No Struggle, No Progress
No Struggle, No Progress
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Last night, Tuesday, October 8, 2023, I had the fortunate pleasure of attending Wossman High School's Homecoming Coronation, celebrating Queen Jayvon Alexander and her royal court. The magnificent event brought back so many memories of my time at Wossman High School and the opportunity I once had to serve as my alma mater's homecoming queen 20 years ago. Being crowned a high school homecoming queen is an honor that carries great significance. It is not just about wearing a crown; it is a celebration of leadership and being recognized as a posit...
Allyship is crucial in this world because it helps amplify the voices of the less fortunate, ensuring they are heard despite their circumstances. It is even a principle found in the Bible. In the book of Matthew, Jesus teaches the importance of loving your neighbor as yourself, which means supporting and advocating for others, especially those in need or marginalized. This command calls believers to show compassion and solidarity with others. Whether you are a believer or not, allyship is important in our world because minority groups continue...
In my work as a dance teacher, I often find myself counseling and guiding my dancers through various challenges they face, especially when it comes to friendships. Friendships are an integral part of our lives, providing support, joy, and companionship, but it can be incredibly painful when those friendships go wrong. Watching my students struggle with the emotional turmoil of a friendship that has gone bad is difficult, but I know it is an unavoidable part of life. When someone you trust and care for like a friend hurts you the pain can feel...
I remember my parents telling me "no" more often than "yes" during my childhood. As I have gotten older, worked with kids, and become an aunt, I’ve realized that saying "no" is really important for children's development. Setting boundaries and structure helps them understand life better, but more importantly, it teaches them which behaviors are acceptable and ensures their safety. It also provides them with a foundation, which is necessary for their well-being as they learn to navigate life. When parents give in to every whim of their c...
A while back, I tried ballroom dance to break up the monotony of my dance training. It was such a wonderful experience because I learned a lot about how dance can parallel life, particularly relationships. Just as in dance, where two people must learn to synchronize their movements, in life and relationships, it is about finding that delicate balance between leading and following, giving and receiving, supporting and being supported with grace. In dance, a good partner is more than just someone who can move to the beat; they are a blend of skil...
Have you ever tried cutting something with dull scissors? Or try cutting thick meat like steak with a butter knife? Despite all of the tugging or manipulation one may try, the wrong knife or scissors aren’t a bit of good. As a young girl, I would often spend the summers with my grandmother Rosie, who is a master cook. When her knives were dull, she would dig to find what looked to me like a giant needle. She would hold the handle of the “needle” and slide the knife up along the metal until she knew it was sharp enough. I couldn’t underst...
The arts hold significant importance for girls, just as they do for people of all genders. Engaging in artistic pursuits can have a range of positive effects on girls' personal, emotional, social, and cognitive development. Dance is my favorite performing art because it combines art and movement. Enrolling a daughter in dance classes can offer numerous benefits to her overall development and well-being. Dance is a highly physical activity that involves various movements, coordination, strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular endurance....
We always seek to eat fresh things. When we reach for an apple at the grocery store, we always feel around to make sure we grab one that isn’t bruised or spoiled. Processed foods, including canned foods, crackers, juices, cured meats, and breads also come with “use-by” dates stamped on them. Most foods either mold or taste horrible if you try to eat them after the expiration date. Not only do expired goods taste awful, but they can also make us extremely ill. On the other hand, some foods will keep well if they are preserved or kept frozen, but...
I have always been fascinated by the Parable of the Talents found in the book of Matthew. In this parable, a master entrusts his three servants with different amounts of money (known as talents) before going on a journey. The first two servants invest their talents and double the money, while the third buries his talent out of fear. Upon the master’s return, he rewards the first two servants for their faithfulness and productivity but punishes the third for his laziness and lack of initiative, emphasizing accountability and wise stewardship. W...
In 2012, author James Clear wrote Atomic Habits, outlining how to be consistent when creating positive habits. The book focuses on the science of habits and how tiny changes can lead to remarkable results over time. It also provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how habits work and offers practical strategies for building positive habits and breaking negative ones. The concept of "atomic habits" is the minuscule adjustments we make in our daily lives that accumulate over time to create astonishing outcomes. One of my favorite...
The longer I live, the more I can relate to an old song by Bryan Andrew Wilson that used to play in the 90s. Essentially, the song's lyrics and message revolve around the desire not to lose sight of spiritual goals and values while pursuing worldly dreams and achievements. The most significant part of the song, as alluded to by its title, expresses the recurring plea to "not miss heaven" and highlights the importance of keeping spiritual priorities as the main focus in life. This reflects a concern that, in the pursuit of earthly goals, one...
In the song "Golden Time of Day" by Frankie Beverly and Maze, the phrase captures those cherished moments of joy and peace that enrich our lives. It speaks to those times when we feel deeply connected to the beauty of life and our own inner calm, urging listeners to cherish and recognize these special instances. The song beautifully expresses gratitude for the simple yet profound joys that enhance our existence, emphasizing the importance of identifying our personal "golden time of day." From a wellness perspective, identifying my "golden time...
It is with great joy that I share Dazzle Dance will celebrate our 12th annual Dazzle Dance recital soon on Saturday, June 1, 2024, 6:00 PM at the Monroe Civic Center, Jack Howard Theater. This year's theme, What a Man! is a clarion call to celebrate the incredible men of our community. In a world that often seeks to diminish their worth, our men - fathers, husbands, brothers, uncles, and nephews - rise above, showing us all what true power looks like. Many of them lead by example, showing their families and communities what it means to...
I think a lot about faith. What it is, how it works, and why I need it are a few of the many questions I consider. I believe we have all been called to gain a deeper understanding of faith in every season we may face. Through Bible study, devotional readings, and conversations with other Christian believers, I have come to understand that we cannot have a breakthrough in our lives without faith; the only way that we can increase our faith is by hearing from God. Hearing from God requires us to be purposeful and consistently set aside time to...
In 2012, author James Clear wrote Atomic Habits, outlining how to be consistent when creating positive habits. The book focuses on the science of habits and how tiny changes can lead to remarkable results over time. It also provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how habits work and offers practical strategies for building positive habits and breaking negative ones. The concept of "atomic habits" is the minuscule adjustments we make in our daily lives that accumulate over time to create astonishing outcomes. One of my favorite...
There is power in partnership. The adage "two heads are better than one" encapsulates the idea that collaboration and teamwork often yield superior outcomes compared to individual efforts. Partnership provides a structure for individuals, businesses, or organizations to work together toward common goals, leveraging each other's strengths and resources. Healthy partnerships are characterized by mutual trust, respect, and open communication. Transparency and honesty are fundamental, ensuring that both partners are informed and on the same page....
There is a video of a toddler putting on his first pair of eyeglasses making its rounds via social media. In the clip, a nurse is applying glasses attached with an eyeglass string to the youngster as he plays, looking down. The eyeglasses cover his eyes, and he looks up, and the camera captures him as he gleefully looks to follow the image of his mother's voice. The tot, who appears to be about a year old, is beaming with great delight, confirming the glasses have transformed his vision. As the video nears an end, his mom's voice is heard,...
Recent national news outlets shared the miraculous story of a young man who was lost at sea but rescued by his family hours after going missing. The man was on a diving trip off the coast of Key West, FL, with several others when the current separated him from his group, and he began to drift further and further away from the boat. In his story, he shared that he found a piece of bamboo that he clung to until he found two mooring balls out in the sea that he held onto until he was spotted by his family about two hours later. Many are calling th...
In a world that constantly demands our labor, rest is often seen as a luxury we cannot afford. Rest is not just about physical rejuvenation. It is a form of self-care that is crucial for our physical and mental health. Physically, rest allows our bodies to repair and recharge. It is during rest that our immune system strengthens, and our energy replenishes. Without adequate rest, we are more susceptible to illness, fatigue, and burnout. Mentally, rest is essential for maintaining our emotional well-being. It gives us the space to process our...
It has always been about the children, though not always in the way we had hoped. The recent passage of new legislation in the Louisiana Senate, which may require all 17-year-olds who commit crimes to be tried and jailed as adults, has sparked widespread discussion and debate across the state. This legislation is not a new idea; Louisiana lawmakers have previously sought to treat 17-year-olds as adults in the criminal justice system. Before 2016, Louisiana laws allowed judges, juries, and litigators to decide the sentencing of 17-year-olds,...
There is an adage that states, “You never know where you are going unless you know where you have been.” In the spirit of Black history month, the Monroe Dispatch will highlight stories and the history of Blacks that are not commonly known. Dr. Emma Wakefield-Paillet was a trailblazing African American physician who made significant contributions to medicine and civil rights in Louisiana. Emma was born on November 21, 1868, in New Iberia to state senator Samuel Wakefield and Mrs. Amelia Valentine Wakefield. Her family fled New Iberia not lon...
No one holds you to your word better than a kid who remembers a promise. Maybe that's how God intended things to be because kids come along and keep us honest if we allow them. As I have gotten older, I have realized what is truly in a promise. Many years ago, I made a significant promise to someone. I was a young adult at the time, but I understood what I promised, and I meant it. What I did not know, however, was that the person I made a vow to would come to me two years later, looking for me to fulfill my word. When the time came, I...
Venturing out one morning, I found myself passing by a luxury department store while on an errand. Determined to avoid the usual crowds, I had risen earlier than usual that day. This store is renowned for offering high-end luxury designer pieces from a variety of popular designers so I did not mind having to pass through since that meant I would get to view all of the beautiful goods. As I strolled through the store, heading towards my destination, I couldn't help but notice several diligent employees diligently inventorying stock and sorting...
Temperatures are continuing to drop, and people around the globe are settling into the cozy time of year. When the calendar marks November, I begin to anticipate the shopping sales that happen as the end of the year approaches. I get excited about shopping because I, like others, enjoy new things. There are times I go shopping and do not purchase anything but still leave happy. I am not consuming as much as I once did and won't purchase much this season, but I still relish being in the mix. In my research, I have come to understand that Black F...
In 2012, author James Clear wrote Atomic Habits, outlining how to be consistent when creating positive habits. The book focuses on the science of habits and how tiny changes can lead to remarkable results over time. The book provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how habits work and offers practical strategies for building positive habits and breaking negative ones. The concept of "atomic habits" is the minuscule adjustments we make in our daily lives that accumulate over time to create astonishing outcomes. One of my favorite...
Of all the age groups I enjoy teaching, high schoolers may be my favorite. High school is a pivotal phase of an educational journey, and it is a time when opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery abound. It's crucial that high school students make the most of their time in high school and to explore different activities and interests. I enjoy not only helping them discover the joy of dance, but also enjoy helping them uncover other passions. High school is a unique period to explore various subjects, clubs, and extracurricular...
In a world where multitasking is celebrated, lemons are the epitome of versatility. The zesty citrus fruits are not just reserved for your culinary creations; they have a variety of uses that span from the kitchen to the household and beyond. In the culinary realm, lemons add zing to everything from salads and marinades to desserts. Their zest infuses baked goods with vibrant flavor, and their juice brightens up any dish. Still, lemons' talents don't end there. Lemons are also your go-to for household chores. Their natural acidity makes them...
There is always a continued need for Black leaders who can address the unique challenges and opportunities facing the Black community and society. While the specific needs may evolve over time, some key areas where Black leaders can make a significant impact include social justice and racial equity, education, economic empowerment, healthcare disparities, political representation, community building, mentoring and youth development, cultural preservation and representation, intersectionality, environmental justice, and media representation....
As the vibrant hues of summer begin to fade into the warm embrace of autumn, it's essential to adapt to the changing season not only in terms of wardrobe but also in taking care of your mental health. Seasonal transitions can affect mood and well-being, with the onset of Fall often bringing cooler weather and shorter days. To help you stay mentally fit and resilient during this shift, I've compiled advice from mental health experts. Embrace natural light! Colder weather and shorter days can impact mood. Spend time outdoors during daylight...
I recently purchased this cool hat while on summer vacation. The hat is made up of bright green and blue colors with the words "DO GOOD" typed in bold white type font. Sometimes, I am out and forget what I am wearing, but I am often reminded of what I have on if someone stops to compliment or remark about my attire. One day, a woman approached me while I was out running errands wearing my new hat. She shared that she needed help and explained how she needed me to help. We came to a resolution, and I was able to assist her. I presume she saw my...
It is interesting to me how people have expectations of one another. We all have our preconceived notions and depictions of one another. In my observations over the years, I have noticed that our relatives and those closest to us certainly develop expectations of us, but it is those furthest from us who have the greatest expectations. An expectation is a mental anticipation or belief about a future event or outcome. It is a cognitive thought process through which people form predictions about what they think will happen based on their past...
Last night I had the pleasure of watching new royalty take their place in the history of Wossman High School in Monroe LA for its homecoming coronation ceremony. Senior Da'Naya Ross was crowned homecoming queen in the place where she established excellence on the court as a basketball player. The administration did a great job making sure it was special for her, and this was evident in the details of the occasion. What I like most is there was a break from what we are accustomed to seeing as a h...
Last night I had the pleasure of watching new royalty take their place in the history of Wossman High School for its homecoming coronation ceremony. Senior Da'Naya Ross was crowned homecoming queen in the place where she established excellence on the court as a basketball player. The administration did a great job making sure it was special for her, and this was evident in the details of the occasion. What I like most is there was a break from what we are accustomed to seeing as a homecoming queen. She was a vision in white as she took the...
The back-to-school period can sometimes trigger or exacerbate mental health issues in children and adolescents. Transitioning from a relaxed summer schedule back to the structure and demands of school can be stressful for some individuals. Academic pressure, social challenges, routine changes, and performance expectations are a few reasons why this transition might impact mental health. There are several signs and behaviors that parents, caregivers, teachers, and other adults can look out for. It's important to note that one or two of these...
As we shift our mindset to prepare for a new semester of learning through formal schooling, many things should be considered. Since its inception, the smartphone has been an invaluable device to many. With smartphones came social media networks and platforms for people to connect and engage. Social media is a great tool to use to connect with others, acquire news and information, build community, display self-expression, and entertainment. Despite its many benefits, social media can also negatively affect people. Like many other things, people...
In 2012, author James Clear wrote Atomic Habits, outlining how to be consistent when creating positive habits. The book focuses on the science of habits and how tiny changes can lead to remarkable results over time. The book provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how habits work and offers practical strategies for building positive habits and breaking negative ones. The concept of "atomic habits" is the minuscule adjustments we make in our daily lives that accumulate over time to create astonishing outcomes. One of my favorite...
The arts hold significant importance for girls, just as they do for people of all genders. Engaging in artistic pursuits can have a range of positive effects on girls' personal, emotional, social, and cognitive development. Dance is my favorite performing art because it combines art and movement. Enrolling a daughter in dance classes can offer numerous benefits to her overall development and well-being. Dance is a highly physical activity that involves various movements, coordination, strength,...
I love the convenient luxuries I have grown accustomed to, and now understand convenience can be both a necessity and a luxury, depending on the context and the level of convenience being considered. In many cases, convenience is considered a necessity, especially in today's fast-paced world. Basic conveniences, such as having access to clean water, electricity, transportation options, and efficient communication methods, are essential for modern living. These conveniences are not typically seen as luxuries but rather as fundamental...
Last week my mom and I decided to take a workout walk in our neighborhood. I wore a long sleeve sweat suit and hat. On our first trip on our route, we alternated, walking side-by-side and behind one another. We were about 5 minutes away from home when two cars were coming up from the direction behind us. One was going at the speed limit, and another vehicle behind it ignored the double yellow lines, sped up to pass the front car, and almost swiped me as I was in the opposite lane with no oncoming traffic. I was so close to the car only a few...
I hate to see abandoned vehicles along highways. I instantly empathize with the driver and always wonder what happened to force someone to abandon their car. I am always confused when I see a nice shiny car idly sitting because I feel like it should not have any reason to break down. If it looks new, it should be void of imperfections and problems. On the flip side, when I see a dated or dirty car stranded, my thoughts are often around assumptions that it is not getting the maintenance it needs to operate or that it is so raggedy it does not...
I got the chance to meet many amazing people during a time in my corporate career. There were many hardworking and educated people who wanted to do their best and represent the company well. As I type this, their names and faces come to mind. Jane Nishita was one person I have never met but will never forget. Jane worked as a management representative for the company in northwest America. We only interacted via phone or email as frequently as once a week for over a year. From our first interaction, she was considerate yet steady with what...
The more I am intentional about growing my relationship with God the more revelation is revealed. I love this because it’s a true reminder that there’s always something new and interesting to learn. A person can read scripture one time and get one thing The Bible is filled with instruction and stores. In Exodus, God gave us Ten Commandments to live by. One was, “Honor your father and mother” — which is the first commandment with a promise — “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” found in (Ephesians...
While attending this year's Wossman High School graduation, I met many new graduates and congratulated them on accomplishing such a tremendous milestone. I always ask what's next out of curiosity, and it was no surprise that many were still determining their plans post-high school. Many graduates appear to be mature, but the reality is they are still naive to what life truly requires. They still need guidance to navigate life, and society can't expect students who are coming of age to have it...
Some are raving about AI and other new modern efficiencies that are now becoming more well-known, but I think it is time to evaluate our future. There are some benefits of AI. 1 - AI will bring more automation to jobs, which will potentially lead to job displacement in some industries. 2 - AI is being used in healthcare to develop more accurate diagnoses and better treatments, potentially improving healthcare outcomes. 3 - AI is being used to improve customer experiences and service. 4 - AI is used to improve safety and identify potential safet...
Last week reports of another Black teen who was unjustly shot by a White man in Kansas City, Missouri, were shared worldwide. 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot by Andrew Lester, who fired two shots through the glass window of his front door, hitting Yarl in the head and the arm. Yarl, who was responsible for picking up his younger siblings, accidentally went to the wrong house. It is unfair Ralph had to receive the reaction he got by simply showing up at the wrong address. There is no excusable reason for him to have received the greeting he...
One of my favorite artists is Stevie Wonder. His talent is one of the clearest gifts from God I have ever witnessed. What is most remarkable to me is that the blind-since-birth star never used his disability to hinder him from becoming a great artist or human being. Despite his own shortcomings, he has an astute awareness of the world in which he lives without even laying eyes on it. That compassion is displayed in his music and philanthropic work. His album, Songs in the Key of Life, is one of my favorites. It was released in 1976 and was his...
There is an adage that states, “You never know where you are going unless you know where you have been.” In the spirit of Black history month, the Monroe Dispatch will highlight stories and the history of Blacks that are not commonly known. Blacks have made many significant contributions to the world, and one of our most significant contributions is culture and vernacular. One can not study African-American Vernacular English (AAVE) without consideration of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, which brought Africans to America and neighboring ter...
There is an adage that states, “You never know where you are going unless you know where you have been.” In the spirit of Black history month, the Monroe Dispatch will highlight stories and the history of Blacks that are not commonly known. The end of the civil war between the Union and the Confederacy brought newfound opportunities for Blacks in America. The Emancipation Proclamation signed by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863 signaled Blacks in the U.S. were no longer required to work for free as enslaved people. Although enslaved people wer...
Recent national news outlets shared the miraculous story of a young man who was lost at sea but rescued by his family hours after going missing. The man was on a diving trip off the coast of Key West, FL with several others when the current simply separated him from his group and he began to drift further and further away from the boat. In his story he shared that his found a piece of bamboo that he clung to until he found two mooring balls out in the sea that he held onto until he was spotted by his family about two hours later. Many are...
As Christmas approaches, I often think about Jesus' mother, Mary, and all she had to endure to bring Him into this world. She was first visited by the angel Gabriel who told her her fate. She then had to share the news with her husband and endure scrutiny from her community for what they perceived happened. Instead of having the comfort she deserved, she gave birth in a manger, and she, Joseph, and Jesus lived a regular, humble life. Despite all she inherited, she didn't waiver in her faith, teaching her husband and community how to trust in...
