Fall �� 2024 | Issue Number One
Welcome to the first issue of Welcome to the first issue of Welcome to the first issue of InspireOn© Magazine InspireOn© Magazine InspireOn© Magazine A Resource by InspireAmind® A Resource by InspireAmind® A Resource by InspireAmind®
Inside The Issue
Cover Story : The Strong Female Advocate
Strengthening Society- Starts with you! Compassion, Transferring Pain to Power Articles that capture Resiliency The Dreaded L Word ; the story : unstuck
Grow Some Self Esteem!
Quotes•Poetry Age is Only a Number! Lifestyle•
2025 Sleek SUVS•Fall Clothing, Hair&Nail Color Trendy, Affordable Fall Fashion & Why You Need It!
Managing Change When it Feels To Big Activities Page
Easing Back to School Advocate•Empower•Challenge•Change: Transition in life
Special Message Pages Crisis Resources Pages 1-2
Editor-in-Chief, Content Director
M.Abramsky, LCSW
Showcase Your Work
Managing Editor
Interns Welcome : send resume, ideas & work to InspireAmind.net@protonmail.com
Re: Manage Mag
Contributing Writers : re: InpireOnwriter to inspireAmind.net/ InspireAmind.net@protonmail.com w/ ideas or articles for submission to InspireOn Magazine©2024
Photographers interested in showing their talent are encouraged to apply by sending resume and sample ideas or work related to social /emotional issues and life fulfillment to InspireAmind.net re: InspireON Pictures InspireAmind.net@protonmail.com *interns welcome
Thank You.. You Are Simply The Best!
Contributing Writers Who Inspire On……
J.Harlow Abramsky•Young Author
Greene,M. Young Author
Greene Rebecca, LCSW-R•Podcast Host•Best Selling Author, Guest Writer
Emily Jade Jankowski•Young Author
Emelia Thygesen•LCMHC
D.T. Young Adult Contributing Author
Corey Woodhouse•LPC •Author
Clients
Adults, Young Adults, Teens,
Parents, Older Adults & Caregivers
Method
Services
Teletherapy, Coaching/ Motivation, Workshops, Consults Advocacy
•Middle •HS •College •Moving Forward
New York State�� InspireAmind.net Inspiring People One Mind at A Time InspireAmind
Individuals, Family, Groups, Speaking Engagements As an experienced licensed clinical social worker, it is my honor to assist you in exploring your core issues and move toward a healthy, fulfilling life. M..Abramsky
“I am truly am truly moved by the people that have taught me about their lives.”
Thank you for joining my first ever edition of InspireOn Magazine. I hope to provide trending theories and information in emotional health, style, leisure, school, work, parenting, career, touching on many generations, and support readers in adding topics by welcoming writing and ideas for articles. Send related inquiries to inspireAmind.net@protonmail.com with the subject: InspireOn © Magazine. Please enjoy what it has to offer and check InspireAmind.net for more information.
I continue to give 110% of myself to my clients and appreciate those therapeutic relationships and their business. I am blessed in my ability to possess the independence to provide the standard of care I feel people deserve. It is a gift to see positive change and hear the responses from clients as they see small victories! There is nothing l'd rather be doing than actively listening, counseling, coaching, educating, advocating, and facilitating the idea that challenges are opportunities and helping people to feel inspired!
I hope this magazine serves to carry on my mantra in a world that is full of unknowns and "InspireOn" as we move forward each day. I look forward to your private interest messages regarding what you would like to see in new editions and if you would like to contribute!
Editor-in-Chief
MarcyAbramskyisalicensedclinicalsocialworker,NYSpermanentcertifiedschoolcertified schoolsocialworker,ThroughouthertimeinschoolsinNYCandtheBronx,shemanaged criticalcrisissuchas9/11terroristattacks,numerouschildabusecasesandovertwelve yearswerealsodedicatedtoresearch,connectingwithdoctorsandadvocatingforfamily onbehalfofherfather-in-lawatMemorialSloanKetteringCancerCenter.Thisprocess benefitedherfamilyandclients. Afterover14yearsinthefield,sheobtainedapostmasters inschooldistrictandbuildingadministration.Shecontinuedoninbothanadministrative andtherapeuticcapacitiyforfourmoreyearsuntilitwasclear,thattoprovidethelevelof expertiseshehadacquiredcouldnothappenwithinasettingwhereherjobwasnot understoodandthe“redtape”begantostandinherway.
AsaninternsupervisorforFordhamUniversity,and aUBGraduateSchoolofSocialWork
AlumniMentorforover11years,Abramskyappreciateseverystepofthecareerbuilding process.Sheservedasanadjunctandco-creatorandfacilitator/clinicalsupervisorofa fieldplacementprogramduringthepandemicfordisplacedgraduatestudentsand isolatedolderadults.Thispersonallyimpactedhergreatly,asshewasthedaughtertoa parentwithAlzheimer’s.Incombinationwithherinvolvementincoachingherdaughtersina townyouthbasketballleague,advocatingforseniorsandcaregiverswithassistedlivingand memorycarefacilitiesandfacilitatingonlineparentgroupsforthegradeeachofher children attendedkeepsherinvolvedjustenoughin theschoolcommunity.
Afterwritingnumerousprograms,andrealizingbooks can’texpress allofthetopics as things comeupinlifefasterthantheycanbecompleted-thisMagazine seemed likea betterwayto reachout wwmorefrequently.fromhertrademarknameInspireAmind®.. Inspiringpeopleonemindatatime��
BY GUEST WRITER: J. Harlow Abramsky
imagination and where hearts are set free
A life where black, white, or whatever race aren't treated differently because they don't fit the criteria
A safe haven from overwhelming standards and acerbic comments
I imagine a life where peace and harmony fill the air creating a clear path to hope
A life where I can breathe freely without a mirror mocking me for my mistakes
A life where silly little things don't create absurd arguments
A home for me to be me, and no one else
I imagine a life where people don't get to leave when the people they love need them the most
A life where violence and discrimination aren't in the dictionary
A life where people can speak freely without any ludicrous "side notes" about what they could've done better
A place where there isn't a care in the world
By M.Abramsky
Therearecertainagesofyourlifewhenyou canrelatetopeople.Thishappenseven whenyouthinkyouaretoomany generationsapart.Mygrandmotherwasmy bestfriend…like20yearolduntilsheleftus. Itwasherbodynotheryoungfreespiritthat changed.
Whenyouareolderandwiser,youbecome readytogobacktobasics…fun!
Manyolderadultsenjoythesimplicitiesoflife andtheIndependencetheystillhave.This similarityexistsamongolderteensandyoung adults.Independentlivingresidence'sare similartodorms.Theyprovideactivities, friendships,mealsinanorganizedway withouttheupkeepofahomeorapartment.
Dailyschedulesformeals,theaters.holiday andbirthdaypartieskeeppeopleupliftedfor anychallengedthisnewtransitiontimeinlife maybring.
Noteverythingisfunandgames-you definitelyneedtodoyourhomeworktofind therightplace!Thisgoesforyour independentliving,assistedlivingandcollege orschoolenvironment.Eachplacewillhave strengthsandweaknesses.Thatwillbeatopic todiscussmovingforward.
pleasecontactmeforassistancewithsenior careandcollegeorworktransition.
Whethet youareleavinghome earlyorlater inlife,youcanhaveablastatanyage ifyou stayhealthyandpositive!
-Marcy Abramsky
as my ability to binge-watch an entire series in one weekend!
Life is fast-paced, and in the rush, it is easy to overlook the profound wisdom that can come from engaging with people from all generations. The vision we can gain extends to fashion cycles through trends that come and go, while war and economic shifts create patterns that shape society. Yet, one constant remains: the fundamental human desires for health, fulfillment, connection, and fun. Technology has undoubtedly transformed our lives, enhancing our ability to communicate, access information, and entertain ourselves. In our quest for progress, it’s beneficial to remember how we ever managed without.
-Marcy Abramsky
perspectives shaped by their experiences, and when we come together, we enrich one another's lives.
Fun is at the top of the list for both young and older adults! Often, through these shared experiences that we discover our commonalities—our love for storytelling, our appreciation for adventure, and our desire to create lasting memories. People of all ages seek to be healthy, to feel needed, and contribute to society in meaningful ways. These commonalities serve to illuminate multigenerational communications and their return in growth and inspiration for all." and understanding, dispelling stereotypes can provide invaluable insights that technology simply cannot replicate. Each generation possesses unique perspectives shaped by their experiences, and when we come together, we enrich one another's lives.
-Stronger -Compassionate -viewChallengeasOpportunity -PersonalGrowth -Enrichment -InspiringSociety inspire!
ByMarcyAbramsky
WHAT CAN CHANGE YOUR ENTIRE LIFE IN LESS THAN A MINUTE, AND HAPPENS EVERY DAY TO PEOPLE ACROSS THE US? HERE IS ONE EXAMPLE OF WHAT THE “L” WORD CAN DO…
THINKING BACK TO THE MOMENT YOUR HEART WAS RACING AND YOU BARELY HEARD THE WORDS THAT CAME BEFORE YOU SAID “I APPRECIATE EVERYTHING YOU SHARED WITH ME,” YOU RECALL THE VERY MOMENT YOU BEGAN TO WALK OUT THE DOOR; YOU TURNED TO SEE IF THERE COULD BE ANYTHING LEFT TO SAY. SHE WAS ALREADY TURNED AWAY AS YOUR BAGS SUDDENLY FELT EVEN HEAVIER. THOUGHTS FROM WHAT YOU WERE LOOKING AT, FEELING, AND HEARD FLOODED YOUR BRAIN. STUMBLING DOWN THE HALLWAY, YOU COULDN'T HELP BUT SEE FLASHES OF EARLIER THAT VERY MORNING; YOU SAT ACROSS FROM ONE ANOTHER HAVING A CUP OF COFFEE. WHY DIDN’T SHE SAY ANYTHING THEN?
REALIZING THAT YOU CANT TELL THE STAIRWAY DOOR FROM THE ELEVATOR DOOR, IT HITS YOU; YOU MAY NEVER FORGET THIS TERRIBLE MOMENT. YOUR THOUGHTS MOVE FORWARD TO WHETHER YOUR GIRLFRIEND KNOWS? THE TWO OF THEM WERE FRIENDS! YOUR THOUGHTS START RACING ON ABOUT THE APARTMENT AND ONTO IF YOUR GIRLFRIEND WILL EVEN STAY WITH YOU…
FINALLY OUTSIDE AND YOU YELL “STOP.” A FEW PEOPLE TURN. YOU SLAM YOUR ITEMS DOWN ON A BENCH OUTSIDE AND BURY YOUR FACE AND CRY A BIT… UNTIL YOU DECIDE NOT TO BE SEEN (AS A MAN) BY ANYONE YOU KNOW…DRAGGING YOUR BELONGINGS FROM THE LAST 10 YEARS TO A DUMPSTER BEHIND A RESTAURANT, YOU QUICKLY TRANSFER SOME PAPERS, SHIRTS, PHOTOS, AND AWARDS INTO TWO BAGS, CHECK FOR YOUR LAPTOP, AND DUMP THE REST.
AFTER SETTING YOUR BAGS DOWN IN A BOOTH, YOU ORDER A DRINK AND REALIZE WITH THE FIRST …SIP THAT YOU FEEL DEPRESSED, ALONE, AND LIKE YOU’VE FAILED; YOU’VE ACTUALLY BEEN LAID OFF.
*LIVING IN FEAR OF JOB LOSS CAN TRAPY MANY INDIVIDUALS IN A CYCLE OF NEGATIVITY. THE TRAUMA OF UNEXPECTED JOB LOSS CAN ALSO MAKE IT VERY HARD TO FEEL MOTIVATED TO LOOK, WORK HARD, OR BUILD TRUST WITHIN A WORKPLACE AGAIN.SCARIER THAN A HORRER MOVIE? IT CAN CHANGE YOUR ENTIRE LIFE IN LESS THAN A MINUTE, AND HAPPENS EVERYDAY TO PEOPLE ACROSS THE US? HERE IS ONE EXAMPLE OF WHAT THE “L” WORD CAN DO…
Finding positive ways to deal with this are talking with family and friends that you trust. Seek professional coaching or therapy if needed for perspective and motivation. Get back out there and apply for jobs, start engaging in hobbies (reading writing, sports, time with family) and focus on exposure to positive affirmations.
Try to control thoughts related to budget, exercise, connect with friends, mentors and professional contacts for support. Keep up with interests that make you happy in life.
All of this assists in reducing layoff anxiety. These strategies help you realize that you are more than a 9-5 job. These steps lead to positivity and MOTIVATION.
By Guest Writer: Emily Jade Jankowski
“ …I learned about this digital magazine through my mom who is a counselor… I'm so excited and so thankful to have these wonderful opportunities to share my story with others.”
Guest Writer Bio:
Hello I am Emily, I am 12 years old and I like to write, sing, go on walks, and hang out with my friends! Some accomplishments I have had are winning best in show at the Michigan Student Film Festival in 2023, winning the Young Authors competition for my school in 3rd grade, and being chosen to give a speech in front of my school for the D.A.R.E program. I have enjoyed dancing for the Toledo Ballet for one of the longest running renditions of the nutcracker in history with a live orchestra. Sharing awareness about mental and physical health is one of the things I relate to and take pride in and I hope my writing can turn into change and action.
Hello, my name is Emily and I will be telling you about my story, and how I got through my physical disability. I was diagnosed with a very severe case of scoliosis at 11 with a 71-degree spinal curve. Just a few weeks later I got an amazing opportunity to get a spinal fusion but the catch was it was in 2 weeks. I decided to do it and I’m so glad I did. I am now 12 and so thankful to have the opportunity to tell you what I learned about physical and mental health.
Some things that overall helped me get through the mental part of my surgery were: First going to di erent places. It can be as simple as walking to the kitchen or outside, maybe even changing chairs. The main part of this is a change in scenery to help yourself be less in the mindset of “I am stuck here I am cramped”. Second meeting or texting with friends, even just a simple “Hi” is a real mood booster. I recommend hanging out or calling to make you feel at ease.
Lastly, I like to do activities other than electronics. Sometimes it can make you so sad or tired. Getting up and creating art, crafting, writing, or any other hobby is so amazing for your mental health. No matter what decision you choose to make or not remember you are always important, loved, and so much stronger than you know!
-
ByGuestWriter: CoreyWoodhouse LicensedProfessionalCounselor www.coreywoodhouse.com
I was sitting on the back deck, thinking about all of the things that I didn’t do right this week as I placed my head into my hands and sighed a long, deep breath. I was depleted, tired, selfcritical, and running on “E” after auto-piloting through a seemingly endless Summer. I began to run through the index of the Summer “should have” moments. Did we eat ice cream and run through sprinklers? Check. Did we go swimming and cook out? Yup. Did I give them enough outdoor time and social time? Did I take them to new places? Was I present enough? Did I earn enough money to pay for school supplies? Was it all enough? What does enough look like anymore? I felt overwhelmed and scared at just how exacting all this responsibility could be.
As I sat there, I asked myself the question, “Does this feel familiar?” This nagging voice, these expectations, those perfect social media feeds, what about all of these things pinged at my heart in such a harsh, inflexible, and comparative way? What was it about that voice that reminded me of the disappointment I had heard when I didn’t make others happy? I imagined that the voice had a megaphone and the critic was standing center stage, making it hard for me to focus on much of anything else at all.
After being so harsh and critical of myself, I began to think about those people in my life who had shown me compassion and kindness. The teachers who noticed that I was having a difficult time and took me aside to talk; The friends who went out of their way to let me know that I was not alone, and even if they didn’t know what to say, they would sit with me and we would go through this together. I felt this warmth and calm come over me. I remembered feeling loved, connected, and less afraid.
I took that compass of what I had envisioned and surrounded myself with the same mental hug of sorts. I visualized myself asking for my self-critic to hand over the microphone so that I could speak. I was surprised at what happened next. I thanked my inner critic for motivating me, inspiring me to want to do better, and keeping me moving in the direction of my dreams. I thanked my negativity for preparing me for what could go wrong, for helping keep me safe from harm when things were scary in the past, and for preparing me for the future. But I asked if my compassionate side could have a turn too.
When my compassionate side speaks, it first recognizes that I am in pain It harkens to the times I have been there for others, how it is okay to need help and that I am not alone in my pain and can ask for support, too It suggests that I take time to slow down, feel my pain, and not ignore it or push it away It asks me to do small things for myself to help myself slowly feel better or to talk with a professional who can help guide me on the path to feeling better.
Instead of feeling pushed towards perfectionism, anxiety, and self-doubt, I can create flexibility from what I accept of myself, embrace my mistakes as part of the human experience, and reconnect with and love myself again. I think self-criticism and self-compassion make a great team. Maybe they just needed to work on taking turns better.
Guest Writer: Isabel Schwab, Teacher, Caretaker, Philosopher
How do you explain to a five-year-old that life has an ending, without triggering sadness or leaving them scarred? Perhaps they will actually teach you. I was watching two brothers, who were five and six years old. The 5-year-old pulled on my necklace, which held my beloved husband's ring as the pendant. I shared that he passed away a year ago.
I asked him to please stop pulling on something very special to me. I repeated that it was my husband's, and the little boy replied, I said, "Yes, he went to heaven." He said, "Where?!" I said, "Heaven up in the sky." Again, he asked more, "How did he get there? Did he fly?" I shared, "No, his soul went." He said, "I don't get it."
That really made me think... We all have a soul, a spirit inside... when it's interrupted by the 6-year-old, it's a lesson for us. The anecdote to my sorrow was the analogy made by the six-year-old: "It's like when you play a video game and you get to the next level!" How could anyone be sad with that connection to your soul going to heaven? I don't know the last time I laughed so hard. Yes, I guess it's exactly like that, is all I could think as I smiled.
By Marcy Abramsky
Strengthisinthecultureofyourhome,yourcommunity,schools,businesses,and theleadershipofallofwhomyouhaveavoteandthoseyoudonot.
Throughthelensofsociology,culturaldifferencesarecelebratedastheunique beliefs,behaviors,languages,practices,andexpressionsofethnicorracial groups.
Eveninwitnessingthenuancesofchild-rearingandbanteramongststudentsim school,responsebyleadership;itcanbeseenthesearenotalwaysaccepted.
Thelargerpictureisthattheideaofstrengtheningthecultureofourcommunities inspireschangesinoutdatedperceptionsofdifferentethnicities.Thisnewgrowth andawarenessgivesrisetoamodernwayofproblemsolving,communicating andleadership.Overall,decreasingviolenceandincreasedrespectforhuman life.
StrengtheningTheCultureOfSocietytomemeansthatmyroleistotrytomake smallgesturesthatofferopportunitiesforgrowthandpositivetransformationfor others,allowforself-reflectionandselfawarenessandinspireasenseofhope andoptimism.
Ibelieveweareinasocietywhereitistimeforeveryonetogetprogressive…help ishere… buttherecanbenomorespaceforleadersthatcannotrisetothechallenge… ourchildren,ourparents,ourgrandparents,thepeopleinourcommunitiesgoing throughhardshipneedusandourchildrenneedtoseeweareunafraid(notdue toweapons)buttocareforoneanother.AsthegreatDrMartinLutherKingJr. said..”peoplefailtogetalongbecausetheyfeareachother,becausetheydon’t eachother.”
By M. Abramsky LCSW • Master Coach
EnhancingSelf-Worth
•Loseself-limitingbeliefs
•StopOverthinking
•EndMisunderstandings
Stoptryingto“fit in”-acceptyourself
•Letpeoplefollowyourlead
GainMore
•Energy/Positivity
•Friends
•AbilitytoConcentrate
•ReduceAnxiety
•Instantlyimproveself-esteem
SELF-ESTEEMANDSELF-WORTHAREMORETHANJUSTTHERAPEUTICLANGUAGEINTHEREALMOF PERSONALDEVELOPMENT;THEYAREAFUNDAMENTALASPECTOFWHATMAKESUSWHOWEARE, EMPOWERINGUSTOBELIEVEINOURSELVES,STEPINTOOURPOTENTIAL,ANDEMBRACETHEROLEOF LEADERSINOUROWNLIVESANDCOMMUNITIES.INAWORLDTHATOFTEN...
1.CONFIDENCEANDRESILIENCE:INDIVIDUALSWITHHIGHSELF-ESTEEMTENDTOAPPROACH CHALLENGESWITHCONFIDENCE,BELIEVINGINTHEIRCAPACITYTOOVERCOMEOBSTACLES.THIS RESILIENCEALLOWSTHEMTOBOUNCEBACKFROMFAILURES,LEARNFROMMISTAKES,ANDPERSIST INTHEFACEOFADVERSITY INCONTRAST,THOSEWITHLOWSELF-ESTEEMMAYSHYAWAYFROM CHALLENGES,FEARINGJUDGMENTORFAILURE,WHICHMAYHINDERPERSONALGROWTH.
2 POSITIVERELATIONSHIPS:SELF-ESTEEMSIGNIFICANTLYIMPACTSHOWWERELATETOOTHERS WHENWEVALUEOURSELVES,WEAREMORELIKELYTOENGAGEINHEALTHYANDRESPECTFUL RELATIONSHIPS.HIGHSELF-ESTEEMFOSTERSEMPATHY,ALLOWINGUSTOCONNECTWITHOTHERS ANDAPPRECIATETHEIRWORTH.CONVERSELY,LOWSELF-ESTEEMCANLEADTOUNHEALTHY DYNAMICS,SUCHASDEPENDENCYORHOSTILITY,ASWEMAYSTRUGGLETOASSERTOURSELVESAND COMMUNICATEEFFECTIVELY.
3 LEADERSHIPQUALITIES:LEADERSAREOFTENCHARACTERIZEDBYTHEIRCONFIDENCEANDABILITY TOINSPIREOTHERS.HIGHSELF-ESTEEMEQUIPSINDIVIDUALSWITHTHECOURAGETOTAKEINITIATIVE, VOICETHEIRIDEAS,ANDMOTIVATETHOSEAROUNDTHEM.ASDR.MARTINLUTHERKINGJR. FAMOUSLYSTATED,“OURLIVESBEGINTOENDTHEDAYWEBECOMESILENTABOUTTHINGSTHAT MATTER.”THOSEWITHSTRONGSELF-ESTEEMAREMORELIKELYTOSPEAKOUTONIMPORTANTISSUES ANDADVOCATEFORCHANGE,EMBODYESTEEM.SELF-WORTHAREMORETHANJUSTTHERAPEUTIC LANGUAGEINTHEREALMOFPERSONALDEVELOPMENT;THEYAREAFUNDAMENTALASPECTOFWHAT MAKESUSWHOWEARE.EMPOWERINGUSTOBELIEVEINOURSELVES,STEPINTOOURPOTENTIAL, ANDEMBRACETHEROLEOFALEADERINOUROWNLIVESANDCOMMUNITIES.INAWORLDTHAT OFTEN...BACKFROMFAILURES,LEARNFROMMISTAKES,ANDPERSISTINTHEFACEOFADVERSITY.IN CONTRAST,THOSEWITHLOWSELF-ESTEEMMAYSHYAWAYFROMCHALLENGES,FEARING JUDGMENTORFAILURE,WHICHMAYHINDERPERSONALGROWTH.ANDCOMMUNICATEEFFECTIVELY.
By Guest Writer: Emelia Thygesen LCMHC
Are you procrastinating by scrolling on your phone? Do you dread doing even the smallest things? I know, that sometimes it can feel like making changes seems impossible. But recognizing that you don’t want to continue sitting in gloom is important. It is important to approach the situation with small, manageable steps and a positive mindset. Here are some strategies to help you create change when it seems out of reach:
1. Shape your environment. Identify and remove triggers that hinder your desired change. For instance, if you're trying to reduce screen time before bed, put the TV remote in another room or set a timer to automatically turn off your devices.
Start with the smallest possible change. Focus on making tiny, easy adjustments that can lead to bigger improvements over time. For example, if you want to improve your sleep habits, start by simply turning down the thermostat at night.
2. Recognize that change is a process. Understand that meaningful change takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and acknowledge that setbacks are a normal part of the journey.
4.
3. Challenge negative thoughts. When you find yourself thinking that change is impossible, consciously combat those thoughts with more positive ones. Remind yourself of past successes and your ability to overcome challenges.
5. Seek support. Reach out to friends, family, or professionals who can offer encouragement and guidance. Sometimes, having someone to talk to can make a significant difference.
7.
Break down larger goals into smaller, actionable steps. This makes the overall change feel less overwhelming and more achievable.
6. Practice self-compassion. Don't beat yourself up for struggling with change. Instead, treat yourself with kindness and understanding.
8.
Focus on the present. Take things one day at a time, or even five minutes at a time if necessary. This can help prevent feeling overwhelmed by the big picture.
9.
Explore different approaches. What works for one person may not work for another. Be open to trying various methods and techniques until you find what resonates with you.
10.
Celebrate small victories. Acknowledge and appreciate every bit of progress, no matter how small it may seem. This can help build momentum and motivation for continued change.
Remember, change is possible, even when it feels insurmountable. By taking small steps, being patient with yourself, and persisting through challenges, you can create meaningful change in your life. 16
Rebecca Greene
Assummerdrawstoacloseandthenewschoolyearapproaches,manyofus parentsfindourselvescaughtbetweenthebittersweetendoflazysummerdaysand theexcitement(oranxiety)ofgettingourkidsbackintotheschoolroutine.The transitionfromsummerfuntoschoolstructurecanbechallenging,butwithalittle planningandsomecreativestrategies,wecanmakeitasmoothandstress-free experienceforthewholefamily.Icanhonestlysaythatforthefirsttime,Iamexcited forthenewschoolyear.Mykidsarereadytotakeoffto7thgrade,Sophomoreyear andSenioryearofschool.
Note:Ialsorealizethatsomeofyouhavealreadystartedschool. WeliveinBuffalo,NewYork,andourkidsgobacktoschoolnextweek.
Howcanwehelpourselvesandourchildreneasebackintoschool:
Oneofthebiggesthurdleswefaceasparentsisgettingourkidsbackonaschool appropriatesleepschedule.Ifyourchildrenhavebeenenjoyinglaterbedtimesduring thesummer,startadjustingtheirbedtimeandwake-uptimegradually-about15 minutesearliereachnightuntilthey'rebackontrack.Thisway,thefirstweekofschoo won'tcomewiththeshockofanearlyalarmclock!
My11yearolddaughterandIdon'thaveachoicewiththisone. Shehascheerleadingearlythisweek,sosheisalreadygoingtostartgettingusedto gettingupearly
My15yearolddaughterisveryresponsibleandstartseasingherselfbackintothe scheduleonherownbeforeschoolbegins.
My17yearoldsonisgoingtogetasmuchsleepashepossiblycanandwon'twantto startwakingupearlyuntilheabsolutelyhasto. Youknowyourchildren.Youknowifyouneedtostartchangingbedtimesandwake uptimestohelpthemeasebackintotheroutine.Therehavebeenplentyoftimeswe justjumprightbackintotheschedule.Idon'trecommendthis.Easingthemtoan earlierbedtimeandearlierwakeuptimegoesmuchbetterthanjumpinginlikewe havedone.
Summeroftenmeansabreakfromrigidroutines,butnow'sthetimetobringthem back.Startpracticingyourschooldayroutinebeforethefirstday.Thisincludes settingupamorningroutine,suchasgettingdressed,eatingbreakfast,and brushingteeth,aswellasanafter-schoolroutinethatinvolveshomeworktime, playtime,andbedtimerituals.Themorefamiliartheroutineis,theeasieritwillbe foreveryonetoadjust.Ifyourchildrenareoldenough,starthavingthe conversationsaboutwhatyourexpectationsareofthemorningandafterschool routineare.Littlekidstendtodowellseeingavisualroutineifyoucanhangitup forthem.
Iknowalotofparentskeptsomesortofroutineoverthesummer. Hopefullyyourchildrencantransitionfromsummerroutinestoschoolroutines easily.Remembertohaverealisticexpectationsfromthemastheyadjusttothe schoolroutineAlsorememberthatkidsgettiredandcrankythefirstcoupleof weeksasitisabigadjustment.
Setupadedicatedspaceforhomeworkthat'sfreefrom distractions.Whetherit'sacornerofthe livingroomoradeskintheirbedroom,havingaconsistentspotforschoolwork helpskidsfocusandmakesiteasierforthemtogetintothehabitofdoing homework.
Getyourkidsexcitedaboutthenewschoolyearbyinvolvingtheminthe preparation.Letthempickouttheirschoolsupplies,organizetheirbackpacks,and choosetheirfirst-dayoutfit.Whenkidsfeelinvolved,they'remorelikelytobe enthusiasticaboutgoingbacktoschool.Havingeverythinginitsplacenotonly helpskidsfeelprepared,butitalsoeasesmorningchaoswhenyou'rerushingout thedoor.
Putyourkidsinchargeofasmuchasyoucantotakeitoffofyourownmental load.Ileftmydaughterinchargeoforganizingherschoolsuppliestoday.NowI needtogoseehowshedid.It'sawinwinbecausetheygainmoreindependence andwetakeitoffofourlonglist.
R.Greene-
Myhighschoolkidswon'tgettheirschoolsupplylistsuntilschoolbegins.Thatis aplwaysachallengetryingtofindsuppliesaftereverythingissoldout.Iorderedalot onlinethisyeartoeasemyburdenofrunningfromstoretostore.IamhopingIcan orderitallonlinewhenIgettheirschoolsupplyliststhefirstweekofschool.
Goingbacktoschoolcanbeanemotionaltimeforkids,especiallyifthey'restarting atanewschool.Takesometimetotalktoyourchildrenabouthowthey'refeeling. Aretheyexcited,nervous,oralittleofboth?Letthemknowit'snormaltohavemixed emotions,andreassurethemthatit'sokaytotalkaboutanyworriestheymighthave. Discusstheirexpectationsandanyconcernstheymayhave.Apositiveand supportivedialoguehelpsalleviateanyanxietytheymightbefeeling.
Iloveseeingmydaughterstextingalltheirfriendstoseewhoisintheirclasses.Ialso don'tloveitwhentheyaredisappointedwiththeresults.MydaughterEllafoundalot ofpeopleinherclassesbutisstilllookingtoseewhoshehaslunchwith.
Youcanreduceyourchildren'sstressbyhelpingthemfindoutwhoisintheirclasses. TellingyourfirstgradedaughterthatshehasherfriendSallyinherclasswillhelp calmhernervesforthenewschoolyear.Ialsoliketoremindmykidsthatanew schoolyearisalwaysanopportunitytomakenewfriendstoo.
Onewaytoeasethetransitionistostartanewback-to-schooltradition.Whetherit's aspecialbreakfastonthefirstdayofschool,afamilyphototradition,orafunafterschoolactivitytolookforwardto,thesesmallritualscancreatepositiveassociations withthestartoftheschoolyearandgivekidssomethingtobeexcitedabout.Iknow awonderfulmomwhoalwaysbakesherkidsapencilcakeonthefirstdayofschool. Iknowanothermomwhoalwaysbakescookies.Itisagreattimetoplanabackto schoolgettogetherforyourchildandtheirfriends.Iwouldlovetohearwhatyour backtoschooltraditionsare.
Remember,yourattitudesetsthetoneforyourkids.Ifyou'restressedordreading theschoolyear,they'llpickuponthat.
Instead,focusonthepositives-newfriends,excitinglearningopportunities,school sportsandclubsandthestructurethatcomeswiththeschoolroutine.Offerplenty ofencouragementandsupport,andremindthem(andyourself)thatthistransition isjustanotheradventureinthejourneyofgrowingup.
Keeptrackofeveryone'sscheduleswithafamilycalendar.Markimportantdateslike thefirstdayofschool,after-schoolactivities,andparent-teacherconferences.A visualreminderhelpseveryonestayorganizedandreducesthechancesoflastminutesurprises.
Weareallonthefamilycalendaronourcellphonesforthefiveofustoreferto. However,ifyourkidsareyoungerthanmine,hangingabigcalendarinthekitchen foreveryonetolookathelpseveryonenowwhatthescheduleiseachday.Iknow mostfamiliesItalktoareusingafamilycalendar.Myneighborhasherwholewall paintedwithdryerasepaintandshewriteshercalendaronthebigwall.Ithinkthat's awonderfulvisualforthemalltoreferto.
Healthyeatingiskeytokeepingyourkidsenergizedandfocusedthroughoutthe schoolday.Planandpreparenutritiousbreakfasts,lunches,andsnacksaheadof time.Involveyourkidsinthemealplanningprocesstomakesurethey'reexcited aboutwhatthey'reeating. Notonlydomykidshavealongdayatschool,thentheygotosportsafterschool.I makesureeveryonehasenoughfoodandwaterforthedayalongwithmakingsure Ihavedinnerreadytoeatafter,before,orinbetweensportsdependingoneachday andwhatthescheduleis.Somefamilieshavetoprepdinnerinthecarinbetween activities.IfyoustopattheMcdonaldsdrivethroughdon'tbehardonyourself.Don't beatyourselfup.Cheeryourselfonasyouadjusttoanewcrazyschedule.
Ifyourchildrenhaven'tseentheirschoolfriendsallsummer,trytoarrangea playdateortwobeforeschoolstarts.Reconnectingwithfriendshelpseasefirstdayjittersandmakesgoingbacktoschoolsomethingtolookforwardto..
Asasocialworker,oneofthethingsthatIseetohelpstudentsbesuccessfulisa stronghome/schoollink.Whatthatmeansisthattheparentsandschoolwork togetherasateam.Ifyourchildhascertainneedsthatyouwanttomakesureare addressed,makesuretotalktothenecessarypeopleatschool.Peoplethatthis couldincludearetheteacher,socialworker,psychologist,etc.Letthemknowwhat willhelpyourchildtosucceedandaskhowyoucanbehelpfulathome.Together youandtheschoolcanhelpyourchildhavethesuccessfulyearthatyouare lookingfor.
Transitioningfromsummertoschooldoesn'thavetobestressful. Withthesetips,youcanhelpyourfamilyadjustsmoothlyandstarttheschoolyear offontherightfoot.Remember,alittleplanningandalotofpositivitygoalong wayinmakingtheback-to-schoolseasonenjoyableforeveryone.Takethelead andbeapositiverolemodelforyourkids.
By M.Abramsky, LCSW
Photography by Hannah Morales
Everystudentbringsuniqueperspectives,experiences,andknowledgetothe table.It'simportanttorecognizethateachpersonhasadifferentlifestory. Thisyearasyoureturntrytoshowrespectandembracediverseviewpoints. Byfosteringunderstandingandmanagingdisagreements,you,asstudebts, parents,staffandadministratorscancultivateasupportiveenvironment thatsetsanexampleforotherstofollow. Strivetobesomeoneyouadmireandrespect,bothinandoutsideofthe classroom.Don'thesitatetoseeksupportfromschoolstafforyourfellow parentcommunity.Riseabovenegativityandbeapartoftheupcoming generationofpositivechange.Actsofviolence,threats,andhatestemfrom individualslackingemotionalintelligenceandcommunicationskills.By acceptinghelp,youdemonstratestrength.Bethetransformationyouaspire toseewithinyourselfandsociety.Remember,youarecapableofachieving greatthings!
By M.Abramsky, LCSW
Photography by Hannah Morales
ManagingHateinSchools:Theimportantpiecehereisthat,itappears impossibletomanageortofindaBoardthatwillhireanadministrationthat wantstomanagehate.Theyhavetogetthroughothertheotherfacetsof education(academics,sports,music)tobesetapartasaschool).Hate andviolencewillneverbeatthetopoftheirlist.Thistopicasmuchas peoplewouldlike…istoorisky,candevalueschoolorputthecommunityat risk.Therealnumbershaveandneverwillseethelightofday. The“punishment”forsendinginthetruenumbersandprovidinginterventio needstobeapplauded!Thereshouldbeno“schoolinneedofimprovement ifinterventionsareutilized. Thestateneedstoallowfor monitoringof fundinggivenforappropriateservices(security,socialworkers,etc). Indicatingthechallengesandthepeopleandprogramsweputinplaceand theoutcomes-thatiswhererealREALCHANGEiscreated
Moving into a freshman dorm had to be one of the most unique experiences I’ve been through. After lots of cleaning and decorating, the room really began to feel like home. The new people and experiences that we have all been experiencing are some of the coolest and best feelings. Staying busy and feeling independent have helped make move in easier.
Author D.T. •College Freshman 2024 •SUNY Geneseo
There is nothing like a college dorm experience .. it allows you to the space to explore friendships you may never have had and exposure to a whole different culture on campus. The experiences on campus are invaluable-; facilitating your own radio show at 11am in the dorm campus radio booth , late night conversations about life and friendships that last a lifetime.
Author M.L. •College Sophomore• NYS
As I prepare for my senior year of high school, I have mixed emotions. You don’t think the end is ever coming but here it is. I am excited for my future and what is ahead. Leaving everything behind is also scary. I am also excited for all the events for my senior year of high school. This is the year that all of the events that take place at high school are special. I can’t wait to see what is to come. It is going to be a great year.
Author M.Greene •HS Senior • 2024 •NYS
THANK YOU TO STUDENT WRITERS AT AN EXTREMELY BUSY TIME OF THE YEAR! !
TRENDY FALL AFFORDABLE FASHION FOR ALL•WHY YOU NEED ITWHERE TO GET IT
•WORK • SCHOOL • HOME• TRAVEL
OURCLOTHINGCHOICESPLAYAVITALROLEINHOWWEPERCEIVEOURSELVES.WHENWE WEAROUTFITSTHATWELOVEANDFEELGOODIN,ITCANSPARKAMOREPOSITIVEMOODAND REINFORCEOURSELF-IMAGE.
ADDITIONALLY,ORGANIZINGYOURCLOSETANDDONATINGORSELLINGOLDERORUNWORN CLOTHINGNOTONLYBENEFITSYOURSELF-ESTEEMBUTCANALSOMAKEAPOSITIVEIMPACTON SOMEONEELSE'SLIFE.
INTODAY'SDIGITALWORLD,REFRESHINGYOURWARDROBEHASNEVERBEENMORESIMPLE. UTILIZINGAPPSLIKELTK(LIKETOKNOWIT)ALLOWSYOUTODISCOVERFASHIONABLEOUTFITS ATGREATPRICESWHILESHOWINGYOUEXACTLYWHERETOLOCATETHEM.
THISALLOWSYOUTOBROWSEOUTFITSTHATFITYOUANDYOURSTYLEANDMAKEEDUCATED DECISIONSWITHOUTCREATINGANINTERNETSHOPPINGADDICTION.YOUCANKNOWBEFORE YOULOOK,PRICEBEFOREYOUSHOP,BUYSMART,ANDENHANCEHOWYOUFEEL.
Tesla is a frontrunner in safety. The Tesla Model X is an all-electric SUV is packed with advanced features, like the Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability, five-star safety ratings and Autopilot.The Model X remains one of the safest SUVs on the road.
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is an electric SUV that combines the brand's known performance with modern style. Co-Pilot360 technology adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision assist keeps drivers safe, in the Mach-E's sporty look and crazy speed range! This is a both mind-blowing and secure choice for 2025.
Volvo has a long history of prioritizing safety, and the 2025 XC90 is no exception. The XC90 boasts a sophisticated suite of safety features, including the Volvo Pilot Assist and City Safety systems, which can detect potential collisions and take preventive action. This SUV provides luxury with a state-of-the-art infotainment system and unparalleled safety; proving you don’t have to choose between the two!
The BMW X5 has long been a favorite in the luxury SUV market, and the 2025 model continues to impress. It is equipped with amazing driver assistance technology in the Driving Assistant Professional package, This offers lane departure warning, active cruise control, and emergency stop assist. The X5 has lavish interior and robust engine options, The BMW X5 is a top choice for an SUV with superior performance and safety.
AbigthankyoutoPinterestfor sharingHGTV’sannouncementon Sherwin-WilliamsColorsoftheYear! Thoughtheymaynotbe yourcupof tea…someoneouttherehasbeen waitingforthese!!1.Qui t d 2S i
Haircolorcangiveyouasenseof renewedconfidence.Theseare greatcolorsforfall.
onFB Colorstofityour moodforfall!
Answer:
Hold muscles tight and release slowly.
Practice this with muscles before bed so it comes easy to you when you need it.
Incaseyouneedimmediatehelp:Ifeveryouarefeelinghopeless,suicidal,or simplyinneedofspeakingwithsomeone,therearenumerousfreeand anonymoushotlineswithtrainedoperatorsavailable.
SuicidePrevention/DepressionSupport
US:Hopeline(SuicidePrevention):1-800-SUICIDE(1-800-784-2433)
A SHORT INTRO OR KICKER OF THE ARTICLE WILL GO HERE. THIS PART ACTS AS A BRIDGE BETWEEN THE HEADLINE AND THE ARTICLE ITSELF.
US:SuicideHotline:1-800-273-Talk(1-800-8255)
UK:Samaritans(Nat’landlocal):08457909090orjo@samaritans.org
CAN:SuicidePreventionCanada
AUS:LifelineAustraliaHelpline131114 SubstanceAbuse/Alcoholism
US:NationalDrugInformationTreatmentandReferralHotline: 1-800-662-HELP(4357)
US:AlcoholAbuseandCrisisIntervention:1-800-234-0246
US:NationalCocaineHotline:1-800-COCAINE(262-2463)
US:Al-Anon/AlateenHotline(forfriendsandfamily)1-800-344-2666
UK:Drinkline:Nat’l.AlcoholismHelpline:08009178282
AUS:Drug&AlcoholHelpline1800198024
CAN:Drug&AlcoholHelpline1-800-565-8603
Rape,Abuse&DomesticViolence
US:Childhelp(ChildAbuse):1-800-4ACHILD(1-800-422-4453)
US:Nat’l.DomesticViolenceHotline:1-800-799-SAFE(7233)
US:RAINNNat’l.SexualAssaultHotline:1-800-656-HOPE(4673)
US:Nat’l.CenteronElderAbuse:1-800-677-1116
US:NationalRunawaySwitchboard:1-800-621-4000
UK:Women’sAidDomesticViolenceHelpline:08082000247
Gay/LesbianIssues
US:GLBTNationalHelpCenter1-888-843-4564
UK:Galop–LGBTAbuseHelpline08009995428
CAN:PFLAGCanadaHelpline1-888-530-6777
AUS:QLIFEAustraliaHelpline1800184527
Pregnancy/SexualHealth
US:PlannedParenthood:1-800-230-PLAN(7526)
US:Nat’l.STDHotline:1-800-227-8922
US:NationalAIDSHotline:1-800-342-AIDS(2437)
US:TheTeenAIDSHotline:1-800-440-TEEN(8336)
MedicalEmergencies
US:Nat’l.PoisonHelp:1-800-222-1222
ULifeline–Adirectoryofresourcesavailableforcollegestudents takeaselfassessmenttest;orfindyourcollegepsychservicescenter.
AlcoholicsAnonymous(AA)–AlcoholicsAnonymousisaninformalmeeting societyforrecoveringalcoholicswhoseprimarypurposeistostaysoberandhelp otheralcoholicsachievesobriety.
NarcoticsAnonymous(NA)–NarcoticsAnonymoussimilartoAA,isan international,community-basedassociationofrecoveringaddicts.
A SHORT INTRO OR KICKER OF THE ARTICLE WILL GO HERE. THIS PART ACTS AS A BRIDGE BETWEEN THE HEADLINE AND THE ARTICLE ITSELF.
Self-MutilatorsAnonymous–Acommunity-basedassociationforindividuals strugglingwithself-mutilation.
INFORMATIONALRESOURCES
NationalInstituteofMentalHealth–Extensiveinformationonavarietyofmental healthtopics.
NationalInstituteofHealth–Extensiveinformationonallhealthrelatedtopics. MedlinePlus–Extensiveinformationofdifferentdrugsandtreatmentoptions. Ifyouthinkyouhaveamedicalemergencypleasecallyourdoctoror911 immediately.
ifyouneedadditionalresourcesgotohttps://www.inspireamind.net/resources/ theseareonthewebsite!
Addiction&Recovery
AlcoholicsAnonymous
NarcoticsAnonymous
SubstanceAbuse&MentalHealthServicesAdministration
Anxiety&ObsessiveCompulsiveDisorders
ObsessiveCompulsiveFoundation
AnxietyBrain&BehaviorFoundation
Anxiety&DepressionAssociation
Depression,Suicide&ChronicFatigue
NASD:UnderstandingDepression
Anxiety&DepressionAssociation
WhatisChronicFatigueSyndrome?
SuicideAwarenessVoicesofEducation
Suicide:ReadThisFirst TherapistAssociations
AmericanAcademyofChild&AdolescentPsychiatry
AmericanAssociationforMarriageandFamilyTherapy
AmericanDieteticAssociation
AmericanCounselingAssociation
AmericanPsychiatricAssociation
AmericanPsychologicalAssociation
AmericanPsychologicalSociety
CanadianMentalHealthAssociation
NationalInstituteofMentalHealth
NationalMentalHealthAssociation
Abramsky,Mark•February2023
•Aspecialtributetoaremarkableman—abrother,husband,father,anda well-knownfigureinhiscommunity.Withauniqueblendofintensehumor anddeeploveforhisfamily,hewillalwaysberememberedasourTitanium man.
Love..allofus!
Rosen,Sherrill•March 2023
•Aheartfelttributetoawife,mother&grandmotherwhowillalwaysbe rememberedforherstrength,advocacy,andbeauty,bothinsideandout.
Memory•yourlovingfamily
name•Date's•SpecialMemory•Signoff
Add a personal message to family or friend
Add a personal message to family or friend
Add a personal message to family or friend
Add a personal message to family or friend
Add a personal message to family or friend
Add a personal message to family or friend
Add a personal message to family or friend
Add a personal message to family or friend