or views fun the same. You control your image!

~ Qawi Robinson

Monday Moxie ~ Lighten Your Load

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 19:54:42 PDT

{ source }

I'm not sure if this is verbatim, I've seen a couple versions, but the main point remains....stop dragging along issues, people, thoughts and things that hold you back from being your best. Believe me, we all have toxic stuff to release and it doesn't require taking a negative approach. No doubt easier said than done at times, but the only way to know is to try.

Make it a great week!

Monday Moxie ~ Pick Your Poison

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 03:59:00 PDT

{ source }

To grow and move on are often the hardest but most liberating

and accelerating decisions you can make...choose wisely.

"You'll Lovvve Him/Her!" Oh Really Now?

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 12:37:31 PDT

How important is it for your friends to like/get along with your significant other?

How about your family?

Have you been wrong about someone's character only to later find out your fam/friends saw the warning signs all along?

Let's Get It On...In My Mama's House?

noreply@blogger.com (♥ CG ♥) — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 20:04:03 PDT

Skipping my routine cup of java this morning, I thought my ears were failing me when the preview of this GMA segment mentioned exploring how some parents allow their teens to have sex in the home.

In...the...home...

One can presume this includes drinking and the whole nine. Seems they would have a flimsy argument to be pro sex at home yet anti-drinking, smoking, etc. I can't understand the argument that, according to the liberal parents, it is somehow "safer" to allow their kids to carry on adult activities in the home. Someone would have to explain that concept to me like I'm a 10-year-old because it doesn't jive with me at all.

Whether you're a parent or not at this time, what would you reaction be?

Would it make a difference if it was your son or daughter
asking for a "home sex pass"?

Is this better than sneaking around if they'll have sex if they want anyway?

Talk to me...

Thanks for the reminder, ABD :-)