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My Memorial Weekend…Planned

Friday

Today started out with my daughters preschool splash party. It was so wonderful to see the children having so much fun in the sun. I was a bit concerned when Cece did not want to get into the pool however, once she saw the fun being had by the other children, all fear and hesitations went away. Then she didn’t want to get out!

After that I’ll go to the office to finish some work before heading back to school. After school my girls will come back to the office to finish some work and lessons before heading home.

 

Saturday

Before we do anything else on Saturday we’re making “big waffles” other wise know as Belgium waffles! This is my husbands specialty and the girls absolutely love them. We haven’t had a Saturday  morning at home in a really long time so we are taking full advantage of this opportunity. Big waffles, strawberries, whipped cream, with a side of bacon. Accompanied by a fabulous latte prepared by my husband David. Later, I’ll probably switch to a mimosa. Sounds like the perfect morning to me. Later we’ll do some yard work and cleaning. 

Saturday evening however  is strictly reserved for my David. Because he shares his birthday with our beautiful daughter, it’s never really about him. Which because he’s amazing, he’s totally ok with. This gives me an even greater reason to plan a special evening just to celebrate him.

 

Sunday

In the morning we’ll head to mass. After church and lunch I have some work complete and I want to  rehearse so we’ll to our new space for a bit. Sunday evening we’ll be partying with the Puglianos! David’s parents have had a Pre-Memorial Day party every year for as long as I’ve known them (and decades prior to that) so we’ll spend the evening there catching up with family and eating some really good food. I’m also really glad I have a day without cooking or cleaning up.

 

Monday

We don’t have a plan for Monday yet. All we know is that we’ll all be together. It’s crazy how excited we get for days like this, but we do. Family time is precious time to us. We do a lot together but we also spend a lot of time apart. At work, at school, especially during the week. We really miss one another by the time the weekend comes around. We’re all extra thankful for an extra day to spend together.

 

All in All

It’s going to be a wonderful family weekend. In addition to spending time together, eating great food and celebrating. David and I always make sure to delve deeper into every holiday so our children understand the origin and what the day is really all about. While I’ve been having conversations with the girls this past week about Memorial Day, Soldiers and war, simply because the are just inquisitive, we will make sure to address the reason we celebrate with our girls on Monday. 

I want to make sure my girls don’t take things for granted and understand the reasons behind where we are and what we have, good and bad. American holidays actually make me grateful that I’m an immigrant. I know it’s sounds strange but I know many Americans that take this country and among other things for granted. Foreigners are so grateful to be here and for everything that we have.  We know that with hard work, anything is possible. We think big because being here is big. I love that I still believe that anything is possible. I’m blessed to believe I’m capable of rest things but still have gratitude for the work and sacrifice of those that have come before me. That confidence and gratitude are behind why I work so hard, driven to do well and dedicate time to help others . Their sacrifice cannot be in vain. No ones sacrifices should be. When you connect yourself to the world in that way you not only have a clearer vision for your place but you recognize what other give and have given. 

I know many people that believe they succeed on their own yet remove themselves from every failure and every bad thing that happens. It’s actually difficult for me to be around those people. If you’re great, then you have great impact on the good and great impact on the bad. It all starts with gratitude. 

Happy Memorial Day. 

 

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Why I Do What I Do

This photo by Gordon Parks is so beautiful to me. Every time I see it I stop and ponder. So many thoughts run through my mind. The pain and beauty is awe inspiring. Although it’s sad, to me, it’s also very powerful. 

This past weekend, my husband and I had a chance to spend a few hours together for a quick lunch. Time alone is a little rare. When we get some time together usually chat about our girls, catch up on businesses items and make plans based on some short or long term goals. We also laugh a lot and exchange our funniest stories from the prior week. As we shared some funny stories about our girls, the conversation shifted to their future and my goals for them. The conversation shifted. I then told my husband something I had unintentionally never shared with him before…the burden I carry. I know burden is such a deep and heavy (literally) word, but it is the truest description of what I feel. 

I am responsible for many things. My family, our home, my business,etc. More importantly, I am responsible for raising three girls into women. I carry the burden of raising strong, independent women that are kind, empathetic and emotionally intelligent, among a plethora of other traits. In order to do so I have to provide a solid foundation, be present and continuously supportive. That requires an all-day every-day mentality and focus. There is never a time I am not thinking about that responsibility. I carry the burden of those that have come before me. My parents, and the sacrifices they made to bring my sisters and I to the United States and make a wonderful life for us. I also carry the burden of the people who have fought for the rights of black people in this country and the Caribbean and those that continue to work hard to break down barriers and create change.

All of that I carry. It may sound like a lot but I am grateful for it. Knowing that without the sacrifices of so many I would not be here, able to do what I’m doing, is very humbling and yet inspiring. It’s the driving force behind my work ethic and mission to accomplish so many goals. There are too many people to let down, including myself. 

When people talk about their goals, but do nothing to reach them or don’t take time to do quality work. It confuses me. I am working for all of those that came before me, my girls, and all of the people that will follow. With that mindset, I consider everything I do to have great meaning and great impact. Therefore, I have no choice but to always work hard to reach excellence. When I think of my mother and her continued hard work, my father and his strive to do what he loves, the mothers and fathers that shielded their children from violence during the civil rights movement and the many, many lives lost fighting for freedom and justice around the world…with all that I have, and the opportunities I have been given, how can I waste that? How can I not achieve?

“Being a mess is just not an option!”

Before I was an entrepreneur, I spent many years in a management position. It was in this role that I learned about human behavior. Everyday, before work, I would review my job description and work towards achieving  every requirement of my position. I held myself accountable and focused on achieving every goal put upon our team. I put great pressure on myself and my team to succeed in our roles. I quickly realized that although I had that passion and drive for achievement, not everyone shared that philosophy. Many were completely okay with producing mediocre results.

Trying to understand their mindset was overwhelmingly difficult. I didn’t understand how there could be clearly placed goals set and someone not try their all to achieve it. I noticed they felt no pressure. No responsibility. Failure was an option and many people are okay with that. 

Well, I feel great pressure. When I look at my children, study our history, or speak with my parents. I feel great pressure. It’s my life’s work. There’s no work-life balance, just life. I work all day and all night. Whether it’s consulting, performing, or teaching my daughter to read. Nothing is optional. I do it all. It all matters. Yesterday, today and tomorrow. What you choose to do and what you choose not to do. It all matters. So I will continue to work hard for the people of the past, the people I share this present with, and the people that will come after I’m gone. And, because of my passion and the work I choose to do, I will always feel accomplished. 

Black History Month 2016

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My Weekend and Christmas Week Planned…

Okay the overwhelming feeling of “what am I doing” and “how will I get this all done” has been slowly building. As much as I try to stay on top of every detail, you can’t and inevitably things get missed or you literally fall over. That was my week and last night, as I tried to make yet another to-do list, my brain was like, stop, just stop. I fell asleep with pencil and paper in hand and didn’t wake up until my husband snuck in from his dj gig.

This morning however, I’m back. To-do list for work and home from now through after Christmas, complete. The Pugliano Family will be a busy bunch but we’ll get it all done and have a tons of fun.

Friday

The morning was designated to planning. I’ll be working on Barrels to Beethoven today preparing the organization goals for 2016. Finishing up sending off two proposals and starting a new grant application. Straightforward clients are all wrapped up for the year but happily I’m planning out work and already scheduling meetings with potential clients for the New Year. We are also planning a re-launch for 2016. Straightforward has done a lot of things now it’s time to streamline. That will be difficult.

The early evening the girls and I will be heading to East Liberty to celebrate the talented young musicians in the Soundwaves Steel Band. Mat Docktor, the director of the band, is my bandmate in Rhythm ‘n’ Steel, I definitely want to support him and I am always and forever proud of his students, they’re very talented. After that? “Sharin’ in the Groove”  yoga class  at Cube with artist, Sarah Zeffiro and live music from one of my favorite musicians, and bandmate, Brett Staggs. This will not only be a great time but proceeds benefit The Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank. Supporting great people and giving back.

 

Saturday

The day begins with a 10am birthday party 45 minutes away and since we are heading to grandmas house afterward, the entire family needs to get dressed and go. Just say a prayer. Saturday afternoon you may hear sounds of laughter and joy bouncing off the hills of Pittsburgh, that’s because my mother is watching the girls all weekend. A surprise gesture that could not come at a better time. They will spend the next 24+ hours having fun with their cousins, laughing, playing and being very well taken care of. I could not be more grateful. Especially since babysitting was apparently not a blessing we were supposed to receive this year.

Once the girls are gone. We’ll spend a few hours Christmas Shopping before heading home. David has another gig Saturday night so he’ll leave around 5PM. I’ll spend a few hours doing laundry and cleaning while the girls are away before meeting up with a friend. We’ll be heading to the new Ace Hotel for the Teenie Harris exhibit. I’m excited for what will surely being an exceptional exhibit in a beautiful space. Hopefully, because the girls are with my parents, David and I will be able to meet up at some point in the evening after his gig.

Sunday

My husband makes the best Belgium Waffles, hopefully the fresh strawberries, whipped cream, new pack of bacon and Prosecco in the fridge will inspire him to make them. That will make for an amazing Sunday morning meal with just the two of us, that we’ll get to enjoy without getting up. We will even be able to have a conversation…without interruption. Next on the to do list? We’re wrapping presents! Every present must be wrapped before the girls come home. No exceptions. After that we’ll head to church without the girls prepared to answer to the countless people who will ask us where our children are. Some may not recognize us at all without them.

I am really looking forward to Sunday evening. We’ll gather the girls from my parents home, deal with the stress of getting them primp and proper in a foreign location before heading to the home of  a new friend. She has invited us to her meet at her home before attending her church’s Christmas celebration. I feel like it is such a blessing to meet women strong in their faith, and she’s one. I am looking forward to an uplifting evening with a wonderful group of people.

 

Monday

I’ll try to get some work done for my two upcoming events. Stella and Cecelia will be home and I won’t have Sofia (aka the worlds best big sister) home to babysit. The thought that Christmas is only a few days away will surely have them excited.

 

Tuesday

Tuesday will be another exciting but busy day for us. We’re hosting an event, “Gather and Give” a sweater and drive and holiday gathering. I’ve invited family, friends, and all of the people we’ve collaborated with this year to gather together and help some families in need. It will be a special night.

 

Christmas Eve. In the morning, will be delivering the sweaters collected the night before to the Salvation Army Family Center.

The day before Christmas has always been a special day for me. Going to mass, gathering for a family dinner , reading to the girls before we tuck them into bed with so much excitement they can barely sleep… I don’t think there are better moments much better than that. Christmas Eve mass is always special but even more so this year. Stella will be reading at mass and singing in the choir. Sofia will read and play her steelpan. She has been practicing every day. I know my cheeks will hurt from smiling and my eyes will be full of tears. Feel free to be a little envious of my Catholic church that is good to our family and apparently loves the steelpan. I feel very blessed.

 

All in All

This Christmas we are celebrating family. Our family. We are proud of who we are. And, although we thought our family / village would be a little larger, we know our girls feel loved and that is most important.

Our family is what I’ve always thought families should be and the kind of family I have always wanted. We laugh together, dance in the kitchen, read stories (or make up stories) at bedtime, make music, have difficult conversations, support one another, kiss, hug and say “I love you.” With hard work and continued support from those who love us, I pray that we will continue to be this way as our girls grow into adults. I want them to always feel an overwhelming sense of love and support.

The message I’ve been teaching my girls this season and really all year long, is one of kindness, empathy and inclusion. Especially empathy.  We discussed that a lot this year. I know the concept is not something many parents discuss with their small children, but we’ve encountered so many inconsiderate people this year that I realized this was a lesson I wanted my children to learn early. Empathy; the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. At first, my girls did not understand what this meant, but after sharing some stories and examples as well as discussing what the behaviors may look like, they did. Kindness, like love, it’s an action. It has to be shown or given to be able to be received. Inclusion, a tough lesson that had to be taught during times of exclusion.

As I was teaching these lessons to my girls I realized something. Although they may not have clearly understood the words, meaning or terminology, they innately understand the behaviors. My girls are very kind, very empathetic towards others and inclusive, they don’t like for other children or anyone to feel left out. What a blessing. What a gift.

Christmas Day I will be happy and grateful. Counting my blessings and feeling that overwhelming sense of joy that I feel every year.

 

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A Little Thanks…

As soon as November rolls around you start seeing stories of thanks. And rightly so. The Thanksgiving holiday gets us all thinking about family, friends and the blessings we have. Although my husband and I give thanks daily for our family more specifically, our girls, we know there’s an abundance of things we are grateful for in our lives. The small moments of joy and other little things that together create this wonderful life that we’re living. Being grateful is a blessing, it allows you to be happy, content, do for others, and spread joy, all while continuing to work towards improving yourself and fulfilling your dreams.

Sunday morning as the girls, one by one filtered into our bed and we sat there as a family, just chatting and laughing, I thought to myself “it’s special moments like this that make life great.” And what’s even greater? Those moments, for my family, are not an exception, they occur all of the time, and for that, I could not be more grateful. This year, during the month of November, we’re sharing those “little things” day by day, that make our lives great. So, what are we grateful for today?

November 25th

Sofia: CCD because even though we don’t go to a catholic school anymore we can still get our religious education.

Stella: Thanksgiving break. Because daddy’s off for four days! 
Cecelia: My teachers. Because they’re smart and they play with us.
David: A house full of hugs. Because there is nothing better than coming home to so much love and affection from my beautiful girls. Especially after a difficult day. 
ProperLeigh: My work ethic. Because working smart and working hard has brought me the greatest moments of joy, happiness and success. I wouldn’t be a mother of three, wife, businesswoman and musician, all that I have always wanted, if I was afraid of the work it would take. 

November 24th

We’ve been away for a while. We’ve had fun over the last few days but we’ve had some really busy days. The best part about this exercise of gratitude was sitting together and talking about our blessings as a family. Since we couldn’t do that I didn’t post a list. It’s Thanksgiving week! I can’t believe it. We are facing some challenges but as always counting our blessings and feeling a lot of joy. Here’s what we’re grateful for today.

Sofia: For the times when we go out to eat as a family. I enjoy eating together at home but we go out we always have a lot of fun together.
Stella: The weekend. Because I get to spend time with my family.
Cecelia: For Dora. Because she is smart and cute and I’ve always wanted a puppy.
David: For my sense of humor. Because I enjoy making people laugh especially when I can tell they’ve been having a rough day.
ProperLeigh: The support I receive from my friends. I have always had trouble asking for help. I have friends now that just do without me asking, it makes it so much easier.

November 16th

Sofia: My mom created Barrels to Beethoven. Because there are many people in the world that don’t know about the Steelpan and I’m so glad we can teach it to people.

Stella: My two awesome sisters. Because they’re both very nice and very silly.

Cecelia: My pony dolls. Because I like to play with them and Stella likes them too.

David: For my health and physical well being. Because I enjoy physical work and can contribute to all of the amazing things that we do.

ProperLeigh: All the beautiful pieces of art work my girls have brought home over the years. Because it shows me their creativity and the things they care about.

November 15th

Sofia: To my parents for giving me such an interesting and unique life. We get to do so many different things.

Stella: That we go to brunch sometimes after church. We always have fun at the table. I love the restaurant we went to today, Paris 66, I hope we an go back.

Cecelia: That daddy piled up the leaves and we got to jump and play in them. It was so much fun!

David: That we love to do things together as a family, even chores and tasks. It’s make things so much easier and it’s also more fun.

ProperLeigh: Time to rest. I don’t take time to rest and recharge, almost never. This weekend, with the exception of a few hours of work and chores. I took time to rest and really have fun with my family! What I learned? I could probably use a few more days of rest!

November 14th

Sofia: My sewing machine. I can’t wait to get better and better! Soon I’ll start tailoring adult clothes to fit me!

Stella: For my big sister. She hangs out with me and I like having fun with her.

Cecelia: Family day. I like being with my whole family and when mommy say in the back with us it was fun.

David and ProperLeigh: We created opportunities to work together. We don’t spend much time together so we’re grateful to not only support each other creatively, but work on special projects as a team.

 

November 12/13 (I took a sick day)

Sofia: My mom helped me start a company. I’ve always wanted to have a clothing business. It’s going to be a great experience and hopefully very successful.

Stella: For art my teacher. Because she’s helping us create art to showcase.

Cecelia: My daddy. Because he’s smart and her rubs my back at bedtime when mommy doesn’t rub my back.

David: That I am still a DJ. I love music and djing is my form of creativity. I’m thankful I get the opportunity to entertain and connect with people through music.

ProperLeigh: That the sickness that has consumed our household the last two weeks ended with me. I think I had it worst (partly because I refused to slow down) but at least I was able to care for my family last week.

 

November 11th

Sofia: I get to do so many cool things with my parents. Like go to cool events and shows. Because it’s fun and I feel really happy.

Stella: Our house. Because I have a place my bed and all of my things and my family there. I love all of that.

Cecelia: Mommy. Because she’s smart.

David: For being a father to three girls. Because they’re caring, considerate and their love makes me feel like a rockstar!

ProperLeigh: For the the pride and self esteem that me, my girls and husband possess. We like who we are. I am so grateful to raise girls that love who they are. I hope that never goes away! Having good self- esteem greatly effects how you act and interact with others.

November 10th

Sofia: Being a big sister. Because I love helping my little sisters teaching them right from wrong and showing them that I’ll always be there for them.

Stella: My school. Because I get to see my friends and learn new things like, multiplication.

Cecelia: My books. Because I love to read (she can’t read yet) and they’re so fun (again, she can’t read yet)

David: The night time wind down with my wife. Because the girls are in bed, the house is quiet and it’s time to regroup.

ProperLeigh: Children that are very caring. I hit my elbow, yelled “ouch” and they all ran into the room to see if I was okay. It’s a great feeling. I know that they will help others in need.

November 9th (Cecelia edition for her birthday)

Sofia: I’m grateful for Cece because there’s never a dull moment.

Stella: Cecelia’s love. Whether I’m happy or sad she always gives me hugs.

Cecelia: The microphone I got from my mommy and daddy for my birthday! Because I love to sing.

David: To have Cece by my side when I’m doing a task. She always wants to help and willing to learn something new.

ProperLeigh: The strength Cece has given me. Because of her, I chose to focus on my dreams.

 

November 8th

Sofia: I got to see one of my best friends perform this weekend. Because she’s very talented and I want to support her.

Stella: My stuffed animals. Because when I’m scared at night they help me to be brave.

Cecelia: Mommy’s stories that she’s tells me at night. Because they’re good and I love them.

David: I’m grateful for the weekends. That’s when I get to spend time with my family. Even if we’re busy, at least we can be together.

ProperLeigh: To have kids with a great sense of humor. They make us laugh with great humor and wit.

 

November 7th

Sofia: I’m grateful I got to help my mom with Barrels to Beethoven today. Because I like to help her with her work.

Stella: My mom gives me second chances. Because everybody makes mistakes.

Cecelia: I got to go to my first classmate birthday party today. Because birthday parties are fun!

David: For time with my best friend. Because she also happens to be my wife

ProperLeigh: All of our friends that help us with our girls. Especially those that have helped us during performances or workshops. Taking them for ice cream or to play. Or sitting and chatting with them. It means so much to us. Because being a parent is so difficult, it’s nice to have some help

 

November 6th

Sofia: My Mom. Today she took care of me when I was sick. I like spending time with her even if I don’t feel well.

Stella: Nonni’s new puppy, Dora. Because I always wanted a dog. I get to help take care of her and she is soooo cute!

Cecelia: My Nonni. Because she takes care of me and I like to be with her.

David: Our children are being raised with two cultures that are rich in tradition, they’re growing up knowing they’re a part of something. Knowing your roots and culture of where you come from helps to build a sense of pride.

ProperLeigh: My strength. I know my girls are watching me. They recognize that I work hard and I don’t give up when facing adversity. They are the same.

 

November 5th

Sofia: My 6th grade teacher, Mrs.Rawlings, because she taught the students and I many life lessons and she helped me get through math. I got all A’s last year because of her.

Stella: My books. I love reading especially mystery books. I like to solve them.

Cecelia: My new car seat. Because it makes me feel like a big girl.

David: My faith. Because it keeps me grounded and I know that everything and everyone has its purpose.

ProperLeigh: My organization skills. I would not be able to do all that I do and still ensure my girls get everything they need without thIs blessing. Tonight Cece told me that I was really smart because I know everything that everybody has to do. She was really impressed by that.

November 4th

Sofia: That my mom taught me to play the Steelpan, and its in our family.

Stella: My friends . Because I can have a lot of friends. Today my best friend made me laugh so much! She’s really funny.

Cecelia: Painting. Because I like art and I like to create things. I painted a rainbow today.

David: I have an open mind. Because  that allows me to appreciate the differences in people.

ProperLeigh: Moments like tonight. My mother in law made us dinner! I’m so grateful! A delicious meal. No cooking or cleaning and the girls had a marvelous time with their grandparents and the new puppy Dora!

 

November 3rd

Sofia: My school. There are many girls in the world that can’t go to school

Stella: My school. I like my teachers and my friends and I like to learn new things.

Cecelia: My toys because I like to play with them.

David: A wife that loves and supports me despite my faults.

ProperLeigh: The laughter in my home. I love to laugh. Everybody is funny. My husband is the funniest man I’ve ever known and has been making me laugh from the moment we met. My kids have great comedic timing and a great sense or humor


November 2nd

Sofia: My wardrobe. I have nice clothes and I bought them with my mom. I like spending time with my mom.

Stella: I get to hangout with my family. Because we love spending time together and we have fun.

Cecelia: My School. Because I like my teachers and playing with my friends.

David: To be surrounded by creativity. It’s inspiring.

ProperLeigh: My girls like the Steelpan and music in general. While we were practicing we literally broke into a jam session. My girls are cool. They will be great musicians someday.

November 1st

Sofia: Our home. It’s nice and there are so many children in the world without a home.

Stella: That I’m me. I have a good life. I’m nice. And I’m pretty.

Cecelia: I get to play with Stella. Because I like to be with her.

David: A family that is close. We enjoy spending time together and love to make one another smile

ProperLeigh: A Sunday morning that begins with my family talking and laughing in my bed. Because it’s moments like this that warm my heart.

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My Stylish Weekend…Planned

First of all, I can’t possibly discuss the remainder of the week and plans for the weekend without sharing details about the incredible night I had. Last night I was awarded with a Style Award for “Best Dressed.” This award is given to an individual with a successful career who is involved in the community but known for their personal style. It was a true honor to receive that award and the recognition that followed. The room was filled with artists and entrepreneurs doing incredible and impactful work, I was happy to be a part of it. And, although the thought of receiving an award for something like best dressed seemed strange (I was a little embarrassed by the whole thing) my friends and family, along with the some of the other nominees and guests at the ceremony, ensured me that through my work and community involvement, I am making a significant impact and for that, I should be proud. Which, I am. I only remember a few words of my speech, but I do know I spoke in the moment and from the heart, I received many compliments for my speech and even more for my lovely companion, my daughter Sofia who held my hand as I accepted the award.

The Style Awards take place during Style Week Pittsburgh. An annual event, now in it’s third year, Style Week Pittsburgh, celebrates fashion, business and the arts through various events and gatherings. This year, I was not only nominated for a Style Award, I am also supporting the event as a Style Week Pittsburgh Ambassador.

 

Friday

Friday brings another Style Week Pittsburgh event, Pinstripes and Pearls. As an Ambassador I try to attend and support all of the events. I’m especially looking forward to tonights event being held at Luxe, a beautiful luxury kitchen and bath showroom in East Liberty. My husband is also the DJ for this event, which always makes for a good time.


Saturday 

This Saturday I’m taking time for family. The ladies will all gather to celebrate my niece who is expecting her first child. I’m honored the girls and I get to take part in such a special and momentous occasion.  Saturday evening is back to work, preparing for an event Sunday, a workshop next week, completing proposals and finalizing business plans for the fall and winter.

 

Sunday

I am looking forward to the closing event for Style Week Pittsburgh, Brunch En Blanc. I’m hosting this event at my gallery and looking forward to guests mingling in this space. The current exhibition is Moving Language work by my friend and fellow Style Award Nominee for “Best Artist”, Sarah Zeffiro. The event will also feature hat designer Gina Mazzotta, a very talented milliner and…a former steelpan player, you know I love that!

 

All in all this will be a busy weekend to complete an extremely busy and emotional week. Alongside all of the exciting events and business ventures occurring, this week I also learned a lot about human behavior. I learned people are not always grateful and humbled by my kindness and support and although I dedicate time to support them with their goals, is it not always appreciated and I may be hurt in the process. I also learned that my children are not as important to the some friends and family members as I thought, or maybe hoped. And, although I love them more than I can explain, my girls can be easily disregarded and left out without any hesitation or remorse by those who should love them. 

Those two lessons alone were a lot for me to absorb. It’s hard to imagine that when you give your love, support or time to someone that they will turn around so quickly and insult you with their awful behavior. Sometimes, with complete disregard for you or those close to you. I won’t say these experiences don’t hurt me, because they do, but I do always try to stay positive. For me, it’s not only the act that hurts, it’s also the realization that people behave so badly, even when showered with kindness. I believe that ultimately, we are all good and we all want to do good things. Sometimes we make mistakes, but there is a deeper commitment to, and need for, care and concern for others. Right? I pray that I am right. 

So, for the sake of all, especially the young people watching and learning from us, let’s all try a little bit harder to change our bad traits and do better. If you cheat others, stop. If you’re inconsiderate, find ways to show others they matter to you. If you lie, begin to tell the truth, start with yourself. And, if and when you do wrong, recognize it and do what’s right. I’ve never been afraid of change and I know with the help of God, my faults today will not be my faults tomorrow. It takes honesty with yourself and lots hardwork, but, taking the path of self improvement is an exceptional journey where you will receive as much if not more than you give. 

Be kind to yourself and one another.