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HEY, TEAM USA!

wishadoo — Wed, 19 Feb 2014 14:49:00 +0000

Let's get TEAM USA to help animals here in the US!

I'M ASKING FOR YOUR HELP IN SHARING THIS GRAPHIC and accompanying message. It's a long shot but we can try to make it viral, right?

This idea came to me about an hour ago after reading yet another post about an athlete adopting a Sochi stray (which is wonderful!). I'm trying to get helping sharing it in the hope that we can actually get someone's attention -- someone who may be able to propose this to Team USA PR/community development people. If you're on twitter or other social media and can perhaps bombard any individuals or groups...rescue groups, athletes, celebrities or otherwise...to put this idea on the table for consideration for TEAM USA, I would greatly appreciate it.

Maybe our Olympic athletes can be leaders in the realm of animal welfare and get other Olympic teams to follow in more compassionate footsteps. Unfortunately, it's often easier to engage human beings to have compassion for furry friends rather than fellow humans. Many of us are tackling that as well, but for now I'm asking for your help in supporting this idea by simply sharing this.

#olympianssaveanimals

www.wishadoo.org

Wishadoo! on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wishadoo

Wishadoo! on twitter: https://twitter.com/wishadool3c

Wishadoo! on Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/Wishadoo/

We're getting ready to relaunch Wishadoo! as a community-owned cooperative, with more of a focus on building the community itself rather than promoting the individual tools available to put MEANINGFUL compassionate action into practice. I can tell you now there will be a deepening to it all, with a strong focus on Interbeing|InterconnectednesI|Interdependence, not just humans but the Earth and all beings.

With Gratitude,

Dena | About Me

DO YOU LOVE YOU?

wishadoo — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 12:57:50 +0000

It's Valentine's Day -- February 14, 2014 – and love, love, love is in the air. One day each year we're surrounded by talk of love and bear witness to ways of expressing our love for one another.

A few days ago a dear friend posed a question which elicited a rather unusual reply from me. I didn't realize it as I began composing my reply, but what I ended up sharing was a revelation about my core personal beliefs. In keeping with the intention to deepen my work, I'm sharing this interaction and my feelings about love this Valentine's Day.

The question posed by my friend, who was in a state of emotional distress, involved seeking spiritual guidance and the most effective, meaningful way to do that.

(Spiritual. See, merely typing that word here, publicly, is a shift for me and part of the deepening of which I speak. I have always considered myself spiritual though not religious. What I mean by that is that I, personally, feel I have a direct connection with ______ [insert your chosen word here; I really don't have a word, which may be why I have avoided discussing in depth in the past]. I genuinely respect most people who follow a religious path or specific spiritual path, as well as those who claim the labels of atheist and agnostic. I see it all as a choice; we're each making a choice as to what we believe regarding the realm of the unseen and deeper meaning. I am one of those annoying people who freely admits I do not know anything, and I'm okay with that.)

Back to my friend's question…

We have quite a few spiritual friends in common, so I knew she would receive a lot of very helpful, specific guidance regarding others' practices and beliefs.

Yet her question triggered something within me and prompted me to dig deep and explore why most religious and/or spiritual paths don't resonate wholly with me on a personal level.

Here is what I wrote:

Do you believe, or can you open to the possibility, that part of your Being is pure love and sheer perfection? You...the unique soul imprint we know as _____. Your Highest Self, as I call it.

Like you, I also tend to get caught up in words: God, Spirit, The Universe...and get lost when I try to envision or describe God, Spirit, The Universe. So much is beyond our ability to comprehend, imho; I can't begin to put what I choose to believe into words.

When I simply go within and tap into myself, for lack of better words, and trust that part of Who I Am is Pure Love and all the wonderful qualities we attribute to God, Spirit, The Universe, that works for me.

I am more comfortable with myself than with any other being, and I believe we are each manifestations of God/Spirit/The Universe. So, I ask, I beg, I pray, I set intentions, I express gratitude...I convene with my Highest Self, trusting that in doing so I'm also convening with God/Spirit/The Universe. I have an unshakable belief in our Interbeing with all life.

To me, it's a much more simple, direct line of communication, with familiarity, and takes away some of the discomfort, confusion and perhaps even a sense of unworthiness that I sensed in your post when seeking guidance.

I wouldn't ever, ever be afraid to ask something of myself.

I love myself. I may get disappointed and even disgusted with myself at times but, all in all, I truly and deeply love myself.

I sincerely hope you love you, my friend. I love you.

I found myself in tears after I wrote that. I felt such tremendous love for myself. No, really, I did. I know it sounds weird, and I'm sharing this precisely because I don't think it should sound or feel weird.

We so often speak of self-love and showing compassion for ourselves and really feeling it, not just saying the words. Over the last few weeks I've been mindful of saying, out loud, "I love you, Dena." At first it was awkward, but I broke through the awkward stage, and when I wrote my thoughts to my friend I experienced one of those euphoric moments in which I truly felt it…not only for myself but for my friend and all beings.

Now, don't get me wrong. Many people view me as some touchy-feely, hippie, kumbaya person who espouses "love and light" for everyone and everything, so when I express disdain for someone's actions, they accuse me of being a hypocrite.

The love of which I speak here doesn't translate into me wanting to develop a relationship with every person I meet; there are people I have removed from my life because I view them as toxic, to put it mildly. Removing them from my life is the most loving action I can take for myself and the person involved.

That said, on that "higher" level – the aspect of me that embodies the highest level of my own humanity -- I can say I sincerely love them, as I don't believe they are "evil" or "bad" people in their heart of hearts. I believe we are intrinsically connected and interdependent in an energetic sense, so I most definitely wish them well and certainly do not wish them any harm.

But I have zero interest in having them in my life, as I strongly dislike aspects of who they are and how they behave and how it all affects me.

I also believe many people who claim to be atheist or agnostic feel this same sense of Interbeing and interconnectedness of which I speak, without being able to (or perhaps without needing to) articulate it. They recognize that all beings – all humans and all creatures and the Earth herself – are interconnected and interdependent.

I will share more soon about my experiences which have led to this unshakable belief in the interconnectedness of all beings, our Interbeing, as it is the foundation of how I have navigated my journey through life thus far.

My belief in Interbeing is contrasted with the real experience of what I refer to as "othering." Whenever we feel a sense of disconnection and subsequently treat other beings accordingly – or experience this treatment ourselves -- the result is usually tremendous pain and suffering. Wishadoo! was created to provide a space to connect in an attempt to heal our pain and suffering, and then to inject more joy into our human experience.

In considering my friend's question, I realized that my perception of many spiritual and religious paths involves othering -- a disconnection or externalization of one's faith as being separate from ourselves as individuals. Many believe the origins and core essence of most belief systems and religions are steeped in authentic Universal Love, yet putting those beliefs into practice – including how we pray and convene with Spirit (I'll use that word here) – has become complicated and now seems to require an intermediary of sorts, be it in the form of sacred scripture, clergy, specific rituals, specific prayers, etc.

(Please know that I realize each person's beliefs are very personal and unique, so I'm not trying to make a blanket statement; I'm sharing my own perceptions and my feelings. Our connection to All That Is is part of my belief in Interbeing, and resultant sensitivity to the pain of disconnection and othering.)

For those of you who do believe in God/Spirit/The Universe, I ask you to please consider the possibility that you may "other" Spirit at times when you doubt your direct connection.

I ask you to please consider the possibility that you may "other" yourself in a multitude of ways more often than you'd like to admit.

I ask you to take a moment to sit quietly and ask yourself:

"Do I love me?"

Tell yourself you do. Say it out loud, even if it doesn't feel sincere at first and even if you feel extraordinarily awkward.

"I love you, _____."

Say it until you believe it. Do the inner work that makes it possible, that makes it authentic.

And know that you are loved.

I say with a full, wide-open heart that I love me.

I also love you.

I love All That Is.

Happy Valentine's Day.

~ Dena

P.S. – The hit song by A Great Big World, Say Something, has really struck a cord with people of all ages (see 4-year-old's emotional reaction). I can't really tell why it touches people so deeply; perhaps it's a very unique, individual reaction for each of us. I find it poignant yet exquisite in its simplicity.

I ask you to listen to the song and try not to take it too literally; imagine singing this to yourself. Don't walk away from yourself, don't give up on yourself. Say something...loving to yourself. (refresh page if video doesn't show)

EQUAL EXCHANGE HOLIDAY FUNDRAISER

wishadoo — Mon, 25 Nov 2013 18:09:37 +0000

11/25/13 Enjoy delicious fairly traded products while supporting the Wishadoo! Community. Wishadoo! receives 25% of profits generated by your purchases at Equal Exchange, to go toward operating expenses of the website itself. Together we can create stronger local communities, a more just food system, a healthier planet, and a more compassionate world!

As a supporter of cooperatives -- especially worker-owned cooperatives, having the intention to structure Wishadoo! itself as a member- and worker-owned cooperative (see infographic - click to enlarge) -- and having been a fan of Equal Exchange for many years, I am delighted to be able to partner with Equal Exchange to offer a holiday fundraiser.

Please read more about Equal Exchange below, and click the link below to be taken to Wishadoo!'s fundraising page, where you can choose from coffee, tea, chocolate, and more:

http://fundraiser.equalexchange.coop/?fundraiser=WISH003W

If you'd like to contribute directly without participating in the above fundraiser, please CLICK HERE.

Thanks for reading and for sharing this post, and thanks in advance for your support!

With Gratitude,

ABOUT EQUAL EXCHANGE:

Equal Exchange's mission is to build long-term trade partnerships that are economically just and environmentally sound, to foster mutually beneficial relationships between farmers and consumers and to demonstrate, through our success, the contribution of worker co-operatives and Fair Trade to a more equitable, democratic and sustainable world.

We believe that we should expect no less from ourselves and each other than we demand of our farmer partners. For that reason we have organized ourselves as a democratic worker co-operative, now one of the largest in the country.

The concepts are quite simple:

the right to vote (one vote per employee, not per share);

the right to serve as leader (i.e. board director);

the right to information;

the right to speak your mind.

A worker cooperative is an alternative for-profit structure based upon standard democratic principles. It is not designed to maximize profits, nor returns to investors, but rather to bring to the workplace many of the rights and responsibilities that we hold as citizens in our communities. These principles include one-person/one-vote equality; open access to information (i.e., open-book management); free speech; and the equitable distribution of resources (such as income.)

A worker co-op is not owned by outside shareholders or a small group of founders or partners but by all the employees in equal portions. Top level managers and entry-level employees alike own an identical share and receive an equal share of any profits or losses. These "worker-owners" both elect the Board of Directors and fill six of the nine Board seats. The Board in turn is responsible for hiring and supervising management. Consequently a circle is formed, as in American civic democracy, of everyone being accountable to someone else.

The delegation of responsibilities is very much like that of conventional firms - which allows for efficiency - except that at Equal Exchange those at the "bottom" of the organizational chart are, as owners, also at the "top" of the same chart.

Wishadoo! Joins the 21-Day Gratitude Challenge

wishadoo — Thu, 07 Nov 2013 17:52:32 +0000

Wishadoo!'s dedication to compassion, cooperation and community is built upon a fundamental awareness of Gratitude and, in each moment, learning to practice the art of what I like to call "heartmindedness": Combining an awareness of our thoughts and the energy of our heart (emotions) for more intentional, authentic, wholehearted action and behavior and being.

When we stand in a place of Gratitude, the world looks different and thus we respond to challenges differently, we can see our blessings more clearly, and we can embrace joy more fully.

Wishadoo! has long been a friend and supporter of both Kindspring and Yes! Magazine, and applaud their 21-Day Gratitude Challenge. In fact, it is one of my dreams to collaborate with them in some capacity, via the tools and community here at Wishadoo!

So, I'm setting that intention publicly.

Please read about the 21-Day Gratitude Challenge below, visit their site, and participate as you are so led.

Please also join us at Wishadoo!, where Love, Compassion and Gratitude are put into action each day, and will soon be taken to the next level. Stay tuned...

With sincere gratitude,

~ Dena

Dear Friends,

The overwhelming response to September's 21-Day Kindness Challenge surpassed our wildest dreams! 6000 people, from 98 countries participated and lit up the world with thousands of kind acts and stories. This surge of energy, enthusiasm and connection left us wondering -- what do we do next?!?

It didn't take long to arrive at the perfect answer. Inspired by YOU, we've decided to step it up and launch the 21-Day Gratitude Challenge. Because kindness flows naturally when your heart is full. And how do you fill your heart? The best answer we have to that question is simply: Gratefulness. An attitude of gratitude is a surefire way to fill your heart.

While the Kindness Challenge placed attention on all the ways we can give, the Gratitude Challenge will be geared to make us tune in to all the ways in which we constantly receive. So join us for another transformative three-weeks! The 21-Day Gratitude Challenge will kick off on Nov 7th and culminate fittingly on Thanksgiving Day. The sages of old and the science of modern day are all in agreement about the benefits of gratitude. It's been proven to have a positive effect on the health, happiness and well-being of individuals, families, communities and companies alike. So get ready to start flexing those gratitude muscles!

As with the last challenge, you'll receive a daily email with inspiration and ideas. You'll be part of a vibrant on-line community of like-minded people from all over the world, and you'll have a chance to share your experiences, read stories of what others are doing, and support each other's journeys along the way.

Together we will find and celebrate the good in each moment. Register now for the 21-Day Gratitude Challenge.

Change Yourself. Change the World.

In the spirit of service,

The KindSpring Crew

CLICK BELOW TO VISIT THE 21-DAY GRATITUDE CHALLENGE!

Same Love, One Love

wishadoo — Thu, 12 Sep 2013 17:22:00 +0000

For those of you who haven't really stopped to listen to the words to Macklemore's "Same Love," please take a few minutes to watch the video, or read the lyrics, both of which are provided below. (Refresh page if video doesn't show)

This is SUCH a powerful song, a powerful message. Certainly not all religions or religious persons are narrow-minded and bigoted, so if you happen to be religious and believe we are all equal, in every way, I hope you won't take offense.

If you don't believe we are all equal, and feel other human beings are "less than" based on gender, belief system, sexual orientation, race, etc., and you are offended, I believe the problem lies within you and I won't apologize for sharing this.

"Same Love"
(with Ryan Lewis)
(feat. Mary Lambert)

When I was in the third grade I thought that I was gay,

'Cause I could draw, my uncle was, and I kept my room straight.

I told my mom, tears rushing down my face
She's like "Ben you've loved girls since before pre-k, trippin' "
Yeah, I guess she had a point, didn't she?
Bunch of stereotypes all in my head.
I remember doing the math like, "Yeah, I'm good at little league"
A preconceived idea of what it all meant
For those that liked the same sex
Had the characteristics
The right wing conservatives think it's a decision
And you can be cured with some treatment and religion
Man-made rewiring of a predisposition
Playing God, aw nah here we go
America the brave still fears what we don't know
And God loves all his children, is somehow forgotten
But we paraphrase a book written thirty-five-hundred years ago
I don't know

And I can't change
Even if I tried
Even if I wanted to
And I can't change
Even if I tried
Even if I wanted to
My love
My love
My love
She keeps me warm
She keeps me warm
She keeps me warm
She keeps me warm

If I was gay, I would think hip-hop hates me
Have you read the YouTube comments lately?
"Man, that's gay" gets dropped on the daily
We become so numb to what we're saying
A culture founded from oppression
Yet we don't have acceptance for 'em
Call each other faggots behind the keys of a message board
A word rooted in hate, yet our genre still ignores it
Gay is synonymous with the lesser
It's the same hate that's caused wars from religion
Gender to skin color, the complexion of your pigment
The same fight that led people to walk outs and sit ins
It's human rights for everybody, there is no difference!
Live on and be yourself
When I was at church they taught me something else
If you preach hate at the service those words aren't anointed
That holy water that you soak in has been poisoned
When everyone else is more comfortable remaining voiceless
Rather than fighting for humans that have had their rights stolen
I might not be the same, but that's not important
No freedom till we're equal, damn right I support it

(I don't know)

And I can't change
Even if I tried
Even if I wanted to
My love
My love
My love
She keeps me warm
She keeps me warm
She keeps me warm
She keeps me warm

We press play, don't press pause
Progress, march on
With the veil over our eyes
We turn our back on the cause
Till the day that my uncles can be united by law
When kids are walking 'round the hallway plagued by pain in their heart
A world so hateful some would rather die than be who they are
And a certificate on paper isn't gonna solve it all
But it's a damn good place to start
No law is gonna change us
We have to change us
Whatever God you believe in
We come from the same one
Strip away the fear
Underneath it's all the same love
About time that we raised up... sex

And I can't change
Even if I tried
Even if I wanted to
And I can't change
Even if I tried
Even if I wanted to
My love
My love
My love
She keeps me warm
She keeps me warm
She keeps me warm
She keeps me warm

Love is patient
Love is kind
Love is patient
Love is kind
(not crying on Sundays)
Love is patient
(not crying on Sundays)
Love is kind
(I'm not crying on Sundays)
Love is patient
(not crying on Sundays)
Love is kind
(I'm not crying on Sundays)
Love is patient
(not crying on Sundays)
Love is kind
(I'm not crying on Sundays)
Love is patient
Love is kind

The Extraordinary Lack of Empathy in the Case of Trayvon Martin

Dena Patrick — Sat, 20 Jul 2013 17:56:04 +0000

July 20, 2013

I've seen this graphic shared quite a bit in my social media circles in the last few days, with white friends and family members asking why white people who are victims of crimes committed by black people don't get the same media attention and comments by the President.

The answer, in short, is because there is no comparison. In the other horrific instances, such as the case with young Marley Lion, an investigation began immediately, and the alleged perpetrators apprehended, charged and jailed. The system worked.

Not so in the case of Trayvon Martin. With Trayvon, the police were aware of the killing, but there was no charge until there was national pressure. The Trayvon Martin case made national news due to the inaction by the Sanford Police Department.

In the case of Trayvon Martin, this was indeed the initial outrage.

Even though empathy has been in my awareness from the start -- because I am someone who takes the time to try to put myself in the shoes of another -- I have resisted immersing myself in the details of this hypothetical question:

What if what happened to Trayvon Martin that evening happened to my child?

I have resisted because to imagine that is too emotionally difficult. I do know what it's like to lose a child -- through no fault, no one was responsible -- and to willingly attempt to walk myself through what Trayvon Martin's parents experienced (understanding that I will never come close to understanding what they truly experienced and feel) is something I've avoided.

The negative, angry reaction from a significant segment of the US population to President Obama's remarks yesterday regarding racial issues shows many things, but the first thing which comes to mind is the extraordinary empathy deficit he spoke of many years ago. The lack of empathy I see in many places, in many people...the lack of willingness to even ATTEMPT to empathize ("There was a trial, a verdict; not guilty. Get over it.") made me take the time to imagine this hell.

And I come away devastated and heartbroken.

Which is precisely how so many within the black community have felt this past week.

It's all too easy for people of color in general to imagine Trayvon is their child. (That was Obama's point, people. By the way, it's not race baiting to encourage having a respectful conversation. Claiming this is race baiting says a lot more about the people saying it than they realize.) The life of a black person is simply very different from mine, as a white person. What happened from the very start, through to the verdict, is something most black parents could identify with acutely.

When the adult carrying a loaded weapon who chose to follow a 17-year-old on February 26, 2012 -- a 17-year-old doing nothing wrong whatsoever at 7:15 or so that evening -- ended up suffering no consequences as a result of his lethal choices that night, it led to national mourning on the part of people of color. What we are witnessing is primal pain and mourning, more than anger.

That's where the empathy President Obama is asking for comes in. No, a white person such as I doesn't understand what it means to be a person of color in America in 2013 (though I do know the mindset of a racist, having grown up in a racist environment). No one knows the unique grief of Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin. But I know what it's like to want to protect my child.

Below is my attempt to walk through this nightmare; not step by step of the path followed by Trayvon's parents, but merely the most obvious steps along this nightmarish journey. I would ask all of you who are parents, wondering why this has gotten so much attention, to consider doing the same.

* * * *

If my child had been visiting someone, doing nothing wrong at all, and was simply returning at a reasonable time (7:15 PM) from buying snacks, and the next thing I know is that my child has been shot and is dead -- and the person who admittedly shot her was free to go (after they did a drug tox screen on my daughter but not the shooter) -- I'd raise my voice and beg and plead and pitch an absolute fit trying to get media attention as well.

Note that Trayvon's parents have been the picture of dignity and grace throughout this ordeal. I don't know that I would be; I pray I never find out.

Chances are the scenario wouldn't play out that way for me though, as far as needing to get others to please pay attention to what I know is a wrongful death of my CHILD. I feel fairly confident that I, as a white mom with a white child, would get a lot of support and attention.

Any parent would be outraged and want justice. Anyone who loves someone wants justice, not only for their loved one but to PREVENT IT FROM HAPPENING AGAIN.

For someone to choose to follow and end up shooting my child, who was doing nothing wrong (even if she did, hypothetically, strongly physically defend herself, which is what I have always taught her to do...though, unfortunately, we'll never know the truth of what really transpired during the physical altercation), and then to not be held accountable for the choices they made that evening, that is APPALLING.

For the shooter to be hailed as a hero by a large segment of our population and media, while my daughter is torn to shreds and ripped apart in public, IS APPALLING.

Whereas Trayvon has repeatedly been portrayed as a thug with outright viral lies (by racists and gun nuts, let's be honest here) -- trying to justify the choice Zimmerman made that fateful evening by choosing to follow the teen, with a loaded weapon -- perhaps my daughter would instead be demonized as a slut, saying she was asking for trouble or something. Maybe they'd find a pic on FB that someone could use to paint her in that light.

I can imagine how my child, who is tall and trained in tae kwon do, could be portrayed as threatening to Zimmerman, as the masses attempt to defend the indefensible.

Even if it went to trial after gaining media attention and subsequent investigation, and the trial went according to Florida law and the shooter was found not guilty -- not guilty because my daughter fought back (since she is not the one who created this entire situation to begin with) against someone who chose to follow her, with a loaded weapon -- I would absolutely fight against that law and continue raising my voice and encouraging a national discussion.

Whatever elements were involved that may have led to my child's unnecessary death, you better believe I would be pushing to explore every single one in order that no one else has to ever feel my pain. In the case of Trayvon Martin, racism and racial profiling is an element that must be explored, not only as it concerns George Zimmerman but the Sanford Police Department and the entire criminal justice system.

Regarding the lack of a "proper investigation" as it concerns George Zimmerman, what led many to feel a proper investigation didn't take place includes but is not limited to the fact that:

-- George Zimmerman was not subject to a criminal background check until after he was released from custody.

-- Nearly a week passed before important witnesses were interviewed by the police.

-- Investigators failed to access Martin’s cell phone records for weeks.

“Those mistakes should not have been made,” said Andrew Scott, former chief of the Boca Raton police department and a national policing consultant. “They were such rudimentary aspects of an investigation.”

Again, if it were my child and if the police had just summarily believed the shooter rather than investigate fully and more thoroughly, I would have done exactly what Trayvon Martin's parents did. I think any parent would.

Though I don't believe I would be so graceful and dignified; I think that's largely because I don't know what it's like, as a white person, to have injustice and discrimination heaped on me and my child each and every day, in myriad ways. I might have more energy to scream and fight and pitch a fit because I haven't fought that particular battle my entire life. (There are many battles on many fronts right now, including a war on women, a war on the middle class and those living and working in poverty, but this post is about the very specific battles only people of color fight in the USA.)

Again, to address my initial point, everything I wrote above is what made this a national media story and why it's different from other stories being put out as being a comparison. So, please, especially if you are a parent, try putting yourselves in the Martins' shoes. If your heart can take it.

EDIT TO ADD what I feel is a very thought-provoking question posed by President Obama in his 7/19/13 press conference:

"And for those who -- who resist that idea, that we should think about something like these Stand Your Ground laws, I just ask people to consider, if Trayvon Martin was of age and armed, could he have stood his ground on that sidewalk? And do we actually think that he would have been justified in shooting Mr. Zimmerman, who had followed him in a car, because he felt threatened? And if the answer to that question is at least ambiguous, then it seems to me that we might want to examine those kinds of laws."

And how would such an outcome have played out in the courts and our media? Put on your empathy cap and try to imagine, but be honest -- if only with yourself.

EDIT #2 (7/24/13) : As a result of a few private messages and comments, saying that my premise is flawed because the graphic shown in this blog shows a 12-year-old Trayvon Martin, and that I am complicit in the social media bias by using that image (even though the graphic was created by the very same social media-sphere who has made Zimmerman into a hero and demonized Trayvon Martin), I would like to respond.

Please note that the picture of Trayvon Martin in the Hollister t-shirt -- with the viral meme that he is 12 or 14 in that picture -- is one of the lies/misinformation being told about Trayvon. Please see this Snopes link for a breakdown of the facts regarding pictures being used. (There are actually more; hopefully Snopes will update their piece soon.)

I do not try to paint Trayvon Martin as an angel, any more than I try to portray Zimmerman as a devil, but there are facts in play that have been distorted and I try to set those straight when I see it.

The Martin Family said the picture (Hollister t-shirt) was taken six months prior to his death, and when compared to his junior class photo taken at approximately the same time, it is easy to see that that is likely true. Lighting, facial expression, etc. make a huge different in pictures. I'm not inclined to believe that the Martin Family would lie about his age in that picture, not given the scrutiny they have been under.

Also please note that I have refrained from being too judgmental about George Zimmerman with regard to whether or not he had bad intentions based on racially profiling that evening. There are reports of his previous 911 calls months before, with him habitually making calls concerning young black men who look suspicious.

As for some of the specifics of that fateful evening in Sanford, Florida, I have said repeatedly that we will likely never know the truth of what happened. But based on both the cell phone call Trayvon was on, and Zimmerman's own 911 call, it appears very clear that we do know two things:

1. Zimmerman was the one who initiated this incident via his choice to follow Trayvon, who was not in the midst of any criminal activity, by all reports.

2. Zimmerman chose to do so with a loaded weapon.

I do hold him responsible for those two choices that evening.

I speak of racial profiling because that is one daily reality experienced by many people of color on a regular basis. Many topics deserving our attention have been brought to light by this case, amongst many (including SYG laws and the criminal justice system).

My message in this blog post has more to do with the lack of sensitivity, demonization, and downright inhumanity by many people as it concerns the death of Trayvon Martin, and to encourage people literally try to put themselves in the shoes of ANY parent whose child was killed while NOT doing anything wrong and who did not initially receive justice (in the form of a proper investigation).

This blog post is in response to the outcry -- just as the graphic above says -- "What's the difference?" between the two cases.

Accept With Love What Is Given With Love

Angela — Sun, 19 May 2013 15:35:06 +0000

Tony, my cat, killed a robin this morning. He brought it to the door, so proud and happy, but all I could do was scream at him. As soon as I yelled, he dropped the bird and ran to hide under the barn. He was so proud, and I had broken his heart. I had looked at his gift and told him it was bad.

Not really sure what to do, I took the bird to the edge of the woods, and sat down and cried. I cried for the bird. Did it have babies? Would they survive? I cried for my cat. Would this destroy his spirit? I cried for the world; for everyone who has ever given a gift and been reproached. What happened to being truly grateful to another soul for doing something for us without being asked or guilted or obligated? What happened to looking at the gift for what it is, and only what it is -- another remembering us and wanting to make our day happier or easier?

This is what is being revealed to us as a global society. We've been so conditioned to keep our "eyes on the prize" that we've lost the joy of everything else. Yeah, a dead bird is pretty gross, but it was Tony's catly way of letting me know I'm his and he cares for me. Would that we all could sit and listen and accept and enjoy each other's gifts, even if it is the gift of company, of listening. I believe that for the entire world, this is our new task: accepting with love what is given to us with love, and taking the time to see the gift for what it is -- an expression of love.

I didn't win the PowerBall drawing last night. It would have made me happy beyond belief to win it -- alas, it didn't happen this time. I did win $10 for matching a few numbers, and I'm working on letting go of the disappointment of not winning the big money and being thankful for a $10 return on a $2 ticket bought. That's actually not too shabby, when you think about it: My investment returned to me x 5, overnight. So I'm focusing on that $10, and letting go of the thoughts of what I didn't get.. The Universe loves me, and sent me a little wink last night to remind me of that.

A COMPASSION REVOLUTION: PAKISTAN

wishadoo — Sat, 11 May 2013 13:15:49 +0000

The Pakistan General Elections are under way.

Malala Yousafzai is the epitome of COURAGE and INTEGRITY, at the tender age of 15.

But she is not alone. There is a movement afoot in Pakistan. The Charter for Compassion|Pakistan has been doing amazing work over the last few years, and have been very involved in encouraging citizens of Pakistan to have the courage to vote.

From the Charter for Compassion|Pakistan:

"On your marks... Get set... Vote!

Courage will drive us to change, courage will help us identify ourselves and rise to any challenge. Courage will help us make a difference.

Years from now, when we look back in time we can proudly say that we stood united even in the toughest of times only because we believed in a better Pakistan, and its that belief that gave us the courage to vote."

PLEASE CLICK HERE to sign the Charter for Compassion

CLICK the image below to join the

GLOBAL COMPASSION REVOLUTION!

Please join the COMPASSION REVOLUTION!

wishadoo — Sun, 05 May 2013 21:28:02 +0000

Do you believe authentic compassionate action can change lives for the better?

Do you believe our own lives and the lives of others would improve if compassion were at the heart of our choices and interactions, not only in our personal lives but in our communities, organizations and businesses as well?

I do, and I'm gathering as many people from around the world as possible to stand with me and show their support for this vision of a new world.

But make no mistake: This is a revolution of strength and courage.

There is nothing weak about true compassionate action. Indeed, these times require more people embrace what I call fierce compassion.

It is time to stand up for our values and have the fortitude to live them and put them into action.

This is a revolution working TOWARD something better rather than fighting AGAINST the way things are.

Together we can build a world of more love, compassion, cooperation, community, and joy.

Please join me! CLICK HERE to learn how or to return to the Compassion Revolution page.

For more of the personal story behind this Revolution, CLICK HERE.

~ Dena

Why Create the COMPASSION REVOLUTION?

wishadoo — Sun, 05 May 2013 21:20:48 +0000

Why create the COMPASSION REVOLUTION?

Because it's time. It is way past time.

As I approach 50 and evaluate the world around me -- and my place in it -- the question of values, and being "of value," has been very much on my mind.

Throughout my life as a social entrepreneur; an activist; an observer of trends, people and society; and, most importantly, a mom, I have always asked: What actions can we take now, from where we are, to deliberately and consciously create a better world for everyone? It's not about striving for perfection but simply doing our best, with integrity and honesty. And diligence.

This Revolution is the result of my life's work. Please explore Wishadoo! and Six Degrees of Compassion to learn more about my work and interests.

There are also many life experiences which fuel both my work and this revolution.

One overarching influence in my formative years and throughout my life is the environment in which I grew up. My perception is that most people I knew were "content to be content." They saw many things around them that simply weren't right, but they accepted everything as simply the way the world works and assumed it would never change. This environment was also heavily steeped in racism and bigotry.

I have always rebelled against the ignorance of bigotry, injustice and inequality, and apathy. I refuse to accept the world as is. My way is to envision how it could be and actively work toward that vision. Why should we accept any actions or systems which demean and dehumanize us, or demean and dehumanize others?

My way of being in this world -- calling out what I perceive as wrong and then encouraging positive action -- has always seemed to agitate people. I'm of an age now that I no longer care. I am who I am. And I like me.

Speaking of agitating people...

There have been two fairly recent events which have also directly inspired this Revolution.

The first was an incident in 2010 when Glenn Beck mentioned Wishadoo! on his Fox News show TV show. I discovered this when I received nasty emails, posts on Wishadoo!'s Facebook wall, and even a few phone calls, saying "they're watching me" and using words like socialist, communist, fascist, even a few good ol' throwbacks: liberal, heathen, tree-hugger, do-gooder.

Even though Mr. Beck didn't overtly disparage Wishadoo! (I'd say he was "snarky"), the website was discussed in the midst of discussing other organizations he obviously despised (evil unions!), with all of us having a place on his now infamous chalkboard. Seems Wishadoo!'s mission of "compassion" and "cooperation," with a dedication to "collaboration," "communities of mutual benefit" and focusing on "The Common Good"…well, that obviously indicated to him that I and Wishadoo! were trying to destroy America, if not the world.

That experience was nothing new for me, however. Throughout my life I've been dissed as being a "liberal do-gooder" (trust me, it was not intended as a compliment), among other things. The ability to empathize and put myself in the shoes of another was looked down upon as being "too sensitive." Again, not a compliment.

The second very recent trigger for this Revolution is a challenge issued from someone who shares Mr. Beck's worldview. I was told that my work to "advance a world of more genuine compassion, cooperation and community has no value." Indeed, to this person and many like him, the world is all about competition and greed, and there is nothing wrong with that. To them, the only thing that needs to change is for people like me to stop trying to change things.

He challenged me to see how many people I could get to stand with my beliefs and values.

That's when the COMPASSION REVOLUTION officially came into stark focus.

(By the way, thank you to Mr. Beck and Mr. Limbaugh and those who follow them and agree with their worldview. You have all shown me very clearly the type of world I do not want, and energize my work to create a different world Every. Single. Day.)

IT'S TIME TO TAKE BACK THE WORDS.

There is nothing weak about compassion or justice or a belief in Humanity.

There is strength in cooperation. There is strength in valuing human life over profit. There is strength in advancing respectful dialogue.

It's time to prioritize our values, stand up for our beliefs and put them into action to the best of our ability each day. It's called integrity.

The Compassion Revolution is one of strength and integrity.

In spite of the horrors and suffering all around, I continue to have a tremendous faith in Humanity. I have faith in you.

I invite you to join me and show the world that there are many of us, and that we are ready to embrace this vision and work together to build a more compassionate, collaborative, joy-filled world.

I'm ready. I was born ready.

Are you?

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE COMPASSION REVOLUTION and return to the COMPASSION REVOLUTION Page!

~ Dena

Counting Blessings and Being Thankful

Angela — Sun, 05 May 2013 14:16:53 +0000

I remember a lullaby my mother sang to us when we were tiny. It was a popular song, written by Irving Berlin and sung by Bing Crosby, called "Count Your Blessings", from the movie "White Christmas". The words went like this:

When I'm worried and I can't sleep
I count my blessings instead of sheep
And I fall asleep
Counting my blessings

When my bankroll is getting small
I think of when I had none at all
And I fall asleep
Counting my blessings

I think about a nursery and I picture curly heads
And one by one I count them as they slumber in their beds

If you're worried and you can't sleep
Just count your blessings instead of sheep
And you'll fall asleep
Counting your blessings

That has been our family's focus for as long as I can remember, and it's something I've strived to do every day of my life. Some call it prayer or giving thanks, and it is that as well, but I like to think of it as getting my perspective back. There are days, and we all have them, that I feel like the world has conspired to beat the hell out of me and is succeeding. Then, when I have a moment to get calm and think, I realize what I do have: first and foremost, a loving family and friends who care what happens to me, and the list goes on from there. And it's true, I get so caught up in naming all my blessings and the people/events/things I'm thankful for I do usually nod off to sleep.

In case you weren't aware, we, like a lot of families, are going through some pretty rough times right now, so it's a challenge to remember to count my blessings, and sometimes I forget. As a very kind gesture, a friend on Facebook suggested a book on clearing money blocks to help us move what feels like not just blocks but a freakin' brick wall keeping the money out of our reach on the one side and keeping the bills piling up on the other. The book starts out in the first chapter with instructions on keeping a detailed record of every single incoming penny. Everything. Even if you find a penny on the sidewalk, you record it. The reason for that is to force yourself to see that there is usually some kind of money coming in most of the time, and remind you to be grateful. True gratitude, and the ability to express it, is in and of itself a blessing worthy of being counted.

So the first week, I did exactly as the book said: I wrote it all down. It wasn't until after the week was up that I realized just how much had actually come to us. For example, I received a card in the mail from my cousin, and she had tucked a gas card in with it. I wrote that down. The local grocery store gives what they call "fuel perks" for buying specific items every week, and that week it just so happened that not only was every item issuing fuel perks on the list of stuff I needed, but it was also on sale, and I received 40 cents off per gallon for gas. I wrote that down. Someone saw our Wishadoo Wishlist and sent us some money. I wrote that down. My cousin (the same one who sent the gas card), paid for the storage facility where we're putting Mama's stuff from her house we're cleaning out. I wrote that down. She also loaned us some money to pay our gas bill. I wrote it down, even though I'm paying her back this week. There were a few other things -- found $20 in a jacket pocket, and if it hadn't turned chilly enough to need a jacket I wouldn't have found it until autumn probably -- loose change that I quickly put in the change jar -- that type thing. The point is, it really did help me to remember to count my blessings.

Another instance, and this one is weird, but still fits, is my sense of smell. I have always had a very keen sense of smell. In fact, most foul odors repel me to a greater extent than they do most people, while most pleasant aromas I can smell more easily than most people. When we were kids, my brothers used to tell everyone the my super power was the ability to sniff out anything like a hound dog. A little insulting, but undeniably true. I've always been particularly repelled by the smell of urine, which is pretty ironic, considering the people I care for now all have continence issues, and urine is a part of my daily life. One day I was helping my mother get bathed and dressed and noticed the urine odor was really bad -- worse than anything I'd ever smelled -- and a little voice told me that was definitely not a good thing. So I made an appointment with her doctor, and sure enough, she had a raging bladder infection. She, having Alzheimer's, had no way of telling me that she had symptoms. If I hadn't noticed the change in the smell she may have ended up in the hospital. Again, counting the blessing of having a sensitive nose.

Now I'm going to work on making the connections with other events, circumstances that, on first glance, seem much less than pleasant, and turn them into blessings so that I can count them and write them down. It's a good day for it. Chilly and rainy outside and we're indoors, warm and dry. Blessing to you all, and thanks for reading my blog.

(Admin edit to add link to Wishlist post)

CAN YOU LIST SIX "BIG ISSUE" PRIORITIES BASED ON WHAT YOU VALUE?

wishadoo — Thu, 02 May 2013 15:21:47 +0000

CAN YOU LIST SIX "BIG ISSUE" PRIORITIES BASED ON WHAT YOU VALUE?

It's too easy to become overwhelmed by the plethora of critical issues Humanity faces, and what we as individuals face each day in our own lives. More and more of us are struggling to survive, fewer are thriving.

People turn away because it all feels too much, too BIG; they feel helpless, then hopeless.

We need to re-evaluate our priorities as individuals, as a society, as nations, don't you agree?

Perhaps answering this question is easier if you literally list what – and who -- you value most in your everyday life.

There are so many critical issues requiring attention in the world, it seems we must triage our situation, nationally and globally.

Let's begin here, together, to narrow the focus. Let's share our personal views and values, from our perspective: the average citizen. We can be thought leaders, too, right?

Along with listing what you feel are the most pressing problems, if you have any ideas or know of potential solutions (or organizations working on it), please share.

If you would like to be part of an ongoing conversation regarding identifying and prioritizing our values, and having a dialogue regarding how to put these values into action in practical ways in our daily lives – starting wherever you may be – please contact me to let me know.

If you're ready to dive in right now and be part of this conversation, you can join us HERE, a group created for this purpose at Wishadoo.

I'm a Human Being

wishadoo — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 12:22:35 +0000

The video shown below of Ronald Davis is from July 2012 (refresh page if it doesn't display immediately). The online community is trying to find Mr. Davis but, as yet as far as I know, no luck. There have been scammers setting up online fundraisers saying it's for him, but they've been discredited as being just that: scammers.

I'm posting this because this applies to SO MANY PEOPLE...people down on their luck in myriad ways, with others judging them harshly without knowing their story.

We rarely know another's story. Not really.

So, in my most humble yet sincere opinion, we would do well to remember that, above all else, the stranger we encounter along our path who may be asking for our help in some way is a human being.

We need to be mindful of The Golden Rule.

It doesn't mean we are horrible people if we're cynical, but we must remember our Humanity, and see the Humanity in others. Maybe we can take the time to learn more about their story before making assumptions and judging others harshly.

I Choose Hope.

Angela — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 13:20:56 +0000

I'm so happy the past week is that very thing: The Past.

Some folks have said that historically the 3rd week of April tends to be tumultuous, and some of our worst tragedies have happened during that week. Columbine, Waco, Oklahoma City, VA Tech, and Abraham Lincoln's assassination are the few that stick out in my mind, although I know there are plenty more.

So what's the deal with April? What's the deal with the 3rd week of April, particularly? Is it Seasonal Affective Disorder? Not sure how that would make sense, because the days are actually getting longer, so people should be feeling better. Is it Tax Day? I can see how that could send people over the edge, but again, it doesn't explain much. Pollen maybe? It's been pretty miserable this year in our part of the country, so who knows? Astrological? Well, we are in the astrological sign of Aries, a fire sign, ruled by Mars, the God of War. Aries is a time of boldness, aggression, etc., so who knows? That could possibly explain the non-man-made insanity that's happened in April such as this week's earthquake in Iran/Pakistan and the explosion in West, TX (although, you could say that one was man-made, in a round about way).

Regardless of the reasons for the mayhem, and amidst the confusion, both intentional (political pundits with their own agendas) and unintentional, I noticed something that gave me hope, and that is compassion. Compassion for the residents of that small town in Texas -- those who were killed, injured, or rendered homeless, as well as those who are left to pick up the pieces and rebuild. Compassion for those affected by the Boston Marathon explosions: victims and alleged perpetrators. Of course we're going to feel for the victims. Only a heartless individual would read the stories of these individuals and not be affected by them.

The difference I've noticed this time, however, is people feeling compassion for the two men accused of setting the bombs in Boston. Especially the younger brother, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev. Every time I see his photo, all I can think is "what happened to that kid?" By all accounts, he was a good kid, brilliant student, life guard, nice guy, and looking at his photo, I see that. How does one go from good kid/life guard/honors student to doing what he and his brother are accused of doing? How does that happen? My heart breaks for this family. His parents, clearly distraught, insist that their sons are good people who have been set up. I don't know about that, but I understand why they would believe it. No one wants to think their children would commit such atrocities. Totally understandable. Were they set up? Perhaps used as pawns by other more nefarious factions? I don't know.

All I do know is many lives have been torn apart, including the lives of these two young men and their families, and I'm starting to hear more and more people ask why. I'm hearing more and more people ask how we as a society could have prevented whatever it was that drove these brothers to do what they allegedly did, and that, amidst the tragedy, gives me hope. This compassion and questioning is the first step in becoming a true Community, and community begets empathy, and empathy begets kindness, and so on, and so on, ad infinitum.

I feel that we as a country, as a collective planetary society, have turned a corner and found our soul, and that gives me hope.

The Simple Act of Validation & Acknowledgement

wishadoo — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 13:29:46 +0000

When you can spare five minutes, please use it to watch this touching video. It shows interaction between Naomi Feil, who developed what she has termed Validation Therapy for older people with cognitive impairments and dementia.

In this video she is administering Validation Therapy to Gladys Wilson, an elderly Alzheimer's patient who is non-communicative. The basic principle of the therapy is the concept of validation or the reciprocated communication of respect which communicates that the other's opinions are acknowledged, respected, heard, and (regardless whether or not the listener actually agrees with the content), they are being treated with genuine respect as a legitimate expression of their feelings, rather than marginalized or dismissed.

Don't we all crave such acknowledgement and validation? Don't we all deserve this?

This need isn't limited to those who are elderly or sick or suffering in some way. Indeed, I believe needless suffering is often created as a result of the lack of validation and acknowledgement by other human beings.

To be acknowledged is to be seen, to be heard. We can acknowledge another person with a simple smile or greeting rather than look beyond them as though they do not exist.

Whether it is a loved one, a friend, a co-worker, a neighbor, a clerk or server, strangers on the street or the bus, validate their existence with a hug, a smile, a "hello" or wave, or simply make eye contact. Acknowledge that you see them.

Truly listen when others speak, rather than formulate your reply without hearing them. Acknowledge that you hear them.

The simple act of validation and acknowledgement can change lives, and it's something every single one of us has the ability to do when we encounter another human being.