Motivation Monday: Tolerance

Excitedly I opened the Amazon package from my dad - it's Hilary Clinton's new book, Hard Choices. I smiled as my father is a Republican. Our political views - once aligned - have shifted. Yet, my father is open-minded to the extent that he purchased the book from the most prominent Democratic presidential candidate...despite his opposing beliefs.

As recognition of this thoughtful gift, I posted on social media - thanking my father for his generosity. And to my surprise, an acquaintance from elementary to high school rudely commented, "and this is the time I stop following you...have a nice life." I was taken aback. I'm not friends with this person, but have known him since fourth grade. In fact, I have lamented on the time we were called into detention because I used the casing of a Bic pen as a spit ball launcher which unfortunately landed on the substitute's face. Yes, I've also had a mischievous side.

I deleted his comment - for fear others would chime in - and stopped following him (out of spite). But I felt frazzled. How could a picture of a book written by a presidential candidate cause such a reaction? Why did I feel personally attacked? How is it that this comment made my stomach churn?

After processing the words and digesting the sting of his sentiment, I have come to the conclusion that I must be tolerant. Open - like my dad - to the opposing opinions of my own. And in the end, I should be beholden that we have the freedom to express our ideas, thoughts and preferences. So, thank you Nigel - thank you for your comment as it's a reminder that we have the right - neigh, privilege - to different ideologies. And for that, I'm grateful...and tolerant.

From my dad...

Happy Father's Day to all the dad's in my life - hope today is meaningful, relaxing and filled with all your favorite people, treats and things!

In honor of today's festivities, I wanted to list some of the many lessons, quirks and qualities my father bestowed. Unfortunately we do not see each other often, but his essence defines my daily life. Love you, old man!

Thanks to my dad...

1. I dance like no one is watching
2. I am organized
3. ...perhaps a little OCD?
4. I am loyal
5. I am a fighter
6. I enjoy adventure but prefer the comfort of my home
7. I am not afraid to be by myself
8. I love savory food
9. I will eat a whole bag of chips in one sitting...as well as a whole bag of cuties, jar of olives/pickles and/or sleeve of crackers. I don't discriminate!
10. I know how to have fun
11. I also know how to relax
12. I enjoy books
13. I like to run
14. I thrive in difficult situations
15. I advocate for myself
16. I protect my loved ones
17. I am a hard worker
18. I am goofy
19. I wear my emotions on my sleeve
20. I am me!

Thanks, dad for being an inspiration - especially with your strength after mom and Greg passed. We are a small yet mighty family, with you at the wheel. Love you.

And to celebrate Father's day, here are a few photos from our last trip together in Key West. These photos were taken by my talented hubby, of course!

What's New Wednesday

Catching up on life. This past month has been a whirlwind with work - created an anthology and prepared for print; facilitated a performance/event at the NTC Friday Night Liberty; interviewed and selected the 2015-2016 Words Alive Westreich Scholarship recipients; implemented a new internship program; expanded the Adolescent Book Group program into eight new classrooms; and organized curriculum for all 18 classrooms all while carrying my normal responsibilities. I'm exhausted but relieved that - with the help of my teammates and volunteers - I'm finally able to come up for air. Dare I say I can take a breather? Well, give me a few weeks - still need to knock out a few more things, such as the scholarship orientations, mentor training, awards ceremony, and oh yeah recruitment/training for about 40-new Adolescent Book Group volunteers. Phew. We can do it!

Check out my life as of late. Lots of hard work, but it's paid off. And I've had some a fun along the way...

What's New Wednesday: Project Wildlife

Recently, the hubby and I found an abandoned, injured baby rabbit in our yard. Fortunately, we were able to capture and safely transport "her" to the amazing non-profit, Project Wildlife.

The mission of Project Wildlife is to improve the quality of life for local wildlife and the community as the primary resource for animal rehabilitation and conservation education. [Source, website]

Well, they did just that! I received an email from the Director of Wildlife Rehabilitation, Trish Jackman who alerted me that "my patient" was nursed back to health and sent on its way to be rehabilitated into the wild!

Needless to say, I was ecstatic that Petunia - I named her Petunia in the short time I knew her, by the way - was healthy again. AND, that Project Wildlife took the time to alert me. HUGE!

Because of this, I immediately donated to their cause.Why? Because their mission became personal - I was able to tangibly see the difference their efforts make in our community first-hand. That's powerful!

Thank you, Project Wildlife! Thanks for saving little Petunia's life.