NO EXPECTATIONS December 25, 2018
As the story goes, a baby was born, the mother was Mary, and the father was Joseph. Although for some it seems, Mary was a virgin, and Joseph was not the biological father, God was. As the story continues, this baby boy was named Jesus, another word for Messiah. The Messiah is a leader of a group of people who need to be saved. History (through the Bible) creates a moving story of this baby through manhood who was a carpenter by trade as well as a first-century Jewish preacher and religious leader. However, upon his death, the Christians took them for their own.
Today, Christmas Day, Christians celebrate/commemorate the birth of Jesus by gifting to others as the Three Wise Men (Kings), presented presents to Mother Mary. Gold was provided as a symbol of kingship/leadership on earth. The incense, frankincense, symbolized deity, and myrrh an embalming oil signified death. These gifts exemplify the life that Jesus was destined for.
Today, many celebrate Christmas as a day of gifting that is more about receiving than giving. It is not that we do not have kindness in our hearts and provide for the less fortunate, but many ask the hollow question what is
in it for me?
As many will sit around their living room’s early in the morning, around a tree glowing with lights and shiny objects, they will be impatient to find out if the biggest or the smallest gift-wrapped box is for them and will it be the item from their long list of wants, not needs? In some homes, there will be looks of disappointment, in others satisfaction or ecstatic joy!
In our blended religion family, today is a day of caring and remembering each other. Often our gifts are not expensive surprises, but the acknowledgment of want and need combined. We typically spend the day alone, no big family gathering quietly in most respects. Sometimes we take in a movie, and other years we nap the day away, exhausted from work and other obligations. Our home is not a Norman Rockwell painting of what the holidays are supposed to look like, ours looks like the reality of the moment.
The reality of the moment sounds mysterious, but it is all about accepting who we are as individuals and not placing expectations in our way that may ultimately turn a Good Day into a Bad Day. I have been known to do just that over the years. I would listen to the PR hype and the comments, of co-workers, friends, and family and expect that today would be a “Hallmark Movie” day, when often it would turn out more like a “Twilight Zone” episode.
December 2016, after losing my mother two months earlier, and accepting the fact that I was no longer a child, I chose to enjoy life with all its ups and downs, and to stop assuming my day, Christmas or any other should be a certain way! Growing up we did not celebrate, being Jewish as we are, but we would enjoy the day in some small way, maybe even extending Chanukah beyond the traditional eight days and nights. Perfection is only a mindset, and sometimes I would dream about a repeat performance, and other times I could not wait for a redo. However, each day is a new day and unique from another. I am working on making each day bright and festive, not just for myself but for others, with a smile, a nod, words of acceptance, and a spirit of friendship and love that begins with self.
It is not selfish to take care of yourself when you share yourself with others, freely and willing!
May you enjoy your Christmas, December 25th, 2018 (and beyond) without expectations as you share your spirit to be felt by another.
The reality is we need a newer photo
Put on a HAPPY face
December 22, 2018, and now the days will begin to feel longer as we will experience more sunlight (daylight) now that the winter solstice has just passed. In years past I had allowed the doom of gloom of darker days change my moods without forethought of controlling the emotions that spring from the change in the seasons from warm to cool to cold which often means days were turning into nighttime when just weeks before nighttime was much later!
We still experience 24 hours in each day however our tilt in North America is farthest from the sun in the fall/winter, and for many, we experience a phenomenon that makes us think our days are shorter when it, in fact, is not, but the light of day is! The winter blues for many kicks in before the solstice and hangs on for many for another few months. There is a medical name for this called, SAD, seasonal affective disorder, often felt by the middle-agers as well as the senior population, of which I am one.
Yesterday during a podcast with Candace Pollock, The Intentionality Gurus, I expressed to her that this is the first year I have self-talked myself out of SAD. I have made an intentional choice not to hide and hunker down when the darkness invades my daytime hours. The decision to participate in life is essential for my happiness. You’ve heard the saying, “When mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.” But when momma is happy she spreads sunshine:
“Gray skies are gonna clear up
Put on a happy face
Brush off the clouds and cheer up
Put on a happy face.”
Four Songwriters_My Honor!
Last night, Sunday, December 16th, 2018, I had the pleasure and honor to attend a concert at the GAR in Peninsula. To begin with, if you are not familiar with GAR Hall in Peninsula, Ohio, it is now time to draw your attention to this century plus venue. This building is now a Civil War Museum and Concert Hall. “The Peninsula Foundation supports the Arts Community by presenting Voices in the Valley, a showcase of traditional roots music.” A special thanks of appreciation must go out to Karen James Walters, Manager at the GAR, a Peninsula resident who believes in showcasing live music in a music listening room.
Last night’s performance was presented by Four Songwriters, friends for forty years. Each one is a talented genius in his own right, and they are humble to the point of disgust. I am blessed to know each one of them and to call them friends.
Alex Bevin is a musician, songwriter, poet, radio personality and happily married with a grown son. But Bevin is still a kid at heart, performing, creating, and enjoying life. A Northeast Ohio native and area resident, he fills a room with a voice that is distinct, warm and mouthwatering. As my friend Chuck Yarborough of the Cleveland Plain Dealer has written, “Cleveland’s favorite son Alex Bevan has done what I thought was impossible: He has captured the magic of a house concert in a recording. His newest album, “True Meridian,” was recorded with Bevan alone in his workroom and is, by his own admission, far from perfect.” As newclevelandradio.net begins scheduling house concerts this in 2019, we hope you will welcome Alex Bevin into your home. His imperfections are PERFECT.
Charlie Wiener, another hometown celebrity that only sees the perfection in others. A sixties style songwriter, a comedian for all ages, a published author, and he does it all with heart and soul. Charlie has a brilliant mind, if he didn’t, he could not do all he does with such excellence. When Wiener talks you want to listen, it’s like sitting outside at the old country store hearing the tales of yesterday and how they relate to today. Charlie Wiener and I grew up in the same era and yet in comparison to me, he is a walking, talking encyclopedia. Unlike me, he has the words and the charisma to turn his knowledge into words that soothe through music, illustrate in novels, and make you laugh when he does his stand-up comic shtick. Charlie is the father of two grown daughters. He speaks of his beautiful wife in glowing terms (as he should I have met her), and he is the proud caretaker of Greta his bearded collie.
Jim Ballard is a man filled with passion, and he is committed to the people he attracts in life, some of whom call him “UNCLE.” Unlike what the music industry has projected to the media, he too has been in love and married to his young sweetheart for thirty plus years. They have shared the moon from opposite sides of the globe while he served in Vietnam and after traveled to his gigs sharing his voice and talent for others to hear and appreciate. When you google Jim Ballard, it comes up with Jim Ballard, the quarterback, but you need to find: https://www.jimballardmusic.net/ . Jim has been on the music scene since the 1970s most likely influenced by his mother. The musical influence he brings to his audience are the influences of social justice and community. Listening to Jim perform is a unique experience and being part of his life is so much more! In his way, Jim is saving Akron and the world. Look up to the moon at night and connect with Mr. Ballard.
Jon Mosey, where do I begin. Jon was referred to me by another great musician, Andy Cohen. When I first googled Jon after Andy’s request that I podcast with Jon, I found bits and pieces but nothing substantial to tell me who he was. But within a few minutes of podcasting with Jon Mosey, I was mesmerized. I promised to come out and see him perform, I captured him on Facebook, just like I did with the others, but my mission was to get to meet Jon and hear him play. The photos of Jon tell one story, he is the most remarkable and talented man I have met (sorry Richard) in my life. He plays the Piedmont Blues and Ragtime, both of which I had to ask him to explain to me. Last night I heard the fingerpicking style he has acquired, and it filled my heart with sounds that I will not forget. Jon is married to his amazing wife Chris who not only supports her husband but supports so many who are just trying to live each day. She is the sunshine of life that is needed to keep the community together and caring!
Once again, I am blessed to know these individuals, to rub shoulders with them, break bread and call them my friends!
When a Book Speaks to you
THANK YOU, Charlie Wiener, for a magnificent read – https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42684951-carrie-come-to-me-smiling
I am 2/3 through the book and although I want to get to the end of it, I don’t want it to end. Carrie is such a delight despite the fact she doesn’t know how positive and special she is. However, I want to thank this character for giving me the courage to look at the beauty in life and not let the pain from yesterday destroy my today or my tomorrow’s. We are brought to the earth for a purpose and it is up to each of us to make it the best not just for ourselves but all that we touch. Charlie, you have done that in the name of K Adrian Zonneville – I am blessed to know you!
Let Us Help You Organize a House Concert
Dear Friends:
Have you heard of a house concert? Did you know it’s possible to entertain friends, family and get to know your neighbors in your home (like the good old days) with live professional entertainment? Although not a new concept it is getting more attention. Newclevelandradio.net wants to begin driving this force to your home, community room, church, synagogue, or small intimate setting.
This is how it’s done, we will help you line up the musical entertainment that will play acoustically in your home, no speakers just the performers, their instruments and voices. Most concert entertainers would like to have a minimum of 10 -20 people in attendance at a minimum ticket price of $10 – $15. You as the host can pay the cost and have your audience bring food to share and nosh or as most do, sell tickets in advance to secure the fee and serve a light snack, dessert and beverages.
The advantage of a house concert is to be up close and comfortable with the performer and participate in the music in a casual atmosphere. House concerts may include comedians and or music entertainers. So, who is in? Please contact Karen @ newclevelandradio@gmail.com.
I will be arranging a small gathering for late January – performer to be announced- our condo has limited room, however, we will sell tickets for 20 so the performer we feature will make a minimum of $200 for the night. That means ticket prices will be $10 per person for a night of entertainment and friendship.
Keep watching for more information and let us know if you want to plan an event.
A Positive Message
I want to share a positive medical experience with all of you. Seven years ago, I started wearing hearing aids. After an ENT Specialist (who will remain un-named) botched my ear surgery when removing a mastoid. “Although most people with mastoiditis don’t experience serious complications, treatment isn’t always easy and the infection may come back. If the mastoid bone is severely infected and isn’t removed, it can cause hearing loss and life-threatening health complications such as: a blood clot. meningitis.” Not only did he not repair the ear properly, but I also lost my hearing and had numerous infections following the surgery which he chose to ignore! In the other ear, he removed a tube that was needed for drainage, increasing the size of the hole into my eardrum that also resulted in hearing loss. A special thanks to Dr. Thomas Abelson who got me through this terrible situation and lead me to the audiology department at Cleveland Clinic where through numerous trials and errors of getting the aids to fit and work for my mixed loss between Dr. Sheryl Booher and Dr. Tina Marks, I have been comfortably wearing my hearing aids since. However, hearing aids do not last forever and with the changes in technology and the cost to fix my current ones, it was determined I needed new hearing aids.
This past year my husband and I chose a Medicare Supplemental plan based on hearing aid coverage and although it was not a huge allowance it would have been beneficial. However, after weeks of trying to get an appointment and talk to knowledgeable people, I learned I would not be saving any money because every follow-up visit would cost me $100. Also, no one would answer the question as to how they fitted the hearing aids as well as adjusted them and most people in the know suggested that they were poor quality.
Cleveland Clinic does not have a payment plan and spending $6000 is not just a drop in the bucket. I did my research and made an appointment at HearWright Audiology. I have seen the commercials on TV with local celebrity Don Webster. I am so pleased I chose them. Dr. Alyssa Meier spent quality time with me (and my husband) as she reviewed a current hearing test from Cleveland Clinic. She unlike others I called felt confident in the results as do I. In fact, she trained at CCF under Dr. Tina Marks. She also is familiar with Dr. Tom Ableson and my ear surgeon (the doctor who repaired much of the damage to my ear in a second surgery), Dr. Thomas Haberkamp.
In addition to her professional expertise and kindness, the office administrator Jan is one of the nicest friendliest individuals I have met in a medical facility in a very long time. Not only is she efficient, but she also takes her time with you when you call in staying relaxed and calm, and helpful. Although it may be her job, she connects as a caring friendly person! (Do I sound surprised? I am because you don’t see this in many places of business today.)
I am sharing this with you despite all the bad and sad news on TV, Radio and in the print media, there are good things happening because there are good people in our society. Sometimes we have to look for it, and other times it is right in front of us.
Have a blessed day, and soon my hearing aids will be so crystal clear I will be smiling brighter once again.
BLUE has Many SHADES/HUES it’s a Beautiful Color
Blue is not just for boys, it’s a beautiful color that can be worn by many. In fact, blue comes in many shades/hues and for that reason, we should all be voting BLUE on November 6th, 2018. Although my wish is that we could eventually get rid of the party system, and democratically vote for the best candidate who will communicate with his/her constituents and do what they are elected for, representing the people who place them in office.
I like many of you am tired of false advertising and lying and cheating scoundrels. Although the lying and cheating have gone on since the beginning of time, sadly it’s become the norm. I will admit I have told my share of lies in my life, and not to hurt or endanger another, but the political jargon has gotten out of hand and there is very little truth in what is being said.
This election day is very important and everyone who is registered must vote. Every vote does count, and we have seen what happens when we become apathetic or believe we can’t make a difference. If you believe your vote is not worth counting maybe you should refrain from complaining about what is wrong with your city/town, state, and government. At least casting your vote you are sending a message as to what you want, need, and believe in!
If you don’t know what you want, need or believe in, it’s time to look in the mirror and ask yourself one important question, do you want to live in a society where you have a choice or live in a country that takes your choices away from you? If you want the ability to make a choice (good or bad) and learn from your mistakes, you must vote this November 6th. We all must work together to regain our freedom. Whether you want to believe it or accept the facts, we all have roots from various demographics. The United States is a real melting pot where many migrated to create a new life for themselves and their families. If not for the immigrants, we would not be who we are today.
When you look in the mirror ask where your parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents were born, and find out that you too are a blend of our new global society. Let’s make it a safe democracy.
And his name was/is Charlie Eble
Attention one and all…if you knew Charlie Eble, now is your opportunity to share your stories. May 19, 2019, the Mayor of Saratoga Springs has claimed as Charlie Eble Day. Look for more information through our website, podcasts and social media outlets. All I will say at this moment in time, starting next week I would like to do a weekly podcast leading up to May 19th and get you involved. What did Charlie mean to you? What do you miss most about him? If you had one more opportunity to tell him something what would it be?
Charlie was exceptional, and I doubt he even knew how special and loved he was and still is! An enormous thanks to Sarah Craig and Joel Moss for taking the mission of Alex Hale and newclevelandradio.net to the next step. I can hear Charlie’s voice now telling my son Alex, your work has just begun, and so has mine.
Proud to Podcast CARE NOTES
If you have not listened to Care Notes a bi-weekly podcast sponsored by Cherished Companions, I want to recommend that you take the time to listen. https://www.spreaker.com/show/care-notes-from-cherish-companion-s
“Cherished Companions Home Care ranks #1 in Ohio and #3 nationwide among at-home care providers.”
If you don’t understand homecare, now is the time to learn. Although we often think of homecare just for the aging populous, too often families are in need prior to their senior years. Most Americans, despite what you might think would like to age in place, as well as maintain as full a life as they are capable rather than spending time in a medical facility or a community designed for the older folk! Although many senior communities are enticing and provide a home experience, as Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz said, “there’s no place like home.” Yet home is where we reside and live and sometimes we or our family members need a cherished companion.
When you listen to the podcasts and check out their website you will learn that Cherished Companions provide many skills and services to enhance life.
“Cherished Companions Home Care was founded in 2009 to meet the growing care needs of seniors and those suffering chronic conditions in the Cleveland area.”
Doug Wilber and his staff are providing a superb model and not only are their clients appreciative of this, but they are being recognized in the industry as a leader.
newclevelandradio.net (and myself Karen Hale) are proud to bring CARE NOTES to you and we ask you to share your stories, your needs, and your ideas that will continue to cultivate the continued success of Cherished Companions.
Cherished Companions Home Care, LLC
7181 Chagrin Road Suite 200,
Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44023
Ph: (440) 484-5390 • Fax: (440) 484-5391
I CANNOT CONTINUE TO BE A VICTIM
As some of you may know, when you do what you love to do, life is sweet. However, sometimes we add a little flavor to our life that includes change. This weekend I returned to Repping. For those who may not know what that means, I am representing a product as a third-party vendor. 18 years ago, I took my first assignment for AT&T cellular, and I moved on to Epson Printers, as well as Disney Home Video, Microsoft, and many other tech products. Today I began a new journey as the Saturday and Sunday Rep for Intel© at the BestBuy store where I started my journey.
I am now wearing many hats and still enjoying life as I returned from my first-day supporting sales and customers to do a podcast with comedian, Mike Polk, Jr. of Cleveland, and I am preparing to do another podcast with Marcus Ruggiero, a performer, and composer, a multi-talent man. Also, I am still blogging, as well as being a mom, a wife and a friend to many. (This is one of my personal blogs!)
I am not sure that I will remember today as a day of many positive pathways as I am saddened as well as furious with our elected officials for voting in Kavanaugh. I am incredibly disappointed in the FBI for accepting to make a “hurry-up” inquiry, and I wonder if they genuinely did not find any evidence to the claims made against Kavanaugh. It is true we all have some skeletons in our closets, no one has led a pure life, as someone recently told me G0D and Adam tempted Eve to take a bite of the apple, as well as the ASP in the GRASS.
I do believe that we should not be judged by one mistake, but one mistake can often turn into many others. I think we must decide and protect ourselves from any possible harm that mistakes can make!
I have reached out and shared my story of being molested 29 years ago. I have not shared the details as the records have been locked. The perpetrator was found guilty. As others learned of my claim they too came forward. Moreover, despite the punishment he received, I still live with the thoughts, the feelings, and the shame that somehow, I participated or allowed this to happen to me. I know I am the victim, I was not a participant by will, but doubts surface my brain as I grow more confident in my maturity.
As I said, I am not a perfect person, and I am sure I have said or possibly displayed unfavorable behavior. However, I take ownership of my faults/differences, and I spend an intentional part of my days seeking to be the best me without destroying another person through lies and accusations. I, like Dr. Ford and others that been victims, have the legal right to tell our stories (they are not fake news) and to resolve the pain. Some victims are so ashamed they never express themselves in words and actions that will provide healing. Also, there are others like Dr. Ford, who dared to be grilled publicly, on the record, and yet once again a hand was put over her mouth to muffle the truth!
I will continue to share because there are good people out there on both sides of the aisle. However, some of those people are victims themselves and chose not to do the right thing yesterday when voting for Kavanaugh. Kavanaugh now represents every victims NIGHTMARE.
I pledge on November 6th to do my best to use my right to vote and eliminate as many of these individuals’ men and women who chose to close their eyes, ears, and hearts to the truth!
D5 Creation