Diversity/Inclusion

This is still America

Come On Guys,

We know that “change has come to America,” but we also know that change is gradual. So we have to bear with ages of bigotry both within us and our neighbors “just a lil’ while longer.” NO, I’m not saying we should ignore the chimp comic strip, but I am saying that we need to continue to create the world we want by standing up to ourselves. This simply means that each one of us has a job to do when it comes to the ignorance like that exhibited by the NY paper. I know we have to stand against such blatant racism, but after we stage our protest, let’s keep the protest going by contributing to the well-being of our communities. Making our world better , more inclusive will sustain the change we want. I believe our President would want us to find ways to create community. I believe he’s saying “I’m going to be fine. Y’all just need to find ways to re-build our country in the community where you live.” In other words, take that protest energy and serve some worthy cause.

Oh, how about this?

If we want the newspaper to pay for their wrongdoing, then why not demand that they do community service in an under-served school? Now, that is true restitution. Perhaps, the company could purchase new computers, pay for after school snacks, or pay salary for extra teaching assistants. Because we can pressure owners in to making a real apology, but we can’t make them mean it. But if they contribute in some meaningful way to some needy group, they will be doing some good. For an apology would be an empty formality–and we’ve had enough of those to last another hundred years.

Diversity/Inclusion

Race? Naw, It’s All Made Up

Biologically, there is only one race–the human race. So, when will begin to use language that represents our reality? I move that every informed person begin, now, using new language. Instead of saying “race” when referring to different kinds of people, say ethnic group or cultural group, which is where the difference lies. The difference in not in our essences, as we are but one people. One People. So, I challenge those of you who agree that the idea of “race” has been divisive to join me. And invite your friends to do the same. One person at a time we can change things. Change your language and change the world!

If you agree that there is only one “race” sign my petition

1. Debra Harris Nixon, Fort Lauderdale, FL

I, Therapist

How are you living?

My fellow therapists, counselors, and friends with skills: How is it going? Are you getting the help you need? Pastors, who listens to you when you’re troubled? Man, if you are like me–have a heart for those that are hurting–then you need some TLC yourself. Once, while I was in graduate school (MA degree) and one of my professors brought of the subject “crying.” And I immediately said “on whose part?” Of course, the room erupted with laughter, because she was talking about what we could do if clients began to cry. Of course, we were laughing because we all imagined a therapist crying uncontrollably as the client sat there very calm and “professionally.”

Now some 20 years later, I know very well that I could cry when listening to some stories. So what to do? We hear some interesting, very complex stories (some of us all day long). What do you do? Are you talking to your colleagues? Do you have a mentor? Are you detaining strangers on the subway? Well, I don’t know how you’re living, but I’m going dancing tonight. Yup, give me a good ‘ol school song and I’m prepared to hear and respond to another day of difficult, stuck, intricate stories from the lives of people who are as human as I am.

I, Therapist

Got Therapy?

I do. I got and I need it.
Yes, therapists need a
therapist. It ain’t easy
being in this place,
position of service.
If you’re a therapist,
reach out to me; I’m reaching
out to you. Now, if you’re super
therapist–got your act together
don’t waste your time on me
I’m looking for a therapist
who know how hard it is
to take care of her/himself and
be there for clients.
Let’s take care of each other.

Diversity/Inclusion

“Inclusion:” The New Diversity

I like the word diversity, but some people
cant’ get over the idea that it means
Black and White. Whatever. So let’s talk
inclusion. Inclusion is more inclusive, I guess
; at least it sounds that way. You think of
everyone: tall, short, attractive, not so, old,
young, educated, un, skinny, not so. Well
you get my meaning. Now that we’ve upgraded
the word, what will you do to upgrade your
inclusive behavior. The word does not change
me in any significant ways. I still have to
consider how I may be excluding those
who is not like me. The heart of the
matter does not change for me; I will
still do occasional self-checks to make sure
that I am including those who exclude me–
that I am honoring and respecting their
ideas even when I flatly disagree. So,
no matter what its called, I have so much
work to do on myself, so far to go before I
get there. What about you? How’s your
journey?

Relationships

How’s it going

From what I’ve heard, not too well.
We just can’t do what our parents did.
How in the world did they stay together?
I know, I know, but do you suppose
that they valued what they had built
together over what they could achieve
separately. I don’t know, but I think
they may have been on to something.
Let me know what you think,

Diversity/Inclusion

Change Begins With An “A”

What do you want to be different? It is so simple. All
you have to do is change your behavior. Do something
else. If you want to lose weight, then eat the foods
that will help you do that and exercise in a way
that will work for you. You want to change your
career: go back to school, get a mentor, or start
a new business. Change does not begin with a “C”
it begins with an “A” for action. If our world is going
to be better then we must change the way
we treat each other. This includes the environment
Something as simple as picking up a piece of garbage
is a wonderful start. Do something
different and you’ll get the change you seek. It’s that
simple.

Liberation Therapy

Why Liberation

Because freedom opens up more possibilities. There’s room for change, growth, and more ideas. If we open up the doors for more options, we’re sure to find a solution that works. If we limit the number of ways that we can get from A to B then we may stay stuck, which means no change. Try doing something totally out of the realm of what you thought was possible. Let me know what happens. I know, it’s magical.

Fabyoulous

Still Fabyoulous

Two years into this thing and I’m still going strong. What are you doing? How ya’ livin’? Life is great. Both my children are out of the house and we’re single again. Of course AC (after children) we’re still parents, but the day-to-day is different. They’re both in college. Thank goodness they’re finding their way. Anyway, I’m doing some exciting things. You know, it really is never too late to start over. I don’t bemoan any decision that I made the first half of my life. I did what I did. But today is another day. And today, I’ll start from here. Did anyone see The Curious Case of Benjamin Button? What food for thought. I’m doing this life. If you want to enjoy yours, you’d better do the same. Talk back to me. Peace