Good Global Citizen

Jamaican Parasailing

2012-02-15T09:30:00.000-05:00

Parasailing! I was just thinking about how much fun it wasthat summer day when my husband and I took to that aeronautical adventure. Wewere spending a tranquil week in Jamaica, lounging on the beach, watching longsunsets, and keeping our eyes on the ocean. That beautiful turquoise water in BloodyBay is mesmerizing. As pilots, we knew we had to see it from above.

We had been watching the parasail boats sail by. They kindof trolled along the shoreline soliciting customers. Then they took luckypeople airborne in colorful parachute clouds. We waited about a day and a halfbefore venturing out to meet them. We took sixty dollars with us and waded outto the boat. More than waist-deep in crystal blue-green water, we bargained withthe boaters for a tandem flight. Since we only brought three twenties with us,we clearly won that negotiation. There weren’t any other customers and it’shard to say no to cash in hand.

Jeff and I boarded the boat and one of the sailors helped usinto our harnesses and checked the lines. The equipment seemed sturdy enough,the company logo and phone number were printed on the outside and inside of theboat so we knew this wasn’t a kidnapping scheme (I worry about things likethat!), and frankly I was more worried about Jeff dropping the camera mid-sailthan I was about an accident. And bonus: there were no power lines in sight and we both can swim.

Unfortunately there are accidents that happen. A passengeron a Celebrity cruise ship was killed and her daughter was injured in earlyNovember while parasailing in St Thomas. Celebrityis no longer offering that shore excursion. This summer there were two parasailingaccidents in Tampa Bay and onein the Bahamas.

Parasail.org has alot of interesting information, including history of the sport and someaerodynamics for us aviation enthusiasts.

Lift off! The boat powered ahead and Jeff and I gentlylifted off. I thought Jamaica was beautiful from the ground, but WHOA! Blueskies, clear water, seven miles of beach, tropical flora, and Caribbean resortsdotting the beachfront all got smaller as we ascended. The sun was warm on myface, and then suddenly it was quiet. The breeze gently interrupted thesilence, but I could hear Jeff laugh with pleasure.

All I can say is that the view, as always, is better fromabove. I can’t wait to go again. A friend of mine just went hang gliding inBrazil. That looked amazing and is something I definitely want to try… alongwith ballooning, soaring and getting a helicopter license.

So I say- be informed. Know what you’re getting yourselfinto, pay the right price (for you), never go alone, and be adventurous. Haha,that’s me: bold with limits.

Spices From Dubai

2012-02-12T18:52:00.000-05:00

Rows and rows of aromatic spices were a wonder for the eyes, the nose and my mind. Each burlap bag was a zesty sensation. It was all so beautiful and inviting.

Snow in a Quiet World

2012-01-14T17:59:00.001-05:00

The snow is falling like cotton balls from the sky. It's heavy and wet. The layer sitting on top of the grass is soaking into my old running shoes as I stand there in the silence. My feet are wet. But I have to stand there, still, as I wait for my black lab to sniff the ground.

My old dog is blind and arthritic. She doesn't move very fast and cannot see anything at all. I wonder if the blanket of heavy silence brought on by the snowfall is like the blanket of darkness that is the world my dog lives in. My sweet old lab- she just stands in one spot until it is all sniffed out, then takes a few small stiff steps and sniffs that area.

I'm not even cold as I watch her. She has such a small world now. My world was small once, and simple. I only required my basic needs to be met. But now I've seen the world, and have vivid, cascading, billowing thoughts rushing through my head all the time. I don't know if these urges make my world complicated or exciting. But I'm enjoying this serene moment just standing here with nothing more to do than walk my dog, leading her a few feet at a time, steering her away from walls and curbs, keeping her on the snowy grass, and just listen to the silence. I stand here in the grey cloud enjoying the heavy atmosphere.

Budapest's Chain Bridge

2012-01-02T22:29:00.000-05:00

Conceived and constructed over 10 years starting in 1839, the Chain Bridge is one of Budapest's best loved points of interest. It was closed for widening in the mid 1910s, and then was destroyed by the Germans in 1945. Only the pillars remained after WWII. Rebuilt in its original image, slightly altered for modern traffic and technical reasons, the Chain Bridge is an image I'll hold dear after our beautiful visit this past fall.

Souvenirs...Memories

2011-12-25T23:18:00.001-05:00

Souvenir is one of my favorite French words. It literally means "remember" or "memory". And it means something different and personal to everyone. For me, the Christmas season is a great time of memories. My husband and I (continuous travelers- for work and for joy) collect an ornament for every destination we visit. It is the most fun thing for us to unpack our memories each year as we hang them on the tree. We laugh for hours and hours as we retell stories of that huge heavy parrot ornament from Barbados, the Santa in a canoe from Maui, the Virgin Mary emblem from her home in Ephesus, Turkey, and all of the cruises, towns and people we have experienced along the way. Then the entire holiday season we can reflect on the meaning of the season, the importance of our time together, and our bond in life and with travel. We love our global adventures. I hope you all have some great memories of your own. Always bring yourself a souvenir to accompany the memories of you travel. Peace!

Bacar: a Tapas Enclave in the Heart of Hong Kong

2011-12-19T14:02:00.000-05:00

Tucked neatly along the elevated pedestrian walkways and escalators of Hong Kong's SoHo district is Bacar wine and tapas bar. I was delighted to stop in here for a leisurely Saturday brunch.

I sat at this table right on the edge of the restaurant so that I could have a good view of the people walking along outside and still be in the restaurant atmosphere inside. It was a sunny cool day, just right for an open-air brunch. Here's the view inside and outside, right from my table:

Inside, the cafe has an elegant feel with a good selection of wine and tapas. But the brunch menu was too good to pass up, so I stayed on that menu. Brunch begins with your choice of bloody mary or prosecco. The prosecco was a soft bubbly start to the meal. The glass was tall and very thin, making the delicate flavors swirl perfectly as you drank. I ordered the artichoke and pancetta quiche with side salad. I loved the crispy, flaky crust surrounding the spiced egg and artichoke center. And when you least expected it, a piece of pancetta would pop with flavor in your mouth. Tropical fruit salad was rich and decadent in comparison to the balsamic dressing on the salad. This was definitely a meal to savor slowly, watching the pedestrians hurry by with their holiday shopping bags.

A Trip Around The World (Part 4)

2011-12-17T16:32:00.000-05:00

In the distance we could already see the skyscrapers of Dubai, Palm Island and The World. We made our descent north of the city, made two right turns and landed to the northwest. This viewpoint put the Burj Khalifa to the front of the aircraft on my side, and it was a sight to see the entire way down final. Later that night we sat outside the Dubai Mall admiring the view of the Burj Khalifa and the dancing water fountains. There were lots of people out to celebrate the 40^th National Day, the anniversary of the UAE’s collaborative government. To celebrate, we took a trip up to the viewing platform of the Burj Khalifa. We waited for our elevator in an interactive room where you could touch the displays and learn about the construction of the building and compare tall buildings from around the world. A group of men and boys danced to traditional music as we waited. We boarded the elevator to the 124^th floor and ascended at 10 m/s. I stepped out into the night air and saw the city lit down below me. It was quiet, and the multitudes of lights made the city stand out in high definition. Viewing devices let you compare daylight, night and historical views of the city. Above, you could see the rest of the tower stretching high above us. Interestingly, the lights let you peer into some of the windows above us, and it looked like there were several floors still unfinished, as occupancy has to be tough in this economic environment.

The next day I took the metro to the Mall of the Emirates. Watching people ski was fun, and a meal of lamb kebobs and lentil soup completed the shopping trip. Of course I was looking for chocolate from UAE. I’m a big chocoholic and it’s fun to experience the local hunt for chocolate. I found a few things to buy for myself and send to some friends. In the evening, we went to Barasti Bar on the Dubai marina. The waiter told us that earlier that day there were 6000 people on the beach there to celebrate National Day. Fortunately, we missed the crowds! After dinner we walked past the Fendi Racing Team’s powerboats. Still trailered, these magnificent, shiny vehicles looked like amazing machines. I just stood there and admired the engineering. They were beautiful.

I left the next morning after a stop at a little pastry shop. I had an excellent latte and muffin- the perfect comfort food to start me off for another day of travel adventure. There’s nothing better than a smooth (hot!) soy latte and dry oat bran muffin in the morning. Yum.

Back to Germany! The trip went fast, as we were occupiedwatching the 747 slowly overtake us, 2000 feet above and .02 mach faster. Heslowly joined our airway from the left and then passed us slowly overhead.Contrails from the numbers 1 and 4 engines spun up and inboard between thecontrails for numbers 2 and 3 engines. Between that sight above and thebeautiful landscape of Iran, Turkey, and Eastern Europe below us, we set downfor approach to Cologne in no time.

It was lightly raining, getting cold, and the cloudydarkness hid any view of sunset. Security at the airport was heavier thannormal. I couldn’t believe how many police cars I saw patrolling the ramps andentry points. I didn’t know that we were landing in Cologne Bonn the same timethat Chancellor Merkel, President Karzai, Secretary of State Clinton anddelegates from 80 countries were gathering in Bonn for an Afghanistanconference. What an interesting coincidence of global action happening allaround me.

Between all of that action, the several business meetingshappening in our hotel, and the packed Christmas markets happening in thesquares surrounding our hotel, I needed to spend some alone time. Early thelast morning, I set out for a run. I bundled up in my warm clothes (…ok, I puton anything that was still clean in my bag) and headed out into the crispmorning. Down the stairs to the Rhine River, headed north, a turn westward towardthe train station, then through the shop-lined streets. I navigated from churchsteeple on the horizon to church steeple on the next horizon. And thensuddenly…I was lost. Ugh. I’m usually pretty good with navigation, but I hadgotten so swept into my own thoughts and the freedom of my music and therunning. At first, this was liberating, to have no ties and lots of time tofigure it out. But then the cold started to set in and I needed to ask fordirections to get back to the hotel. And because of the extra time, I missedlunch. Fortunately, the agenda called for a walk through the Christmas markets,a spin through the Cologne Cathedral and a piece of Apfelstrudel at CaféRichard overlooking the Cathedral façade. The Apfelstrudel was amazing- crispylayers of cinnamon pastry between layers of warm apples, swimming in hotvanilla sauce and topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar. It was theultimate comfort food. I finished with a dry cappuccino. It was a decadentsnack.

After nearly circumnavigating the globe, I had one lastexciting tour before the final leg home. Right in the middle of Cologne, on thebanks of the Rhine River… TheChocolate Museum. (!!!cheer!!!) I couldn’t wait to see this chateau. It wasan overwhelming 3-story space of the history of cacao harvesting, globallogistics, craftsmanship, sustainability, marketing and culture. It was worthyof its own review and I’ll write about that soon. To remember the event, I madea few purchases at the gift store. Of course!

Late that night, I boarded the flight home. We flew westwardon a northerly route over Greenland. We landed in the states at the same placeI departed from nearly two weeks earlier. And then I was home. I love cominghome. It balances me as much as traveling does. Being a Libra, I need thisbeautiful balance. So I’m enjoying a week at home, and then, I’m headed to Asiaagain next week. There’s always something to look forward to.

A Trip Around The World (Part 3)

2011-12-15T16:11:00.000-05:00

I spent the next day resting. The hotel has a huge buffet breakfast, complete with a hanging honeycomb for fresh honey. I’ve written about it before, but it’s so memorable that I wanted to mention it again. I intended to go to the gym, but the hotel had lost power four or five times that day so I didn’t want to go flinging off the treadmill when I least expected it. So I worked out in my room and enjoyed watching the international news on the BBC, CNN international, and RT. I have to say how informative and interesting the international news stations are. It’s such a contrast to the US, where we seem to focus on repetitive stories (mostly about political entertainment, as I like to call it). Internationally, English news stations have a much broader reporting on global weather, major sports (especially rugby and soccer), Asian business, the Euro zone financial issues, African issues, conservation, music, art and global politics. It’s fascinating and I always have one of those channels on in the background. RT is definitely my favorite.

Upon checkout, I perused the art display in the hotel lobby. Several vibrant pieces were on display from local artists. They were colorful paintings of women working, leading and serving. There wasn’t any information about the theme or focus of the exhibit, so I was left to fabricate my own story about each picture. I’ll let you do the same- they were beautiful. I would love to give credit to the artists, but I simply don’t know who they are.

We rode to the airport in the afternoon rush hour traffic, and when we finally arrived, we found that there was extra security in place. We had to navigate an extra screening point and packed arrival areas filled with confused and frustrated passengers. THIS part is the same all over the world! After a preflight, we lifted off from Almaty and ascended to the north in order to avoid the Tian Shan Mountains immediately south of the airfield. It’s a wonderful sight- just another thing to have respect for as a fragile human being.

Next stop: Warsaw. We continued west around the back side of the world. Daylightflying makes the trip go quickly. There’s a lot to look at and talk about withthe landscape and country borders going by underneath us. Poland was just aquick stop this time and we pressed on immediately for Germany. We landed rightas the sun was going down. It’s always great to land just in time for dinner.The Christmas markets are in full swing in Cologne, and they were closing upfor the night. The next day before we left, I had time to walk through one ofthe markets for a quick peek. I knew we’d be back in a couple of days, so Itook a few pictures and just enjoyed the atmosphere. People casually strollthrough the wonderland, stopping to chat with vendors, enjoying bratwurst,waffles and Gluhwein outside despite the chilly evening air.

Headed east to Dubai, I watched the morning sun rise overHungary. By the time we were overhead Bulgaria, the horizon was fully neonorange. In the wintertime, the crisp atmosphere supports such vibrant colors. Iwatched the blackness overhead give way to deep blue as we traversed EasternEurope. We flew southeast and I had my first sights of Iran from above. Thelandscape was more mountainous than I had envisioned. I’m fascinated that Iranis one of the world’s most mountainous countries in the world. The terraintopped 14,000 feet in some areas that we overflew and it was truly spectacular.I could see erosion lines across the vast ridges and pictured glaciers emergingand receding for thousands of years until the climate finally gave way totoday’s landscape.

And then finally the mountains and deserts gave way to the Straight of Hormuz.Small islands dotted the water, and I found out later that Kish is a tourist destinationand one of the 10 most beautiful islands in the world. Abu Musa is an island entangledin a territorial dispute between Iran and UAE. Sirri is basically an oilplatform island that’s rebuilding after being a target in Operation PrayingMantis in 1988.

A Trip Around The World (Part 2)

2011-12-13T16:00:00.000-05:00

Early the next morning we set off to the airport for aflight to Seoul then Almaty. I wish we had more time in Seoul, but we don’teven leave the plane. They bring us fuel and cargo, meals and flight paperwork.We can get everything done without even leaving the seat, thanks to a littletechnology and a great ground support crew. It was a dreary day in Korea withlow ceilings and grey skies. I’ll have to come back someday as a tourist when Ican really spend some time enjoying the culture and researching the history.Knowing a country is always easier when you can talk to residents, walk around,eat, shop and take pictures.

After the groundwork is done, we taxi out for takeoff. Thetakeoff is my favorite. A miracle happens here- the fusion of aerodynamicscreates the ability to fly heavier-than-air craft, and this awes me every time.Theflight westward from Seoul, across China to Almaty, is beautiful. I canhardly peel my face from the window. The desolate landscape looks like thesurface of the moon. Different colors of brown and grey are populated bymountains and craters. At times the mountains top 20,000 feet and tips peek outfrom the scattered clouds below. We fly a route that I imagine mirrors the SilkRoad. Indeed, our airways are aerial trade routes carrying passenger and cargoplanes high above the ancient routes of similar commerce.

The ceilings are low in Kazakhstan that day. The AlmatyTower (at 1219 feet tall) sits on top of the Kok Tobe Mountain and is the onlystructure visible down below. We descended carefully and on course through thecloud layer and emerge below right on final. It was cold in Almaty, and when wedrove into town, it felt like the holiday season. Almaty was decorated withsparkly trees along the roads and tons of banners welcoming in the year 2012.The Christmas and holiday decorations were everywhere, and they wereparticularly beautiful because they were heavy with ice fog and snow. TheChristmas lights gave a warm glow to snow capped trees. The run-down town isnot modern, but it was certainly shiny that night.

We braved the frosty weather for a 10-minute walk toEntrecote Restaurant. Entrecote’s European atmosphere and Western/Kazakh mealsmake it a good choice for a weary global traveler. It looks a little out ofplace in the dull winter landscape. You walk through a large brick archwaywalking the red carpet like a movie star and enter a courtyard filled with firtrees and picnic benches. Then you walk up a set of stairs towards the massivelyoversized double wooden doors and enter another world that looks like a Germanbrewpub. The waiters and waitresses are friendly and speak English, and themenu is in both Kazakh and English. Warning: the vodka selection is only Russian- and these are brandsyou’ve never heard of. Since vodka is deceivingly inexpensive, you don’t knowwhether you’re getting “good” vodka or lead. I chose to skip it altogether andstick to the small selection of wines (one from Chile and one “house brand”-neither very good). Entrecote has a large menu, but the typical fare is“shashlik”- skewers of meat from the animal of your choice (chicken, lamb, cowor horse). Yes horse. There are a lot of horsemeat dishes in Kazakhstan. Thewaitress brought garlic bread to the table. It was rich. Slices of bread werecoated in a garlic and herb mixture and then deep-fried. They were greasy andrich. It was like eating a huge, fresh, hot crouton. It was great to walk backto the hotel after that meal. By now it was entirely dark and the air wasfrosty. You could see the ice crystals floating in the air- just hovering andwe felt like we were in an ice cloud. This made the snow-coated trees seem like3-D images. Most of the trees were illuminated with Christmas lights andoversized ornaments. They glowed in the ice fog. There were holiday decorationseverywhere. It was a beautiful contrast to the daytime bland grey wearybuildings.

A Trip Around The World (Part 1)

2011-12-11T15:59:00.001-05:00

I am traveling around the world. This is a journey that most people who do it for a living take for granted, but fills me with wonder and awe. Aviators lovingly referred to as “a Magellan trip” after the explorer, and I have done this global circumnavigation once before. The last time I went east, and this time I’m headed west.

My trip starts, as do many travels, in the middle of the night. Of course, being an optimist and a morning person, I like to refer to it as “really early in the morning”. I slept half way to Alaska and conquered a good chunk of the book I’m currently reading, The Geography of Bliss. The author and narrator, Eric Weiner, is on a journey to different parts of the world to find out where and why people are happy. It’s the male version of Eat, Pray, Love in a sociological rather than psychological focus. I’m not quite finished with it, but I suspect that he will find that happiness is in the journey if he’s at all as sharp at journalism and global experiences as he appears to be. Regardless, it’s a perfect exposition to absorb during a travel adventure.

I lay over in Alaska for only a few hours. It’s dark much later in the morning here in Anchorage. The snow crunches under my feet as I walk out on the ramp, and I take my first breath of chilled air this winter season. Fortunately, the sun comes up before we take off. The mountain ranges in the background set a spectacular landscape, and I was glad to take a few pictures. I even caught the silhouette of our jet as we lifted off to become airborne en route to Asia.

For late November, Shanghai feels like spring. In fact, it’spositively warm after my morning stop in Alaska. From the Shanghai airport,it’s about 30-45 minutes to the hotel. The air was clear and I was excited to catchviews of the Shanghai World Financial Center, Jin Mao Tower and the financialdistrict as we got closer to the city. The Pearl Tower particularly fascinatesme, so it was great to see it in person. Great architecture is artistic, andShanghai has some buildings worthy of pictures and appreciation. It was onlymid-afternoon, but we were hungry so we walked to a nearby restaurant. Then Istopped for a reflexology massage to get my traveling feet in shape for thejourney, but afterwards could only think of getting to bed. The time zones anddate line crossing are starting to get to me and I need a good night’s sleep(in a bed as opposed to an airline seat or bunk).

It’s 4am when I wake up- a long time to sleep consideringthe time zone. Since our scheduled “breakfast” wasn’t until about 9:30, Iordered an egg white omelet from room service. It was an interesting andcolorful dish- a row of fluffy folded egg whites next to rows of cookedmushrooms, broiled cherry tomatoes, and sautéed spinach. After that, I waitedfor the gym to open and had a good workout. It was awesome to jog, bike, andstretch out after sitting down for so long. And to accentuate the worldlinessof this trip, I’ll tell you that the television shows I watched while workingout were internationally focused as well. The first segment was about a Germanartist/designer LuigiColani, who has conceptualized aerodynamic designs for vehicles. Myfavorite was the shark-inspired airplane design of the future. It’s genius.Sharks are streamlined, fast and suited for the fluid dynamic atmosphere inwhich they live. Likewise, aircraft designers struggle to reduce drag andnavigate the fluid atmospheric. The natural universe, Galileo’s work, and alifetime of aerodynamics and design studies inspire Colani’s innovativedesigns. His engineering concepts are progressive. He pushes the limits andbelieves that one day traditional engineers will value more artistic and fluidconcepts. The other show was a travel and history program about Bhutan. It wasin French. The Bhutanese are very concerned with keeping their history andculture fresh for visitors and young people. They’re aware that these culturalmarkers are far too easily lost in a world that tries to be progressive andinventive and is quick to forget its past, its ancestry, its history andeverything that made it a valuable culture in the first place. So the two showswere a thoughtful contrast and both rich with value for the future and for thepast.

Refreshed for the day, I set out to meet some friends. Weonly had a short time in Shanghai so we didn’t wander far. But I just reallyenjoy the walking around. In Shanghai, the streets are crowded with people andthere’s interesting architecture everywhere you look. We did some shopping at amarketplace and practiced our bargaining skills. Fortunately, my friends hadbeen there many times and knew some of the shopkeepers so there was friendlybantering rather than frustrating negotiations. I came away with a few giftsand a couple of souvenirs for myself. Vivid memories of my travel destinationscome to me whenever I wear a scarf or a bracelet that I’ve brought home from atrip.

Lift Off from Anchorage

2011-12-03T00:03:00.001-05:00

Taxi out for the takeoff sequence.....

Runway alignment...

Takeoff roll...

Rotation...

Wheels up...

What the angels see...

And that is the beauty of flight.

Art in Travel

2011-11-19T22:28:00.001-05:00

I love hotel art. When I see pictures of the lobby of a hotel, it reminds me of the first time I stepped into a new travel destination. All the excitement comes flooding back and I get that wave of emotion from a new adventure. I can vividly picture in my mind how I felt when I first saw these colorful prints in the Marriott Hotel Warsaw. Local artists, yet unknown, speak to me through their collages. These images remind me of the beautiful graffiti on the sides of buildings in the streets of old downtown, the whimsical imagination of coffee shop patrons along Nowy Swiat, the sophisticated business people rushing through the hotel lobbies, and the eclectic feel to the city.

What If...?

2011-11-17T18:52:00.001-05:00

An art exhibit at the Sydney Opera House got me really thinking. The outdoor display had colorful posters of thoughts published from residents. I walked through and read every one.

People are so imaginative! There were challenging questions ranging from the odd to the inspiring. Later, I walked through town and saw "What If...?" banners flying from most street posts.

I'm so impressed with this demonstration because it's a truly peaceful, provocative, stimulating, and difficult collection of thought-provoking challenges. I had solutions for none. But I continue to ponder the possibilities of what would happen IF...

And I will contribute: "What if time was not a factor?"

So what is your "What if...?"

Watch the exhibit here. It's refreshingly beautiful.

Bratislava's Religious Beauty

2011-11-05T11:32:00.000-04:00

St Martin's Cathedral in Bratislava is a beautiful building particularly apropos to the state of events in Central Europe and perhaps the larger picture of the European and global current and economic situation. Stationed boldly on the outskirts of central Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia (the poorest country in the EU), the cathedral of St Martin was once part of the protective fortification of the city. Nearly 600 years later, it's degrading structures are in need of engineering repair. Originally planned to glorify God, protect the city and withstand the battles of time, the constant renovations are now fighting the battle of pollution, vandalism, crowding of other structures and vibrations from street traffic.

Once the official coronation church of the Kingdom of Hungary, St Martin's Cathedral is a more angular clique of buildings than the more ornate structures of other European cathedrals. From above, the structure resembles a cross/crucifix. Symbolic of the body itself, the cathedral is more intricate on the inside than on the outside. Closed the day we visited, I would have loved to visit the many interior stained glass windows, catacombs & crypts, chapels and statues.

My favorite part of the exterior, by far the most beautiful and thought-provoking, was the south edifice. This stone wing looked abandoned. It's skin is crumbling, there were holes in the walls, and there was evidence of spray paint and other careless vandalism. But the sun was setting over the center of the building giving it a soft halo. The deep red bricks poked out of the dirty concrete skin from below. The windows (that still existed) were hand painted with colorful artistic landscapes. And the whole structure stood oddly linear despite the sloping piazza behind it. I stood there admiring the beauty of this dilapidated wing while my husband took pictures. It was a beautiful sunset.

Out in front, we passed by the Star of David. This monument is a devotional to the ancient Jewish synagogue that once stood side by side the Catholic cathedral. Dating back to Roman times, the Jewish community of the Bratislava region is again reemerging. Unfortunately, the prominent synagogue no longer stands and the monument is a reminder of the culture that has been constantly accepted, rejected, welcomed, expelled, honored and disavowed too many times.

From another angle, it appeared to me that the Jewish monument and the Catholic cathedral are both symbolic of the economies of our global community- some are crumbling while we struggle to rebuild them, some have disappeared and serve as reminders of what was once great, but neither are cared for enough, at this moment or over the course of history, to have a strong enough vision into the future of what will keep us working together for a successful future. So the least we can do is appreciate the beauty of what we have now.

Girls and Their Effect on the World

2011-10-04T02:12:00.002-04:00

I'm exhausted! I'm on the last leg of an Asia trip and I'm going home tomorrow. Weary from odd schedules, long flights, busy countries, skewed sleeping and eating and exercising schedules due to wide swings in time zones (and date lines!), I sit here desperate for bed. But I find it so important to spread the message of The Girl Effect and the plight of educating and supporting girls around the world. So tonight I stretch myself for the global cause.

So in order to join the cause of blogging about The Girl Effect (check it out here), I'd like to tell you about how girls and young ladies have affected my world this past week.

Travel: I'm impressed with the number of young travelers I saw. Girls (and boys) traveled with their families and young women traveled in groups together. Whatever and however you do it, I think travel is imperative in girls' education and leads to cultural understanding, situational awareness, and confidence.

Fashion: It was interesting to see girls and young women so meticulous in their individual personal style in Asia. Gone are the necessity for labels, niches and blind following of trends and advertising. The girls I saw this week were unique and confident. It seems as if they're coming into their own fashion confidence much earlier than I did. And having just followed the end of fashion week in New York, where the dictated trends for next season appear to be metallics / sporty / color block / preppy, these Asian girls and young women rocked a clearly individual style with brightly colored sneakers (or laces) / skirts over knee-length tights / cross-body bags / layers. Travelers and young people tend to wear clothes that work for their adventures, so I trust and enjoy the fashions of the girls and women of all ages I saw on this trip. And despite womens' drive to follow fashion, the girls I saw were leading their own generation of individualism. Hey, if it works for YOU, then work it!

Law: The news-breaking story of Amanda Knox's winning appeal today is flashing across my TV right now. She is a young woman who has lost 4 years of her life locked in prison for a crime she is now acquitted of. The tragedy of Merideth Kircher's murder will live on, but now Amanda Knox has a new chance at life despite the history she must now overcome. It makes me wonder about the young women across the globe who will never have a chance at a fair trial, who are caught up in the challenges of various legal systems, and those who don't have any legal rights at all. I pray for the fair processes to unfold.

So the lessons here are that in order to be an engaging global citizen, one must foster the growth of girls. They are the genetic communicators and connectors of this world because of their nurturing, curious, intelligent and community-mindedness. They will grow up setting trends in fashion (and business and culture as well). They change the landscape of science, medicine and law. And as a female aviator and businesswoman, I know that the young ladies I meet leave an impression on me, as I wonder how the Girl Effect will evolve as girls become young ladies and women leaders of the world. All they need is a chance. Help and contribute by supporting The Girl Effect and blogging about the cause!

Av Tech Academy: Ghana's Young Women of Aviation

2011-09-21T20:57:00.000-04:00

http://www.scribd.com/fullscreen/65850676?access_key=key-1fb3unatw7g4qqb1bmo5

The Aviation for Women magazine (Sep/Oct 2011) has a fantastic article on all issues Global: sharing a love of aviation, mentoring, Medicine on the Move, Ghana, and women's issues. I applaud Patricia, Lydia, Jonathan, Melissa and their friends on this important and life-changing work.

I've never been to Ghana, but my husband and several friends have. I know they have a growing aviation community and is, as Lonely Planet calls it, a "rapidly modernizing country".

Please read this article, as it will touch your heart if you are at all interested in aviation, Africa, healthcare, or women's issues. And again, BRAVO to Melissa Pemberton, the air show performer, for bringing this issue to light. Thanks SportsGal!

Brasilia, Brazil and Animal Charades

2011-09-19T00:23:00.000-04:00

http://www.destinationspoint.com/brasilia-the-planned-city/

It’s been many years since I’ve been to Brasilia, Brazil.But I just saw a wonderful video clip of the city on the Miss Universe 2011contest so I wanted to look up this lovely city and see what’s changed since myvisit.

First of all, I’m so pleased whenever I can see a show thathighlights a little culture from around the world. We may not be talking worldpolitics and life changing experiences with the Miss Universe pageant (althoughmaybe some people or contestants have this experience), but we do get a glimpseof the background and culture of these ladies’ home countries. And that’s agood thing.

I remember that the landscape of Brazil was beautiful. The city of Brasilia is a UNESCO world heritage site. Lushand green as far as the eye can see- it’s a beautiful approach into thisinterior city that is the capital of Brazil. My favorite event was dinner at alocal charasco restaurant. None of my traveling companions or I spoke Portuguese.And none of the restaurant staff spoke English. None. So there we were- forcedto use the universal language of food. And the fun began.

Fortunately, at this type of restaurant, you are seated withbig groups and the food simply comes to you. I hope you like meat, because itwas all about the meat. Big hunks of meat skewered on four foot swords heldprecipitously by strong waiters anxious to cut you a slice of their ration. Asmany as a dozen waiters just hovered by the tables, fervently moving from guestto guest offering to shave you a slice and set it delicately on your plate.Since we faced the language barrier, the waiters got creative. The first waiterdaringly moo’ed like a cow. We laughed hysterically, and many of us raised ourhands for a slice of beef. Then the next waiter approached and clucked like achicken. More laughter. More meat. I timidly passed on the waiter thumping hisheart, but I did summon the waiter who huffed angrily like a bull (perhapsbecause he also made the hoof-scraping motion like he would soon charge at us).Soon, we were the most popular table in the restaurant and the whole staff waslaughing with us as we ventured to “ask” for certain meats by miming oranimating the animal of our choice.

Culturally, this is my impression of the Brazilians. Theywere as warm and welcoming and funny as could be to a group of random Americanswho walked into their restaurant without even the courtesy to learn “please” and“thank you” in Portuguese before we went out that night. It also goes to provewhat can be accomplished if you venture out to interact with the town you’revisiting, even without a knowledge of custom or language.

Brasilia is a “planned city” intended to provideefficiencies for business, highways and government. The planners have taken a lot of heat for their lack of warmth and human factors planning. Today, Brasiliais often praised for it’s innovative and beautiful architecture. It’s a focuscenter for business, music/arts and sports. Brasilia will be hosting the 2014 FIFA World Cup (the 2016 Olympics will be in neighboring Rio de Janeiro).

So my advice is: be a Good Global Citizen both when you travel AND in your hometown.Perhaps some foreigner is trying to enjoy your city, and all he needs is foryou to mimic a chicken to make his day.

Almaty - Just a Peek into Kazakhstan

2011-09-10T23:53:00.000-04:00

The steppes and plains of Kazakhstan in Central Asia arehome to one of the world’s newest countries. Independent only 10 years now,Kazakhstan is the world’s 9^th largest country but 64^th inpopulation. Traditionally nomadic, the Kazakhstanis are Turkic and Mongol, andnow heavily inclusive of Russian ethnicities as well. The Kazakhstanis struggleto find an identity in this modern world, constantly striving towards updatedgovernment and social progress as well as an economic base to support theirreliance on oil and mining.

I first came to know Kazakhstan as a dear friend and herfamily pursued adoption from this diverse country. I followed her blogrelentlessly and waited eagerly each day for her to post excerpts of herprogress with her new little boy, the activities of her day, and the emotionaljourney she lived. I was filled with excitement when I found out I would bevisiting the land where she spent her heart becoming a mother again.

Arriving in Almaty (meaning "apple city" for no reason) from the East was gorgeous. Thetopography of the Tian Shan mountain range between China and Kazakhstanmesmerizes. Victory Peak stands nearly 25,000’ tall. In aviation- this isdeadly. Standard emergency procedures requiring a decent to lower altitudes foroxygen availability or thrust deficiency are unavailable and alternate airwayescape route briefings are well planned beforehand. But then to look outsidethe aircraft windows and see glorious snow-capped peaks just beneath your feetis breathtaking. I said prayers of both thanksgiving and of a safe journey.

We landed safely in Almaty, the former capital (Astana nowclaims the seat of government). Security agents in official uniforms(military??) wore the largest round green hats I’d ever seen. A quick trip tothe hotel and a walk to a local restaurant shook off any jet lag I had.Entrecote Restaurant was very good- I had grilled vegetable “salad” despite theselection of skewered meats available. Perhaps it was the horsemeat on themenu, but I was happy to stick to vegetarian that night.

The next day we started with a decadent breakfast buffet including a honeycomb of dripping honey. Then we set off on a walking trek through the city. Wewere staying near the circus and the central stadium, so the walk east to theKok Tobe sky tram and amusement area was about 3 miles.

We rode the tram to thetop and had an awesome time taking pictures and viewing the city from above. Famousfor its bronze statue of the Beatles by Edward Kazaryan, there’s a mini zoo (although we only sawsome falcons), kiddie games and rides, and my favorite: the FAST COASTER (you'll have to see this on YouTube).Single-person cars zoomed around a track on the side of the Kok Tobe Mountain,accelerated by gravity and decelerated by your own personal hand brake. Ilaughed the whole time.

After snacks, pictures with the Beatles, and a tram rideback to the bottom, it felt good to walk back to the hotel. We ate dinner rightoutside the hotel in their own outdoor patio restaurant. Food preparation wasdone inside the yurt, and the kebab grilling was done on smoking grills nearby.

One of my friends was brave enough to order the horse kebab, others tried steakand I ordered lamb. It was a pleasant night to eat outside by the fountains andstatues of wildlife and nomads.

Next time- the list of sights continues with adesire to see the churches and monuments throughout the city, as well as talkto more people about their life in Kazakhstan. It was a fascinating trip, and I’mglad to have visited the homeland of my girlfriend’s son.

India and Dubai: An Educational Contrast in Global Business

2011-09-08T12:37:00.001-04:00

I was just asked about the favorite place I've ever studied. I've had some exceptional educational experiences, but I knew immediately the adventure I needed to highlight.

My Global Business MBA from Georgia Tech was such an illuminating program. It was a truly international experience, as we not only studied global issues but also traveled as part of the curriculum. There's so much to tell here, but for now I'll share just a bit of the trip.

We spent 2 1/2 weeks in India and Dubai. We researched, attended lectures and tours and met business people in one of the world's poorest countries and one of the world's richest countries, back-to-back. The dichotomy profoundly enhanced the learning experience.

These are pictures of the public laundry system in India. I watched in fascination for a long time at the volume of colorful clothes being beaten by hand in a labyrinth of cement washing stations. Up close and individually, the process is labor-intensive, crude and difficult. But overall, the system works with an efficiency unknown in the West. There is organization, attention to detail, and pride. It's a pre-industrial revolution process that simply works in this part of the world. This is a quick video from YouTube that gives a great overview.

In stark contrast, Dubai is the largest population center of the United Arab Emirates. In a visionary look at the future, the traditionally oil-based economy was slowly focused on transitioning the Emirate to a financial center, tourist destination and educational hub. Forward-looking in both technology and economics compared to India, Dubai is much more internationally focused than service-focused.

With an emphasis on architecture, shipping, real estate and land reclamation, Dubai is a world leader in global projects. The government has a determined vision on structuring their destiny. Unfortunately, the UAE, like the US, has been hard-hit by the global recession. Construction has been drastically reduced, building occupancy has stalled and economic conditions are stagnant. Time will tell if Dubai's vision of prosperity will play out.

There is great beauty and prosperous business development in both India and Dubai. Each country goes about it in an extremely different manner, and the contrasting processes were enlightening in examining global development. This trip was an extraordinary educational experience in international business processes.

All the News That's Fit to Travel

2011-09-06T21:31:00.000-04:00

All the News That's Fit to Travel

An interesting article on "Tactical Travel Intelligence".

Get your news from a variety of sources. Prepare for your travel! Be aware of the global situation before you venture out there. Be informed. And then GO! TRAVEL!

Mere Minutes in Shanghai

2011-09-04T19:01:00.001-04:00

Ah, the invigoration of a one-day stopover in a foreign city. Actually, Shanghai didn't seem all that "foreign" to me despite having never been to China. I don't know if general travel experience helped or if it was the excitement of being a power-tourist in those valuable minutes spent on this trip, but I found it easy to navigate and generally friendly to this eager Westerner.

We landed in Shanghai in the middle of the night. After a brief nap, I was ready to explore during my short time off. I met some friends and we started with a walk and a break for breakfast. I had a black bean, mushroom and soy dish that was full of flavor. It was just filling enough to get me through our afternoon of shopping.

The rain started coming down, so we ducked into the Ritz Carlton hotel lobby to hail a cab. Right then I saw the most beautiful sculpture of a Chinese fisherman. Backed by nature's soundtrack of large rain pellets pounding the pond between the buildings, this image particularly illustrated my reveries of ancient Chinese culture.

We raced through the stalls at the Market talking to vendors and comparing goods for quality. This lead to several interesting conversations about import/export issues, gray-market goods, and international business as well. Ah, the mixing of business and cultural conversation.

For me, the highlight was the short time we spent walking around central Shanghai. I'm fascinated by architecture and the lines of bold, bright buildings. I have many plans for my next trip, including temples, history lessons and some walks through parks and the financial center. I'm dying to see the Oriental Peal and the Shanghai World Financial Center buildings. I've admired the Oriental Pearl for its innovative design. It's one of the World Federation of Great Towers and I won't miss a chance to see it next time!

Warsaw's Revolution

2011-09-02T22:31:00.001-04:00

My first time in Warsaw was an educational experience! I didn't know much about the city and had only been to Poland one other time (but that was a remote location on other business). So I was very excited to see the country's largest city and a part of old Eastern Europe.

As it turns out, Warsaw's not that old. I hadn't realized how "new" the "old" city was. I'm amazed at the connection the Poles have to their storied past. It's not something we talk about a lot, but it's very interesting. Poland has been the object of possession and political posturing since inception. Located at the crossroads of east and west, Poland's history is full of intricate dynamics. Conquered by Russia, Germany, and a victim of wartime escapades for centuries, the Poles are now established in a new identity.

I'm so impressed with the modern rebuilding of the city. Warsaw is nearly completely new, as 80% of the city was destroyed during WWII and has been rebuilt in the style of its classic architecture. The buildings and streets look like old Europe, but they are only replicas that prove Warsaw's determination.

The Poles have rebuilt a modern city. Streets are well laid out and the city is very friendly to pedestrians, international speakers, tourists, photographers and shoppers. I had a great time walking throughout and viewing the city life. Warsaw springs to life with vivid flowers throughout the city. The buildings are clean and there's many musicians and shops to entertain you. I stopped for a macchiato to refresh myself before stopping at the University of Warsaw bookstore for a look around. Street art (too organized and elegant to call graffiti) and architecture occupied my walk back to the hotel.

I only spent a short time enjoying this vibrant city, but I look forward to going back and learning more about the history and culture of this "Phoenix" city.

Enjoy more pictures here.

We ARE Global Ambassadors

2011-08-26T18:01:00.000-04:00

We are global ambassadors.

I’m walking through the Shanghai airport for the first time. It is the middle of the night and a lot of people are staring at me. Maybe it’s because I’m a foreigner or maybe it’s because I’m in a uniform. But at that moment I had multiple flashbacks of every international airline crew I had ever seen in any airport at any time. I wonder what their lives are like, if they like their jobs, what kind of education they had, where their family is, and what they believed in. Then in an instant I realized that’s what all those people staring at me were thinking. And I thought how extremely blessed I am to be able to see the world and represent everything that I belong to.

I know your company philosophy (wherever you work) talks about (or SHOULD talk about) how you represent the company. When you dress that day, you are wearing the image of your company/job/personality. The way you speak and how you talk to people and how you hold yourself and the expression on your face announce to the world everything you are. You speak for your company. You speak for your family. You speak for your religion. In essence, you represent anything you claim. You are an ambassador. Your duty in life is to live your part. And you DO, whether you intend to or not.

To put it bluntly:

· ---Every pretty, graceful Korean Air flight attendant I see tells me about their company. She IS their marketing campaign.

· ---That fast food restaurant I went into that had 4 (yes, FOUR) cockroaches crawling around the floor told me about that franchise. (True story.)

· ---Any service person that answers the phone when I call IS the CEO’s vision for that company.

· ---Your personal crusade in the name of justice IS how I might view your religion/country/organization.

And there are people around you right now who travel the world. (Hopefully it’s you J ) What they see in you is what they think of (fill in the blank…) your country, your religion, your race, your gender, your company, your heritage/family… YOU!

Subconsciously I realized this some time ago. All of my company manuals have always said this. My parents taught me this. I know it. But I didn’t believe it or take it to heart earnestly. I am trying to now. I want to hold myself like I AM the personification of everything God intended me to be. I am working on this with a coach who is a wonderfully confident and gifted woman. She’s quite the image and is helping me to be whom I think I am inside.

So- are you who you think you are inside? Do you see what others see in you? Is this who you want to be? Think about it, and live the life you were intended. Others care about you, so YOU should care about you. After all…you ARE a global ambassador.

Knowledge is Power

2011-08-21T21:08:00.001-04:00

The journey of life is all about learning. To quit learning new things is to give in to mediocrity, loneliness and failure.

Think about the time when you are most productive: you are meeting new people, having a really engaging conversation with a friend, fostering your business to prosper, passing courses at a formal school, or reading something that changes the way you see the world. Your brain is engaging in new ways and you are formulating thoughts that allow you to see life in ways you previously couldn't imagine.

So what new things did you learn today?

I learned, quite accidentally, how to lock an iPhone if it is lost. Whoops. Bad experience...great lesson.

I learned that taking a day off (I mean TRULY OFF) is good for my body and my soul. (Yes, I know this is true, but it's a lesson I have to re-learn at frequent intervals.)

I learned that my body likes processed foods less and less as I get older.

I learned that I need a coach from time to time.

Below are 3 great sites for learning globally. Learn about your world, learn something new- be a Good Global Citizen.

www.gfclearnfree.org

www.globallearningnj.org

www.physicscentral.com

The Website

2011-08-07T22:25:00.002-04:00

Hello readers! Check out the new website at www.goodglobalcitizen.com. Making a few more updates, but the structure is in place. Looking forward to knowing your thoughts. Thanks for the support- see you there.

Alert! Alert!

2011-08-02T16:21:00.003-04:00

We get so accustomed to the status quo, the everyday things in life that seem so commonplace. So thankfully there are bells and alarms to alert us to pay attention.

We recently moved to a new home, and I'm still not used to the "ding" on the new microwave, the way the refrigerator's jingling alarm sounds when I leave the door ajar or the sound of the elevator chime. Similarly, I'm getting used to the warning signals in my new airplane. With each new bell tone, I look around to find what's calling my attention.

These electronics, as well as the other gadgets in our lives, make sense to us. What we don't pay enough attention to, though, are the alarms ringing in our real life. Nature calls to us to be alert. Have you ever noticed the rustling of the trees as the wind picks up before a storm? Have you heard the sound of the waves getting larger on the surf? Do you know what rolling thunder sounds like? Pay attention to the sounds the earth gives us as she changes with time and energy.

And don't forget to heed the signals in your human relationships as well. You know the grumbly sounds your friends make when they disagree with you. Your coworkers may shift their tone of voice when bad news is coming. Teachers and leaders may alter their normal conversations or patterns when change is about to happen.

The signals of change, the warnings of danger and the sounds of alerting systems are all around us. The problem comes when we fail to believe what we hear or chose to ignore subtle (or overt!) warnings. Don't be deaf to the information. Look for the differences of "normal" life and pay attention! You may prevent a dangerous situation be aware of upcoming change. Be aware- Alert! Alert!

Everything You Need

2011-07-30T20:56:00.000-04:00

'Wanting' and 'needing' are two different things. It's often hard to differentiate when you lack clarity about your situation. But here's the nice thing: You already have everything you need. Honestly, you do.

If you don't agree, then perhaps we should look at this a different way.

Everything you need is right there for you. Some people believe that God will provide. This is a positive outlook based on faith and I'm definitely a member of the "faith" team. But others have different and respectable viewpoints. We are part of a community (ecosystem, village, universe, nation, family- you name your circle of being here) that provides for us. And whether you know it or not, you provide something back to the community as well. Sometimes you get money and you provide work. Sometimes you get love and you provide support. Sometimes you get something while not providing anything today, but tomorrow you give and don't receive anything in return. You'll recognize the right balance.

Today I heard about the disciples feeding the crowd with only 5 loaves and 2 fish. 5000 were fed and satisfied. I believe this on faith. I know people who volunteer, give, work and nurture with and for others, and all they receive back is satisfaction. I believe they have their souls fed. I know "takers" who seem not to give anything at all. I know they contribute in ways I can't comprehend.

But through all the moments of satiety and starvation, all the moments of fear and laughter, all the moments of need and satisfaction- one thing is certain: everything you need is within your reach, so all you have to do is be open and see it. The Rolling Stones said it best:

You can't always get what you want

But if you try sometimes well you just might find

You get what you need

I AM SO GRATEFUL!

2011-07-18T16:20:00.000-04:00

http://www.gratefulness.org

http://www.psychologytoday.com/basics/gratitude

http://users.elite.net/runner/jennifers/thankyou.htm

http://zenhabits.net/why-living-a-life-of-gratitude-can-make-you-happy/

Why Did the Turtle Cross the Road?

2011-07-09T10:21:00.000-04:00

There was a turtle in the middle of the road today. I was out walking my dog and we stopped to see what he was doing. He just sat there. He pushed his head out of his shell, looked around, and just sat there. I'm sure the view was amazing from his vantage point, but he was about as big as a cantaloupe and I didn't want him to get run over. A car drove towards us, and I just stood in the middle of the road, with my dog on a leash, to wave the car out of the way of that poor turtle.

With the crisis averted, we found a stick to "urge" the turtle into the grass. That was one stubborn turtle. He wouldn't move. We pushed gently with the stick, but since he weighed probably 3 pounds, we had to scoop with some strength. That turtle just retracted to the safety of his shell and we pushed what now looked like a solid rock across the road and into the foliage beyond the curb. I felt badly that he scraped his belly shell all the way across the asphalt. But we got him to safety (or at least what I thought would be the turtle version of safety).

And what a great story to help me visualize the forces of nature. Sometimes, when I'm just sitting around enjoying my life, powers much larger than I can imagine start poking at me with a stick. I pull in my arms and legs and retreat into my shell while I fight against change, unpleasantness, fear, anger, things I don't want to do and issues I don't understand. And then after the storm calms, I put out my head again, and I find myself on the soft grass, among dewy flowers, comfortable, safe, and with a new view on life.

So I take away the lesson to be patient with the hard times, because it just might be the angels looking out for me when I can't see the road that I'm on is no longer safe for me.

Tangled Minds

2011-07-05T10:10:00.000-04:00

photo by be6a

We make our lives complex.

I heard that God reveals Himself to simple creatures- the animals are for His pleasure in their innocence, the children know God in their purity, nature reflects God in its beauty. All entities enjoy the simple creation that they satisfy. But only humans, in our aging and growing self-awareness, challenge their surroundings. As we age, learn, experiment, improve, build and grow, we create complexities that alter our environment. Then we invent solutions for these complexities. Then we ponder, get frustrated, rebuild, expand and change.

Yet it is in simplicity that we know God, find peace and meet our souls. We know our true self and find happiness in moments of quiet. How do we find this peace? How do we meet our higher power within (or above or around us)?

Many people meditate. Some run. Most pray. Others sing. Whether you commune with nature, hug your pets, look deeply into the eyes of your lover, hold your child or cry in the night (or all of the above), know that you can find peace within if only you can get out of your mind.

Are we not happier without the weight of the world upon our shoulders? Are we not meant to enjoy the beauty of this world? Would not our Maker want us to be happy? Are we not here for His love and pleasure? Why, then, do we let our minds weigh down with the complexities of human creation (our own making)?

Peace to you. Live in harmony with yourself and your neighbors. Untangle your mind, however you can- and be happy.

Leadership Among Citizens

2011-07-03T23:11:00.000-04:00

As the American celebration of Independence continues this weekend, I'm reminded of the fortitude of our forefathers. So many worked with undying passion to set this country on a course of independent, citizen-led government. The founders spoke of freedoms and rights and other intangible ideals that encompass what we know as the perfect United States government.

But ah, if only it were perfect. It is far from that. There are challenges of money and time, ethics and integrity, doubt and fear. Too many leaders are power-hungry, attention-seekers and complainers. Too many citizens fail to vote, criticize without solution and speak ill of the system. There is both inaction and over-reaction. We face poverty and border conflict, education maladies and obesity, discontent and recession.

All of these challenges are but a reminder of our call to action. If one truly believes in the ideals of patriotism and democracy that we celebrate this weekend, may we all be called (just a little bit more) to action. Let us serve our country (by military service, emergency service, medical service, educational service or government service). Let us voice our opinion loudly so that our community-elected leaders will know our needs and desires. Let us set a good example for children. Let us care for our elderly, our needy and our neighbors of all kinds. Let us be patriots.

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

Good Global Influence

2011-06-25T20:34:00.000-04:00

Each person has influence just by virtue of knowing other people. I hope that as you travel, you say hello, introduce yourself, ask questions, compliment, and get involve with other people. Don't travel much? Ask your friends about their journeys. Join an online community. Get involved and share your experiences and learn from others'. Read the world news. Become a part of the global community so that you might shape the future for peace and prosperity.

A View From Above

2011-03-08T10:22:00.000-05:00

Recently I studied Salvador Dali's "Christ of Saint John of the Cross." It's a captivating painting. Dali's obsession with metaphysical science is awe-inspiring. And this painting is breathtaking. Observe the darkness contrasting the light below. See the angles playing off of each other. I'm fascinated.

What a different world this would be if we all viewed our lives from above. What will we think of ourselves at the end of our life, if we look down from above upon the story we have played out. Will we wish we had done anything different, better or more? I suspect we will yearn for more human interaction, more friendships made and good deeds done.

A Small Journey into Eastern Medicine

2011-03-06T10:19:00.000-05:00

I came upon a Chinese doctor in my travels. "Nick" (now an American, he has not gone by his Chinese name in 30 years) has studied Chinese medicine and practices all of his life. Born and raised in China, he first dreamed of coming to America after he saw Richard Nixon in 1972 during Nixon's process of opening US relations with China. A brief glimpse of a passing US President opened Nick's mind to the US as well. And so many years later Nick and I have crossed paths.

This is beautiful timing for me. Feeling low on energy, pulled in the wrong directions, and contemplating change and growth in my life, I stopped into Nick's storefront for reflexology.

There are over 7000 nerve endings in the foot. With proper manipulation one can address physical issues for the entire body by applying pressure to different areas of the foot corresponding to their associated patterns in your feet. Some people don't feel the affects as much as others, but this science is amazingly effective for me. If nothing else, realize how much pressure you put on your feet every day, the quality of shoes you wear, the amount of time you spend standing, and whether your feet are swollen from dehydration, travel, stress, etc.

We discussed the differences between Eastern/Chinese medicine and Western/German medicine. While I don't think I'll be quick to try acupuncture or herbs, Nick did suggest I explore Tai Chi to focus on movement, energy, control, balance and peace. Excellent advice! I'm on my way to find out more right now...

Making It Personal

2011-03-04T19:40:00.000-05:00

Making It Personal

An amazing post by my friend Rod Machado. Rod's an experienced flight instructor. He's got an interesting perspective here about trust, professionalism and fate.
Rod's a true global citizen- he educates and entertains people around the world. Bravo Rod!

How To Be Nice

2011-02-28T22:57:00.000-05:00

Thank you a million times over to people who were nice to me this week. I am so filled with gratitude that I am compelled to share it in hopes that the universe will vibrate the goodness to others.

Write a letter of support. Someone passed on a good word about me, and it was really touching.

Fight for peace. I am honored to serve with some inspirational heros.

Volunteer. To witness selfless acts is to see the face of God in others.

Offer to be a friend. I met some amazing people and can't wait to know more about their journey.

Excel at being you. Just to watch people doing what they do best is motivation enough.

Laugh with me. Keep life in perspective.

Show me the way. We all need a hint on the path to self-awareness.

So I guess the theme here is to do what you do best: BE YOU. Be happy about it, and share it with others. Niceness makes the world go 'round. I hope to pay it back.

Peace!

5 Tasks to Help You on Your Journey to Self-Awareness

2011-02-26T10:50:00.000-05:00

1. Love fully.

Without strings. With a big heart. With all of your being. For no reason whatsoever. Everyone. Every day. And be ready to receive it back.

2. Have many friends.

You need a friend for every major event in your life, you need a friend for your day-to-day living and you need a friend (or six) who really "get" you. Smile at everyone. Talk to lots of people. Ask many questions. You will find that strangers are (mostly) nice people and that you have connections you're not aware of with people you haven't yet met. Someone out there has had the experience you're having and can help you enjoy the ride or solve the problem. And you for them, as well. It's by sharing our journey that makes it real, validates our existence and makes this world go 'round.

3. Try new things.

Repetitiveness in life gets you in a rut. How can you ever grow if you're not stretching yourself? Be bold! But be YOUR version of bold. Don't skydive if you're more the "adding nuts to my cookie batter is slightly outrageous" type of person. Just do something that gets those creative juices flowing, introduces you to something fresh or gives you a new perspective on life.

4. Venture out beyond your neighborhood.

I've met too many people who've never been out of their lifelong city. There's a whole big world out there! You don't have to buy a 'round-the-world plane ticket, you just have to be out there spiritually. Learn a new language. Respond to someone's blog from England. Order a different Chinese dish at your local place and savor the flavor. Pick a country, ocean, culture or even a planet in outer space and read about it. Be global.

5. Talk to yourself.

This is really where you clear your head. Say nice things. Sing out loud. Pray with your vocal energy. Use your outside voice. Be genuine and be yourself.

Arts & Minds - Global Citizenship

2011-01-26T16:53:00.000-05:00

LOVE LOVE LOVE Fairfield University's focus on Global Citizenship. Way to go, educational leaders! It's important to constantly get the message out- people with open minds, global awareness and curiosity and care will solve this world's problems...one citizen at a time.

Great Stories - "Bags of Grain"

2011-01-25T13:54:00.000-05:00

Previously I shared a great story about two brothers who were reunited by a carpenter. The other story I heard along with that one is equally touching- also about two brothers.

Two brothers were growing old. One had a wife and many children, and the other brother lived alone.

The first brother thought "My brother has no wife, no children- who will take care of him in his old age? I must make sure he is provided for." And that night, and every night after that, he went to his grain storage, filled a big bag with grain, and secretly took it to his brother's house to leave it in his grain storage.

The second brother thought "My brother has a wife and many children. He has much to take care of. I will help him provide for them in his old age." That night, and every night after that, he went to his grain storage, filled a big bag with grain, and secretly took it to his brother's house to leave it in his grain storage.

And so it continued for many years. One night, the two brothers met on the path. They were each carrying a big bag of grain. They smiled at one another as they realized what they were doing. From then on, neither of them ever felt their burden.

As I strive to be a Good Global Citizen, I realize that there are people, angels, and forces of which I am unaware that must be looking out for me. I, therefore, should do my best to take care of others, to be their angel, to provide care for them when they do not know about it. The difficulty lies in carrying out this mission selflessly and with longevity. And then, when I can, try to look up for my path to recognize the do-gooders who are caring for me, even if it's just through their prayers or kind words.

Be present for others. Always.

Great Stories - "Two Brothers"

2011-01-23T15:53:00.000-05:00

A well-told story can help us share the human experience. And it truly is a great art to be able to tell a story in a way that really touches people, conveys deep emotion and connects the audience to another place. That's why the Hollywood movie industry is such a monstrous machine and why excellent authors, directors, actors, producers, editors and creative support people get the recognition they do.

I heard two great stories today that reminded me of hour our Good Global Citizenship can really make a difference in the life of someone else. I will share one of them with you now.

The first story is about two brothers who were raised with jealousy, competitiveness and pride. They hated each other. After their parents died, they were left with a large plot of farmland. The acreage was so vast that they split it in two and built their houses separately from one another. The first brother hated the second brother so much that he hired a contractor to dig a ditch between the two houses. The ditch was very deep and very wide. He thought "When my brother sees this, he will know how much I hate him." The second brother, upon seeing the ditch, thought "My brother must hate me very much."

So the second brother hired a carpenter to build a tall, tall fence around his house so that the first brother would never be able to look upon him. He thought "When my brother sees this, he will know how much I hate him." The second brother told the carpenter to have the fence built by the time he returned home from a trip. After he returned from the trip, he saw no fence and asked the carpenter "Where is my fence?" "Oh," the carpenter replied, "I have misunderstood. See here? I have built you a bridge over your ditch."

The first brother, upon seeing the bridge, was humbled. He thought "My brother must have forgiven me, for he has built a bridge for which to reach me." He immediately went into town and bought his brother a cow so that he might have prosperity. The second brother saw the first brother crossing the bridge towards him with the cow. He thought "My brother must love me very much, for he is bringing me a cow." He ran out to meet his brother.

And so the two brothers embraced on the bridge.

At first I wondered which brother was I. For at times I have been both. But then I realized- should we not try to be the carpenter, building bridges for others?

Study Abroad

2011-01-21T02:52:00.000-05:00

Global Student Experience
This is a great website for learning about study abroad. These days, there are so many programs available and I encourage you to look around and see what's out there. I strongly believe that we should all have a little more exposure to other cultures, experience how other people live, and let our hearts and minds be opened by the immersion into a foreign experience. Even reading about these trips makes my world expand.

Go! Travel! Study, learn and integrate.
Peace.

An Interesting Aura Reading

2011-01-13T19:53:00.002-05:00

A Spanish gypsy read my aura in San Francisco. I was walking earnestly to have Thai soup for lunch, and out of the corner of my eye I sensed a woman staring at me. As I got closer she whispered "Your aura is speaking to me."

I wasn't surprised, as I know I have been giving off a lot of energy lately as I search for enlightenment about my life's desires. I'm not in the place of happiness and contentment that I know I should be. I can't seem to enjoy the days as I know they should be enjoyed. I have been searching and seeking. I am open to the universe. I pray. I'm listening. I'm studying. I wish I could say I was on a journey, but alas, I am wandering- hoping to find the journey on which I'm supposed to travel. Enlightenment...find me!

I'll have to save most of the details of the gypsy woman's reading for myself because it was shockingly accurate. Suffice it to say, though, that I believe my aura fluctuates, as I am constantly in action, generally energetic, easily distracted and intensely curious about, well, everything. I am a student of life- that is to say- if you have a tour, I'll go on it...if you are an expert, I want to talk to you...I love the surprise and the high of learning new things. And since I am in seeking mode right now, I'm not sure of my next direction. However, Lillian, my Spanish gypsy, was kind and reflective. She seemed to know me. She was specific and insistent. She surprised me. She didn't smile. She told me the good and the bad. And she knew that I had love in my life.

So I think that as long as I have love, my journey will turn out fine. Wherever it leads me. I just want to enjoy life along the way. And I hope the same for you.

And how does this knowledge make you a Good Global Citizen? When interacting with others, try to really hear what they are saying, sense how they feel, look at how they're moving, feel the intent of their meaning, and finally, realize that their aura can also communicate to you- if you pay attention.

Art and Its Global Message

2011-01-09T14:30:00.025-05:00

La Ronde (Picasso)

Dance (Matisse)

Street Scene in Berlin (Kirchner)

The Luncheon of the Boating Party (Renoir)

Women in the Garden (Monet)

Discovery of America (Dali)

Battle of Anghiari (Da Vinci)

What do all of these images have in common?

They are all captivating. They all say the same thing- that we are circular human beings, constantly going around and around, full of movement, full of passion, driven, and that our purpose here means nothing without one another.

President Bill Clinton - Global Citizenship: Turning Good Intentions int...

2011-01-06T15:12:00.000-05:00

JK Rowling Harvard Commencement Speech Part 1 - June 5 2008

2011-01-03T09:13:00.001-05:00

An amazing discussion on how failure creates freedom. Be YOURSELF and be bold about it!

Love Yourself Just As You Are

2011-01-01T22:11:00.000-05:00

So we advocate loving others just as they are- what about ourselves? Do we not deserve the same respect? So as the entire world embarks upon new resolutions and promises of betterment in the new year, shall WE not instead look inward and find acceptance?

Don't look back upon the past year. Don't look too far into the future. Just be YOU. Now. Here. At your best. That is arguably our biggest challenge. It's hard to say "I'm OK. I'm great...just...as...I...am." But let's do this for a moment.

The Daily Press (http://tinyurl.com/28lhl28) lists the following top 10 New Year's resolutions:

1. Diet

2. Quit Smoking

3. Exercise

4. Quit Drinking

5. Stop Procrastinating

6. Save Money

7. Go To Church

8. Wake Up Early

9. Stop Cursing

10. Read The Newspaper

And as a Good Global Citizen (being good to myself today) I say in response (yell it with me now...)

1. I want to eat to have a strong body, feel healthy and live a long life. Therefore my diet shall reflect my needs.

2. Smoke is just one of many toxins I won't have around me.

3. Strength and energy are important to me. I want to live FAR beyond the average life expectancy (which is 82.6 years in Japan, 78.3 years in the US, 67.2 years as a world average, 64.7 years in India and only 39.6 years in Swaziland). (http://tinyurl.com/yvls29)

4. Quit anything I do in excess. If I can't practice moderation then I shall practice abstinence.

5. Time is relevant. I shall meet my obligatory deadlines and evaluate why I think that time, a man-made creation, rules my life. I will honor my commitments, but I will be realistic when making them.

6. I shall evaluate my goals for my (long) life and arrange my fiscal plan accordingly.

7. I will realize that "Church" is all around me and my choice of worship is individual. As I may have been raised with different traditions than you or have found a different form of worship than you, I believe that God is all around us and part of everything that we do. I shall have more respect for that and not mark my salvation by numbers of attendance.

8. I know that every time I awake I have a new slate, wiped clean of the previous day's transgressions, stronger than yesterday, wiser than last night, filled with the rising sun and open to opportunity. Why would I want to miss one minute of that???

9. I shall be genuine and respectful. I know that what words come out of my mouth originated in my heart and my head. If they are not pure, kind and optimistic, then cursing is not my problem.

10. Yes, read the newspaper...and books...and discuss topics of interest/importance/current events...and learn about subject matter that affects my life and this world. In short- I shall be informed.

I shall take care of myself so that I may take care of others.
Peace...as well as happiness in the new year.

Direction and Decisions

2010-11-09T18:26:00.104-05:00

How do you know where you're going in life? Many people zoom ahead with no clear direction. This may be OK, depending on your circumstances. Sometimes we need to push through a tough time, we're enjoying the ride we're on or we just want to be one with the world as it passes by. And if this is your intent- then FULL speed ahead!

And what about the people around you? Your friends, family, colleagues, classmates and those unknown to you (both near and far) all are enroute as well. As you take a step forward in your life, your energy affects the momentum of others as well. The people you interact with make decisions that impact their own life- and perhaps if you have touched their life in some way you're affecting the outcome of their life as well.

We could take the easy example here and say that if you make a decision to donate to a charity, you have now impacted the ability of the charity to do work (they can do more work, buy more things or advertise more to ensure future donations of others). So someone on the receiving end of the charity benefits from your life decision -- no matter how small that decision was to you. And further, the people in the charity are also affected by your life decision (they have work to do that day and a purpose for continuing their work with that charity).

But let's look at a more subtle example. As you go about your daily life you make hundreds (or thousands) of decisions every day. Most of them are not thought out with deep intent (you drive your car, you take care of your family, you work, you play, you pray). Yes, you make some big decisions every day (for work and your personal life) but I'm talking about the casual direction you're taking your life without thinking about it. Here is some food for thought:

The food you eat. Is it organic? Is it wholesome? Is it fair trade? Will it strengthen you or tear you down? Is it filled with chemicals? Was it expensive? Does it taste good? Was anyone harmed in the processing, harvesting, or selling of that product? Is it filling a need? Do you like it? How does your choice in that meal you're eating affect the nearly 7 billion people on earth?
The clothes you're wearing. Were they expensive? Can you afford them? What is the country of origin of the products they were made from? Who manufactured it? Where? Do you LOVE it? How long will you own it? What will happen to it when you're no longer interested in wearing that outfit/shoes/bag/shirt? Does the color match your personality? Does the style match your life? How do others see you in the clothes you're wearing?
The house you live in. Can you afford it? Does it meet your needs? Did the people who built it do so with care? When you chose that house, who could not live there because you do? Did your decision to inhabit that abode, in that city, in that part of the world, affect anyone else (like the builder, the past tenants, your family, or the producers of the building supplies)?
The entertainment you choose. Is it fulfilling your needs? Was anyone harmed (or enhanced) in the production of that venue? Do others around you enjoy this attraction? Are spirits lifted by this medium (yours or the people who made it)? Does the sale of this production enhance the global economy? Are you setting the right example to your family?

So those were some thoughts about how your small daily decisions deserve a little global thought. I hope we all grow our consciousness, each day, to incorporate more thoughts about the people with whom we are connected more than one time removed. It's easier to see in things like manufacturing, economics and production, but a little more difficult to comprehend in the energy that we expend. But rest assured that even as your currency travels the globe, so too do your energetic vibes of happiness and sadness, fear and pride, love and hate. We are most definitely connected, and the direction that we choose to take our lives affects many (if not all) people on earth. Make thoughtful decisions. Live in peace.

Bonus thought: YOU are just as affected by the decisions of others everywhere.

Internalization

2010-11-07T09:03:00.004-05:00

Have you ever talked to someone who wasn't there? A friend? God? Yourself?

We talk out loud to comfort ourselves. It feels differently to hear our own voice out loud instead of in the hollows of our soul or the ringing of our brain. What's in our heart is often difficult to say to the emptiness of a room, in a voice with a purpose.

When you hear your own thoughts and your own voice out loud, you begin to accept what you are saying and convince yourself of your own beliefs. This pattern of learning is called "internalization."

There is a biological definition of internalization (when you consume your dead cells) and an economic definition of internalization (where your broker manages your spread). But the most powerful summary of this dynamic is the spiritual connection you have within yourself and amongst others of your true connection with the world. Psychologically- do you initiate a true search of your inner beliefs, your assimilation into your culture, your feelings of self-worth and your acceptance of others? Socially- do you feel at one with your community while accepting your place in the crowd? Do you fully grasp your command of presence and stir feelings of group awareness? Are you present? And content? And contributing to the cause?

They say you can't know the world until you know, understand and accept yourself. I applaud this elevated view of one's psyche.

May you strive to see yourself from the outside... while always feeling yourself and your true being from the inside.

Peace.

Reflection

2010-11-05T22:40:00.001-04:00

Ying and Yang. Hot and Cold. Power and Fear. Hope and Despair. Love and Hate. Faith and Apathy.

We live in a world of extremes. Ice falls into the abyss while hope shines above. This photo is an eloquent reach between the near and the far. Details in the present and hope high above in another plane. Sparkly lights of enchantment in front of me - the heart of the story above and beyond me - rainbows of light refracted all around me - and nowhere to go but forward.

You have to have more than one option. Remember that your faith will guide you, your future is forward, and the light of hope (that you pass on to others) is all around you.

Celebrate beautiful days. Reflect in gloomy ones. And cherish your blessings always.

Lost? Often.
Listless? Yes.
Listening? As best I can.
Loved? Abundantly.

An Argentine Waitress in France

2010-10-07T07:33:00.000-04:00

I met a global citizen - truly - and she made me smile. I will share her story so that you might smile at her freedom and lightness as well.

After a beautifully long day of touring southern France, my husband and I sat down at the tall tables of an outdoor cafe. It was time for cappuccino and reflection. We were engaged in deep conversation when the waitress finally showed up to take our order. She was a petite young woman with a big smile on her face. She offered us menus with a "Bonjour!" and a little French language as unsteady as my own. So she laughed a big laugh and said in very clear (yet Latin-tinted) English "Hello then, what may I get you?" We ordered coffee. She laughed again. This was a wonderfully giddy woman (although to call her a "woman" overstates her personality, as she was girl-like in every manner).

She took our menus and bounced up and down with excitement. "Where are you from?" she asked us- a question we had heard many times that day.

"The United States" we told her.

"Ahhh!" she nearly squealed. "They are ALL from the United States! Every one!" She pointed to her other tables on the pedestrian street. "THEY are from California...THEY are from Chicago...and YOU are from U.S. too!" Every word she said was punctuated with a bounce and a hint of Spanish. She giggled as she ran back into the restaurant. We had to laugh along with her- there was no choice. We were reflexive to her exhilaration.

Much time expired, as is the European fashion, before we were presented with 2 beautiful cafés from the passionate waitress. She dropped them with us and like a carefree child bounced over to her other tables to talk to her other Americans. She came back as if she knew us. "How do you like?" -an incomplete question as if she was already in the middle of our conversation.

"Very good" we reassured her. She clapped her hands.

"I made them myself. Not the bartender. Me. I made them for you." She wore a proud smile on her face.

Finally my husband ventured "Where are YOU from?" when he could get a word in between her bubbly broken Latin-tinted English.

"Me? I am from Argentina! I was 2 months in Mallorca before this and now I have been here only 15 days!" She clapped. "I am going to be here to learn French and then who knows? We will see!" A little hop. "I miss my family but I will move again and I will see them at the holidays and I will talk with you and practice my English! I like to speak English! It is my favorite!" Every word ended in an up beat, as if she was going to ask a question, but somehow each sentence was ended with spirit.

We learned from her that her family was still back in Buenos Aires and Mendoza (we had been- and so we talked about the beauty of that part of the world), that she had not yet made any friends here (although she referred to knowing people) but that soon she would know lots of people (and hoped learn French as well as we knew she spoke English). She had no money and did not seem tied to any possessions. She was uninhibited by foreign lands, languages or planning details like most of us are. She was truly a free spirit.

And so was the Argentine waitress, who made delectable cafés for us in Nice, who came via Mallorca and several other places before alighting upon our occasion of carefree contentment at a random street cafe in the heart of the French Riviera some late September afternoon.

Time

2010-10-05T20:24:00.000-04:00

They say it's relative.

They tell you you need to study how to manage it.

They say it flies.

Shall we look at it another way? It's a way of life- your life. It is exactly what you make of it. You control it...or rather, you control how you see yourself and choose how to spend it.

So do what's meaningful to you.

...What? No time to do what's meaningful to you? I have been there a lot. And then I realized that I'm too busy doing what I thought I had to do in order to support the things that are meaningful to me. It's all about balancing it...me. I am a Libra and therefore practice the circular balance I need in order to maintain my entity.

And now I own my time. You?

Peace!

TRUTH

2010-09-07T21:14:00.000-04:00

The actual state of affairs
How you see the world
What someone told you (someone you REALLYREALLY trust)
How it actually happened
How it actually happened to you
How it might have happened
How it should have happened
How you see the world after you know more
How you see the world with infant eyes
The most intelligent person telling the story
The most informed person telling the story
Your understanding of the facts
What you wish you knew
What you do know for sure
How sure are you?
What you're afraid to admit
What you feel deep inside
What you believe spiritually
What you've convinced yourself of
What everyone should know
That which is hardest to admit
It is what it is
What is it?

Coming and Going

2010-09-05T13:43:00.001-04:00

The long days of summer are drawing to a close and opening before us is the crisp ambition of autumn. I've watched the neighbor kids go back to school (a little taller and a little wiser) and the past few mornings have been gloriously cool. A friend just wrote about change in the air, and another friend treasured recent travels, cuisine and photography of a summer well-lived. Mostly though I'm surrounded by friends relieved to be emerging from a season overworked and overwhelmed.

Thank you to some of my soul mates who have urged an accountability for our focus. My time has not been my own, but it shall be again. Let us not fall into fall by rushing forward in haste but step into it gingerly with open eyes, a peaceful mind and a loving heart. I want to live in the here and now, like children do, where tomorrow is too far away and yesterday was but a dream. Let me live in my present!

One friend knows for sure that "It's only about today." Plan for tomorrow, give thanks for yesterday, but find yourself as you come and go and focus on the moment God has given you right now.

Peace to you today.

Climbing to the Top

2010-06-27T17:35:00.000-04:00

A friend of ours is embarking upon a new journey today. This was his last day preaching, teaching and leading at his current post. He has been reassigned to another delegation after attending another year at university. This seems like a natural progression, as he is a professional who has been at his position for many years. It would be appropriate, since he has matured at this level, that he seek continuing education in his field, study the modern science and art of his career field, and then move up another level and onto a new area so that he might have a chance to better educate different groups of people and enhance his leadership acumen.

But, oh, the turmoil that this has caused! As humans, we get set in a routine, we seek comfortable situations, we think we know what we're doing and we try to reach the top of our field. It turns out that the top of our field is only a landing, and there's a whole other flight of stairs around the corner. We just couldn't see it before because we were looking straight ahead. And about the time we realize that we need to keep climbing, it becomes evident that we need to stretch ourselves, look in a new direction, let go of what's behind us and start from our new beginning point (which is now the "bottom").

Never fear! Because we are Good Global Citizens. So we realize that this exercise is important in our own growth, vital to our learning curve and critical if we are to set an example to those who follow in our footsteps. So take the best of what you've come to be- all the knowledge and skills and love you've learned in your whole life. Take a deep breath and grab strongly onto the first grip of your next climb. You're getting stronger, and you stand on your past. Be bold.

Ten Ways to be a Good Global Citizen

2010-06-10T21:42:00.001-04:00

Read the news. Have an understanding about current issues from all over the globe. You don't need to know everything or even have great depth of the subject. Just know what's going on around you. And discuss it with someone. Sharing information and getting the opinions of others is key.
Travel. Take pictures. Ingest new cultures. LIVE in your global world. Your feet aren't rooted to the ground. (Too expensive to travel? Read about it! Watch the Travel Channel. Ask someone else lots of details about their last trip.)
Meet new people. Lots of people. Talk to people who aren't like you.
Study a new language or culture- formally or informally.
Get involved. Join a cause. You CAN actually change the world.
Take a self-awareness inventory. Find out who you are. Help others to do the same.
Be green about something. You don't have to transform yourself overnight, and you don't have to give up everything you own and do. Just make one small change today.
Pray.
Help someone. Be aware of your good fortune in this world.
Volunteer. Do something great for someone- change their life so THEY can change the world.

Mentors, Teachers and Inspirers

2010-06-09T22:14:00.001-04:00

Have you ever inspired anybody? I bet you have- without ever realizing it. The simple acts of human interaction cannot help but touch the lives of those involved. But like with anything else, it's not what you have but what you do with it.

We've already established here the power of connectivity. But how much more emotionally involved would you be if you knew a student was watching you for answers? Or someone in need was silently receiving hope from your actions? Do you think you have all of the right answers? Of course not. But you are working things out, thinking things through and reacting differently than anyone else on earth. And your differentiation is probably inspiring someone.

When I ask someone (in carefully selected situations) to be my mentor, their demeanor usually changes. They brighten up a little in voice and stature. They smile. They look surprised and flattered. Every time. I guess we don't expect to be asked to be mentors- we are usually assigned ("Here's your new trainee.") or assume that we ARE mentoring ("He works for me.").

But what if you treated every day like you were being watched? Like someone was dependent upon you to show them the way? Like you were training someone fresh to this culture how to survive and thrive? Would you do anything differently? Would you give 100%? Would you try harder?

GUESS WHAT?!? You are being watched. You are out there. You are inspiring. My friend Marie says "Be YOU." You're good at being "you." Be the best "you" you can be. God put you here to be you. So be your best "you." Because you're truly inspiring to someone. Right now.

Self-Actualization

2010-06-08T21:19:00.000-04:00

Have you ever taken a personality test? An IQ test? The Myers-Briggs? A Zodiac match? Had your fortune told? Had your signs read? Palm read? Stars aligned? Tested with a psychiatrist? Psychologist? Shaman? Dreams analyzed? StrengthFindered? 360 Reviewed? Had friends answer "25 Questions" about you? Self-actualized? Meditated? Read your horoscope? Or otherwise sought to find your center?

Of course you have! Step back now--> So has everyone else!

This missive is not about you, it's about your neighbor. Everyone you know is seeking to know themselves. We are all constantly in search of our purpose, knowing who we are inside and finding our mission in life. And when we discover a new piece of our personal life puzzle it's like the sun is shining upon us and we can see a little deeper into our "self." We, as intellectual beings, have an innate demand to search for this information about ourselves. Not a desire, but a demand. We are pulled towards it. We need to know why we are here.

Those that are at peace with themselves have enough of this information to satisfy themselves for the moment. Those that don't have a rough day (for there is no rest that day). To know thyself is to have peace. Please remember that the next time you encounter a disgruntled customer, an unsatisfied child, an aggressive driver or a difficult person. We're all just searching for the answers. Every day.

I think Gnarls Barkley said it best...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bd2B6SjMh_w

Journey well, my Good Global Citizens.

Creative Energy

2010-06-03T16:24:00.002-04:00

My background is in atmospheric thermodynamics. Loved every minute of it. Science and religion are unquestionably intertwined. It all comes down to what makes you MOVE. Do you subscribe to wave theory, spiritual power, nature in its raw being, girl power, ancient mythology or just plain hope? Whatever force makes your brain churn, your heart beat, your body move or your sixth sense heighten, be aware of your personal power.

Some say you can heal yourself. Some say that you can change the world. Some say that miracles just happen. Some say ... some say ... some say...

What it really comes down to is that NONE of it happens without a powerful belief in yourself. Your hard work, your prayers, your scientific theories, your collective bargaining power- THAT's what makes a difference in the world. When you feel a vision (not just see it but truly FEEL it) and ACT upon it (it doesn't matter if you do it wrong or right- just DO it) then you CAN heal yourself, change the world and make miracles happen.

Your innate creative energy should be strong enough to move a biblical mountain. Not there yet? Here are some interesting ways to spark your creative energy:

*Volunteer, donate, do a good deed or help someone. How do you feel?
*Go outside. Look up. How big is the sky? What do you see in your mind?
*Get online. Randomly search your middle name. Search in "images" or "pictures" only. Pick one on page 13 (yes, 13!!). What do you find?
*Go to the grocery store. Around the perimeter where they bake, steak and make- smell everything. Really smell it. What memories re-find you?
*Hold an ice cube in your hands. Now you live in Iceland. What would you hear if you lived there?
*Practice these and other bizarre sensual experiences and be OPEN to the new senses and emotions that come to you. Do it a lot. Do it until you're no longer surprised. (This will be never- something will always surprise you.)

Now use your powers for good! Get out there and change the world, love like mad and make happiness happen all around you. Go, my Good Global Citizens...go!

Another Look at Love

2010-02-13T01:08:00.001-05:00

I've seen so many examples of love lately. Have you? It's all around us every day.

Every warm smile from a stranger, every time a dog wags its tail, each wink and gentle handshake are outward signs of love. Pleasant thoughts inside your head, waves of emotion and moments of peacefulness inside our hearts are inward signs of love. Love is granted by God and is all around you. If you don't see it, you're not looking.

So what have you done to love your neighbor? I waved at the neighbor kids playing in the snow and their parents stopped to get my mail after a walk in the fresh-falling snow, brought it up my driveway to catch me coming in from work- just for a quick "hello". That's love.

For the past month people from all over the world have opened their hearts, their wallets, their homes and their voices to remember the Haitians after the devastating earthquake. That's love.

Do you know anyone that's adopted a child, raised a child, educated a child, healed a child, fed a child or prayed for a child? That's love.

Have you ever studied history, thought deeply about the ancestors who paved the way for our success, our freedom and our global connectedness? The work they did for us, whether they knew it or not, is love.

You are who you are by the grace of God. You have been chosen to live in your body, in this era, with your specific and unique talents and strengths because you matter. You matter to someone somewhere, but you matter to everyone everywhere. Your actions affect others. Your thoughts influence your actions. Your feelings influence your thoughts.

Feel love. > Then love will influence your thoughts. > Then you'll act with love.

Feel love. The result is peace.

World peace? Possible through love.

Haiti and the Issues of International Business Development

2010-01-25T21:01:00.001-05:00

Challenges and Opportunities for Businesses, NGOs, Military Agencies and Other Aid Organizations in Impoverished Caribbean Nations

Haiti Presentation

View more documents from BethanyJJMiller.

Little Pieces of Positive Energy

2010-01-13T16:57:00.000-05:00

In the rain and the mist of a wonderfully global day I experienced a multitude of positive moments that I'd like to share.

A nun walked unencumbered by the crowds. I followed in her footsteps because she carried an umbrella that said "I THINK POSITIVE" and it made me smile. For about 6 blocks we dodged traffic and tourists and shared a cadence and a positive energy.

The pope spoke of the power of education and knowledge. A disciple of learning, I shared the focus on imparting knowledge, sharing experiences and fostering education of all kinds for people of all backgrounds. This lecture was delivered in seven languages, but I only heard it in my heart.

My companion (in travel and in life) is gifted with a sense of direction that would make you doubt the angle of the sun. I wonder how many people I know that would believe something so fully as his inner sense of direciton. The positive energy that you find inside yourself will manifest itself in different areas. Follow it. Lay asside your doubts.

Faith, belief, hopes and dreams are universal. This is what gives us strength in the darkest times of our lives. This is what keeps us going, inspires our good works and connects us with each other.

Peace!

Connections

2010-01-09T22:20:00.000-05:00

It is amazing how connected we all are. Haven't you ever met the friend of a friend? Don't you immediately feel a connection and share your common ground? It is powerful when we recognize bits of ourselves in others.

For as large as our world is, our communities seem small. We work in a small office, or we have just a few friends, or are only a member of a couple of organizations. Yet our companions know a different circle of people, and they know a few more. And the rings grow larger and larger.

Networking, social media and basic communication link us all together. Need information? Need help? Want to expand in some way? Your resources are out there. Someone close to you has the advice you need. Someone has had the experience to be able to help you. All you need to do is reach out. Yet too many of us are reluctant to ask for that advice. It's hard to recognize need in ourselves, and very easy to see it in others.

This week, as a Good Global Citizen, I challenge you to help make those connections real for people. Show each other the links to their unknown community. Reveal our brethren. Unsolicited, connect two people who would benefit from each other's knowledge, community or friendliness. Be the catalyst. Help make our world smaller, one friendship at a time.

Blessings and peace as you make new friends. Someone somewhere will secretly thank you.

Security- Protecting What's Important

2010-01-03T09:50:00.005-05:00

When you walk into a fine jewelry store, there's a security guard standing by the door. And you may not consciously think about him/her, but your perception of the store changes. You probably realize that there are high-worth items inside, precious things that need guarded, and you know that management has arranged security because of their value.

In your home, at night, you probably lock the doors. You want to keep your loved ones safe, even though you probably live in a safe neighborhood. Same with your car- I bet you lock your car even when you leave it for only a few minutes. As the owner of that car, you want to ensure its (and your) security.

Security on an airplane is quite a different thing. We don't protect our valuables- I've seen too many people leave their computer or cell phone or purse in their seat when they go to the bathroom. Parents leave small children alone to fly unaccompanied. People even leave a drink unattended for a moment when sitting next to a total stranger. But the most difficult thing for me to comprehend is how we are so intolerant of airport security screening procedures, impatient with crew members, inattentive to safety briefings, and yet outraged at the current state of threat.

Being a Good Global Citizen means increasing your situational awareness. The first step is to make yourself aware of issues, particularly threatening issues, and then acting and behaving in ways that protect and enrich our lives. Our personal security is at risk every time we step outside of our house (indeed, you must believe it is a risk even inside your own house- because you lock your doors). This security risk increases exponentially the farther we get from home, as we immerse ourselves in other cultures, go up into the air, expose ourselves to the elements. This is not to say that you should not take such risks- in fact, quite the opposite. I believe you don't truly grow and understand this world until you get out there in it and live it fully, meet new people, see things that will make your brain work hard to understand. But as you do so, you need you increase your situational awareness. Be cautious. Be observant. UNDERSTAND what is going on around you.

So increasing our situational awareness is the first step to security. Airlines have put themselves in a tough position. They have become victims. As an industry, they sit nearly idle waiting for someone else to ensure their security. Yes, indeed the crew members do have some security and safety training. But unlike Tiffany's, they do not personally employ security guards. I would argue that a plane full of passengers contains inventory far more valuable that that inside a retail store. I think the only real solution to airline security is for airlines to employ, as crew members, company security guards. These would be two (or five or ten or one) more crew members who get scheduled for flights like pilots and flight attendants and ensure, both visibly and invisibly, the safety of the passengers. The costs would not be as extreme as the amount of money our government spends (effectively??) on airport security. And make no mistake, the cost of your airline ticket ensures your SAFE TRAVEL from point A to point B. It does not (and never has) read in your ticket's fine print that the airline owes you food, blankets, or entertainment. If you want these things, bring them with you. An airline ticket only brings you safe travel. It's time to put the safety back in that statement.

Your Place In The Crowd

2009-12-29T08:23:00.003-05:00

Don't kid yourself: You ARE involved.

The world we live in is fluid and enveloping. We affect our environment just by existing in it. Anthropologists widely recognize that you change your environment merely by observing it. There is no passive existence in this world. You cannot look on from a distance and think that you are irrelevant. OK- so that is important to understand. Now we can realize why we must be Good Global Citizens: it's because our presence is powerful. We are players in this game whether we chose to be or not.

Today the news is filled with dramatic stories of situations worldwide and touching pieces from close to home. They all have one thing in common- someone got involved and changed the course of events. Usually these people chose to be involved- they stepped in when needed, they took action when they saw a cause, they were part of a chain of events. But look in the periphery. The most amazing content is that about the bystanders who didn't actually stand by. Someone got involved merely due to proximity. They became heros or victims.

There's no such thing as being just a "person in the crowd". The crowd itself is an entity, made up of unique individuals who can influence the pattern of the party in a split second. If one person were to shout "FIRE!" then the crush would begin. One person can start a chant. One person can ignite an emotion.

The power comes from what you choose to DO with your presence. Consider how you will turn your potential energy into kinetic energy. Smile and put a warm feeling in your heart so that the energy you resonate will be welcoming to those around you. Echo peace so that your environment will be shaped by your calming presence. Offer help- become actively involved rather than passively impressive. Educate yourself so that you can educate others.

One person CAN change the world. Your presence DOES matter.

Reach for Dreams and Be Brave

2009-12-27T21:52:00.004-05:00

A friend just informed me that a recent lost opportunity wasn't worth trying for because he didn't get it. That made me a little sad. There are a million adventures waiting to be had- some good, some bad, some scary, and some that are NOT to be missed. Most will change the direction of your life forever, in one way or another.

It is important to reach for dreams and stretch yourself. You learn a lot about yourself when you venture bravely out into the unknown. You must be daring and bold if you are to evolve. Only through the process of trying and failing and trying again and succeeding do we truly know success. If it's not difficult, it may not be worth having. So I implore you to set lofty goals, chase your dreams, and try...try...try again until you taste success or find yourself on a new path.

You must also remember that you are setting an example for someone. Someone in your life looks up to you, follows your every move, or just watches with loving curiosity the way in which you compose yourself after failure or handle the dangerous emotions of success. In both failure and triumph you can express grace and dignity, a quiet thankfulness and contentment, or you can boast and brag and make a fool of yourself. Someone is watching. What a great opportunity to be a role model for your admirers. Feel good about yourself in your efforts and strengths and learning milestones. Focus not on the outcome of your adventure. To live life fully you must be ambitious, brave and giving. Help others be bold as well. This is the way to a rich life, my Global Citizens.

The Globalization We Share With Each Other

2009-12-24T09:54:00.005-05:00

Two friends surprised me with their globalization today! I write to ensure you know how very connected we all are, whether by kinship or vision, and these are two shining examples:

I'm looking for a destination for our next vacation. I assure you that every spot on this earth has been under consideration. I am not very good at planning vacations very far in advance because there are too many possibilities and my interactive mind sends ideas colliding into one another until my thoughts spin into chaos. My strength is in last-minute planning. Not procrastination, but "power-planning". I do very well under pressure, and not so well with leisure. So as I was updating my friend as to our current vacation plans (which will surely change again) she suggested a location (in a perfect Italian accent, no less) that I had not considered. Of course, to my surprise, she had been there on a magical adventure and I smirked with the realization that I had not known that she was so well-traveled. I shall not assume this again! I knew that my friend was wise to the ways of the world, perfectly eloquent about any topic one would care to discuss and intuitive as well. But I'm giddy with delight to know that globalization is going on behind my back, haha!

My other friend is a writer, an executive and a sage. She's truly a dynamo. She just returned from Africa where she advised and participated in a wonderful tapestry of events that culminated in a first-ever pageant bringing ambition and awareness to what I believe will be millions of people. This is a story about connecting women, providing inspiration and sharing hope. The lesson here is that we can all get involved, share a story and help make dreams come true. Please follow her blog at www.katcole.com. You'll be amazed at the business savvy, the kinship and the globalized mindset so powerfully packaged in one woman's soul.

Consider the globalization that you share (whether you know it or not) with your fellow citizens. We influence each other more than we realize. You leave a mark on each person with whom you talk. They remember small things you say, memories you mention and suggestions you give. Being good to each other is the first step. Broadening the minds of each other is the next!

Life is a Roller Coaster Ride

2009-12-23T12:05:00.003-05:00

Life is a roller coaster ride! I was reminded today of the highs and lows that we can experience, particularly at this time of year. The expectations that we impose upon ourselves are enormous. And so I wanted to share a bit of relief with you: it's OK! It's OK to feel harried; it's OK to be frustrated; it's OK to feel like you just can't possibly please everyone, get everything done, and be as amazing as you'd like to be.

The point is to live your life fully, shortcomings and all. I feel so blessed to have my friends and family as a strong support system. I love to meet new people, share experiences, talk to old friends, connect with a kindred soul, and experience that emotional connection that happens when you look into someone's eyes and they nod in understanding.

Yesterday a friend had a difficult day, and he handled it with grace and poise that I've never seen before. I was amazed. Yesterday I talked with a girlfriend who (despite being Wonder Woman herself) shared with me her fears and shortcomings. Elegance comes from within, and these two friends are phenomenal examples of gentility. I hope that I'll master the sophistication of peace that these two must feel in their hearts.

So here is the gift and lesson that I'll take from my two friends: strength and remembrance. The next time I encounter something difficult, I will truly count my blessings. I will remember the gifts God has given to me and that He made me strong enough to handle the trials that I face. I will also try to be an example for the people around me and strive to be the person on the outside that I want to be on the inside.

And remember this: if I've met you- I've learned from you. Were you the example you hoped you'd be? And everyone you've ever met has learned from you as well. Good or bad. So be good! Is what you're doing reflective of the BEST you can do? This is why you are a Good Global Citizen. God bless!

Advent

2009-11-29T11:09:00.004-05:00

Today marks the beginning of the season of Advent- a time of preparation, gratitude and grace. This is a wonderful time to look inward and reflect upon how prepared we are for the future and the great things that are to come.

As I light the first candle today, I revisit the gifts that God, my family and my friends have given me to prepare myself for the blessings that are to come. I think my greatest strength is curiosity. I have an active mind and an inquisitive soul. How can I use this gift to help others in this world? I hope that I can be the brave one who asks questions when no one else does. I hope I can find answers and ignite conversation and put thoughts deep into the minds of those around me so that they too might be fueled by curiosity.

Let this time of preparation also be filled with motivation and action. This is a great time to reach out to old friends and lost connections. This is a great time to meet new people and get to know acquaintances a little better. The stronger our bonds and relationships are, the stronger our community is. Good Global Citizens will enrich this world when we have mass of numbers, because then each small, kind action will have ripple effects; and our preparation for the future will be easier.

Inspiring Windows of Light

2009-11-28T21:10:00.003-05:00

I met with a Good Global Citizen today. This was a refreshing and uplifting meeting that changed my way of thinking. It's so helpful to discuss ideas with someone and really get creative while at the same time remembering efforts of the past and adapting them to current situations. My GGC buddy opened up windows of light in my mind. She articulated concepts that I was toying with. She spoke her mind, shared her experiences and nodded her head in understanding. Thank you, GGC! You've inspired me.

I only wonder, now, how I can help inspire someone else? I hope that I can have a thoughtful impact on someone tomorrow- it's a favor I now owe. As someone working to become a GGC, I look to emulate people I admire. And today I was inspired.

Peace and inspiration to you today as well! You never know what impact you're having on someone's twirling mind.

Dawn and Friendship

2009-07-22T21:52:00.002-04:00

I just read an excellent blog on the advantages to waking up early. I myself am an early riser. I think there is nothing so peaceful as watching a quiet sunrise, preferably while running at dawn. It is a serene solitude of thanksgiving and a chance to pray and reflect upon my blessings. I feel alive and energized with the rising sun. I accomplish more tasks and conquer them with more pleasure in the early hours, and this rush of adrenaline, inspiration and happiness is remarkable.

We are all fueled by some sort of emotional bliss associated with time and place. Sometimes this enlightened state comes from solitude, prayer and reflection (like my early morning runs) and sometimes it comes with partnerships and friendships. I had a wonderful weekend with girlfriends as we escaped for an athletic adventure while networking and forming friendships over a shared interest. It is important to nurture friendships, stretch yourself in conversation and activity, learn, plan and laugh. You must live life fully and help others to do so. Congratulate each other on achievements, improvements and efforts. You should appreciate the fluidity of life, the style of a unique individual and the sensory rush of visiting someplace new.

Gwyneth Paltrow writes a wonderful blog and elicits the opinion of guest professionals and writers. Her latest "BE" newsletter is on sustaining happy and successful relationships. It is an excellent collection of essays that will touch and inspire you.

http://www.goop.com/newsletter/43/

So that, then, must be the key to happiness! Cultivating friendships and devouring your day (right from the very start). How much more could I accomplish if I have the support of loyal companions, family and comrades alike? How much more love and thanks could I give if I start at the dawn of each day? Fulfillment is there for the taking, if only you seek it out and nourish it with well-tended friendships.

Now, early to bed! Say your prayers. And tell someone you love them. It shall all be repaid.

The Power of Touch

2009-07-16T21:34:00.004-04:00

There are many paths to healing, and I believe that we are empowered to heal ourselves (whether that is through traditional medical advice/treatment, prayer/spirituality, self-understanding and enlightenment, changes to diet/exercise/lifestyle, Eastern medicine or other modalities). I believe that one of the most powerful healing remedies is through touch and human contact. Simple touches, like a pat on the back, the casual hug or a quick kiss on the cheek often are used as small signs of affection and congratulations, or sorrow and understanding. A caring touch can translate a world of emotions. The embrace of a lover, holding a baby or petting a dog can all transform our feelings into a quiet and soothing happiness.

Service animals, particularly dogs, are used in hospitals and nursing homes to comfort and entertain people. When asked to pose for a picture, friends gather together in a group hug without prompting. Many people articulate their conversations with a touch on the arm. And we are taught to shake hands with new acquaintances to show respect and welcoming. Massage is therapeutic. The shampoo and scalp massage is the best part of a haircut. You hold hands with loved ones. The greatest compliment is to have touched someone's heart and soul.

The opposite is also dangerously true. You cross your arms when you're mad. Solitary confinement is used as a punishment. You back away with fear. Loneliness is debilitating. Many studies point to the difficulties of children raised without affection.

We know then, that we are a social world. Animals travel in packs. People gather in communities. We identify with our chosen friends and families. Business is about networking. Experiences are to be shared.

What then is our obligation in making the world a better place... our community a better place... our household a better place? A great gift would be to share and touch and give of yourself that moment of emotion or compassion that you haven't given often enough. You have a power to heal yourself and can change someone's life. Look someone in the eye and give them a moment of your time. Touch them on the arm. It will touch them in their heart.

A Wider View

2009-07-15T21:11:00.002-04:00

See what you're NOT looking at.

It's usually the case that one person sees a situation one way and another person sees it differently.

Oftentimes we turn a blind eye to things that are uncomfortable or that we can't understand. It's OK not to know the answers. It's OK to stray out of our comfort zone. Sometimes we forget that we weren't meant to be in control. Otherwise how would we ever learn to deal with adversity, loss, disruption, death, and setback? There is no growth if we don't realize that we're not at the top. In fact, loss is a gift, difficult as it may be. It teaches us about strength and whom to trust or love. Hardship teaches us to pay attention to our world, prioritize our needs and know compassion for the people in our world. We can't open our eyes wider if we don't know that they are shut.

Empathy can be the bridge that connects us with others. It breeds mercy and kindness. It gives us courage to stand up and help our fellow man, teach children or save animals, and basically treat the world around us with respect.

This is a beautiful weather system that I had to circumnavigate. The sky was a glamorous shade of blue and the clouds were shades of silver and white that can't be described boldly enough. It was breathtaking. The radar picture was a patchy echo of green and yellow specks. The air was rough and the airways were turbulent. From the ground, people saw rain and darkness. A cool relief or an impediment to summer's fun? Beautiful to some, frightening to others, natural of course, but casual to many. All viewpoints are valid, but do you see them all?

Peace and reflection be yours.

Taking the First Step

2009-07-10T22:06:00.002-04:00

It's always difficult to be the one to stand up and do what's right. Situational challenges and current culture often cause hesitation when daring to challenge the status-quo. This is true whether you are an individual, an organization or a country.

I do not normally enjoy the news 'opinion' pages. I feel like they are meant to incite angst rather than educate or inform. However, this story from the New York Times is an exemplary article. Bono is an inspirational character who shares his emotional and intellectual talents with the world. He is a GoodGlobalCitizen.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/10/opinion/10bono.html?emc=tnt&tntemail1=y

Heartfelt thanks should be given to those who spend their days charitably working for the good of others, whether in this country or abroad, whether at home or across town. Selfless acts of charity and time are the hallmark of a GoodGlobalCitizen. Do what you can for your charity of choice. Do not call attention to yourself- act quietly, do the dirty work, be brave. Do call attention to the cause- post it to your website/social medium, ask your friends for help, be brave.

Remember now, in your heart, someone who gave charitably. Give thanks. Pass it on. All it takes is one step, and sometimes you have to be the first to stand up for what's right.

Citizenship

2009-07-05T18:40:00.003-04:00

What does it take to be a good global citizen? First you must realize that it is but by grace of birth that you are who you are. This wisdom was shared with me when i was very young. You could be anyone anywhere at any time. But God chose your spirit to reside in your body and you have been called for a higher purpose. You are important! You have something valuable to share with this world - and the first step towards that is to open your eyes very wide and observe...open your ears and listen...open your heart and mind and learn. Only then can you participate in full citizenship.

Citizenship is more than a geographical identification. One must also contribute to his/her society based on his/her talents. Citizens are vested with rights and are members of the society. In any other organization in which you are a vested member, you would have to pay dues, provide leadership or service, or contribute to the organization in some manner. What is it that you are contributing to your country of allegiance?

For example, look at your talents. I cannot build a skyscraper, perform medicine, or create the doctrines and develop the sciences that make our world run. But I have a deep appreciation for those who do these things, and I recognize the talents I have that contribute to my society.

Fortunately there are a multitude of talented people in this world. Unfortunately we are divided by geographic and political boundaries. The plight of the immigrant is often necessary and difficult. Some relocate due to familial needs, some for work/health/labor opportunities, and some for oppression avoidance. Does immigration make our country richer or our social, political and economic situation difficult? Yes. There are many sides to the discussion. The bottom line is the human connection we have with each other in this society. Through the research of these arduous subjects we can reflect on our own family situations, political viewpoint and community involvement. Are you learning about this world with each current event you encounter in the news? I hope so.

So in this forum we will discuss various topics of worldly events, people, happenings and reasonings. I have much to learn, and I have many questions. Journey with me.

The Spider Web Networking Effect

2009-07-01T23:47:00.003-04:00

What I like about this simple picture is how much information it contains that may be overlooked by the casual observer. You can see in this photo a little about my family life (I'm married). You can see that my hands are muscular and slightly calloused and therefore I have a job requiring manual dexterity. You can see the carpet in the background and guess where this picture was taken. And if you are so inclined, you can read the lines on my hand and know something more metaphysical about me.

Perhaps you identify with one of those things. If so, then we have a connection--and something immediate to talk about. It's important to take a closer look at the familiar things (and people) around us. We should be conscientious of the people around us and recognize the connections that we have with one another. There is usually something with which to conjoin immediately- an identity that both people share.

There is an amazing revolution taking place around us. The bounty of social networking opportunities is exploding. Type "Social Networking Websites" into Google and revel in the number of ways you have to connect with friends, colleagues and wanderers with whom you share a common interest. Online media has given way to print and visual/audio media in providing us with a wealth of connectivity, but none of these would be possible without the human element.

I believe it is our responsibility to help each other grow. We were created as a world of many; we cannot live or flourish on our own. Let us reach out to each other and share the knowledge and friendship that will enhance our lives. Use the social networking revolution to bolster mankind!

Get the name of the next person you meet. Observe that person closely for a minute. You surely know 2 people who would be interested to know that person / can offer that person some advice / already know that person and want to reconnect / are interested in the same things that person is interested in. Share this information. Pass on the link. Create a smaller world by connecting just 2 people to your new acquaintance. Imagine what would happen if you did this with 5 people. And those 5 people connected 5 other people.

This is what I call the SPIDER WEB NETWORKING EFFECT. It can be accomplished through any media, at any time, and with any person. Like the lines on my palm are connected and mean a great deal more than my physical characteristics, the Spider Web Networking Effect is more than just intersecting lines and loose connections. This is the evolution of social media and human relations. When we help connect each other, we've made someone's world bigger and our global community stronger.

Social Media

2009-06-30T21:12:00.003-04:00

The "social media" revolution has come to fruition. There are extraordinary ways of staying connected, meeting and learning. The internet is a powerful tool for marketing yourself and your brand, not to mention putting out your message, reaching people and literally changing the world. I followed a fantastic conversation today about the power of social media content. The bottom line is this:

**Decide what position you take in this world- What is your stand?

**Represent it well.

**Encourage people, provide recommendations and offer solutions.

If you use media content to connect with others, watch first, then when participating, give AND take. Offer what you have to offer.

As a Good Global Citizen we are here to empower others. We should share our knowledge to empower others. There's a strong link between us all and it just takes a small gesture of kindness to change the world for others.

Life is not a spectator sport. Are you active or passive? Do you give to others as much as you take? Feel free (it's EXPECTED) to take advantage of the opportunities out there. Ask for help. And give back.

Enjoy your day. Share.

2009-03-24T23:16:00.001-04:00

Spring has come and brought with it a new beginning. It's a refreshing start year after year and this rebirth of the season I'm inspired to share my experiences around the world and close to home. I think it's important to be a good global citizen, and I've realized that this is not a mission one undertakes alone. So we shall embark together in this journey.