For those that may not know me I am fascinated by race, culture, and social class. That being said this weekend I was in Philadelphia this weekend visiting my little brother and on Saturday morning my mom, sister, brother and I and went to IHOP. While at Ihop I saw some white workers and black workers which were from the surrounding area (inner city Philadelphia). Then I compared their working environment to a typical fast food restaurant in New York City. Throughout the city there is a myriad of mcdonalds, Ihops, and kfcs. The only difference is that in New york City the greater majority of the workers are either Black or Latino with the white workers being close to none.
A new part of my consciousness was awakened when I became cognizant of that fact. In Philadelphia there is more of a class distinction rather than an ethnic or racial distinction in the living and working areas. In Philadelphia there is an amalgamation of the black and white community based on socio-economic backgrounds. The lower middle class and lower class lives in the same areas while the upper class and affluent families live in another area regardless of their race. This is why I call Philadelphia economic segregation.
On the other hand in New York City there is a more apparent ethnic distinction in residential areas with varying social classes. In New York City most Dominicans live in a highly concentrated areas such as Washington Heights and the Grand Concourse in the Bronx. Just like the Russians who dominate Sheepshead Bay in Brooklyn and Albanians who are a densely populated in Pelham Parkway in the Bronx. Despite the difference in economic standing, rich and poor people live in the same areas jsut as long as they share the same race or ethnicity.
In addition The major difference that is seen between New York City and other metropolitan areas is that New York is a melting pot that doesn't mix. What I mean by that is that there is limited cross-cultural and cross-ethnic interaction. Everybody stays with their "own kind" and refuses to expand their horizons and get out of their comfort zones. While it would be an anomaly to find a white female who works at McDonald's in Manhattan it is highly likely to find a white female who works at McDonald's in Philadelphia. New york is one of the most integrated cities with segregated populations. Think about the irony here.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Control of our own destinies.
When it comes down to it whether we take control of our own destinies depends on whether we let the world around us define who we are or whether we define the world around us. I was helping my dad rummage the garage for some tools at around 1 am when I saw some adolescents outside late at night just idling. At that point I asked myself why are these kids out late at night engaging in non-productive behaviors? Then I had an epiphany I thought they have no vision and are living for today not worrying for tomorrow. At the same token a young lady who was raised in the South Bronx became a supreme court justice, how can two people from similar backgrounds raised in the same communities turn out so differently.
The single greatest factor that contributes to our own success is our personal drive. The defining factor is not race, social class, area of residence, schools attended, or resources. While these factors can bring about success they are not the reason why people are successful. What distinguishes successful people from unsuccessful people is motivation and vision or lack there of.
Our backgrounds may be tumultuous and our living conditions harsh but if we believe in ourselves, seek that power, and envision a better future there is no mountain we can't climb. These characteristics will help us defeat the odds. Many adolescents from poor urban communities cease to pursue their education and find themselves dead, in jail, or on the streets while people from rich suburbs who are misled often get involved heavily into drugs and may have other issues that prevent them from becoming successful. Two different socio-economic backgrounds have the potential for the same outcomes: no success.
I can speak from an urban youth perspective and say that there are many factors in an urban environment that can discourage you from having goals and achieving them especially academic goals. Drugs, violence, crime, and single mother households are all negative factors that can debilitate one's sense of hope and vision. But the special individual who is capable of looking beyond her/his circumstances to see themselves in a better place can achieve tremendous deeds. If only we could all discover the SECRET POWER within ourselves, we would all be successful.
THE ONLY THING HOLDING US BACK FROM SUCCESS IS OURSELVES
I will end with a Paul Coelho Quote author of the alchemist: WHEN A PERSON REALLY WANTS SOMETHING ALL THE UNIVERSE CONSPIRES YOU TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE IT.
The single greatest factor that contributes to our own success is our personal drive. The defining factor is not race, social class, area of residence, schools attended, or resources. While these factors can bring about success they are not the reason why people are successful. What distinguishes successful people from unsuccessful people is motivation and vision or lack there of.
Our backgrounds may be tumultuous and our living conditions harsh but if we believe in ourselves, seek that power, and envision a better future there is no mountain we can't climb. These characteristics will help us defeat the odds. Many adolescents from poor urban communities cease to pursue their education and find themselves dead, in jail, or on the streets while people from rich suburbs who are misled often get involved heavily into drugs and may have other issues that prevent them from becoming successful. Two different socio-economic backgrounds have the potential for the same outcomes: no success.
I can speak from an urban youth perspective and say that there are many factors in an urban environment that can discourage you from having goals and achieving them especially academic goals. Drugs, violence, crime, and single mother households are all negative factors that can debilitate one's sense of hope and vision. But the special individual who is capable of looking beyond her/his circumstances to see themselves in a better place can achieve tremendous deeds. If only we could all discover the SECRET POWER within ourselves, we would all be successful.
THE ONLY THING HOLDING US BACK FROM SUCCESS IS OURSELVES
I will end with a Paul Coelho Quote author of the alchemist: WHEN A PERSON REALLY WANTS SOMETHING ALL THE UNIVERSE CONSPIRES YOU TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE IT.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
The Power of the Mind
Have you ever wondered what the actual metaphysical capabilities of the mid are? did you ever think about somebody and that person has called you? Did you ever envision yourself accomplishing a goal and it has actually happened? These are all concrete examples of the extraordinary capabilities that our minds possess. Through strong intentions, spiritual energy and positive thinking our thoughts can be manifested in reality.
The mind is an element that has befuddled mankind for ages. The mystery of the mind is elusive. While many people have attempted to unlock the secrets of the mind and failed others continue to try to crack the code. There are some individuals who are oblivious to the mind's capacities while others are aware of the capacities but undermine them. There is another population that has heard of the mind's capabilities but are still doubtful.
The power of the mind is infinite. Our minds may even be able to achieve psychokinetic capabilities. Through shared spirituality we can literally read somebody else's mind. This ability may allow us to discover their inner most thoughts and desires. In the book I am reading "Reinventing Medicine" the author explores the concept of the nonlocal mind. The nonlocal mind is described as the mind functioning beyond the boundaries of the body. It also speaks on the mind serving as liaison for different individuals through spirituality. A concrete example of this is praying for a person who is ill and their recuperation process being quicker than the person with the same illness who was not prayed for.
My firm convictions about the untapped potential of the human mind has convinced me that it has capabilities that man cannot fathom. These capabilities may be as extraordinary as time travel or telekinesis. Our mind can also serve as a foreboding tool by sensing danger. So in essence our mind can predict the future; this is amazing.
One of the most well know facets of the mind is that you can attract positive or negative energy. If you can anticipate that bad things will happen on a regular basis then these things will come true. On the contrary if your mind is saturated with good thoughts then an auspicious future awaits you.
The mind is an element that has befuddled mankind for ages. The mystery of the mind is elusive. While many people have attempted to unlock the secrets of the mind and failed others continue to try to crack the code. There are some individuals who are oblivious to the mind's capacities while others are aware of the capacities but undermine them. There is another population that has heard of the mind's capabilities but are still doubtful.
The power of the mind is infinite. Our minds may even be able to achieve psychokinetic capabilities. Through shared spirituality we can literally read somebody else's mind. This ability may allow us to discover their inner most thoughts and desires. In the book I am reading "Reinventing Medicine" the author explores the concept of the nonlocal mind. The nonlocal mind is described as the mind functioning beyond the boundaries of the body. It also speaks on the mind serving as liaison for different individuals through spirituality. A concrete example of this is praying for a person who is ill and their recuperation process being quicker than the person with the same illness who was not prayed for.
My firm convictions about the untapped potential of the human mind has convinced me that it has capabilities that man cannot fathom. These capabilities may be as extraordinary as time travel or telekinesis. Our mind can also serve as a foreboding tool by sensing danger. So in essence our mind can predict the future; this is amazing.
One of the most well know facets of the mind is that you can attract positive or negative energy. If you can anticipate that bad things will happen on a regular basis then these things will come true. On the contrary if your mind is saturated with good thoughts then an auspicious future awaits you.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Fear of letting other people get to close
Why does mankind approach intimacy with such trepidation? Shortening our gaps of unfamiliarity should be conducive to the survival of mankind. Most people have their reservations with becoming to close to a person. The reservations may emanate from their fear of rejection and fear of letting other people see them at their most vulnerable points.
While people view vulnerability as a precarious situation others may view it as an opportunity for growth. I believe that at our times of vulnerability we are the most alive. By alive I mean a state of existence where we permit the world to view us as we truly are with all our flaws and insecurities. In addition most individuals rather not foster intimate relationships because they fear being judged or suffering psychological and emotional damage. The underlying reasons for these anxieties may vary. The intentions for impeding the formation of a strong bond may be to protect your ego and/or preserve your pride.
What this boils down to is one rudimentary concept. The concept is viewing the relationship with only self interest and failing to take the other party into consideration. This may sound counter intuitive but let’s briefly analyze this theory from a third person perspective. Why would you deprive somebody else of your beauty and gifts? Running the risk of being betrayed or others seeing you at your darkest hour is worth it because increases our possibilities for a beautiful union. Taking a risk and allowing people to see inside the windows of your soul reveals your true character and is a sign of sincere bravado.
There are times when we must step outside our comfort zone and venture the world of the unknown. Although we may not feel safe exploring the unwarranted territories as we initiate every new human relationship we give ourselves a chance to reach a deeper level of understanding and a higher state of consciousness. Through our relationships we learn so much about ourselves and the other individual. However our potential for growth is maximized exponentially by eliminating any restrictions we may have regarding the relationship. Having restrictions with relationships not only prohibits the relationship's growth but each individual’s growth as well. Ultimately this may lead to the squandering of a unique opportunity to form an incredible bond with another human being. This person may be your future soul mate or lifelong friend. Shall we eradicate all barriers!
While people view vulnerability as a precarious situation others may view it as an opportunity for growth. I believe that at our times of vulnerability we are the most alive. By alive I mean a state of existence where we permit the world to view us as we truly are with all our flaws and insecurities. In addition most individuals rather not foster intimate relationships because they fear being judged or suffering psychological and emotional damage. The underlying reasons for these anxieties may vary. The intentions for impeding the formation of a strong bond may be to protect your ego and/or preserve your pride.
What this boils down to is one rudimentary concept. The concept is viewing the relationship with only self interest and failing to take the other party into consideration. This may sound counter intuitive but let’s briefly analyze this theory from a third person perspective. Why would you deprive somebody else of your beauty and gifts? Running the risk of being betrayed or others seeing you at your darkest hour is worth it because increases our possibilities for a beautiful union. Taking a risk and allowing people to see inside the windows of your soul reveals your true character and is a sign of sincere bravado.
There are times when we must step outside our comfort zone and venture the world of the unknown. Although we may not feel safe exploring the unwarranted territories as we initiate every new human relationship we give ourselves a chance to reach a deeper level of understanding and a higher state of consciousness. Through our relationships we learn so much about ourselves and the other individual. However our potential for growth is maximized exponentially by eliminating any restrictions we may have regarding the relationship. Having restrictions with relationships not only prohibits the relationship's growth but each individual’s growth as well. Ultimately this may lead to the squandering of a unique opportunity to form an incredible bond with another human being. This person may be your future soul mate or lifelong friend. Shall we eradicate all barriers!
Monday, September 21, 2009
Individuality
In our paths to self discovery we can become easily polluted by the world's expectations. In addition, there lies a possibility that we can become confined to society's norms while inhibiting our growth. Why must we succumb to others' desires? Our fate shouldn't be determined by others' perceptions. If we let our fate be determined by the world's views our identity may be compromised.
One of the plagues of the human existence is striving to fit in rather than just being ourselves. I wonder why we try so hard to fit in? Is it because we fear rejection, marginalization, and /or judgment if we don't mimic everybody else's actions? Anybody who deviates from the norm is an anomaly, more importantly he/she is a leader. These unique individuals could care less about what other people think or say about them. This is the best way to live because your decisions are entirely autonomous and are not determined by what other people may think.
Falling into the status quo perpetuates the norm. It is easier to follow somebody else's path rather than create your own. I also believe that emulating other people's actions is easier than just acting out of your own volition. Being different and being the odd ball out is quite difficult. It is natural to feel uncomfortable when we deviate from the norm. Social psychology teaches us that when somebody exhibits a certain behavior we are more prone to behave the same way.
It is difficult to find somebody who deviates from the norm whether it be regarding fashion, religion, or social activities. Everybody wants to stay in the comfort zone and please everybody else rather than pleasing their self. As a result the human population becomes increasingly homogeneous. Furthermore we are not able to think for ourselves anymore but rather let other people invade our thought process. How many times a day do we question our actions by thinking "what will they think of me" or "will they call me weird or crazy"?
The solution to falling into the status quo is liberating yourself from external views. Do not let the world define who you are. You define who you are. In your quest to self discovery you must rely on your inner wisdom and flourish from your own understanding. Your insight will allow you to establish your identity and show the world who you truly are! For example the kid who is genetically white but they call him black and discriminate against him will most likely identify as black even if he did not before. Our views about ourselves are deeply imposed upon by the world's perception of us! What the world thinks will eventually determine how we view ourselves!
It feels good to find your soul. Even though you may do whats convenient for you and the right thing to do you may receive opposition. Whoever does anything the right way will receive feelings of jealousy and hate. When you soul search and decide to make changes in your life that will allow you to grow you have to realize that you may lose friends. It is a desecration to the body, mind, and soul (that the creator gave us) if we choose to listen to our peers and ignore our destiny.
May your soul truly be liberated and identity maintained!
One of the plagues of the human existence is striving to fit in rather than just being ourselves. I wonder why we try so hard to fit in? Is it because we fear rejection, marginalization, and /or judgment if we don't mimic everybody else's actions? Anybody who deviates from the norm is an anomaly, more importantly he/she is a leader. These unique individuals could care less about what other people think or say about them. This is the best way to live because your decisions are entirely autonomous and are not determined by what other people may think.
Falling into the status quo perpetuates the norm. It is easier to follow somebody else's path rather than create your own. I also believe that emulating other people's actions is easier than just acting out of your own volition. Being different and being the odd ball out is quite difficult. It is natural to feel uncomfortable when we deviate from the norm. Social psychology teaches us that when somebody exhibits a certain behavior we are more prone to behave the same way.
It is difficult to find somebody who deviates from the norm whether it be regarding fashion, religion, or social activities. Everybody wants to stay in the comfort zone and please everybody else rather than pleasing their self. As a result the human population becomes increasingly homogeneous. Furthermore we are not able to think for ourselves anymore but rather let other people invade our thought process. How many times a day do we question our actions by thinking "what will they think of me" or "will they call me weird or crazy"?
The solution to falling into the status quo is liberating yourself from external views. Do not let the world define who you are. You define who you are. In your quest to self discovery you must rely on your inner wisdom and flourish from your own understanding. Your insight will allow you to establish your identity and show the world who you truly are! For example the kid who is genetically white but they call him black and discriminate against him will most likely identify as black even if he did not before. Our views about ourselves are deeply imposed upon by the world's perception of us! What the world thinks will eventually determine how we view ourselves!
It feels good to find your soul. Even though you may do whats convenient for you and the right thing to do you may receive opposition. Whoever does anything the right way will receive feelings of jealousy and hate. When you soul search and decide to make changes in your life that will allow you to grow you have to realize that you may lose friends. It is a desecration to the body, mind, and soul (that the creator gave us) if we choose to listen to our peers and ignore our destiny.
May your soul truly be liberated and identity maintained!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Present, past, and the future
I am fascinated by three different chronological stratospheres: The past the present and the future. Although I strive to maximize my potential in the present, I also prepare for the future and learn from the past. Reflection on all three chronological states allows me to analyze my life.
Future: Sometimes I ask God for the power, strength, and the wisdom to help me foresee the problems in the future so that I can avoid them. But even with the wisdom that has been bestowed upon me I fall in the same pitfalls! I see certain problems being foreshadowed but refuse to take heed of the higher power's advice and my own intuition. My fascination with the future emanates from my belief that the future is promising and that a brighter day awaits me. Also the present becomes boring at times so I am preoccupied with the events that will happen rather than the events that are happening. At times I reside in the future and ignore the happenings that take place in the present. In order to view the future I must have faith in things unseen.
Past: I see the past as the experiences that have made me as a person which is why the past is so precious. I also enjoy reflecting on the past because I am able to reminisce on certain events that brought joy to my life, along with every occasion that was fun. In addition the past gives me perspective on the present and how to change my actions to obtain more desirable results. The past has inspired me to revisit the positive events but reminded me of my trials and tribulations. At times I glamorize the past and focus on how much attention I used to receive. It is a significant symbol of the evolution in this journey we call life. Sometimes I may dwell on the past and forget to live my life in the present. The only baggage I withhold from the past are regrets and grudges. This state of time gives me the insight, intuition, wisdom, and hope to make the present better.
Present: The present is enigmatic, I haven't quite figured it out yet. I have the least love for this chronological stratosphere. I don't find it enticing nor attractive. I think "living in the present" is the most overused cliche. I find nothing mystical about the present, however, it is complex. The things that are happening now may be hard to explain but with a deeper understanding of the future and the past we are able to realize the power in the present and its important role in our lives. Furthermore, events in our lives elapse right before our very eyes and the present rapidly changes into the past. The present has its advantages which allow you to make the necessary adjustments you may need in order to grow. I like the present because I can accomplish anything that is being thrown at me! Concludingly the present I do not favor but I do agree that THERE IS NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT!
Future: Sometimes I ask God for the power, strength, and the wisdom to help me foresee the problems in the future so that I can avoid them. But even with the wisdom that has been bestowed upon me I fall in the same pitfalls! I see certain problems being foreshadowed but refuse to take heed of the higher power's advice and my own intuition. My fascination with the future emanates from my belief that the future is promising and that a brighter day awaits me. Also the present becomes boring at times so I am preoccupied with the events that will happen rather than the events that are happening. At times I reside in the future and ignore the happenings that take place in the present. In order to view the future I must have faith in things unseen.
Past: I see the past as the experiences that have made me as a person which is why the past is so precious. I also enjoy reflecting on the past because I am able to reminisce on certain events that brought joy to my life, along with every occasion that was fun. In addition the past gives me perspective on the present and how to change my actions to obtain more desirable results. The past has inspired me to revisit the positive events but reminded me of my trials and tribulations. At times I glamorize the past and focus on how much attention I used to receive. It is a significant symbol of the evolution in this journey we call life. Sometimes I may dwell on the past and forget to live my life in the present. The only baggage I withhold from the past are regrets and grudges. This state of time gives me the insight, intuition, wisdom, and hope to make the present better.
Present: The present is enigmatic, I haven't quite figured it out yet. I have the least love for this chronological stratosphere. I don't find it enticing nor attractive. I think "living in the present" is the most overused cliche. I find nothing mystical about the present, however, it is complex. The things that are happening now may be hard to explain but with a deeper understanding of the future and the past we are able to realize the power in the present and its important role in our lives. Furthermore, events in our lives elapse right before our very eyes and the present rapidly changes into the past. The present has its advantages which allow you to make the necessary adjustments you may need in order to grow. I like the present because I can accomplish anything that is being thrown at me! Concludingly the present I do not favor but I do agree that THERE IS NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT!
Monday, September 7, 2009
Exceptional Social Beings
Have you ever wondered how certain individuals have the exceptional ability to interact with anybody at any given moment? These people can be deemed social dynamos and have the extraordinary potential to connect with people from varying backgrounds. These individuals may also be referred to as "mavens" or connectors (a term used in Malcolm Gladwell's book The Tipping Point). Is this an innate characteristic or is it learned from our surroundings?
The individuals called connectors can adapt to any social environment and feel comfortable. They possess the unique trait of connecting with people regardless of their race, age, social class, gender and/or sexual orientation. Mavens are extraordinary people who have the tendency of merging social circles.
By merging these social circles, the mavens interlink different cliques. The phenomenon cultivates a fusion of various enclaves. Mavens play a pivotal role in the world; they unite individuals who may never have met each other if it was not for the mavens. By facilitating these connections they create a more diverse world. When I say diverse I don't mean a world of various ethnicities but rather a world that allows the individuals to interact and understand each other. Generating these inter-clique interactions allows people to be more cultured and see the world through a broader perspective.
The individuals called connectors can adapt to any social environment and feel comfortable. They possess the unique trait of connecting with people regardless of their race, age, social class, gender and/or sexual orientation. Mavens are extraordinary people who have the tendency of merging social circles.
By merging these social circles, the mavens interlink different cliques. The phenomenon cultivates a fusion of various enclaves. Mavens play a pivotal role in the world; they unite individuals who may never have met each other if it was not for the mavens. By facilitating these connections they create a more diverse world. When I say diverse I don't mean a world of various ethnicities but rather a world that allows the individuals to interact and understand each other. Generating these inter-clique interactions allows people to be more cultured and see the world through a broader perspective.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)