Karol Speaks Up

The Path to Good Health...

2011-06-09T22:33:00.011-04:00

So what has happened since I wrote my last blog entry (November 7, 2010)? I had a very busy school year, but with the excitement of work and all the busyness, I haven't had too much time to dwell on my "health issues." Truthfully, I cannot complaint at all. I'm very thankful that I have a very good job and that I work with some great colleagues. I also have a great family - my husband and daughters are my most precious treasures. My students also inspire me and fill me with energy - they're very enthusiastic and loving (a pleasure to teach!) and I enjoy teaching them and trying to inspire them as best as I can. They also make me laugh a lot, which is truly a great thing, since laughter heals...

My back is pretty good now... my lower back doesn't hurt much anymore! My body is achy at times, and my feet still give me some problems (especially my right one), but I'm optimistic and confident that if I lose some weight (my goal: about 20 pounds) and continue avoiding caffeine and eating healthy, I will feel a lot better. My feet are actually small for my height (size 9 for a 5'10" frame - I should be about a size 10 or more); and as I have gained some weight these past 5 or so years, due to my slower metabolism and hormonal issues, the arches on my feet have started to collapse (according to my foot doctor) - this is why I went from a size 8 1/2 to a size 9 in shoes in the past few years. Also, joint pain is common when you are having these hormonal problems. Luckily I decided to take Tai Chi lessons a couple of months ago; and since then a new sense of empowerment and optimism has filled my spirit. I've joined Golden Breath Tai Chi in Philadelphia, and I know that this discipline with gentle exercises (and emphasis on "breath") will help me and make a difference in my life (check: www.goldenbreath.com). The important thing, no matter what, is to stay positive and hopeful, and to continue with optimism, enthusiasm and passion to achieve whichever goals and dreams you set your mind to accomplish. If you embrace an attitude of "doom and gloom" (a negative attitude) - you're doomed. Your energy is drained out of you and depression and disease can set in. You have to learn to be strong and to pay attention to your thoughts! I don't get tired of stressing how important our minds are...

I've learned 20 movements to date and I'm very excited about it. I know that I have to improve them; but with practice, perseverance and my commitment to get better and better, I think I'll do all right (more than all right - GREAT!)

Yes, life goes on - but it's up to us to make the best out of it, don't you think? It's really our responsibility to live our best life and create beauty wherever we go. I hope you are also committed to making the best out of your life as well. In good times and in tough times, we learn many lessons; and a bad situation can improve considerably if we remain positive and optimistic, and if we learn to love ourselves, just the way we are - with our weaknesses and our strengths. Don't ever forget that!

Peace and love always...

"When you know better, you do better." ~ Maya Angelou

"Unless you love, your life will flash by." ~ Mrs. O'Brien (character in "The Tree of Life" movie by Terrence Malick, actress played by Jessica Chastain).

Life is Good...

2010-11-07T20:15:00.014-05:00

In my previous entry (back in July) I mentioned how I was dealing with a few health issues. This past Summer I had a lot of back problems and other inconvenient health challenges; part due to overexertion, no doubt. I think we all at times think we're "supermen" or "superwomen" and do a little too much. In this day an age of "busyness" and "multitasking" is like we are trying to keep up with everyone else even when our bodies are telling us to slow down (I try to keep up with my daughters and my teenage students). Also part due to hormonal problems, I'm sure. The good news is that I'm feeling great now!

I had canceled my third Epidural Steroid Shot scheduled for September 15, because I was still in a lot of pain; and the doctor said that if the first two shots don't work (and they didn't) there's no reason to have a third. I was disappointed that I was still in so much pain. Then, school started and I got very busy again, and excited too (since I love teaching and love my job!) Little by little I felt like a different person (a new person). Maybe the shots helped somewhat after all; but also, after reading so many books on the importance of paying attention to our feelings and not allowing stress to affect us so much - I believe something good came out of all that research. I put into practice some of the best advice.

One thing I decided is: "I don't want to live with this pain anymore! I love life, I love my family, I love my work and I don't deserve this... so pain begone!" I stopped taking the pain medicines prescribed by my doctors (I only take Aleve once in a while) and started taking Platinum Essential Amino Acids Plus with MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) which is a natural source of sulfur and an anti-inflammatory supplement used for osteoarthritis, as well as Vitamin D3. And I also eliminated coffee (I only indulge myself drinking some decaf once in a while). Some studies have proven that caffeinated coffee increases osteoarthritis pain. So, whatever did the trick thank God it's working; even my feet are a lot better! I used to have a lot of foot pain (especially after the grueling walks we took in Spain in 2008). As long as I'm using my good Easy Spirit Sneakers I'm fine, and can walk a lot. Alleluia!

Another thing that always helps, of course, is to maintain a positive attitude. To know that what we're going through is temporary and THIS TOO SHALL PASS. We cannot dwell on the pain, the sickness, the past, the grief, negative feelings, etc. Even if we have to deal with some very hard challenges, we must keep a positive attitude NO MATTER WHAT, and enthusiasm and passion towards life!

I suggest the following sites: http://www.adifferentkindofdoctor.blogspot.com/ written by Dr. Sarah Cimperman. Dr. Cimperman is a Naturopathic Doctor and gives great advice. There's a great article written by her in the Wisdom Magazine of Nov/Dec 2010 about "Forest Therapy." It basically emphasizes the importance of communing with nature, taking a walk in the forest. Studies have documented reduced stress, lower blood sugar, better concentration, diminished pain, improved immunity and improved mental and physical health in general. Japanese call this popular practice "shinrin-yoku" which translates to "forest bathing." We need NATURE... it's been proven. Check: http://wisdom-magazine.com/ and http://wisdom-magazine.com/Article.aspx/1923/ to read the article.

We must learn to be more aware of our limitations; but remain optimistic and happy. And when challenges come, we must be strong but NEVER, NEVER, NEVER GIVE UP! Check www.YouTube.com for some inspiration, search the Internet or read a great book! I just ordered the book: "Excuses Begone!" by Dr. Wayne Dyer (since I saw his program in the Public Television Station, and was impressed with his positive messages) - you can watch the program with the same name ("Excuses Begone!) in YouTube as well.

All the best!

"The Art of Life"

2010-07-22T14:09:00.041-04:00

"The art of life is to know how to enjoy a little and endure much." ~ William Hazlitt

Today I was following a van with the title "The Art of Life" on its back. I've seen ambulances with this name also, very cute... even though it's a medical company of some sort here in Philadelphia. I'm not sure what type of services they provide, but the title made me think that truly "Life is Art" and "Art is Life." Yes, I'm always thinking too much; especially now that I'm going through the challenging Middle Age of my life. It seems that I've become more reflective, I try to find the meaning of everything. What the heck is going on?

Life is a mystery... Come to think about it: Life is an art; some times mysterious, some times exciting, some times challenging. So let's start by defining "Art." According to Britannica Online: "Art is the use of skill and imagination in the creation of aesthetic objects, environments, or experiences that can be shared with others." Art is something that stimulates an individual's thoughts, emotions, beliefs, or ideas through the senses (Wikipedia). To create our life, and I'm a firm believer that we're responsible for creating our lives and creating ourselves, we definitely must learn many skills and use our imagination and creativity a great deal. We must learn from our experiences in order to live a better life and not make the same mistakes over and over. We must try our best to create a beautiful life for ourselves and those we love, sharing our creation as we journey through it. We must learn to embrace positive attitudes and feelings, and find time to pay attention to our thoughts, emotions and beliefs - while also finding time to pay attention to others (since life is not just about us).

Life is a challenge... but we can create a true work of art if we pay attention to what's truly important, and stop worrying so much about always pleasing and trying to impress others, pretending that we are someone we really are not. We must keep in mind that what we do affects others directly or indirectly, in a positive or negative way; our actions definitely have consequences, even when we don't even realize it. Hopefully also, to believe in "karma." Yes... what goes around comes around.

I'm reading a fascinating book by Dr. John Sarno ("Healing Back Pain") - check http://www.healingbackpain.com - where he explains how most pain conditions, like Back Pain, Fibromyalgia, Bursitis, Digestive Issues and many others, are due to our repressed emotions (especially repressed anger). This subject is very interesting to me since I've been suffering with some shoulder, arm, neck, back, leg and foot pain for the past two years. What's going on with me? Why do I feel so much pain at times? My doctors will explain it as Fibromyalgia, or Sciatica (I have Spina Bifida Occulta - my L5 vertebra is deformed a little and my Sciatic Nerve is irritated), or a Degenerated Spine (which happens to all of us as we get old, our discs start drying out), etc. I also fell a couple of times on my right side, which probably created a few issues. Then again, I must consider many other possibilities: Am I unconsciously repressing some negative emotions? After all, when you go through hormonal changes your moods are affected, you get more easily irritated, annoyed, moody, etc. We become more sensitive, less patient. No matter how positive I am, and trust me I am - I think at work they think I'm "too" positive and "too" happy all the time (I love my work and my students, so why not?!), nothing ever bothers me (or so everyone thinks) - am I keeping some angry or other negative feelings inside? Am I repressing some emotions without even realizing it? I have work to do! It's pretty mind-boggling, really... Maybe I should visit a therapist, or just see my friends more often, so that I can talk to them about my feelings and inner thoughts. I must start analyzing my thoughts and feelings, and pay more attention to my hidden emotions. I should probably write more, reflect more, learn to meditate and pray more. I always said that it's essential to pay attention to our emotions, feelings and thoughts - I guess it's time for me to do that. We get so busy in life that we neglect ourselves and our diets. Well, like I said: Life is a challenge... I'm ready for this one!

No matter what, though, we must create an authentic life (I think Oprah said this); a true masterpiece - the best possible life for us and for those we share our life with. It can be a simple piece, but hopefully full of love, color and beautiful experiences. Let's stop stressing and complicating our life with unending worries and fears. Let's simplify it more and not take it so seriously. Let's take it one day at a time and live our BEST LIFE! I have to start reading my own advice more often, especially now that I tend to forget so many things. Forgetfulness, another challenge that comes with growing old - the reason I started taking Ginkgo Bilova (to improve my memory and circulation). I'll keep you posted about any new discoveries (on improving my memory and my health)! In the meantime, remember that "life is truly an art" - create your best work!

Assignment: Think about this - which painter inspires you? Which painter or painters do you like the most? Why? Your life at the moment looks like a ... painting (which painter)? Why? Jot down any ideas that come to your mind. Write (or type) about your feelings and any thoughts that pop-up. Do a little research online, check the work of various painters (Renoir, Dali, Magritte, Monet, Rembrandt, Kahlo, etc). Get creative!

No More Coffee...

2010-06-20T21:02:00.007-04:00

It's been one of the hardest things to do... to give up coffee. I was not a heavy coffee drinker; but I loved to have a 12 oz. cup of half-decaf and half-regular coffee every day. At times I also had an 8 oz. cup of just regular. I also enjoyed Dunkin Donuts Iced Coffee (particularly on hot days). Well, those days are over... I've decided to be honest with myself and realize that it's really not a good thing for me. The truth is, no matter what they say (since they come up with new studies every day, sometimes condemning and sometimes praising this drink) coffee is not a good thing. I've been in denial for a long time (many years), convincing myself that I need a little bit of caffeine (from coffee) every day, to feel more alert and energized, to get more creative, to enjoy, etc. I personally have a problem drinking it. It's a very acidic drink and can easily upset your digestive system. It also affects the functioning of your adrenal glands. Coffee is an irritant and a stimulant that releases "stress hormones" and also raises your blood sugar levels very rapidly; in a little while, after drinking it, you crash and crave for more, or crave for sweets or carbs (at least this happens to me). It's been proven that it raises your cholesterol levels and your blood pressure; and now that I'm passing through the "great middle age" stage in my life, my cholesterol and triglycerides levels are very high, so I need to do something about it, unfortunately. Coffee can make you feel irritable, nervous and moody too. So yes, I've decided to stay away from coffee! I'll try to be strong! I've done this before, I've been on no coffee and no carbs diets before - I can do this! I never drank coffee when I was pregnant with my daughters (no sodas, and no caffeine at all!)

How hard it is to give up something you love... Especially, I think, since I grew up in coffee-growing countries; my grandparents, both from my father's and my mother's side had coffee farms in Costa Rica. I grew up drinking coffee with boiled milk (Latin American style) from a very young age - a tradition in Central and South American countries. We had coffee with our breakfast, coffee after lunch and coffee at around 4 PM with a snack (or baked goods). I probably was completely dehydrated, and didn't even know it; since I drank more coffee than water. And we lived in Barranquilla, Colombia, with temperatures of 90 plus degrees every day, for many years (13) and then moved to San Jose, Costa Rica (where I was born) - with milder weather - but still a drink of choice for most Costa Ricans and especially my family.

Well, so now I have to find a substitute drink that I can enjoy, but with health benefits. I'm trying Green Tea, Rooibos Tea, Black Tea, Oolong Tea, and soon will try "Dandelion Coffee." I recently read that Dandelion Coffee is a very good alternative, according to the information found online, it's a very healthy drink (not really coffee) made from the roasted roots of Dandelion plants. Funny that in my Teens Self Help Blog I wrote about the benefits and versatility of dandelions. Well, I will visit my Health Food Store soon and will try this so-called coffee that is not really coffee and see how I like it. For right now, I'll continue committed to stay away from coffee and sodas and will try my best to drink more water and some of the teas that for right now have a "good reputation." And of course, I will remember that water is still the best drink of all (I hope) ... Wish me luck!

A "Stagnant" Life...

2010-03-21T17:27:00.031-04:00

While riding in the car today, driving to one of our favorite parks -Lorimer Park- I noticed that a pond nearby, which is usually full of water lilies and geese, and full of life, looked quite dirty; it now has a dark and ugly green color and stagnant water. Its water was completely still, not moving at all. Let's think for a moment, what is the meaning of "stagnant"? The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines stagnant as follows: "not flowing in a current or stream, e.g. 'stagnant water' or not advancing or developing e.g. 'a stagnant economy'." The thought occurred to me that sometimes our lives, or certain areas of our lives, can become stagnant like that pond, if we let it...

There will always be moments in our lives when we feel kind of stuck in certain situations, certain relationships or certain jobs; this is basically part of living and it happens to all of us, some times. But there are also times when we really lose that zest for life. When we find life too boring, or too stressful, overwhelming, chaotic, etc. It's during those tough times that we need to remember that it's up to us to make a difference and change our circumstances; that we have to put aside the "excuses;" and that we can just relax and go with the flow. We have to remember that we have the power to change some negative events when we embrace positive attitudes. Let's see these "stagnant" times as lessons to be learned, but let's keep in mind that these tough times will pass - because they always do. Life as it is, is not "stagnant." Life is always changing and flowing. Life is change. Life is growth. Don't dwell on the negative and try your best to remain strong.

If you look to the future with optimism and hope, your life will slowly change for the better, I promise. Put this in practice and learn how to be passionate about everything you do (whatever that is). Soon you'll find out how important a positive outlook on life is, no matter what. Even in a "stagnant" economy or a "stagnant" personal life (or just the few "stagnant" areas in your life). Your life can change for the better! Your life WILL change for the better if you go with the flow... and you will change for the better too!

I know that that "stagnant" pond will be full of life very soon. Spring finally arrived and rainy days are on the horizon... Life is good!

"Simply Delicious"

2009-08-09T17:35:00.005-04:00

Today I saw the movie "Julie & Julia" and I loved it! Very refreshing, funny and "feel good." I enjoyed it very much and highly recommend it. It inspired me to find ways to make cooking more fun and interesting. After many years of cooking thousands of meals for my family, I have to admit that some times I just don't have the desire to slave so much over the stove. I've lost interest in preparing complicated meals and have resigned myself to cooking quick and simple ones. In fact, the simplest and faster the better! We also eat out a lot... I just don't have the energy to cook after a full day at work.

I've discovered that a great way to get new tips and ideas and motivate myself to "keep cooking" is to watch some of the great TV cooking shows (like the ones in the Food Network Channel). One of my favorite meals is the very versatile "omelette." You can customize any omelette to your liking by adding vegetables, cheeses, and meats of your choice. I do like it well cooked though, so my trick is to turn it around quickly when the bottom is cooked and golden (most chefs probably would disapprove of my technique - but I don't like runny eggs at all); then I add the goodies and fold.

You can saute your favorite veggies, like onions, green and red peppers, mushrooms, zucchini or other in butter or oil before you add them to your omelette. Chop some ham, your favorite cheese and you have the "perfect meal." You can find many recipes here in the internet and get very creative.

Learn to create a few favorite recipes; I promise you that you'll feel a great sense of achievement!

Check the book: "My Life in France" by Julia Child and Alex Prud'Homme. Great reading...

The Trials of Getting Older

2009-05-06T09:40:00.036-04:00

I have to admit it – I’m having a hard time accepting the fact that I’m getting older. Yes, we all "grow," we all get older – it's part of life, it's the way it is; but I still wish I could look like I did at 35. Maybe it's vanity. I’m 52 years old now and can say that, in general, I’m in good (not great!) health and look pretty good, for my age. I really cannot complain, especially, when I'm aware of the problems some of my friends and co-workers are having (health problems, financial problems, family problems); and aware that so many people in this country, and others, have lost their jobs and their savings (401 K's, stocks, etc.). Even as I’m going through the dreaded “hormonal changes” of middle age (a metamorphosis of sorts) and most nights cannot sleep very restfully; and my metabolism is crawling like a turtle - I’m still very active, and most importantly, I feel very fulfilled at work, have a great family and family life, have good friends, and can honestly say that “life is good”…! I’m a lot wiser now than I was at 35 or at 40. I really feel that I understand what is truly important in life! My priorities are clear; my spirituality is stronger than ever, my life is amazingly rewarding, and I thank God every day for my many blessings… But, let's face it, it still stinks to get OLD. I have to work on accepting the changes and challenges that come with growing older more gracefully and just “go with the flow” like they say; after all, life is a constant challenge, isn't it?

Change is always difficult, no matter what! I never paid too much attention to change when I was younger; but now for some reason – I do! I try my best to have the "C'est la vie..." attitude, but it's definitely hard at times. I guess the fact that I work with teenagers (I teach 15, 16, 17 and 18 year old girls) may contribute to this feeling. In many ways, I wish I could be as beautiful, energetic and active as they are or as my daughters are; but remain as wise as I feel at the present moment. This is my challenge now, and the challenge of all of us, to accept life as it is… to live one day at a time and make the best out of every moment. Life is precious! We have to embrace the beauty in our lives and keep a cheerful and positive attitude while learning to ADAPT.

I have to believe what Barbra Streisand said once: "It gets easier as you get older. You accept yourself for who you are - your flaws and your attributes. It's easier to live in your own skin." I certainly hope so.

The good news is: A research conducted by the University of Colorado, at Colorado Springs, confirms that “older adults exhibit a better balance than younger adults in the way they process emotional information from the environment. Younger adults, 18-25, tend to pay more attention to emotionally negative images than to positive ones." The new finding from their study was that the older adults, ages 55 plus, didn't show this so-called 'negative bias;' instead they tended to show a better balance between paying attention to both negative and positive images.

"We care less about our appearance (not necessarily) and more about our emotional well-being, our character, and our involvements in the world at large and with those we love (I agree with the last three parts)," says clinical psychologist Betsy Stone, Ph.D., of Stamford, Connecticut.

"As we get older, we know more not only about the world but about ourselves. We have better attention spans and an increased ability to focus. In general, most non-neurotic older people (I love this!) are content with what they've done with their lives, are happy, have high self-esteem, and a sense of well-being," says clinical psychologist Forrest Scogin, Ph.D., of the University of Alabama. "We become more adaptable and flexible, and have a greater understanding of our own resilience."

"RESILIENCE" - that's the key word.

"There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of the people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age." ~ Sophia Loren

“Youth is not a time of life - it is a state of mind. Nobody grows old by merely living a number of years; people grow old by deserting their ideals. Years may wrinkle your skin, but to give up enthusiasm wrinkles your soul. You are as young as your faith, as old as your doubts; as young as your self-confidence, as old as your fear; as young as your hope, as old as your despair. In the central place of your heart there is a recording chamber; so long as it receives messages of beauty, hope, cheer, and courage - so long are you young.”

~ General Douglas MacArthur (based on a poem written by Samuel Ullman of Birmingham, Ala.)

For the entire poem check: http://www.bartleby.com/73/2099.html.
Also check: http://www.psychologytoday.com, and http://www.dreamcoach.com/pdfs/soulful_living.pdf for great articles and advice.

A New Beginning

2009-01-21T21:03:00.002-05:00

I'm so excited about our new possibilities - we're starting anew with a brand new President, with newfound hope, enthusiasm, happiness...

Go to: America's Song and watch the video or download this wonderful song. I love it and hope you do too! It's very inspirational. Listen to it and feel its message. Concentrate in your feelings. Just listen to it and be inspired!

Let's remember that it's up to us to change ourselves for the better and to change our relationships, our communities, our cities, our country, our world. Be good to yourself so that you can be good to others! How can we improve ourselves? How can we recognize our weaknesses? Just pay attention to your life, the important things, and start becoming a little more patient, more understanding, more loving, more compassionate, more respectful, more tolerant. You can do it! We can all do it! Let's have faith in ourselves and our fellow men and fill our hearts with hope, optimism and joy.

Let's help our new government make a difference by being more aware of our actions and reactions and living one day at a time. Keep dreaming, keep believing, keep a rainbow in your hearts. We'll create a better tomorrow - TOGETHER!

"Law of Attraction"

2009-01-01T21:58:00.023-05:00

It seems that lately many books, magazines, articles, and websites are emphasizing and explaining the so-called "Law of Attraction." What is this law? Why is it so important?

Here's my take on it, summarizing everything I've read and trying my best to explain what I understand of this "law." We attract to us what we FEEL and what we THINK; we attract to us experiences and things depending on our energy output - the energy (positive or negative) that radiates from within us... Are we always worrying about things? Are we having too many doubts or too many negative thoughts? Are we insecure? Let's pay attention to those thoughts and those feelings that invade us every day, every minute of our days, everyday of our lives; because they do make a difference in what happens to us, what we experience - they affect us in a negative or positive way. They change our reality. Basically, the "Law of Attraction" states that we are responsible for creating our own life; we are responsible for the consequences of our actions, intentions, thoughts and feelings. Even Emerson said: "A man is what he thinks about all day long."

If we feel a "lack" of something in our life (money, love, health, happiness, success, etc.); if all we think about is how much we lack, how much we don't have, how we can never and will never have or achieve something due to one reason or another - that's the reality we create. Then, we will always lack those things we want and desire, because that's how we think and feel. Deep inside we feel we don't deserve those things that are important to us. We may feel like "victims" in this life: it's always someone else's fault that we cannot achieve success, happiness, serendipity...

Wayne Dyer writes in Manifest Your Destiny: "You don't attract what you want. You attract what you are." Also, before attaining "bliss" we must learn to love ourselves; honoring, respecting, and valuing who we are. We have to learn to feel good about WHO WE ARE. We have to learn to JUST BE... and stop being our worst enemy, always putting ourselves down and allowing others to put us down, as well.

According to Michael Losier, author of Law of Attraction: The Science of Attracting More of What you Want and Less of What you Don't "it is imperative that people put forth positive energy and feelings of already having achieved their goals." You must believe in your desires, he states. Another important step is allowing: "Allowing is simply the absence of negative vibration and doubt is a negative vibration." "You must remove all doubt that what you want will be true."

My favorite Rabbi, Simon Jacobson from the Meaningful Life Center (www.meaningfullife.com), wrote: "your life will be determined by your attitude." Also: "The secret to success in the New Year is to not empower the weak forces that drive fear into our hearts. But to empower your own soul; to recognize that you have within yourself all the necessary strength to fulfill your life's mission. To realize that things don't happen to you; you make things happen. You don't 'find yourself' in situations; you place yourself in them... No matter what happens this year, whatever ups and downs will be coming our way, your destiny will be shaped by your attitudes; you will experience exactly what you allow yourself to experience: You will either be dragged down by the gravitational pull of the earth that you worship, or you will be lifted on the wings of your soul that you believe in."

Affirmations are important too - positive affirmations (short positive statements) - check: http://www.vitalaffirmations.com/ affirmations.htm and also living in "gratefulness" ("thankfulness"). We have to be grateful for the good things we have in our life NOW; we have to learn to appreciate the important things we already have (important milestones we have accomplished and important lessons we have learned) and look forward to the many more awesome experiences, lessons and things that will come to us and our loved ones in our future, because we deserve the best!

Whether you believe in the "Law of Attraction" or not, just try you best to live and lead a positive life, without concentrating so much on the "negative stuff." Yes, there are too many negative things and negative people in this world already - we don't have to add any more negativity into our own world. Learning to become a "positive person" should be one of our greatest challenges. Read positive books, motivate and inspire yourself; make a commitment to bring only good things into your life. You can do it! Let's remember that we affect others (and ourselves) with our negative or positive feelings, moods, attitudes, thoughts... Once we reject all those negative messages that come to us from relatives, friends, TV, movies, the media, etc. and learn to stand strong and believe in ourselves, only positive outcomes will result. Let's pay attention then to our thoughts, our feelings, our actions, our attitudes and let's keep a positive outlook on life. I wish you all the BEST! HAPPY NEW YEAR 2009!

Check: http://successfulliving.digitalpubfor.me/ - it's a great magazine! Enjoy!

Affirmation of Life...

2008-07-13T17:21:00.003-04:00

I found this beautiful poem called "Affirmation of Life" (Author: Unknown) and I will like to share it with you:

I am beautiful
I am valued
I am strong
With my open mind
I catch the wisdom of the ages
My spirit is bountiful
My soul vibrates with joy
And I know all things are possible
if I believe with all my heart...
I am beautiful
I am valued
I am strong
I see life as a journey -
a path to be explored
And with faith
I have the power at hand
to climb all obstacles and
beat back doubt and fear
I am beautiful
I am valued
I am strong
I know that peace
will win over war
and that hope
will triumph over despair
My heart is filled with love and joy
If I spread my arms long enough
I know I could fly...

"Cursing"

2008-01-21T17:43:00.001-05:00

Today, my daughters and I were flipping channels to decide what to watch on TV and saw something interesting in the Maury Povich Show (people that have survived amazing things or performed unexplainable feats). We couldn't watch it for too long - the audience was out of control, cursing so much, that you didn't know what Mr. Povich was saying since they had to blip long sections of the program due to excessive cursing. My oldest daughter said to me: "Mom, that's because the audience is full of ignorant people..." I guess she's right. The truth is that these shows are really disgusting. The content of the shows, in my opinion, is very inappropriate for most audiences. The messages are negative and the program portrays people in dire situations, mostly due to lack of character, integrity and education. The programs really don't teach anything uplifting or positive.

This brings me to the title of my blog: "Cursing". I always hated profanity, cursing and any form of offensive language. To me, this kind of language just communicates ignorance and lack of moral values. It violates people's right to live in a decent and positive society. Someone may say: "Karol, relax. Everyone uses curses once in a while." That is true to a certain extent. We all make mistakes here and there (or get into the bad habit of saying a few "curse words" like the "S" word). But when every sentence in a conversation has a curse word; when every time you get upset you have to use profanity; that tells me that you're just covering up your lack of an extensive and proper vocabulary, good speaking skills and good command of the English Language. It sounds terrible and it's demeaning to others. We're supposed to be considerate and compassionate, and to care for our fellow human beings. Cursing will always be disrespectful; it offends people in general and should be eliminated from our conversation, no matter how upset we may be. It upsets me to hear so many young people using this kind of language. In many ways it's like saying: "I don't care about you, what you think and how you feel, I only care about myself, and whether you like it or not I will always say whatever I please - the heck with you!" That to me is rude and inconsiderate!

The excessive use of "cursing" is truly despicable - in movies, in TV shows and everywhere. It's like assuming that all of us speak that way. Let's try our best to be more considerate and stop all these expletives and other forms of vulgar language from our vocabulary. Let's inform the TV and movie producers that we are repulsed by it and maybe do something to communicate our disapproval (like not watching these kind of shows).

We don't have to lower our standards and values just to try to please others; or think that only by speaking like others do, we will be accepted. We have to make a stand and protect our convictions and never feel bad to be who we are. Stay strong...

"Hidden Poisons"

2008-01-09T16:16:00.004-05:00

Like many Americans and other people in this world, I've been consuming "Artificial Sweeteners" for a long time trying to stay away from the so-called "Refined Sugars". You read everywhere about the dangers of Diabetes and about how bad simple sugars and carbohydrates are for your health. I don't think I overdo it; but I do put Sweet'N Low, Splenda or Equal in many of my drinks (coffee or iced-tea). I also select, at times, "Diet" sodas or drinks. For quite some time I've been noticing that I'm having unusual palpitations and pain in my joints. I wake up with my heart pounding at times and after drinking something with "Aspartame", especially, I can feel my heart going nuts. I also feel "funny" - like something is not right. So, I decided to do a little research and discovered that "Artificial Sweeteners" can cause a great number of symptoms - one of them "heart palpitations", another one "joint pains". Just because something doesn't have calories, doesn't mean that it is healthy for us. If we're trying to lose weight or eat healthier (and be "healthier"), we should definitely stay away from these dangerous substances.

Check the following sites for more information: www.spice-of-life.com,www.doorway.com, www.holisticmed.com and www.vegsource.com, and do your own research. You'll be surprised about the findings, and maybe even a little scared too. I'm now committed to eliminating "Artificial Sweeteners" from my diet, at all costs. I’ll use Stevia or Xylitol instead (see "Update" below).

"Stevia" is a natural plant from South America. Read more about it at: http://www.stevia.net. Ironically the FDA once labeled this natural product "dangerous". The public health threats are all the other "Artificial Sweeteners" not "Stevia". Then again, decide wisely and eat everything in "moderation". Believe me, I know how frustrating it is to learn what's really good for us; since there are so many contradictory reports. One day a study says that one thing is healthy, the next day another study says that that same thing is unhealthy...

No matter what, let's pay more attention to our bodies and to how we feel, and especially to what we are putting in our mouths. "Artificial Sweeteners" are actually more dangerous than sugar, who would have guessed? We put so much trust on certain companies and on the FDA that sometimes we even question our common sense. We cannot believe that something so popular is actually a poison for our systems. Let's wise up and inform ourselves more, before we do what everybody does or eat what everybody eats.

I will stay away from these chemical ingredients (I know how hard it is, they are everywhere!). Usually doctors don't even consider the possibility that these sweeteners are causing the strange symptoms that we feel. If we complain of certain pains and rare symptoms, they just think we're exaggerating or just plain crazy.

PLEASE BE INFORMED... AND READ MORE ABOUT IT!

UPDATE - APRIL 2009: I recently discovered a new natural sweetener called Xylitol. Believe it or not I heard the name in one of my dreams (as weird as this sounds, it is the truth). I woke up remembering this word, and kept repeating it to myself - I didn't want to forget it. I was curious and wanted to find out what it meant in Google.com. Xylitol is an amazing sweetener. It was discovered in Finland after World War II when the country was having a sugar shortage. Read more about it at: www.xylitolnaturalsweetener.com, www.xlear.com or www.theultimatelife.com. Look for more information on your favorite search engine. I'm using it now. I prefer the xylitol from birch trees than the one from corn cobs, it tastes better - just like regular sugar! It is a very healthy sweetener that kills bacteria, prevents osteoporosis and doesn't raise your blood sugar levels. The only negative thing is that it is expensive (especially compared to regular sugar) - but the benefits outweigh the expense.

The Art of Doing "Nothing"

2007-12-26T13:53:00.001-05:00

Now that I'm on my Christmas Vacation I've been thinking a lot about how difficult it is for us to "just be"... To take moments in our day to do "just nothing." We are so programmed to "do" - to being always "busy", that we forget how important it is to rest, to take it easy at times and just learn the "Art of Doing Nothing." It is an "art" in my book, because it takes time for us to learn how to do it; especially in our country. Americans learn at a very early age to live on a schedule; whether it is to go to day care, to nursery school, to kindergarten, to elementary school, to high school, to college, to work. We always have to follow a strict schedule (at least most of us). We have to use every moment of our day in an efficient way, as if it were a sin to waste our "precious" time.

My daughters, for instance, feel funny when they're not doing "something" all the time - even if it's just watching TV. I tell them that it's okay to relax some times and just enjoy some free time. They shouldn't feel bored. We have to learn to take time for ourselves, not only to do the things we like to do; but just to "be" alone, reflect and take some time to just think. We can also do the things we don't normally have the time to do: like writing an e-mail or letter to a friend, reading a great book (or one of the many books or magazines in our collection - even if it's just a paragraph or two), calling someone, writing something, meditating or praying, or just being.

Well, I've decided that from now on -a New Year's resolution of sorts- I won't worry so much about wasting my time. I work hard enough when I'm at work, and also at home -most of my days- so that when I'm "on vacation" (and even when I'm not) I'll try to enjoy relaxing moments. I'll try not to worry so much about "just chilling", reading a book, watching TV, doing things with my family or just sitting in front of the computer (like I'm doing right now) typing and expressing my thoughts in my blogs - or just finding idle moments to feel that I'm alive, that I'm breathing, that "I am." Time when even if I'm not doing what others consider super-useful or important things; I'm still doing the things that are important to me - things that I like to do. We don't always have to feel judged or criticized... we can just BE.

Some things can wait 'til tomorrow. We can certainly do tomorrow what we cannot do today (instead of the other way around). As long as we don't become super-procrastinators or get too distracted with many senseless activities, we can enjoy some free time. Our lives are already extremely busy most of the time; full of stress just as they are. I know it's hard when you always have someone reminding you "to do": you have to do this, you have to do that... But, no matter what, let's try to find those very special moments. Those special peaceful moments of "nothingness" and of "just being", because they're truly precious too. In fact, they're essential to our well-being. Let's embrace them and enjoy them; let's learn this art that is already easy for others, but not for me; and maybe not for you.

Check the following for inspiration: "The Art of Doing Nothing - Washington Post"
"The Art of Doing Nothing - Book"
"The Art of Doing Nothing - Zen Habits"
(Well, it looks like many others have already considered and studied this idea - check it out or just Google it).

"It is a sacred assignment to rescue the crumbs of our souls that have been kicked under the table by too much activity and too little aloneness, and to collect and kiss them all better." (Sue Patton Thoele - "The Woman's Book of Soul")

The Hell of Alzheimer's

2007-06-26T22:04:00.000-04:00

This past Sunday, when we visited my Mother-in-Law in the Nursing Home where she lives (because of her Alzheimer's Disease), we had a very sad experience that still hunts me. It seemed that she woke up from her slumber of many years -that for a small period of time she woke up- and started communicating with us her thoughts and feelings.

It was so hard to hear her talk about wanting to die, about hating where she's at, begging God for help (Oh God, Oh God... please help me!), asking where her parents are, why she's there, she cannot take it anymore... What can you say? She's had this terrible disease for more than five years now, most of the time when we visit her she doesn't even recognize us and she's usually quiet or just mentions a few things that doesn't make any sense. On this day she recognized us and she could hardly stop crying. She remembered her apartment (she hasn't been there since 2002) and wanted to know when she could go back. All we could do was to try to calm her down; which is hard to do since she's very hard of hearing. We hugged her and tried to explain why she's there. I told her that one day she'll see her parents and relatives again and that she'll be happy again, that she has to let go, just let go... to stop fighting so much. She said she doesn't want to be happy, she just wants to die...

How hard it is for people suffering from this devastating disease and for their loved ones. They're living hell on earth. She's been such a fighter all her life. I think she's finally giving up; living like this isn't worth it. I just hope she can find some peace soon. I love her, we love her and it hurts to see her suffering like this.

Am I mirroring you?

2007-06-04T22:20:00.000-04:00

Has it ever happened to you that you can tell when someone dislikes you very much? Even when you really just don't know why? Sometimes no matter how caring and loving and respectful one tries to be, someone will dislike you (or even hate you) for no apparent reason. You can feel it, you can sense it, you know that for some unknown reason this one person has a problem with you. It is mind-boggling at times. I used to have this situation at work (former job) and I simply couldn't figure out why this person had a problem with me, why she seemed to be so upset... Was she upset all the time and just pretended to be happy and nice some times? Who knows? My co-workers seemed to dislike her a lot (clue?); she wasn't very friendly. Maybe she was very insecure and hid behind this wall of indifference and silence... Maybe she felt threatened or believed that she was always right and misjudged and criticized others when their actions were different than hers... Maybe she was jealous, because others didn't pay too much attention to her... or maybe she just didn't know any better and was having some difficult times in her life, and we all misinterpreted her actions. The truth is that we all have our weaknesses and particularities, so we should not judge others too harshly (we really should never judge or criticize others at all...)

Maybe I should have simply asked her why she was upset with me (since I had no clue). I should have confronted her, surprised her and asked her why she didn't like me, what I did to upset her so much, or just ask her if I could be of any help. I admit it, I don't like the feeling of being disliked (or the feeling of thinking that someone doesn't like me); even though I know it's impossible for everyone to like us or for us to like everyone; it is not a good feeling - it always bothers me when it happens. After all, we are just human beings and we all make mistakes, and some times we hurt others (even if this was not our intention). Some people are more sensitive than others, take things very personally and get more easily upset about silly little things. Also, like they say, others (and us) become like mirrors. Others see in us their weaknesses and we see in them our weaknesses. So even when another person is truly nice and kind, there are times when we only see her faults (her faults, or our faults and shortcomings in her). I enjoy being caring and friendly toward others; and the truth is that it upsets me when others seem upset with me when I don't know the reason. Then again, maybe they are just mirroring some of my weaknesses too...

We have to make the effort to concentrate in people's goodness, in their qualities, their strengths, their gifts and talents - their BEST! If we only concentrate in their shortcomings that's all we will see. Let's learn from our mistakes and others' mistakes and forgive one another for being human. Am I mirroring you? Do you see your faults in me? Faults that you don't even realize you have? It is complicated being "human", don't you think?

This reminds me of a poem I have in my website (TeensSelfHelp.com) - check http://teensselfhelp.com/BeYourBestSelf.html:

Be Your Best Self ...

The good you find in others, is in you too.
The faults you find in others, are your faults as well.
After all, to recognize something you must know it.

The possibilities you see in others, are possible for you as well.
The beauty you see around you, is your beauty.

The world around you is a reflection, a mirror showing you
the person you are.
To change your world, you must change yourself.
To blame and complain will only make matters worse.

Whatever you care about, is your responsibility.
What you see in others, shows you yourself.
See the best in others, and you will be your best.

Give to others, and you give to yourself.
Appreciate beauty, and you will be beautiful.
Admire creativity, and you will be creative.

Love, and you will be loved.
Seek to understand, and you will be understood.
Listen, and your voice will be heard.

Teach, and you will learn.
Show your best face to the mirror, and you'll be happy with
the face looking back at you.

"Time to Work... Time to Play"

2007-05-09T19:52:00.000-04:00

"The feeling of being hurried is not usually the result of living a full life and having no time. It is on the contrary born of a vague fear that we are wasting our life. When we do not do the one thing we ought to do, we have no time for anything else - we are the busiest people in the world."
~ Eric Hoffer

One thing I've learned in life is that we have to find BALANCE. Such a simple word, and yet, it represents an utopia of sorts; something very hard to reach and achieve in this day and age. Yes, this is the era of "busyness." Everyone is "so busy" doing many things at once; what we call "multitasking." I believe that too much multitasking is unhealthy; it is the reason why so many of us - especially children and teens - are having a harder time concentrating and focusing in the task at hand. Their minds wander easily, because their minds are constantly being over-stimulated: especially with TV, iPods, cell phones, computers and many other electronical gadgets. Kids are trying to do their homework, while texting or instant-messaging their friends, checking MySpace.com and many other websites, playing computer games, listening to their iPods, and basically doing too many things at once; more than they can handle. It's almost like a game, to see who will win - who can do the most; but by trying to do "so much," quality suffers and our ability to think and learn suffers too.

I see it with my students all the time; they have a harder time listening (truly listening); they need more coaching and more individual attention. Of course it's especially hard to work with them in the Computer Labs. There are too many distractions. I wish they could learn to limit their online activities and do a lot less so that they can actually end up doing more.

I catch myself doing similar things many times, trying to catch up with work. I'm e-mailing colleagues, checking "dictionary.com" or other websites and working on a class project or assignment; while trying to organize my thoughts and sorting out my priorities (my "to do" list).

I have to remember that one thing at a time is better. It's almost like "multitasking" and "busyness" are contagious. We all want to do it because others are doing it too, and we want to keep up with them. We're always acting as if life was a race. I think it's time to STOP and start concentrating more on the important things in life; only the important things will make our lives better and happier. Let's try not to waste our time with unimportant things. Of course we MUST find time to play, to do fun things (a must to stay healthy), to relax, read a book, write, listen to music, dance, etc. That's the challenge: to try to balance all the things we want to do and all the things we have to do, by setting priorities and leaving those less important things for "tomorrow."

My slogan now is "leave for tomorrow what you cannot do today..." instead of "don't leave for tomorrow what you can do today." Tomorrow is another day, tomorrow is a good day and it's okay to leave it for tomorrow. As long as we don't leave everything for tomorrow; as long as we feel that we're truly achieving what needs to be done and what we want to do in a reasonable amount of time; as long as we don't become procrastinators or so overwhelmed with so much we have to do that we end up doing nothing. We can push ourselves at times of need and we can find balance too: time to work, time to play...

Let's enjoy life more while working hard to achieve our goals and dreams.

I will not die an unlived life...

2007-04-23T16:21:00.000-04:00

I just discovered a beautiful book by Dawna Markova "I will not die and unlived life - Reclaiming Purpose and Passion"; which I highly recommend. Her poem is powerful:

I will not die

an unlived life.
I will not live in fear
of falling or catching fire.
I choose to inhabit my days,
to allow my living to open me,
to make me less afraid, more accessible;
to loosen my heart until it becomes

a wing, a torch, a promise.

I choose to risk my significance,
to live so that which came to me as seed

goes to the next as blossom,
and that which came to me as blossom,
goes on as fruit.

~Dawna Markova, Ph.D.

(Originally she wrote "I will not live and unlived life..." at the beginning of the poem, in her book "The Art of the Possible" - under "Risk Your Significance")

What an important message! Let's live a good life, full of purpose, love, kindness, compassion and peace. Find passion in your life! Reignite the fire in your heart! Live on purpose…

"Diversity in Action"

2007-01-27T14:35:00.000-05:00

Our neighborhood is the perfect example of "diversity in action." I actually feel fortunate living in a place like this in Northeast Philadelphia. There are people of many different nationalities and backgrounds. We are as diverse as the United Nations, and here, we get along just fine. Some of our neighbors are Jewish, some are African American, some are Indians, some are Greek, some are Italian, some are Russian, some are Latin American, some are Arabs, some are Chinese, some are Vietnamese, some are Japanese, some are "American" (with many previous generations born in the United States and many with different origins too...) Some neighbors were born in the United States, some were born in their countries of origin - like me. I am an American Citizen; but I was born in San José, Costa Rica. Yes, I have all kinds of nationalities - so it's hard to feel like I truly belong to any one particular place. I still have an accent (my native language is Spanish) and I look like the combination of nationalities that I am. Right now, my country is the United States, and I'm proud to be an "American." My husband was born here, my daughters were born here. Of course, I love Costa Rica and I love Colombia (where I lived for 13 years) - they will always have a special place in my heart.

My mother was born in Costa Rica and she's from German descent - her father was German, from Hanover (Hermann Stradtmann); and her mother's father was from Germany (Amadeo Johanning). My father was born in Costa Rica too, but his father was from Bogotá, Colombia (Jorge Braddock) and his grandfather from Scotland (Henry Braddock - like my father's name); his mother was born in Panamá (when Panamá belonged to Colombia) - but her mother was Italian (Franceschi) and her father was from Colombia of Spanish descent (París). So, yes, we are a mixture of many nationalities. I guess, like most Americans. We are truly "international mutts."

Is there really an "authentic" American? Authentic Americans are the Native American Indians. All Americans, in general, are definitely a melting pot of nationalities: English-Americans; Polish-Americans, Irish-Americans, German-Americans, Italian-Americans, Chinese-Americans, African-Americans, Mexican-Americans, Russian-Americans; and the list goes on... Sometimes a combination of more than one origin. Is one nationality better than another one? Is one race better than another one? NO. We are all human beings...

My husband's grandparents were from Russia; his parents were born here in the US. Ben, my husband is Jewish and I am Catholic. So you can say that we are definitely a very "diverse" family and we live in a very "diverse" neighborhood. And we all get along fine - which is truly great!

We pretty much respect everyone's individuality and are friendly with everyone - and people respond back with kindness, regardless of their backgrounds, regardless of their education. The important thing is to respect and be kind to everyone, and to show them respect at all times. If we cross the line, if we show animosity, intolerance, discomfort, anger and hatred towards others - just because they are of different origin or different skin color, have different customs or are in some ways different than us - we are acting disrespectfully and we are discriminating.

I do have mixed feelings regarding "immigration." I understand people's preoccupation with the extremely high number of ilegal immigrants entering our borders: they say immigrants are sending their children to our schools, using our services and not paying taxes; they say they don't want to assimilate into our culture... I agree that there should be some changes in our laws, giving temporary permits to farm workers and other needed working-forces. There should also be some forms of control, since economic interests are at stake. Yet we, as citizens of this world, should be able to have "freedom of movement" and be able to choose where we prefer to live, as long as we respect the laws and customs of the other countries. Yes, there's a lot to do and a lot to think about...

In the meantime, let's try to live as a large happy family, trying to understand that it is human nature to look for better horizons and for a better life. Let's work together to build a better world and try our best to be understanding, tolerant, respectful and loving towards others; no matter how different we think we are. Let's open our minds and hearts to accept our differences and uniqueness; and concentrate on our similarities. Kindness, love and respect are the "magic words" we should live by to make our world a better place for all.