Facing difficult times in your life sometimes
makes you see how precious it is to live. Don't wait until the difficult
presents itself to recognize that everyday is a blessing. --JW
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Friday, April 26, 2013
CREATE YOUR HAPPINESS
If you want forgiveness, you must first be
forgiving. If you want understanding, you must first understand others.
If you want to good people in your life, you must first be a sample of
goodness. If you seek happiness, you must first find your peace. --JWThursday, April 18, 2013
THERE IS ALWAYS A WAY
If there is something that is important enough
to you you will find a way. If a path you're on is blocked, look for
another route. trust yourself and your God given abilities. Just because
something didn't work out like you wanted, doesn't mean it won't work
out. Stand up and embrace the responsibility to move your life onward.
And whatever may come, there is always a way. --JW
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
CHASE YOUR PASSIONS
I've learned many things over the years but
one thing I always remember is never to chase money. If you choose to
Chase Opportunities...Chase Experiences and Chase Your Passions, the
money will follow. --JW
Thursday, April 11, 2013
BE STILL AND YOU WILL HEAR
We all are here to live an abundant life. If
you learn to be silent sometimes, relax often and take it all in then
eventually all the pieces will fall into place. Until then laugh at the
confusion, live for each moment and embrace your place in this life. -JW
Warning Signs of an Emotional Affair
If you're worried you, or your spouse, is getting sucked into an emotional affair and you want to know what warning signs emotional affair are, read on.
An emotional affair can sneak up on anyone. No one really goes looking for an emotional affair, they just find themselves feeling a connection to a person. Usually that connection isn't physical, at least not at first, and that is why it can be so easy to not realize what is happening until it's too late.
It's much more difficult to break off a relationship once you start to have feelings for the other person than it is if the relationship is just purely sexual. That's why in some ways an emotional affair can be worse than a sexual relationship.
Here are some tell tale signs that you are on the brink of having an emotional affair:
1. If you find yourself defending the relationship by saying 'We're just friends', chances are you're on your way to something more. Think about it for a moment, when you're talking about a friend who you have no attraction to at all you don't ever feel the need to defend that relationship, do you? Even in the early stages of an emotional affair, there is a part of you that knows what's going on and that's why you will feel the need to defend the relationship.
2. If you're spending time thinking about that person that is a real danger sign. Again, as a benchmark, think of one of your other friends. Do you think about them as often as this new person in your life? If the answer is no, you have to be careful of what is developing between you and your new crush.
3. Do you almost feel like your life is on hold until you're with your new friend? If you find that you can't wait until the next time you can see them or that you don't even want to go anywhere unless you know they'll be there, then there is a very good chance that what you're feeling is a lot more than just friendship.
4. If you are opening up to this person more than you are your spouse or boy/girl friend than that is another sign of a problem. Your spouse is the person you should be able to talk to about anything. If you find that you can tell this new person in your life things that you can't, or won't, tell your spouse you are getting in way too deep.
5. If you find that you are making excuses just to spend time with your new friend alone, than you are well on your way to committing adultery. Manufacturing reasons to be alone with this person is a sign that deep inside you want the relationship to be more than just friends.
If you, or someone you love, shows warning signs of an emotional affair, don't wait, take action right away. It's not easy to end a relationship when you are in love with the other person, that's why it's best to end it before it really gets started.
An emotional affair can sneak up on anyone. No one really goes looking for an emotional affair, they just find themselves feeling a connection to a person. Usually that connection isn't physical, at least not at first, and that is why it can be so easy to not realize what is happening until it's too late.
It's much more difficult to break off a relationship once you start to have feelings for the other person than it is if the relationship is just purely sexual. That's why in some ways an emotional affair can be worse than a sexual relationship.
Here are some tell tale signs that you are on the brink of having an emotional affair:
1. If you find yourself defending the relationship by saying 'We're just friends', chances are you're on your way to something more. Think about it for a moment, when you're talking about a friend who you have no attraction to at all you don't ever feel the need to defend that relationship, do you? Even in the early stages of an emotional affair, there is a part of you that knows what's going on and that's why you will feel the need to defend the relationship.
2. If you're spending time thinking about that person that is a real danger sign. Again, as a benchmark, think of one of your other friends. Do you think about them as often as this new person in your life? If the answer is no, you have to be careful of what is developing between you and your new crush.
3. Do you almost feel like your life is on hold until you're with your new friend? If you find that you can't wait until the next time you can see them or that you don't even want to go anywhere unless you know they'll be there, then there is a very good chance that what you're feeling is a lot more than just friendship.
4. If you are opening up to this person more than you are your spouse or boy/girl friend than that is another sign of a problem. Your spouse is the person you should be able to talk to about anything. If you find that you can tell this new person in your life things that you can't, or won't, tell your spouse you are getting in way too deep.
5. If you find that you are making excuses just to spend time with your new friend alone, than you are well on your way to committing adultery. Manufacturing reasons to be alone with this person is a sign that deep inside you want the relationship to be more than just friends.
If you, or someone you love, shows warning signs of an emotional affair, don't wait, take action right away. It's not easy to end a relationship when you are in love with the other person, that's why it's best to end it before it really gets started.
How To Get Over A Relationship
One of the sad realities of life is that most of us will experience at least one very difficult and painful breakup in our lifetime. Everyone, and every situation is different, there is no one size fits all solution, and despite what many will say there is no set time limit either, it will take as long as it takes. But if you want a few tips on how to get over a relationship more quickly, just read on.
I know I said there was no specific time limit, and I meant it, but if you find that you're not really living your life, you're missing work, or you're not spending time with your friends, etc, for more that a few months you might want to get some help. There's nothing wrong with still hurting or having feelings for your ex after a few months, but if the feelings are still so raw that you aren't really living your life, you may be able to benefit from someone who can help you wade through those intense emotions.
Don't ever feel uncomfortable asking for help if you need it. Going through a breakup hurts like crazy, and if someone can help you move through that pain a little more quickly, why wouldn't you jump at that?
Here are a few tips that may be able to help you find the closure you need, a little more quickly, so that you can move on and find another relationship:
1. It's OK, and even necessary, to spend a little time grieving. A breakup is kind of like a death, you've just lost the companionship of someone you've loved and relied on. That's a hard thing to do. It's important that you don't try to pretend that you aren't hurting.
While I'm not suggesting you run around crying all the time, you do need to acknowledge the pain you are feeling and not just try to bury it and pretend you don't care. If you do that the pain will not really ever go away and it will jump up and surprise you when you least expect it. You have to allow yourself time to grieve, then heal.
2. Resist the urge to contact your ex. You do have to learn to build your life without your ex in it. I know that one statement can be unbelievably painful, but it's true and the sooner you realize it and try to move on the sooner you will feel joy again and be ready for another relationship. A clean break is usually the best, in the long run.
3. In a relationship two people tend to 'meld' into one. A lot of tastes and interests can overlap to the point where it's a little tough to remember where you stop and your partner starts. That's why it's so important to get 'you' back after a breakup. Spend time doing the things you enjoyed doing before you were with your ex.
Chances are there were some activities that you didn't do as often when you were in your relationship because your ex didn't enjoy them. Those are the activities you need to spend time doing now. Not only will that help take your mind off of your ex, but it will give you something fun to do that will help you forget about your ex.
When you're trying to figure out how to get over a relationship, just remember that it will take time. I know that sounds like a cliche, but it's true. Just allow yourself time to grieve, and don't put added pressure on yourself by setting a time limit. The amount it time it takes to move on will take as long as it takes.
I know I said there was no specific time limit, and I meant it, but if you find that you're not really living your life, you're missing work, or you're not spending time with your friends, etc, for more that a few months you might want to get some help. There's nothing wrong with still hurting or having feelings for your ex after a few months, but if the feelings are still so raw that you aren't really living your life, you may be able to benefit from someone who can help you wade through those intense emotions.
Don't ever feel uncomfortable asking for help if you need it. Going through a breakup hurts like crazy, and if someone can help you move through that pain a little more quickly, why wouldn't you jump at that?
Here are a few tips that may be able to help you find the closure you need, a little more quickly, so that you can move on and find another relationship:
1. It's OK, and even necessary, to spend a little time grieving. A breakup is kind of like a death, you've just lost the companionship of someone you've loved and relied on. That's a hard thing to do. It's important that you don't try to pretend that you aren't hurting.
While I'm not suggesting you run around crying all the time, you do need to acknowledge the pain you are feeling and not just try to bury it and pretend you don't care. If you do that the pain will not really ever go away and it will jump up and surprise you when you least expect it. You have to allow yourself time to grieve, then heal.
2. Resist the urge to contact your ex. You do have to learn to build your life without your ex in it. I know that one statement can be unbelievably painful, but it's true and the sooner you realize it and try to move on the sooner you will feel joy again and be ready for another relationship. A clean break is usually the best, in the long run.
3. In a relationship two people tend to 'meld' into one. A lot of tastes and interests can overlap to the point where it's a little tough to remember where you stop and your partner starts. That's why it's so important to get 'you' back after a breakup. Spend time doing the things you enjoyed doing before you were with your ex.
Chances are there were some activities that you didn't do as often when you were in your relationship because your ex didn't enjoy them. Those are the activities you need to spend time doing now. Not only will that help take your mind off of your ex, but it will give you something fun to do that will help you forget about your ex.
When you're trying to figure out how to get over a relationship, just remember that it will take time. I know that sounds like a cliche, but it's true. Just allow yourself time to grieve, and don't put added pressure on yourself by setting a time limit. The amount it time it takes to move on will take as long as it takes.
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
DEPRESSION
I love to sleep. Why? Because my life seems to
always fall apart when I am awake. I love to be alone. Why? Because
everyone thinks I'm invisible anyway. Some people have to wonder
sometimes what its like to have someone that cares
for them. Someone to be their strength when all hope has gone. We all
face disappointments, failures and mistakes. But regardless there is
always a part of you worth keeping. Do something special to show someone
you love and care about them today! #randomactsofkindness
Friday, April 5, 2013
BALANCE
It's
ok to not feel balanced sometimes. We all fall short at some point in
our lives. You acknowledge your shortcomings and that's the first step.
Just remember that you always have the choice to take all things
steadily, to hold on to nothing, and receive each issue that bothers you
as if you had only a few minutes to live.
Thursday, April 4, 2013
By: Vickie Oliver Lawson - April 4, 2013
As I move around the area, this writer is usually intrigued by those with whom I come into contact. I met spa owner and entrepreneur, Julie Williamson, and was piqued by the myriad of interests and talents she possesses. Originally from the West Indies, this business woman now makes her home in the Baltimore area. Below is a one-on-one interview as she told me about her latest ventures, including her spa, Return to Clarity.
Q1: How do you describe what you do?
A: I am the owner of a spa center that offers services geared towards helping individuals to relax and live healthier lives. Our motto is “Make Time For Yourself”. Being in this industry has helped me to realize how important it is to balance and restore your mind, body and spirit when the pressures of jobs, family, and relationships can wear you down. Therefore, I intend to dedicate my life to teaching how rewarding yourself, making time for fun, and staying healthy can increase your happiness in your life and with your loved ones.
Q2; When, why and how did you get started?
A: I always loved books and reading so I eventually opened a bookstore in March, 2006. Shortly after that I started writing not knowing that I even had the talent or the knowhow. I began writing on a series of topics that I myself had not experienced and so it became difficult to find the inspiration to complete the book based on the fact that I hadn’t experienced the subjects I was discussing. 7 years later I would revisit this book and read it to discover that I was in fact now going through the live (sic) changing experiences I wrote about in this book that can sometimes leave you feeling depressed and stagnant. It was finally time for me to continue writing and finish this project.
Q3: Who influenced/influences you the most?
A: I have come across many people who have had positive and negative influences in my life. I have learned that no matter the situation, everyone in your life has a certain impact that allows you to grow. It’s up to you whether or not you want to grow in a positive direction. I am humble enough to say that everyone who has crossed my path has molded me into the beautiful person I believe that I am today.
Q4: What is the name of your latest project and what is it about?
A:I have recently published an ebook that I was writing for over 6 years. The book is titled Creating Your Life Plan: Practical Ways to Manifest a Life You Can Love and Enjoy. The book basically takes you through the process of realizing that you go through stages in your life that may become overwhelming at times but it’s important to remember the process of life, where you are and embracing that place. It shows you ways you can learn to take time to nurture and love yourself so that you can be balanced, at peace and live a joyful life.
A part of this book also included a relationships chapter which I have also since removed and published another book about dating and relationships. This book is entitled finding the Right Partner: How To Attract and Keep Your Soul Mate.
Both books are available for immediate purchase and download in the Amazon Kindle Store.
Q5: What's next for you?
A: I am hoping to continue a series of self-help books geared towards healthy living as well as dating & relationships. In addition, I am also in the process of writing and publishing several adult romance short stories as well as a novel. I have found since I started writing that this gift is allowing me to use my talent in many ways.
Q6: Where do you see yourself five years from now?
A: Five years from now I see myself doing the things that I most love to do and making a living from it. This is writing self-help books, writing short stories and teaching others how to live a healthier, more balanced, and joyful life.
Q7: What challenges did you experience in your area of the arts and how do you get beyond them?
A: I have experienced writers block many times. My thought process would sometimes cease and I would get frustrated because of the lack of concentration. It can sometimes be frustrating because you want to finish the project. What has worked for me is either jotting down ideas for future projects or I may start to write something in a totally different genre.
Q8: How do you want to be remembered?
A: I would like to be remembered as being a positive influence in the lives of the people who are close to me. I would also like to be known to have published self-help books that changed the lives of many.
Q9: What advice would you give to the next generation?
A: Try to not take this whole “life” thing so personally You are good enough and can do anything your heart desires. There is no place for misery in your heart and you should always strive to be a positive role model in society. There will be enough pain in your future so embrace love and happiness as it is part of the human experience. Never deny yourself of the simple pleasures in life. Get out and see the world, learn something new every day, and never forget to smell the roses. Start loving yourself now. Unconditionally.
Q10: How can people get in touch with you?
• Email: returntoclarity@gmail.com
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/getnoticednow
• Blog: returntoclarity.blogspot.com
• Author site: http://books.returntoclarity.com
Thank you, Julie, for allowing me to shine a light in your journey.
Vickie Oliver-Lawson, Baltimore Arts Education Examiner
Vickie Oliver-Lawson is a retired educator, wife and mother of two. The Baltimore native is an alumnus of Morgan State and Loyola College. She is listed among "Who's Who in the East and "Who's Who Among Business and Professional Women." Vickie is a member of The National Association of Negro.GET EXCITED ABOUT LIFE
If you’re not as excited about your life as
you want to be, increasing the joy in your life is something that you
can take control of. Think about the things or people that motivate,
inspire and energize you. If you don’t
have such people or things you MUST get out and learn new skills and
engage in activities that have personal meaning. You must also learn to
stop the drama, allow emotional flow, consciously breathe, practice
optimism, happily choose joy and follow your bliss. And don’t worry
about what other people are expecting from you. Only you have to live
with your decisions.
LOVE
Love is at the center of our existence. It is
an essential point of supply that gives us fortitude and guidance. It is
an overpowering fascination and chemistry for a person, a place or an
idea. I allow myself to love deeply. I show love
through random acts of kindness. I accept and value the people in my
life that deserve my love. I make time for myself and do the things
necessary that enables me to be at peace, find joy continue to love.
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
COMMITMENT
DEVOTION: When you devote yourself, you commit
to something you care about deeply. It drives you to passionately focus
on that purpose. Recognizing what is worthy is the first step to our
devotion. What captivates you so completely that you cannot resist,
knowing that it is truly yours or yours to do? Today is Commitment Day!
Ask yourself...What is your "YES"?
-Julie Williamson
Monday, April 1, 2013
APPRECIATE
When you take the power of "what if..."
seriously, you will embrace the power to construct your own blueprint.
Small adjustments to our character and demeanor each day can create a
major difference in our appreciation of life. On the outside,
nothing changes. At the same time, absolutely everything does. Use your
awareness or your imagination to bring happiness to this moment. Find
something to appreciate. Continue this as often as you remember to do
so, and you will alter your world.
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