International Woman's Day - 8th of March.
Freedom is something that can be easily taken for granted but unfortunately today, there are many woman in the world who do not have their basic entitlement to freedom and justice which is a human right. It is so important that we support woman who are fighting terrible injustice all over the world. Equality is for everyone - not just the select few. We cannot hope to change the world unless we change ouselves and our attitudes for the better and help those who have no say to find their voice.
Having to access to healthcare, a good education and equal pay is pretty normal isn't it? You would think these opportunities and entitlements are there for everyone but woman still do not have the equality and respect they deserve which is proving to have a devastating impact on many lives. Unpaid labour, poor wages and working conditions are but a usual occurance for woman in the developing world. This is something that should not be tolerated in this day and age.
Many woman are still denied the right to an education whilst some woman are sold off for marriage as young as 11 years old. There are also cases of sexual abuse towards woman and even more horrifically, childen are sexually assaulted as they make their way to school. We cannot ever hope to create peace and harmony in the world when basic freedoms are so appallingly abused. Where is their voice? Who is listening to them? You can make a difference.
Violence against woman must stop.
Show your support for International Woman's Day and Get Lippy!
Just send a message and reply to this post and lets show our solidarity for woman everywhere.
To find out more, just visit the following link:
http://www.actionaid.org.uk/102779/get_lippy.html
Sunday, 27 February 2011
Thursday, 10 February 2011
Cause & Consequence and the Importance of Choice.
In life, there tends to be more questions than answers. Why are we here? What is the purpose of our existence? Why is there so much pain and suffering? When we watch the news, we cannot help but acknowledge the many varying degrees of suffering and pain which seem to be a direct consequence of an evil action. Necessary? Not at all it would seem - but it still happens. Must there be so much pain? It seems like a terrible waste. But what of purpose? Can we find a meaning in all of this?
*The Nature of Evil:
How can we define evil? To me, an evil action is one in which an individual either deliberately or unintentionally hurts another human being through a lack of awareness, self-interest or it can be executed through our own pain and suffering (we have suffered pain and misfortune so we have the same desire to inflict it on other people). So, is it all about conditioning from our past experiences or do we actually have a choice in the matter? Is performing an evil deed a conscious act of will or do people do these things because they have simply been programmed to do so through their past experiences?
*Do we have a Choice?:
The struggle between good and evil is the oldest struggle in the book. Epic movies have been made exploring the concept. Take Star Wars and Lord of the Rings for example - both depict the ongoing battle between the forces of good and evil. Why do people turn to evil? As a consequence of having to endure a great deal of pain and suffering in life we are always faced with a choice. Should we see pain and suffering as a chance for personal growth? The answer to that question is of course, yes. We can either become stronger or weaker depending on how we choose to deal with the pain and suffering life has brought us. Taking our grievances out on other people is the easy way out and to quote a famous film it does indeed lead to 'the dark side' in which we consume others through our pain and anger whilst simultaneously destroying ourselves in the process.
*Human Nature - Protect and Survive:
Within every situation is a chance to learn and grow. Evil acts bring about very unfair consequences which can destroy the lives of many people and nations. Why is this the case? A lot of it has to do with self-interest at all costs (the 'screw it as long as I'm alright' philosophy). Greed is also a prime example of evil at work (albeit subtly). Take the world economic collapse for instance. That was a direct consequence of a select group of people who were making choices that supported their own self interests whilst exploiting the lives of others with no regard for what the consequences would be. I personally feel this is an inherent vulgarity of human nature that is not likely to change anytime soon. It is part of human nature to protect our territory, to find food, to procreate and to safeguard ourselves from danger. Protecting and ensuring our own survival takes precedence over anything else. This is a fact that none of us can escape from. No matter how sophisicated and intelligent the human race has become, we cannot escape the most essential aspects of our nature.
*Can things Change?:
Absolutely. If people become more conscious and aware of how we are all interconnected and dependent on each other and how our actions directly affect other people and the world around us, it would certainly help things to get better. Humanity would evolve. There is no need for suffering to exist on such a large scale in the world. If we can make a conscious choice to enhance the lives of other people by enhancing our own via personal growth, then we really will start to make a difference. Within pain, lies a tremendous opportunity for change - and the best part is - it is within your grasp to make an overwhelming difference by doing something no matter how small you think it is - do it anyway. A moment's consideration and kindness towards someone else will have its own significance in time whether you are aware of it or not. The saying 'Evil prevails when good people do nothing' (Edmund Burke) is all it takes for evil to triumph in the world. So - do something!
*The Nature of Evil:
How can we define evil? To me, an evil action is one in which an individual either deliberately or unintentionally hurts another human being through a lack of awareness, self-interest or it can be executed through our own pain and suffering (we have suffered pain and misfortune so we have the same desire to inflict it on other people). So, is it all about conditioning from our past experiences or do we actually have a choice in the matter? Is performing an evil deed a conscious act of will or do people do these things because they have simply been programmed to do so through their past experiences?
*Do we have a Choice?:
The struggle between good and evil is the oldest struggle in the book. Epic movies have been made exploring the concept. Take Star Wars and Lord of the Rings for example - both depict the ongoing battle between the forces of good and evil. Why do people turn to evil? As a consequence of having to endure a great deal of pain and suffering in life we are always faced with a choice. Should we see pain and suffering as a chance for personal growth? The answer to that question is of course, yes. We can either become stronger or weaker depending on how we choose to deal with the pain and suffering life has brought us. Taking our grievances out on other people is the easy way out and to quote a famous film it does indeed lead to 'the dark side' in which we consume others through our pain and anger whilst simultaneously destroying ourselves in the process.
*Human Nature - Protect and Survive:
Within every situation is a chance to learn and grow. Evil acts bring about very unfair consequences which can destroy the lives of many people and nations. Why is this the case? A lot of it has to do with self-interest at all costs (the 'screw it as long as I'm alright' philosophy). Greed is also a prime example of evil at work (albeit subtly). Take the world economic collapse for instance. That was a direct consequence of a select group of people who were making choices that supported their own self interests whilst exploiting the lives of others with no regard for what the consequences would be. I personally feel this is an inherent vulgarity of human nature that is not likely to change anytime soon. It is part of human nature to protect our territory, to find food, to procreate and to safeguard ourselves from danger. Protecting and ensuring our own survival takes precedence over anything else. This is a fact that none of us can escape from. No matter how sophisicated and intelligent the human race has become, we cannot escape the most essential aspects of our nature.
*Can things Change?:
Absolutely. If people become more conscious and aware of how we are all interconnected and dependent on each other and how our actions directly affect other people and the world around us, it would certainly help things to get better. Humanity would evolve. There is no need for suffering to exist on such a large scale in the world. If we can make a conscious choice to enhance the lives of other people by enhancing our own via personal growth, then we really will start to make a difference. Within pain, lies a tremendous opportunity for change - and the best part is - it is within your grasp to make an overwhelming difference by doing something no matter how small you think it is - do it anyway. A moment's consideration and kindness towards someone else will have its own significance in time whether you are aware of it or not. The saying 'Evil prevails when good people do nothing' (Edmund Burke) is all it takes for evil to triumph in the world. So - do something!
Teen Advice: How to Resist Peer Pressure
Peer pressure is something that we all experience in life and it is something that can easily shape our teenage years for better or for worse. When I was a teenager, I couldn't help comparing myself to others and I still do it now to a certain extent when I feel down or annoyed. Does it ever really change? Do we eventually leave it behind or is peer pressure something that stays with us for many years as a simmering insecurity that raises its ugly head whenever we have a bad day? Calling all teens out there - you are not alone!
*So - Why do we Compare Ourselves to Others?:
We learn about the world from what we see. From a very young age, we learn the difference from right and wrong, what is accepted and what is not, how we should behave and so on and so forth. With the guidance of our parents, we eventually begin to understand ourselves through the image the world presents to us. Who am I? Where do I fit into all of this? Am I doing the right things? Am I good enough? What can I do to become accepted? The pressure to fit in and to be accepted is enormous and it doesn't always get easier as we get older depending on what our underlying insecurities are. So, what do we do? We imitate the actions of others who we think encapsulate the working definition of what it means to be successful.
* Dealing with Insecurity:
Everyone has their own way of dealing with negative feelings and not all of it is healthy or advisable. Drinking and taking drugs for instance will give you a great high while you are doing it but the feelings that hit you while you are lying in bed the next morning with a hangover from hell will do very little to boost your 'feel good' factor and your self-esteem. It is important to deal with any problems that are causing concern as soon as possible before they have a chance to negatively impact other areas of your life. Ask yourself why you feel insecure. You may find it easier writing your thoughts in a journal as it is a great way of expressing feelings which may be quite difficult to vocalise. More often than not, negative feelings and depression can also be effectively dealt with by exercise so join a gym and get on that treadmill! You will not regret it. You will be surprised at how quickly your mood improves, not to mention your confidence.
*Remember your Individuality:
You have lots to offer! We tend to forget this fact when we compare ourselves to other people. Remember - other people are continually comparing themselves to you! (You just don't hear about it). If you are struggling to fit in and having a hard time dealing with peer presure, you should remember that not everyone can fit in with the accepted stereotype. If you are different, celebrate your difference and be glad that you are not the same as everyone else. It would be a dull world indeed if we were all the same. Being an indiviudal is not always a smooth road but it is a very worthwhile one. Never compromise who you are just to fit in with some people who lets face it, you'll probably never see again. Life changes all the time and people move on. Make sure you move on too and set your sights on having as many experiences as possible.
*Make the Most of your Talents:
Do what makes you happy. Simple but true. That will take you far in life if you do the things that naturally bring you happiness. You would be surprised at how many people don't do the things that make them truly happy. If you enjoy it, don't give it up because it is a part of who you are. Many people follow the advice of others when it comes to making a career choice but that always isn't the right thing to do. You know yourself better than anyone else. Why settle for less than you deserve when it comes to creative and personal fulfillment? You deserve to be happy and to live a life that makes you feel content and satisfied with yourself. If you want to do something, then do it. Don't allow yourself to be put off and don't follow the crowd. Enjoy your youth and remember - be who you are!
*So - Why do we Compare Ourselves to Others?:
We learn about the world from what we see. From a very young age, we learn the difference from right and wrong, what is accepted and what is not, how we should behave and so on and so forth. With the guidance of our parents, we eventually begin to understand ourselves through the image the world presents to us. Who am I? Where do I fit into all of this? Am I doing the right things? Am I good enough? What can I do to become accepted? The pressure to fit in and to be accepted is enormous and it doesn't always get easier as we get older depending on what our underlying insecurities are. So, what do we do? We imitate the actions of others who we think encapsulate the working definition of what it means to be successful.
* Dealing with Insecurity:
Everyone has their own way of dealing with negative feelings and not all of it is healthy or advisable. Drinking and taking drugs for instance will give you a great high while you are doing it but the feelings that hit you while you are lying in bed the next morning with a hangover from hell will do very little to boost your 'feel good' factor and your self-esteem. It is important to deal with any problems that are causing concern as soon as possible before they have a chance to negatively impact other areas of your life. Ask yourself why you feel insecure. You may find it easier writing your thoughts in a journal as it is a great way of expressing feelings which may be quite difficult to vocalise. More often than not, negative feelings and depression can also be effectively dealt with by exercise so join a gym and get on that treadmill! You will not regret it. You will be surprised at how quickly your mood improves, not to mention your confidence.
*Remember your Individuality:
You have lots to offer! We tend to forget this fact when we compare ourselves to other people. Remember - other people are continually comparing themselves to you! (You just don't hear about it). If you are struggling to fit in and having a hard time dealing with peer presure, you should remember that not everyone can fit in with the accepted stereotype. If you are different, celebrate your difference and be glad that you are not the same as everyone else. It would be a dull world indeed if we were all the same. Being an indiviudal is not always a smooth road but it is a very worthwhile one. Never compromise who you are just to fit in with some people who lets face it, you'll probably never see again. Life changes all the time and people move on. Make sure you move on too and set your sights on having as many experiences as possible.
*Make the Most of your Talents:
Do what makes you happy. Simple but true. That will take you far in life if you do the things that naturally bring you happiness. You would be surprised at how many people don't do the things that make them truly happy. If you enjoy it, don't give it up because it is a part of who you are. Many people follow the advice of others when it comes to making a career choice but that always isn't the right thing to do. You know yourself better than anyone else. Why settle for less than you deserve when it comes to creative and personal fulfillment? You deserve to be happy and to live a life that makes you feel content and satisfied with yourself. If you want to do something, then do it. Don't allow yourself to be put off and don't follow the crowd. Enjoy your youth and remember - be who you are!
Tips for Staying Motivated on a Diet.
It is that time of year again. Too many mince pies, lots of chocolate and Christmas puddings have left their mark on your waistline and you feel sluggish, lazy and very unhealthy. Time to get into shape! Sign up to local gym - check! Buy new trainers - check! Motivation - uh oh...How do we keep ourselves motivated to lose the pounds when embarking on a brand new exercise regime?
*Little and Often:
Whatever you do, don't push yourself to the point where you feel as though you are struggling to lose weight. If you approach this as though it is a constant battle, you will inevitably find that you are expending more energy through the mental struggle to get yourself to the gym rather than channeling it into beneficial exercise instead. If you take it slowly and work at a pace that suits your personal ability and capacity, you will do much better in the long-term and you will find that the pounds magically disappear!
*Don't Punish Yourself:
The secret to losing weight is in the size of your portions. I had a friend who lost two and a half stone not so long ago and all she did was reduce the amount of food she was eating during the day. She also exercised as and when she could. The results were amazing. Don't deny yourself a tasty treat or a snack though. It is absolutely fine to have a chocolate bar or a packet of crisps now and again! Tell yourself that you are going to have your favourite snack at the weekend as a reward for all the hard work you've put in. That way, you'll have something to look forward to after a gruelling week at the gym!
*Discipline is the Key:
Developing a disciplined attitude to losing weight is essential as it will help to keep you on the right track. There will always be days where we just don't feel like it. If that is the case, do something else that will help you keep active in the privacy of your own home (housekeeping comes into mind or perhaps go for a walk in the park.) Staying active is important and it doesn't necessarily mean that you have to pound the treadmill relentlessly. Do whatever works for you. Focus on improving your general health gradually. It is a long-term process and results will not be instantly apparent. Don't let this put you off though. Eventually, you will see the results.
*Forget the Word 'Diet':
The concept of starting a 'diet' can actually cause pressure without us knowing it. Pressure to lose weight, pressure to stick to a fitness regime, pressure to keep it off once you've got it off and so on. There are no rules you need to adhere to apart from the ones that work really well for you. Get to know yourself and how your body works so you can begin to lose weight in a way that is ideal for who you are. Whatever you choose to do, it should naturally become a part of your everyday health/fitness regime and there is no need to get hung up on a word. Work towards changing your eating and exercising habits in the long-term so the word 'diet' is no longer a scary word where we break out in a sweat at the anticipation of a huge mountain to climb!
Good luck and good health!
*Little and Often:
Whatever you do, don't push yourself to the point where you feel as though you are struggling to lose weight. If you approach this as though it is a constant battle, you will inevitably find that you are expending more energy through the mental struggle to get yourself to the gym rather than channeling it into beneficial exercise instead. If you take it slowly and work at a pace that suits your personal ability and capacity, you will do much better in the long-term and you will find that the pounds magically disappear!
*Don't Punish Yourself:
The secret to losing weight is in the size of your portions. I had a friend who lost two and a half stone not so long ago and all she did was reduce the amount of food she was eating during the day. She also exercised as and when she could. The results were amazing. Don't deny yourself a tasty treat or a snack though. It is absolutely fine to have a chocolate bar or a packet of crisps now and again! Tell yourself that you are going to have your favourite snack at the weekend as a reward for all the hard work you've put in. That way, you'll have something to look forward to after a gruelling week at the gym!
*Discipline is the Key:
Developing a disciplined attitude to losing weight is essential as it will help to keep you on the right track. There will always be days where we just don't feel like it. If that is the case, do something else that will help you keep active in the privacy of your own home (housekeeping comes into mind or perhaps go for a walk in the park.) Staying active is important and it doesn't necessarily mean that you have to pound the treadmill relentlessly. Do whatever works for you. Focus on improving your general health gradually. It is a long-term process and results will not be instantly apparent. Don't let this put you off though. Eventually, you will see the results.
*Forget the Word 'Diet':
The concept of starting a 'diet' can actually cause pressure without us knowing it. Pressure to lose weight, pressure to stick to a fitness regime, pressure to keep it off once you've got it off and so on. There are no rules you need to adhere to apart from the ones that work really well for you. Get to know yourself and how your body works so you can begin to lose weight in a way that is ideal for who you are. Whatever you choose to do, it should naturally become a part of your everyday health/fitness regime and there is no need to get hung up on a word. Work towards changing your eating and exercising habits in the long-term so the word 'diet' is no longer a scary word where we break out in a sweat at the anticipation of a huge mountain to climb!
Good luck and good health!
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