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SEEDS by Terri-Lynn Pellegri
Seeds
I marvel at the idea of a seed. The power, the information, the possibility that lives inside a very tiny thing. It’s the beginning. It honestly makes me teary-eyed and shiver with delight. I get to use my imagination, trust and believe, dream of the future of what something, can possibly become. Whether this seed is one that is visible to me, that may grow into a plant or flower, or a seed of thought that has the ability to expand and become something more, to transform peoples beliefs, either way, the potential is there. A number of years ago, I was at the home of Bill Charlap and Renee Rosnes preparing for a photoshoot with Bill and his mother Sandy Stewart for their CD “Something to Remember”. I was in the backyard where these beautiful delicate lilies were growing and was overcome by them. It was September, the time of year when some had gone to seed, Renee reached in and plucked some off and placed them in my hand. We transferred them into a little envelope and I took them home. That next year I planted them in small containers so I could identify them and care for them while they sprouted. At the end of the summer, they had grown big enough for me to transplant into the ground. It took a few years of watching them, watering them until I actually got a flower. Now seeing them grow in my backyard, I think about that day when Renee handed me those seeds. It gives me a lift, it all has to start somewhere, and sometimes it’s just a simple gesture. That thought is the fuel that powers this little engine… “I think I can, I think I can, I think I can”.
@reneerosnes #lily #seed #seeds #believe #backyardgarden
ARE U LISTENING!
Yesterday I noticed someone (who I barely know) had posted that for his birthday donations to Autism Speaks would be kindly accepted. I privately messaged him and shared the following:
For almost 8 + years, my son and I supported Autism Speaks locally as well as at various walks, not local. We did so on our time and our dime, however, the more we helped them, the less we were acknowledged. We were not looking for a pat on the back, but we wanted to be heard because as the phrase goes, “Autism Speaks in Listening,” however they aren’t. They are just another 501c3 that pushes their volunteers to go out and raise money for the organization. The funds, in theory, are being assessed for research but how much of that money is going into salaries, and other upfront costs. The majority of families soliciting funds are scrapping by taking care of their children. Very little money donated to Autism Speaks goes toward helping individuals on the spectrum and families. “Only 1.6% of Autism Speaks’ budget goes towards the “Family Service” grants that are the organization’s means of funding services.”
When Autism Speaks about the spectrum, they dramatize the lowest end of the lineage, and they are ignoring those that may need it the most, the high functioning. And their counterparts may teeter-totter on the line. Out of 26 members on the board of Autism Speaks, only two are identified on the spectrum., and one may not have any connection to the malady known as Autism!
My son Alex pointed out to the local board that it was time to stand up to this organization and stop portraying individuals that have Autism as mysterious and frightening people. He was speaking for all and suggesting it is time to be aware of the realism that is associated with the Spectrum Disorder. It is also time to understand the mixed-bag of diagnosis labels given to children who grow up to be adults. If we assume Autism is mysterious, and we are frightened by their unique qualities, consider how they may be looking at the rest of the world. Who says we are normal and they are not?
My son Alex was once told he would not amount to anything by a local psychiatrist here in the Cleveland, Ohio area. Well, Alex proved her wrong, and he wants to help others escape the labels and preconceived notions. Alex has a dream (2 dreams). The first is to follow his heart and passion for baseball and grow within the MLB system. He will never be a major league player, but he wants to develop within the framework of this remarkable group of people. Also, he is determined to show you and the rest of this bigoted society that he and others weird. They may have symptoms of the disorder; therefore, they have unique abilities to function if we provide the pathway.
We must stop separating them and their families, leaving our communities disjointed. The value of their voices through art, music, sports, science, technology, and various contributions they can offer is invaluable. Autism Speaks must learn to speak their language and listen to their needs and wants. Do not assume that if you have a child on the spectrum, they will only have friends or acquaintances just like them. It is time to stop pairing one Aussie with another.
Alex is not in this fight alone. Here in Cleveland, Ohio, the brave and vocal John Keaney walks around this city with a sign that states his name and proudly displays he has Autism. Note, he has Autism, but Autism does not have him. John is able and capable of living on his own, driving, working as well as cultivating friends despite what some doctors and or scientist may have told his family. The word is out to stop the ignorance.
Creating a dating site for those on the spectrum is wrong! Get to know someone with Autism and learn how easy it is to love them. I fell in love with my husband 35+ years ago. I did not know what Autism was and neither did he, however as his mother said on numerous occasions, Rich marches to the beat of a different drummer. Although I agree, I learned to march with him, and last week we celebrated our 35th Wedding Anniversary. I am in love with my husband, who has Autism and functions like the typical population. Alex is living life as a regular individual. Isn’t it time we tell Autism Speaks to stop the chatter and listen?
Choose
A year ago, I was working out daily, sometimes too often and too long, causing myself some undue anxiety. I continued at this pace through the early Fall, using our trip to NY and starting a new weekend job as an excuse as to why I didn’t have time or the energy to continue. Along came winter, cold temperatures and snow giving me yet another “stupid” reason not to get to the gym. While working out, I was more aware and in tune what I was feeding my body as well as experiencing the good feelings, often referred to endorphins. Since the 1st of the year, I’ve been back but not consistently, until I chose to make it public that I am getting back into the groove. The best way for me to get healthier and maintain my positive energy is by working out and eating correctly. On Monday of this wee, I set a plan in motion to work out, treadmill walking at my gym, Anytime Fitness. The first step was putting it on my calendar for first thing in the morning, Monday – Thursday. I have left Friday, Saturday, and Sunday as off days, as two of those days I am on my feet walking for 3 -4 hours. I know it is essential for me to share my plan to help me stay focused and reach the goals necessary for my well being. I have learned through, “The Intentionality Gurus,” https://newclevelandradio.net/the-intentionality-gurus-with-candace-pollock/ this is vital, for me.
We all can make changes that will enhance our lives. It takes choosing to do so. Don’t waste your minutes, hours, and days waiting for the right time, it is up to you as it was up to me!
WHY COMPLAIN? B – P_O_S_I_T_I_V_E
Complaining or voicing disagreement and frustrations seems to be the conversation of the day. We seem to be in a contest to prove to ourselves and others how tough we have it, even if it’s a half-hearted dialogue that sounds like a five minute bit for an open mic night. However, you don’t think it’s funny, and in truth, the person(s) listening may be thinking, wait till you hear what I have to say!
The person(s) are not listening they are waiting to pounce on you with, wait till I tell you what happened to me, or did you know…?
Tuesday, July 9th, Melinda Smith, the host of Heart Mojo and her guest Marc Alu recorded the monthly podcast of Heart Mojo https://newclevelandradio.net/follow-heart-mojo-with-melinda-smith/. Melinda is an inspiration to many not only is she a cancer survivor, but she is also a survivor of many aspects of life, and she motivates herself through sharing, caring, and compassion for life (her’s and yours!) Her guest Marc Alu is a two time survivor of cancer amongst life challenges. His first go-round to reach cure/remission was not enough to make this simple, talented man smile. As he faced his cancer demon for a second time, he radically changed his life physically, mentally, and spiritually.
Marc is a drummer and not only does he play in his band, but he is also associated with:
Drummer at Tracy Marie, Drummer at Graffiti, Drummer at Run Avril Run, Drummer at Reality Tour, Drummer at USA Country, Drummer at The Feedbacks Band; Cleveland Ohio
As we sat in the small home studio of newclevelandradio.net and discussed life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, I realized that millions of people are missing out on appreciating the life they have. You have heard we only get one, at least one in this form. It should be our mission to make our lives the best we are able without creating earth quacks, tsunamis, tornados, or unneeded rain! To do so, we must look at the bright side of life. We have too many cancers in this world, and that way to remain healthy is to remove the toxicities that are destroying us physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
If you want to share positivity contact us at newclevelandradio@gmail.com.
Depression is a STATE of Mind_Let’s Talk
Good morning world! As I shared yesterday, depression is a state of mind, and often the answer as to why we are feeling down, blue, and sometimes worthless is unexplainable. The feelings of despair are often like a rollercoaster they sweep us up and down until we reach a calm. Learning to journal and vocalize my thoughts has been my happy tool even when I sit here crying as I type the words on the screen. However, it cleanses me and allows me to be more aware of the changes that I feel both physically and emotionally.
I have identified myself as an open book, too often wearing my heart on my sleeve, but I am OK with that. It is my life and the way I choose to live it to the fullest. Join me in this conversation as I begin a new podcast with YOU about Empowering Yourself to FEEL! Let us mentor each other through the process, taking a journey with new adventures to fulfill ourselves.
Contact me at newclevelandradio@gmail.com and let’s talk!
U Are Not the ONLY ONE facing DEPRESSION
For some families, the 4th of July is for family, picnics or cookouts, and others it is still another workday. Even if it’s not another workday, you may find yourself alone with no plans either by choice or not. This holiday like so many others, can breed depression. If you are one of the millions suffering today (or any day) face your demons and take a step forward into the light!
Depression is more common than you might want to acknowledge, and you are not the only with these symptoms. Yes, indicators that may be causing you to feel down, worthless, empty, and utterly despondent. Statistically, 1 out of 15 adults experiences this sense of sadness annually. If you are one, it is essential to acknowledge it, embrace it, and get the assistance you may need.
I have been experiencing depression most of my life. However, while I was still living at home under the roof of my parents, their answer to this malady was to keep my chin up. It is easier said than done, and without the proper tools, it may be impossible. For me, it was all about reliving my feels and crying over my woes. Once I was cried out, I was too exhausted to feel miserable, so I put on my happy face and attempted to find the smile behind my mask.
After suffering for almost 64 years, I began to acknowledge my demons in the winter of 2014. Many of those demonic fears were self-imposed and yet I was unaware of that at the time. My journey began by acknowledging I was ill as I took sick leave from my corporate job that I loved; however, the environment was toxic for me. It was with this acknowledgment that I sought help.
Help came through therapies, including psychologically, medically, and spiritually. What I have learned is I am OK! Being OK does not mean perfect. It is the imperfections that make me special, unique, and astonishing. The opinion of others is not what should define me. This five plus year journey has taught me to be true to myself. It is not always comfortable.
Stepping out of my comfort zone was difficult, but I wanted to witness the amazement of loving life. These words are spoken and sung in various ways. Demi Lovato sings about finding the love and self-confidence inside yourself before you seek acceptance from anyone else. https://youtu.be/cwLRQn61oUY
Join me as I continue to share my journey, tell me about yours, and let’s create a safe and loving world. It’s time to become more aware of our needs while accepting that we are not alone. Hold out your hand and acceptance the guidance.
Depression is not a cookie cutter illness, nor is the treatment.
DANCE to Your New JOURNEY
Today is the last Friday in June 2019, half of 2019 is behind us, but there is always today, and tomorrow will come! I used to be a worry-wart trying to accomplish tomorrow’s business today just so I could have a day off; however, if you do that daily, you never take time off. Without taking the time to recuperate, refresh, and recharge each task often gets more complicated, and internal resentment builds up. (At least it did for me.) While I was so busy living for tomorrow, I was not fulfilling my own needs and reaching my potential.
They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, while I am not a dog, nor am I old in mind and spirit. Therefore I have been able to venture down a new fork in the road and experience this thing we call life. It is precious, and embracing it with all my heart and soul has allowed me to develop into a more empowered happier me.
I challenge you to ask yourself one question, are you happy with yourself? Do not criticize yourself when you answer honestly. Take your answer(s) and take a gamble on walking down a new path today. Instead of going straight turn right or turn left. Witness the landscape and breath in the newness. Feel what you see, feel what you hear, and feel from the depths inside. Experience those feelings that may have gone dormant while living for tomorrow instead of for today.
No judgments. We are all on a personal journey, and until you embark on yours as I have on mine, you will never become one with your body, spirit, and mind.
Sunday – Sun Day – Sundae
It’s Sunday morning, and some of you are preparing to go to Church, others are praising they spiritual leader on the golf course, while many may be sleeping late since it is a day of rest in some form of interpretation. For me, it’s a workday, and I am spiritually inclined to engage with co-workers, customers, and some of the few non-customers coming through the door today. The sun is shining here in Cleveland, Ohio as well as in many other cities across the United States. If you have been affected by the bad weather of late, I want to remind you that you may want to enjoy what you can and pledge (all of us) to make mother earth survival able.
When the EPA was formed in 1970, almost 50 years ago, the mission of this organization was designed to protect human and environmental health. Global warming and overpopulation were a very serious concern/and still should be. The warming of mother earth is “gradual increase in the overall temperature of the earth’s atmosphere generally attributed to the greenhouse effect caused by increased levels of carbon dioxide, chlorofluorocarbons, and other pollutants.” It is these effects that are causing the numerous weather pattern changes with flooding rains, erosion of the lake and seashores, forest fires, and so much more massive destruction.
We can truly make our world for a lifetime and beyond safer, cleaner, and less destructive. We need to stop all the waste! Once there was a time, we were less disposable. However, modern technology has taught us some bad lessons, throw it out if it’s not working to your standards; this includes the tangible and nontangible items in life. Not only have things been sent to landfills, but able-bodied Americans have been forced out of work waiting and wondering, “What Next?” Too many Americans of all ages are sitting on disposable islands because they are not perfect. I ask you, who defines perfection?
As you take in the sunshine today on this third full day of summer, make a promise to yourself and the mother who provides for you that you will do what is right in return. Recycle not dump, compost, and a rich the soil for growth, and embrace and engage with those who need a hand to help them stand tall and proud. B-U, B-ME, Become Engaged, and B-US!
3 Women_Commonality
Yesterday I met with three very inspiring women and although they may not agree let me tell you why I note them as such.
We are living in a world where everyone seems to know your business, making assumptions about who you are, and how successful or not you may be. Technology has taught us to listen in sound bites and look at the outer beauty when choosing someone to be a friend, significant other, business associate, etc. However, as I sat with these three lovely women, no presumptions were made.
My initial contact was a bit uncomfortable as I arrived early, almost one hour before we were to meet. Now I am an early bird when I have a scheduled meeting or event to attend, but sixty minutes was an error on my part when I filled in my calendar. In the scheme of things all worked out for the best, I returned to meet with these three inspiring women at the given time.
The conversation was easy, and as I sat amongst them, I felt at home with these three women whom I hope I can call my new friends. As we shared ideas and conversation, I felt an inner space that has felt empty fill up with joy and anticipation.
If I do nothing more with my life, I hope to engage others to seek out their needs and challenge themselves to fill the missing pieces in their lives. I want to be a hand to guide and learn from others and wake-up on a morning with more RAIN and still feel happy, seeing the sunshine in the eyes of my new friends and acquaintances.
These three women are inspiring to me as I noted they too are challenging themselves as well, a common bond.
DAD’s Day – FATHER’s DAY – POP’s DAY – Call it whatever you want DAY with LOVE
In response to my brother Joel’s Blog, “Dads.”
My dad was my hero
He was not perfect by a long shot, but he was my Pops!
At 5 ft 11 inches he appeared to be a huge figure to me.
He provided me with hugs and kisses, and these were not meant for just special occasions, they were daily devotions of love for family.
My pops always had an answer or tried, and although it may not have been the one I desired, Words by Harmon were spoken or written.
When my dad wasn’t smiling, I assumed it was my fault, and yet today I look back and wonder why I allowed those thoughts to cross my mind. Assuming always resulted in making an ASS out of ME. (Some times that even included a potch on the touchy, OUCH!)
My dad was not wealthy in the sense of dollars, but his compassion for life, learning, and sharing made him as RICH as a king.
He was a dreamer, and he attempted to reach for the stars, failure was not in his vocabulary, every step was part of the master plan.
To this day I can still hear my father davening, saying the morning prayers, and often as a young child, I would watch him from afar with his Tallit (prayer shawl), Kippah (head covering), and Tefillin: Phylacteries.
Often this followed another daily ritual for my Pops, as he called it, the three S’s. At the end of this, he could hear my father bellow, “Good Morning Handsome!” (My father once told me if you can’t say something positive about yourself how can you expect others too.)
Today, Father’s Day 2019 it is the 15th year that my father is not here on this green earth (that we are destroying) to celebrate. I cannot imagine what he must be thinking looking down from the heavens above with the love of his life, my momma, DVasha at his side.
Today I will not be giving my dad cigarettes as we did in the 1950s and 60s, or a pipe or tobacco as he preferred in the 70s and 80s. He no longer needs a necktie or a new iMac, and even in the day, he preferred just having his Chick-A Dees, his children grandchildren, and great grandkids, spend time with him.
I miss watching my dad fall asleep in his comfy living room recliner and waking up just in time to watch golf on TV.
I miss knowing that he was just a phone call away with the wisdom I chose to listen to or not!
I miss spending Father’s Day with him or any other day.
But, I cherish my memories that no one can ever take away, this is the gift he gave me, and today I will remember and send my loving thoughts to the heavens above.
To all the GREAT DADS, my husband Rich included, continue to create the love and kindness both you and your children need to be the BEST versions of themselves.
D5 Creation