Conquering Temptation During the Holidays

Be aware and mindful. Do not let the power of what’s wicked overtake you during the holiday season. Stay vigilant in the coming days ahead.

The word “Temptation” means the act of being tempted or a state of being tempted. In verse 13 of Matthew 6, Jesus speaks to his disciples about prayer. He tells them not to be brought into temptation. Instead, they should ask to be delivered from the wicked one or from what is wicked.

How can someone conquer the act or state of temptation?

For each one’s desire, the level of temptation differs. For some, a moment’s reflection on God’s word is enough. It helps them reject the desire that would cause them to fall. The Bible warns about those who rush to get rich. They will not remain innocent. They might do wrong for a piece of bread.

The person I am speaking about held a good position working at the airport. Recently, he was overcome by covetousness to take something that was not his from a passenger’s luggage. Later allowed to admit his wrongful action, he lied. He might have faced a few days off without pay if he had confessed. It could also have led to a week off without pay. The camera later revealed the truth.

He chose not to reflect on his actions during these challenging times. Jobs are hard to come by, and the cost of living is too expensive for many. Instead, he allowed the desire to take control of him. What Jeremiah 17 verse 11 says about one who acquires riches dishonestly is what he proved to be, one senseless. He has lost a weekly salary over an item that is no more than 100 dollars. This salary helped him pay his bills and afford the luxury of going places. In a moment of weakness, he lost a meal and a roof over his head.

Folks, do not wear yourself out to gain wealth. Avoid pleasing others by getting into debt for something you cannot afford.   Stop and show understanding. The command of Jehovah is clean.  The fear of HIM doing wrong is not only pure but also brings joy.  Being content with what you have avoids many stabs on your soul. 1Timothy 6:10.

FOR SAKEN, PRIORITIES ARE THE RESULT OF FORGOTTEN PERSPECTIVES.

HO, HO, OH, Tis the season once again. The month, the echoed sentiment of Peace on earth and goodwill rings in our ears wherever we go. Some are captivated by the festive activities around them. The decorations, the lights, the music, the food, and the online and offline store fashions. They are swept away into a magical world without being conscious of it.

The holiday season undoubtedly brings joy and excitement. However, it often leads to financial strain, as many people overspend on gifts and festivities.

  • Set up a budget and prioritize purchases that really matter to you and your loved ones.
  • Write a list, check it twice, and stick to it to avoid the stress of post-holiday bills.
  • Check those Credit Card Rewards balances and use them on every purchase.

Focus: Practice self-control. Do not be like chaff in the win. Avoid being swayed by the pretty saleswoman or handsome salesman’s sweet approach. Their pitch will sweep you off your feet, listening to greed’s whisper; Just this last one, come on. You fall again by another’s sweet approach and hear the whisper of greed. This is the last one.

The New Year arrives. The excitement of the past month is over. For some, January hits with the sweet sounds of the blues. Hardship approaches. It engages with your emotions. You wonder how we will pay the bills accumulated during the excitement of the past month. The hangover consumes the body, and some will start borrowing to make ends meet. Stress then knocks at your body’s frame to get those bills paid. Bills you cannot repay, so you keep avoiding and screening your calls. As a result, your body starts to experience all sorts of pain in areas you never thought it would be.

Logic eventually steps in to ease the pain. It advises you to use the lower interest rate card. This helps pay off the ones with higher interest. The logic was sound until there was insufficient money from your monthly paycheck. With the lower interest rate card’s balance adding up, so does the interest to be paid off; what are you to do? Greed approaches logic. It urges logic to forget stress and think of self. It suggests declaring bankruptcy or telling creditors you cannot pay them and to feel free to do as they please.

Now overwhelmed by bills, you lack the finances to pay, and your mind lacks the peace it needs. Consequently, you are unable to be compassionate towards all men. Dismissing your actions, had your perspective been in order, your priorities would not have been forsaken.

I know it has been a while since I wrote to my readers. I hope this playful piece finds everyone in good health. May my message reach everyone who is enjoying a happy and safe holiday to be mindful of satisfying desires they can’t afford. Peace and good tidings to you all!

Discovering Purpose in Trivial Annoyances: A Journey of Growth and Learning

GROWTH stops when we die; before that day comes, and no one knows of their day, cherish each new day. Observe the people, the animals, and the things around you. For each, whether that be individuals we encounter, an animal or an annoying little bug or fly that seems to either like the warmth it receives from being around you or is just there to send a negative thought of you to others you encounter or you of them. Appreciate, yes, appreciate its annoyance. By exercising patience, you can capture the thought of the other’s perception of you.

FOR yesterday is gone; it was your history. Tomorrow is your future, one you may or not wake to see. But today is your present. So, let all your hands, thoughts, and whole being allow you to express yourself. Ecclesiastes 9:10.

WE all have much to be thankful for today and in the coming future as knowledge has opened the door that, once entered, enables you to achieve inner strength that moves you to heal, to be creative, and to destroy that which kept you in pain and hamper your achievement. We will never be rid of the fools who have never felt pain to know the wisdom acquired from healing through pain. A fool’s joy comes from their ignorance of not knowing.

RECENTLY, I had a little annoyance, and I recalled a day when I was at the bank speaking to a Teller who kept passing her hand over her face. I kept observing her, as I knew that the little annoyance I had been experiencing before walking into the bank had to be in the mix. So I asked, “Is my breath smelling?”

“No,” she said. “It’s a fruit fly.”

“Oh,” I responded, “I thought it was me.” I continued to inform her of my problem with being unable to see updates of my statements on the phone and that I would like to speak to a manager.

THE essence of this story is to underscore the profound lessons that patience and keen observation of our surroundings can teach us about the people we encounter.

FRUIT flies usually are around where fruits are. If you are an unbeliever, buy yourself some fruits, even wash them before putting them in a container, and you will see, in a few days, as you go in and out of your home, a fruit fly will find its way in. However, for further understanding, my next-door neighbor has a garden on his veranda, so tiny flies will sometimes be in my home. Recently, it was as if the nursery rhyme tells of Mary, who had a little lamb, and wherever she goes, it is sure to follow. So, when I asked the bank teller if it was my breath, her response was, “No.” I knew she was being truthful, for I was keenly observing her actions and facial expressions, one of which showed a friendly simile as we spoke.

YES, even the most trivial annoyances can be profound teachers when approached with an open mind. Everything in this world has a purpose and a lesson to offer. Just open your mind to receive these teachings.

AS mentioned earlier, growth stops when we die. Before you do, remember we are all here to learn from each other as God intended.

THIS brings me back to the word growth; as you, the reader, read my memoir Until My Dying Day, be sure to notice my growth through my writing. After reading my book or in between reading, I will encourage you to listen to a video entitled The Mind—This will make you understand how things work. Some things taught me that I am fortunate to have learned from experience. The video teaches the listener about the mind and how it works, and some people who have this knowledge can and do use it in a manner that can destroy others. https://www.youtu.b/12qz-3uvFJK?si=RHrmOCUDpRqnSSTCmn

THANK YOU all for your attention. I hope I was able to shine some light on your path. Remember to open your mind to learn. Life is to enjoy, learn from others as we grow, and admire all things, whether on earth or in the heavens.

For further reading: 2 Peter: 1:6

Achieving Riches Through Effort: Lessons from Experience and Faith

Let your desire for riches be balanced. God blesses the one who, through his or her own efforts, achieves.

Experience is one of man’s best teachers that gives understanding.  Without it, one can only put faith in the counsel of others who have gone through the (fire) turmoil to acquire the understanding they hold.  The Bible advises us to listen to the discipline of a father and pay attention to know understanding; we need to do that, to listen and to have trust, then protect our life.  It is a fool who does not believe that every house is constructed by someone who goes full speed ahead in his uneducated state and destroys himself and the lives of others.

Jehovah sees and hears from the reports of his angels and, as a merciful God, acts in ways that correct a man and humble him.  Those who have had such experience from youth is a witness of that fact. 

Therefore, I speak from experience that like a seed planted by the owner of a garden, in this case, Jehovah’s knowledge, as we grow with the teachings instilled in us from youth that protect us. From the actions of some, their wicked deeds can become like the heat from the sun that scorches and soon destroys.  And like that of the seed that sprouts and begins to grow that soon withers and dies, so it is with humans not strong enough to fight back, give up on living.  However, the owner of the garden is able to save some plants through his care, liken to our Heavenly Father, who does the same.

When Jehovah stated: your thoughts are not my thoughts, nor your ways my ways.  We must believe and exercise faith in those words.  For the intentions of the wicked ones, He is able to counteract by his servant’s adherence to His counsel.  I stand accused by some, although I am innocent. Abandoned by others due to the wicked ones slander of me. The pain endured no one knows unless spoken. Therefore, my hope is that through my written words, some will become wise to act in kindness.

Without a doubt, He will not allow the one faithful to be tempted beyond what they are able to handle.  He assures us of this in 1 Corinthians 10:13.

What you think you become.  Surround yourself with people who will inspire, encourage, and push you to be the best you can be.  Don’t give up on yourself.  Ignore the foolish talk of those impotent in death.  Remember, through our struggles, we are being refined.  Appreciate each one’s role in your life, even when it hurts. Look deep within your soul to find yourself, your purpose, and your goals if you have set some that are yet to be achieved.  No matter your age, we have yet to see more of God’s work here on this earth, for He is not slow respecting His promises as some people consider slowness of a world where there will be no death or mourning.

It Takes Two. Those who stand by you truly encourage you to go on in times of despair. Do not give up; exercise faith in our Creator, for He will never leave.

Supporting Family Financial Management: Preventing Fraud and Building a Secure Future

In today’s society, statistics show that more and more young people are choosing to live together rather than being married. This may be the cost. However, the pros of talking money with your live-in partner, fiancée, family members, or parents about their finances far outweigh the cons and lead to peaceful living.

This isn’t a conversation to put off because the days are wicked, and the earlier you have it, the better you are at helping each other and family members manage their finances. I speak from the experience of my own family members who have died and some who were afraid of bringing up the topic, particularly when they had fallen ill, thus allowing a dishonest family member or strangers to take advantage of the individual’s wealth.

Preparing for a money chat will be helpful before you sit down. What do you know about your parents’, fiancée’s, or family member’s finances? This will help steer the conversation and let you suggest solutions they can manage.

You might also reflect on the roles that your family members tend to play. Your interaction with each one may impact how you talk to them about money. Perhaps one of you, or one of your parents, is more involved in decision-making or more open to talking about finances. Considering these dynamics can help you tailor how you approach this sensitive topic with them. 

GETTING ORGANIZE 

Ask your parents, live-in partner, and family members to create a binder of all their personal finances. Have at least two family members the individual trust to hold the binder.  This may include details about their bank and investment accounts, safety deposit boxes, property taxes, insurance, and routine bills they pay. Also, have them share where they store their online passwords. 

Having this information in order and in one place will be helpful when needed.

BENEFITS OF MONEY TALK WHEN PREPARED FOR THE FUTURE 

Is to…

  • Protect their financial future.
  •  Get their input while they’re still able to give it.
  •  Support their retirement goals and

Everyone is less stressed, and most things are done orderly because of advanced organization.

One thing to keep in mind before your approach is that if you expect your parents or any of your family members to open up about their money matters, being open and honest about yours will inspire them to do the same.

Letting them know in order to help you, everyone need to work as a team, you’ll need to focus on each other’s strengths, not weaknesses.

  • Talking about money with your partner, relatives, family members and especially your aging parents is essential to help avoid surprises and make sure they are set up for the future they want.
  • Encourage them to obtain a living will and Power of Attorney (POA), which are essential in helping ensure their financial and healthcare wishes are honored.
  • You can schedule a ‘meet and greet’ with your parents’ financial planner, lawyer, or estate planner so that you know who to contact in the future.
  • Ask your partner, family member, or parents about their retirement goals and determine if you have the financial resources to support them.

PSALM 90:10

Nov 29, 2023, reports the expectation of the Social Security Association that 0.55% of men and 1.82% of women will make it to 100 years.
As much as life expectancy is known to be 80 years, some are living longer than ever because of mightiness to the age of 120 years.
Recently, the news was that Mrs. Obama’s mother was 100 years old, and Japan reported the oldest person, Kane Tanaka, who died in 2022. With some having to cope with various diseases, one great way to support them is to help them ensure their finances are on track. It may seem like an awkward talk to have — especially if you don’t feel like a money expert yourself

FRAUD PREVENTION

With fraud on the rise everywhere, even here in Canada, you, your fiancée, your parents, or family members can become targets. This include and not limited to online fraud, it can be illegal entry into your or their homes or apartments.  Inform them not to open the door to anyone claiming to be there for maintenance not informed of.   Getting a good security software install on their computer will be helpful (although not a safeguard).  As well as a security system within the home if living alone

Be sure to tell them about popular scams, such as AI, and the new software that is able to mimic one’s voice that sounds like a person they know. The grandparent scam where a fraudster will pose as a grandchild or loved one in need of help. To be proactive in keeping everyone safe, tell them to:

  • Never answer calls from numbers or click on links they don’t recognize. 

This has happened to me on a few occasions. After checking the number, I found out it was not the number of my family member. Usually, when a known number within your phone directory calls you, it will list the person’s name that is calling. If you pick up a call and the voice sounds like a person you know, but the number doesn’t have the person’s name, it is most likely a cross number within the system with the voice disguised.

Another of my experience was noticing emails written I would encounter the information was known by others before the recipient, and had even told this to one person during our meeting that seemed to have been orchestrated. And after signing up for an internet pilot project, the computer will constantly kick me off the connection. All along I kept thinking it was due to the aged computer so, I made some changes, update my Apps and still experience issues, to the point of hearing the sound when I would take the electrical cord away from the computer or from the outlet.  Oh yes, someone was definitely piloting my ship.  Then I found out about Scrapy.

Scrcpy (short for screen copy) is a free and open-source screen mirroring application that allows control of an Android device from a desktop computer.  The software is developed by Genymobile SAS, a company which develops Android emulator Genymotion connected via USB or TCP/IP and allows to control the device with the keyboard and the mouse of the computer, it does not require any root access.  It works on Linux, Windows and macOS

  • Never offer personal or banking information, particularly don’t provide financial information including credit card number, and One Time Passwords over the phone or internet. Financial institutions won’t call or email you to ask you to disclose this information.
  • Never post financial details on social media
  • Review their monthly bank statements for unusual transactions.

If they think they have been scammed, be sure they report it to their bank and credit card providers, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and their local police services

NOT PROUD OF FINANCIAL STATUS

If your fiancée, parents or relatives are embarrassed about their financial situation, you could — without meaning to — resurface past issues they’ve faced with money. Try to make it clear that your goal is only to help them better prepare for later in life.

If their savings aren’t what they want them to be, they’re not alone. A 2023 study found that one in five Canadian workers aged 55 to 64 hasn’t set aside any money for retirement, and 44% have less than $5,000 in savings.

Let your loved ones know they don’t have to feel alone — a support team can be created that includes other family members to assist. I can speak on my nephew’s behalf when my sister died the help he got from me, and my other siblings were greatly appreciated; for he often does express how grateful he is.  Creating a support team is a great help, it takes the pressure off and helps in all members of the family to enjoy life.

Before you wrap up your money talk, ask about their retirement and financial goals. Discuss where you and yours would prefer to remain after retirement, in another state, country, or where you are at, as you ask the same of your parents or family member, in their own home, instead of moving to an assisted living. Knowing what they want will help you figure out a financial plan to meet those goals.  

If they haven’t fully figured things out yet, that’s okay, every so often bring up the topic to help them decide what they want their future lifestyle to look like. 

 

Read more: Supporting Family Financial Management: Preventing Fraud and Building a Secure Future How to talk to your parents about money | Posts (scotiabank.com): Supporting Family Financial Management: Preventing Fraud and Building a Secure Future Read more: Supporting Family Financial Management: Preventing Fraud and Building a Secure Future

 Until My Dying Day by B.M Lustol. Chapter 23-Seeking Truth. purchase by calling: 1800-788-7654, or at the website http://www.dorrancebookstore.com

 

Unintentional Laughter: Causes and Consequences Revealed

Unintentionally, some people cause laughter to others through their disfigurement, such as how they dress, dance, or walk.  Or the way of telling a story.  In my memoir, under the heading Looking At You Looking At Me, I mentioned the laughter we unintentionally share with others, done by our lack of knowledge or innocence of a situation.  Of all persons, the worst to hear something that amuses them, or they have observed,  without understanding, who will never let go of it and cause your days without peace, are children.  A  reason the bible says that even in laughter, there is pain.  I can recall the days when I was told how pretty my feet were, to one day when my sister Monica looked at my feet and innocently said, “Your feet are ugly,” her tone and facial expression had both of us laughing.  The facts are unknown; my laughter was with pain for what I was suffering she did not know. The advice is also: “Better is vexation than laughter, for by the crossness of the face the heart becomes better.” – Ecclesiastes 7:3.

Laughter is usually harmless.  However, death may result from several pathologies that deviate from benign laughter.  Infarction of the pons and the medulla oblongata in the brain may cause the pseudobulbar effect.[2] Asphyxiation caused by laughter leads the body to shut down from the lack of oxygen.

Death from laughter is a sporadic form of death, usually resulting from either cardiac arrest or asphyxiation, that has itself been caused by a fit of laughter.  Though uncommon, death by laughter has been recorded from ancient Greece to modern times.

Believe it or not, steaming down from our history, some have died from laughter.

  • Zeuxis, a 5th-century BC Greek painter, is said to have died laughing at the humorous way he painted an older woman. In 1556, Pietro Aretino “is said to have died of suffocation.
  • In 1556, Pietro Aretino “is said to have died of suffocation from laughing too much.”
  • On October 14, 1920, 56-year-old Arthur Cobcroft, a dog trainer from Loftus Street, Leichhardt, Australia, was reading a five-year-old newspaper and was amused at the prices for some commodities in 1915 compared to 1920.  He made a remark to his wife regarding this and burst into laughter, and in the midst of it, he collapsed and died.  A doctor surnamed Nixon was called in and stated that the death was due to heart failure brought on by excessive laughter.[15][16][17][18]

To a modern-day account, in Manila, Philippines, on October 30, 1965, a 24-year-old carpenter at night who was well-known for making his companions laugh was telling jokes to his friends.  The joke, which the carpenter’s friends told police, was so funny that it caused the carpenter to fall into an uncontrollable fit of laughter, from which he then fainted; he was brought to the hospital but died.

Not only is it written that laughter is good for the soul, but many have confirmed that laughter heals the soul.  Some have proven this fact by being healed by laughter as part of their daily therapy.  A story of this is in The Uncommon Touch by Tom Xiarpur-An, an investigation of spiritual healing.

I would like to share an account from an old history book for many reasons, the principal one of which still stands today.  Do not be misled; God is not one to be mocked; whatever a man sows, he will also reap.

The account tells of when Jehovah was about to take Elijah in a windstorm up to heaven.  Elijah  proceeded to go from Gilgal to Bethel, and Elisha wanted to go with him, but when he was told to stay back, Elisha told Elijah, “‘As Jehovah is living and as your soul is living, I will not leave you.'” He repeated the statement on three other occasions when they got to Bethel, Jericho, and Jordan.  When they got to Jordan, fifty sons of the prophets stood at a distance, and there’s no doubt that some witnessed Elijah’s action as he struck the water with his garment, and the water slowly parted, allowing them to cross the Jordan River on dry ground.  Now, as they walked along speaking, approaching was a fiery war chariot that separated between them, and Elijah went ascending in the windstorm to the heavens; all the while, Elisha was seeing it.  He was crying out,”‘My Father, my Father, the war chariot, of Israel and his horsemen.'”  And he did not see him again.  On returning to cross the Jordan River at the shore, he took Elijah’s official garment that had fallen off him and struck the water with the garment.  The water separated, so he was able to cross back.  When he approached Jericho, those who saw him began to say, ” The spirit of Elijah has settled upon him.  People were saying this because of Elijah’s promise to Elisha and his strong belief, so to some, they were actually [witnesses] seeing Elijah’s image.  He reported what had happened, but some wanted to look for Elijah, believing that Jehovah’s spirit must have thrown him on a mountaintop or in the valleys.  After denying the people’s request to search for him, Elisha became embarrassed and permitted them to search for Elijah.  Three days later, they returned and reported that he was nowhere to be found.  After some time staying in Jericho, he decided to leave for Bethel.  But as he was leaving the town, a group of boys began to jeer him and said,  “‘Go up you bald head, go up you bald head.'”  So, he turned back and called down evil upon them in the name of Jehovah.  Then, out from the woods, two she bears attacked, killing 42 children of their number.

The account shows those that crush the afflicted one,  Jehovah himself, will plead their cause, and he will undoubtedly rob of soul those robbing them.

One must imagine oneself in Elisha’s shoes.  The account never says what torment he endured in Jericho.  But the children following him out of the city with their jeering could conclude that he was a laughing stock to some.  However, while he lived there, he performed one miracle: turning the contaminated water back into healthy drinking water.  

And so it is, by the word of two.  Therefore, “If you have become wise, you have become wise in your own behalf; and if you have ridiculed you will bear [it] just you alone.”

  • “STORY ACCOUNT TAKEN FROM” 2 Kings, Chapter 2 [23-25]

Overcoming Isolation and Loneliness: A Guide for Seniors

In my memoir Until My Dying Day, I talked about isolation.  A Place’s playground for the wicked; symptoms developed and how to overcome them. “It is as a sport to a fool to make mischief, but a man of understanding hath wisdom.” -Proverb 10:23.

STATISTICS

The 2012 statistics showed that 36.6% of women 85 and over were seniors living alone, and 21.7% of men. The percentage for women was due to higher life expectancy.

According to 2023 census data, 64,000 elderly people live alone over the age of 60, a significant drop from 85 years reported in 2012. Is there a benefit to living alone?

BENEFIT OF COMPANIONSHIP

Isolation is like being placed in a 4X4 space area and left alone to survive. We are a people born with the need to be with others. And a fact is how our growth begins. When you are placed alone or become alone due to the death of your partner, life becomes lonely. Although loneliness is just a state of mind, the need to communicate your innermost thoughts and feelings is a need that must be shared, or over time, one may go crazy from being isolated. (Thanks to technology that has allowed many to express themselves, but not without the disadvantage to their wellbeing.) Unless the individual chooses to be creative.

APPRECIATING THE PRESENT

Life is ironic; sometimes, it takes absence to appreciate the presence. We constantly live in the past and think about the future, and seldom do we live in the present. Within the moment of the presence, if you allow yourself to be, you can hear the sounds of nature. The tweet of a bird, the bark of a dog, the engine of a vehicle, the squeaking sounds within an old building, or the voice of another human. To feel the redemption of your heartbeat. To spot an insect if one is fortunate. To observe the pictures on the wall and all in that isolated area. Then, you become more aware of your being as you recognize you are part of a greater whole.

However, you will lack the energy to be creative if you don’t appreciate the presence. Creativity is developed from being isolated and, ironically, discovering one’s spiritual self and physical strengths. Our weakness can only be recognized and strengthened by our association with others. Like all things life offers, isolation also has disadvantages, depending on how you use the position. It becomes a disadvantage when the wicked ones see your circumstances as an opportunity to experiment with your mind to the point of sending you insane. Here is where your observation must become sharp as you separate the distractions to be wise in the way of your thoughts, enabling you to draw logical conclusions about a problem or situation.

HELPING SELF TO COPE

In my isolation, I have experienced many stressful times. What has helped me cope is the knowledge I have gained through being observant and keeping personal notes of my daily activities. I occupied my time learning a new language and playing online games, and I caught myself hooked on watching foreign movies on YouTube to ease the stress of some days, unable to get to my set writing goals to complete my novel. I trusted that those who knew me and had become acquainted with me through conversations saw that I was mentally sane. The intrusion of the presumptuous caused my occasional outburst in my unit. My belief lied with the one who sees all and knows all, we will defeat the wicked’s actions together.

Isolation is like changing seasons; we must learn to adapt and accept. Isolation allows one to find oneself and helps one prepare to handle situations. It does not mean you are not blessed, for each day we wake is a day blessed to see and experience God’s glory. Isolation can make you delusional, drain your energy, and cause you to give up on life.

DO NOT LOSE HOPE

Therefore, I encourage those of you in isolation not to fear the wicked ones who find an opportunity in your situation to make you lose hope. Know that all our days are numbered, and there is a time for everything under the sun. Like a dark cloud before a storm that soon passes, it will be for the wicked ones. Find activities to keep you occupied, groups to express your stresses, and travel if you can afford the cost of discovering new places and meeting different cultures.

RECOMEND

Crisis Outreach Service for Seniors. Phone: 416-217-2077.

Transparency and Inclusion in Community Practices: Discrimination and Mental Health Awareness

It is repeated that it takes a village to raise a child, a proven factual statement. However, I recently pondered the question: What does it take for a community to behave righteously towards its fellow man? I raised this question with you, who are taking the time to read this post.

DISCRIMINATION

Discrimination can arise as a result of direct or indirect unequal treatment of another or the effects of unequal treatment of others and is a practice or behavior, whether intentional or not, which harms an individual or group based on prohibited grounds, including but not limited to disability, gender, race, receipt of public assistance, sexual orientation, unrelated to the person’s abilities or objective considerations relating to the decision that is made.

MY COMMUNITY

I currently live in a community of culturally diverse citizens and immigrants. A community that offers low rent, and anyone who integrates into it has the opportunity to learn once the individual keeps an open mind to learn. In today’s world, each is offered various avenues to acquire knowledge, but as mentioned, the individual must keep an open mind to learn. I’ll admit, not all seen or read benefits a healthy mind, and it is best left alone. It’s like someone taking a medication or over-the-counter drug to heal a situation. Just because it works for them doesn’t necessarily mean it will work for you. Therefore, one will find what best suits them through trial and error.

Within my community, like any other community, you will find problems. You will find excellent and wicked individuals, clean and dirty individuals, those with mental issues, those handling stressful situations, and those who have overcome them to the point that they can now assist others. Note that I used the word assist, not teach. To become a teacher, one must pass the test that allows them to hold a written document that states the person now qualifies in a specific area to teach. So, how does a community solve the problem of those who have gone beyond their mental issue to be insane to the point that they cannot think on a reasonable level to appreciate certain opportunities?

DEFINITIONS OF MENTAL ISSUES

The meaning of being mentally insane is one gone crazy, mentally deranged, or utterly senseless. On the other hand, the law defines one who is insane as incapable because of a mental disorder of conforming conduct to the limits imposed by criminal law—a person who is not legally responsible for their action or actions.

A mental disorder is a psychological syndrome associated with distress. This can be characterized by incomplete mental development, with onset before age 18 leading to significantly below-average intellectual functioning. The individual you’ll find is impaired in a critical area or areas of functioning. In most cases, you’ll find the individual with a pattern of deviant behavior associated with distress or interference with personal functions.

BEFORE PASSING JUDGEMENT

My question remains: How do members within a community inject righteous behavior into our fellow men and women who ignore their responsibility to be civilized toward others regardless of color or culture? Do we ignore those with reckless behaviors? We are here to learn from each other.

One day I was traveling on the street car coming home when I stood next to a gentleman (not gentle at all) who kept looking up at me. As he did, I kept looking back at him.  His action was not good enough just to stare at me occasionally, he once in a while would jab my body as he shifts in his seat. Once, twice, on the third time when he got up and hit me, I spoke out loud to him to stop. He had no right to hit me. To make a long story short, the bus driver stopped, told us to leave the bus, and called the cops because he nor I were leaving the bus.  I had had a long day and just wanted to get home. Where he was going, I hadn’t a clue.  Eventually, some got off the bus to walk to their destination, and on leaving one woman turns to me: “ You should not have said anything to him, can’t you see he is not right in the head.” 

“Thank you madam, but that does not give him the right to be hitting me.”  Yes, I stood up to him.  In the end, the cops arrived, took my information, and took him off the bus, and I was driven to my stop.  You, me, as we, have to stand up to those who take advantage of a situation, and this includes those in authority who has the opportunity to put in place the law, fairly.

Speaking out loud on the street compared to behind closed doors still concludes that words spoken out loud are so that the listener pays attention. The same applies to words whispered (In a dream… Job 33:15) during our sleeping state: to pay attention to what is spoken, which brings me to say that experiences teach us best. As we go through the process [yes, it is a process] when being persecuted, if awareness is present, discoveries are recognized of the one persecuting you, as you do of yourselves of actions to correct. It is what one would say going through the fire to be refined. Therefore, do not let criticism from others push you to death before your time. Life is for us to grow as we live. Within the process, we can heal our twisted thoughts, allowing us to overcome the force penetrating the mind with negatives.

USE AND DISCLOSURE OF PERSONAL INFORMATION

Information collection is used to determine if a household qualifies to rent a unit or a home. Therefore, those in management must treat any Tenant’s malicious complaints of others as an offense and deal with them by removal when they are found in such acts.

Indirect information such as notes, photographs, and digital images. The Housing Connections application form; rental and credit reporting agencies: Ontario Works; Ontario Disability Support Program; other housing providers and landlords; federal and provincial government ministries and agencies; utility providers; employers; financial institutions; police fire and emergency services; individuals and organizations who make complaints to TCH.

All such information contributes to the conclusion as to whether a person is given rental accommodations, and this is why a tenant’s actions toward others should be kept in mind: Do unto others as you would like done to you.

As we look around, many homeless people should not be in that position, but due to someone’s action, we see the person or persons gone mentally insane or have given up on trying. It is time for us to be kind to each other.

TRANSPARENCY

Once a tenant informs the Tenant Rep/ Tenant coordinator of discriminated actions against them, their duty should be to inform and connect the harassed tenant with services and support to help maintain their tenancy. Facilitate access to services and support for the benefit of low-income households.

To eliminate or reduce the risk of harm to the health and safety of another who may require access to TCH property to investigate an incident involving the safety or security of people, facilities, assets, and insurance claims.

To promote public safety and reduce incidents of crime on TCH property.

WITHIN REASON

Neighbors who harass others should be informed, and friends who abide by and assist them in harassing other tenants, friends of such ones, should be banned from the building. When caught in the building, the neighbor should be fined or removed after being informed by twice-written notices.

Treat everyone equally to avoid acts of discrimination. Everyone must respect the dignity and rights of others within reason.

CONTACT

HumansRights@torontohousing.ca

call inbox at 416-981-4417

I’M COMING OUT

NEW RELEASED MEMOIR

THE MEMOIR

This memoir includes 50 chapters. Part One. It includes 18 chapters, with themes such as:

  • First Impressions
  • Thanksgiving
  • Blinded by Love
  • Darkness vs. Light
  • Obstacles in the Way

Part Two includes 32 chapters, and explores topics such as:

  • Would You Follow Your Shepherd’s Call?
  • Drawing Meaning from Words
  • Growth Enhanced Through Friendships
  • The Psychoanalysis of Unconscious Thoughts
  • Recognized Steps to Healing
  • Death Finalizes Our Crossover

BOOK ORDER

The book can be purchased on Dorrance Publishing Company’s website at

  • Or by calling 1800-788-7654

Overcoming Challenges: My Journey to Being Publish

I know…where have I been?

As much as I have not been seen blogging, I was busy reading your posts. WordPress.com news: Jeremy Anderberg, the book reviews. Much to do about writing: Amloughrey, Our Social Issues by Dr. Damon Ashworth, and Becoming the Muse by Beaton, just to mention a few.

Our days are so short, in my view, things I intend to do coupled with my physical issues. Before I can get a grip, the day is over. I even find myself eating later than usual, with a bit of guilt for doing so.

In bringing everyone up to date on my absence, I was busy attending to my deceased sister’s estate, spending time away from the quiet surroundings, and mentally peaceful state of mind gained in my own home where I can concentrate on goals dear to me, bringing me to tell of my journey to being published. 

Until My Dying Day has been in the creation for many years, prompted by an abused relationship. Due to working and looking for work caused by termination or being laid off because of some rule or the other not being followed (I was misbehaving…lol), my writing had to be put off for weeks, months to years. Nothing before God’s time, as the saying goes. I completed the book—a memoir, during the pandemic.   Finally finished, I sought a publisher. “Keep on knocking, and it shall be open.” –Matthew 7:7.   Yes, someone is bound to open up to you when they take a little time to read you. You could say my presentation got me through the door when I knocked.

During my journey, I found no matter how clear and to a point you are in communication, somewhere along the line, your expressed words will be misconstrued or not considered. One can conclude that a grudge is a grudge, and a vendetta is a vendetta. And, going past the attitude a person is forced to deal with, at times, may or will cause you to give up. Mental strength is essential, as belief in your work and what you offer is your top priority. Any weakness will see the victory of the perpetrator.

I found out during this journey why so many companies fail. They fail because management lacks the insight to appropriately sort the players [their employees] with like-minded ones, especially when a company may be culturally diverse. Instead, you have some in management under the influence of the “I am management, do as I say” mentality, faltering at what works. So, instead of quality producers, they get quantity, not fit. They lose projects and profits, having to reduce staff. Eventually, hanging on to survive, to the point where the company is forced to close shop.

Most recently, I discovered AI.  Oh yeah, I am one of the latecomers.

AI, the new game changer, has much to offer the user with the amount of time, and time spent creating an effective and forceful document or correspondence with someone.  However, I found as much as AI has become the next person in the room, if not focused on reality, it causes some to become less in touch with humankind, and so their attitude toward others lacks compassion.

My journey ends with success.  As I accommodated attitudes and adapted to changes with diligent prayers, requesting for those still asleep to become awake to see what their actions are doing to others, I can safely conclude that my Lord helped in giving me the mental strength needed to stay my course.  Therefore, with heartfelt appreciation and gratitude for a safe journey back to my blog, I say it’s good to be back at my desk with time to write to you who are reading this post.  Have a wonderful day!