February Edition 2021

JUST BEGIN

issue no.9 february 2021

WE AR O H E. W “If you Just Begin you'll never have to question if you didn't start...”

Welcome to Just Begin Magazine! Our philosophy is to JUST BEGIN on whatever makes you happy. Just Begin Magazine celebrates all that’s good in the world. With our platform, we will share positive news and wonderful people.

Our mission is to inspire change for the environment, community, sustainability, and creativity by covering everything in workplace wellness, what women create, travel, holistic living, happiness, industrial health & safety, and much more.

By our magazine being digital, we are reducing waste and helping those around us become more eco-conscious.

We’re also committed to giving back by donating to a charity through our giving back program in every issue.

We hope that our readers leave every issue with a sense of peace and clarity from our stories.

We thank you today for taking the time to take a peek into our world.

just b e g i n magazine

photo by Dorian Ash | shotsbydorian.darkroom.tech

table of contents SPOTLIGHTS

Breaking The Stigma on Mental Health

BEAUTIFUL ME

5 Different Types Of Meditation You Should Know!

FLOWER OF THE MONTH LOVE & VULNERABILITY

HAPPINESS

Benefits And Uses Of White Sage Monthly Horoscopes by The Tarot Queen

WORKPLACE WELLNESS

How To Find Your Passion In Life Seven Secrets To Being Happier Five Things You Should Give Up To Be Truly Happy Poetry Of The Month Excerpt from "Just Get Up" February Journal Prompts

Holistic Approach to Claims

TRAVEL Sleepless in Seattle #LoveIsNotTourism

SUSTAINABILITY The Green Haven Project

Love in All its forms Make Love Not War With The Weeds In Your Garden

WHAT WOMEN CREATE Madison Nuñez Kenesha Medina

HOLISTIC LIVING How To Make Yourself A Priority

LEADERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE Jill E. Jacobs

DOCTOR TO KNOW Dr. Paul Roettges

How to Create a Healthy Home

just b e g i n magazine

BE INSPIRED Community Food Fridges Help Feed The Miami Community BeTriForUs WCI's Love For Give Kids The World Village

You are beautiful, unique, chosen, set apart…

Loved.

meet the team Melissa Diaz Editor in Chief

Miriela Diaz Executive Director

Claire Muselman Contributor

Samantha Diaz Chief Designer & Photography

Barbara Estrada Storyteller & Editor

Melissa Cancio Contributor

Anailis Diaz Senior Writer & Editor

Kaitlin Dowis Illustrator

Eddie Ortiz Editorial Intern

Beautiful Me,

I hope you read this and believe me... You are needed, and I know you don't feel like it right now..but you are. I know you've been hard on

yourself, how you view and talk to yourself is nothing you'd repeat out loud. I know you feel like this is it, this is all the future holds for you.

Keep going. Keep trying every single day. You're already making waves, moving mountains, becoming who you're meant to be. It all starts with showing up for YOU, trusting YOU, and believing in YOU. From the person who will always believe in you,

Me.

just begin magazine

photo by Dorian Ash | shotsbydorian.darkroom.tech

flower of the month

illustration by Kaitlin Dowis @liv.collective

the VIOLET

Metaphysically speaking violet appears in various magical workings aimed at manifesting prophetic dreams, facilitating inventiveness, inspiring prosperity, manifesting wishes and bringing peace.

Carries it acts as a charm against evil. For newlyweds it is a good luck flower. Violets come under the dominion of Venus, which gives them associations with love potions and spells. Frequently practitioners mixed the petals with lavender for luck in love. Alternatively stuff this mix into a sachet for under your pillow to dream true.

In the Victorian Flower Oracle Book the Violet spirit represents humility, good fortune, restfulness, accord and insight. It is ruled by Venus and its Elemental association is water.

flower of the month illustration by Kaitlin Dowis

Love and Vulnerability Writer’s Note: I’m listening to an exes playlist as I write this and 100% drowning in emotions

February is a month of romance filled with heartfelt gestures, flowers, and candlelit dinners. Unfortunately, for the newly heartbroken and those who have long since cast love aside it's a rather tender topic. Constant chatter about cupid’s arrows careening overhead and social media feeds crowded with crimson can cause conflict. There are those who are battling their own emotions or perhaps clashing with a significant other that fails to meet romantic expectations. I would be remiss to not acknowledge the often masculine origins of this embitterment during what would otherwise be a lighthearted month adorned with flower petals and anatomically incorrect hearts.

I believe the heart of this issue is an inability to communicate deriving from the unintentional stoicism perpetuated by our patriarchal society. Men are often taught to not display any emotion other than anger and when it comes to expressing the love they are often tongue-tied. The expression of love is also a complicated matter as everyone has different love languages. A person could be doing their best to communicate their feelings, shouting it from the rooftops only to realize that they’re standing atop the tower of Babel. To get a better understanding of the different perceptions on love I interviewed five different men on how they express love and if they’ve ever heard of love languages.

Words by Eddie Ortiz

What Are Love Languages?

Love languages are the ways that we as people choose to communicate and receive love from others. The term “love language” was popularized by Gary Chapman following the publication of his book The Five Love Languages. As the title of the book indicates, there are five different love languages: quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service, physical touch, and words of affirmation. Now these different methods of conveying affection towards others are important because without an understanding of them we may be entirely unaware of others expressing love towards us. is best summarized as being present for your partner without any

QUALITY TIME

distractions. In the digital age it's hard to focus on any given thing let alone anyone with your phone vibrating, flashing, and beeping every couple of seconds.

might seem like a trait exclusive to gold diggers or someone who plans on becoming a wealthy widow but it's a little deeper than that.

RECEIVING GIFTS

The love language of receiving gifts isn’t particularly about the cost of the gift but the thoughtfulness behind it. A bookmark for an avid reader or an eraser for a frustrated artist makes all the difference.

can range anywhere from washing the dishes to just picking up

ACTS OF SERVICE

something from the store. These acts are of course to be done without a sense of obligation or with some form of expectation tied to them.

extends much further beyond where the mind first lands when

PHYSICAL TOUCH

thinking about it. It includes holding hands, cuddling, hugging, and kissing. This doesn’t entail reenacting scenes from the hub constantly though it's more of an acceptance of a person like quality time but physically reassuring.

WORDS OF AFFIRMATION

simply means complimenting and praising your partner. There’s no necessity to become Shakespeare over text or transform into a smooth talking Saul Goodman when a plain “I love you” will suffice.

ELI, 23 FROM SEATTLE, WA How do you express love? “Great question, I would say by spending time with someone probably.”

Why do you think that is? “Because time is very valuable in everyone’s lives and if you spend time with someone it shows that you value them.” How do you like having love expressed to you? “By having someone show me their attention, an all eyes on me kind of deal”Why do you think that is? “Speaking as far as girls, I feel like it's hard to get their attention and if you have it, they love you.”Have you ever heard of love languages? “Like French?”How do you think your parents show their love for you? “They let me live in their house and support me financially. They’re pretty open about their feelings, I would say I’ve had a pretty good relationship with them.”

MATT, 30 OHIO How do you express love? “For me love involves many different senses, it’s tangible. I express love through my actions. Making someone something or even just being a presence for people.”Why do you think that is? “Love was taught to me in an abstract way, like it was abstract. A warm feeling that's individual. As I started growing older it became less abstract and I found love in many forms some of which were tangible. At times it was distant but as I slowed down and I could see the different ways love was flowing, energy-wise. I was hoping to mediate that love to others.” How do you like having love expressed to you? “I’ve never actually thought about that. I like more of a same love to be honest with you. Yeah, I don’t know how to go deeper into that question. That’s a vulnerable question, I didn’t expect to go into that.” Why do you think that is? “You can’t pour from an empty pitcher, you eventually have to fill that pitcher with something. It should be from the love of others that pours into yourself so that you can pour into others. I grew up as a gay male in a hetero normative society, love wasn’t always something that was given to me. Even then from my own family. I had to find little ways in which love was happening. Because it wouldn’t be as overt for other people. Love the sinner hate the sin realm. Finding ways in which people could love me.” Have you ever heard of love languages? “Not just French, Spanish, English? I mean there’s ways to affirm people. Like checking to see if they’ve eaten. There are different ways of making people feel seen. I think learning about that really informed my view a lot on life. Especially making people feel seen and that they needed to be seen. Instead of just saying I love you. Some people don’t know how to say that but they know how to say other things.”

ZAQ, 24 DENVER, CO How do you express love? “I like to share music with the people that I appreciate in my life. I think that a playlist is the most vulnerable I can be.”Why do you think that is? “I consider myself to be pretty thoughtful, and I think music can say a lot more than I can put into words.”How do you like having love expressed to you? For me I think quality time is the best way to show me you care. At the end of the day it's not about having to dress up or go anywhere but if I can spend a whole day with you and just enjoy your presence.”Why do you think that is? “I think it goes back to being a kid and wanting to be taken care of and just happiness all around. You know just having a good time doing nothing really.”Have you ever heard of love languages? “I speak the love language, nah I’m kidding but I have heard of them before.”

ZAY 27 NATIONAL CITY, CA How do you express love? “#1 has to be communication, that’s something I’ve had to learn to do. I’m not a very effective communicator, that’s something I had to learn.” Why do you think that is? “Effective communication leaves no room for mystery, which is the opposite of what men are told to be. When you grow up with a family of narcissistic liars and manipulators you kind of figure that’s the norm. How do you like having love expressed to you? Sexual favors, no other form of expression beyond sexual favors, this includes platonic and work-business relationships as well I get paid in sex.

Sorry, I can’t take myself seriously. I just want people to be nice to me without any expectations. Honest, up front, real. Why do you think that is? “These aren’t simple questions. Because I don’t like being lied to, if I’m looking for something serious I’ll communicate that. I think a lot of people don’t lie to each other intentionally but they do unintentionally by lying to themselves. When you tell someone you love them but you don’t understand the meaning or the intention of the words that came out of your mouth then technically you’re lying to someone.”Have you ever heard of love languages? “Yes, one love language is signing sexual innuendos with your fingers from across the bar as my girlfriend does to me. I’m kidding, my partner and I click a lot because of references. We bond over the media we share together.”

One thing I noticed over the course of these interviews is the younger a person was the more likely their love language seemed very cut and dry. Their responses were shorter and didn’t seem to involve too much self reflection. Despite their certainty in their answers the lack of introspection shows that possibly they’re still figuring it out. In many ways we’re all still figuring it out.

Today we face many questions about sexual identity, gender, and for some people even the viability of monogamy.

The dating scene today is a complex terrain to traverse as we question traditional norms as nurture rather than nature. The advent of dating apps, hook up culture, and our growing understanding of human sexuality creates a kaleidoscopic lens through which to view ourselves. I believe in some ways we have lost the essence of love during our search for a definition.

The greatest misrepresentation of love is one without a journey. Before being able to understand someone else you must understand yourself. Unfortunately, along the way there are thousands of pitfalls and the shards of a broken heart may linger like shrapnel but the harder the journey the more we value reaching our destination.

Whether that be with someone, someones, or no one at all, the most important love language to understand is the one you speak to yourself.

Love in all its forms I’ve always said that love is a strong word, simply because I didn’t want the meaning to fade. I take it to heart every time I say it, because it’s so special of a word to me. So I thought it would be cute to ask a few friends how they define love and maybe you relate!

“When you think of a person you love and you feel warmth in your heart. When you can’t imagine your life without that person. Love is a big word, filled with kindness, patience, understanding, commitment, admiration and forgiveness.” -Claudia Cancio “Love is the feeling you get when you find someone who is undeniably meant for you; a soulmate of some sort, who after meeting them, you can’t picture life without. It’s sort of like that moment you know your soul has been touched by them and it won’t be able to change now that you’ve met them. It’s giving them a piece of you that not many people have seen.“ -Ari Navarro “Being content with not knowing what the future holds but enjoying the adventure with your companion.” -Tyler Saieg Everyone defines love in so many ways, which I think is so special.

Whether we love a person, place or thing, it can be expressed in a variety of ways. Because we’re human, we learn to feel this emotion when you get tingling inside or you have butterflies in you or even in your saddest moments. I think you truly learn to love before any other feeling.

When you are in love, you become selfless and vulnerable. Two qualities I still work on every day, but it has allowed me to grow with those around me, my significant other, and my loved ones.

Being able to have conversations like these opens up our minds to something we truly did not think was possible- or maybe it’s just me. In my words, love is a feeling- a feeling in which one becomes their true self, comfortable yet ambitious, and shows the way we embrace those we care for. Love shows unconditional kindness. It changes through time, but the mushy gushy feeling is always there.

XO, Mel

HAPPINESS HAPPINESS HAPPINESS HAPPINESS HAPPINESS HAPPINESS HAPPINESS just begin magazine | 01

How To Find Your Passion In Life How to find your passion in life? What is your life purpose? What am I supposed to be doing with my life? These are the big questions that we want the right answers to. But somehow, along the way, we get lost in our busy lives, time passes and we find ourselves Googling “how to find your passion in life.” It’s completely normal to get a little lost in this crazy and weird thing called life. We get it. We’re all told we are meant to do something. With this comes worry and we stress about our true calling in life and our cortisol levels skyrocket. Instead, we need to slow down, ask the right questions to get the right answers.How to find your true passion in life ain’t easy but our gut knows, and we just need to pay more attention to it.

FINDING YOUR WHY Finding your true why is a piece of cake for some and a tough pickle for others. The bottom line is that we all have that something that tugs at our heartstrings every time we think about it. We’re so busy being busy and we never stop to look, reflect and devote enough time for our dreams to find us.Sometimes it takes a while for your body to whine down and for your mind to think clearly about your dreams. In our society, distractions are endless. Go for a long walk in silence (or listen to an inspiring podcast) , go on a weekend getaway to a secluded cabin where you can get some peace and quiet and really get to the root of who you are and what you want to do. Set your atmosphere and environment out to support you. If you’re not sure what you want to do, fear not.

Try answering the following questions: What did you dream of as a child?

If I had one million dollars I would…

What makes you feel good?

If I knew I wouldn’t fail I would…

What would you get up at 5 AM in the morning for?

SHOUT IT FROM THE ROOFTOPS Once you’ve found your why, scream it from the rooftops. We're dead serious – do it. Tell your friends, family and be proud and happy that you’ve actually figured out what it is that makes your heart pop. When you have your why, the next step is to write it down and make the commitment.

NEVER FEEL SHAME Onto the next important point and as woo-woo as it sounds – you should never be ashamed of your dreams.

Dreams can seem crazy, wild and unattainable and that’s ok! That’s the whole point. Your dreams should scare you a little. If your dreams and passion don’t scare you, you need to dream bigger. When you’re telling people about your new dreams, you should never downplay them. Be proud, stay committed and good things will happen.

SLOW DOWN The world is a hectic place and people seem to have an opinion about everything. It can be hard not to get distracted, side-tracked or inspired by other people’s actions (good or bad). But have you ever just stopped, slowed down to think for yourself? All we can say is DO IT. Find 10 minutes out of your day to sit in silence, journal and really get to the core of what your body, mind, and gut is trying to tell you. Pay attention to your body and increase your self-awareness. Open your mind to your dreams. Meditate daily to get clarity and to whine down your mind and body. The best and most genuine ideas appear in solitude. Stop the noise, slow down and you’ll know what to do.

ASK QUESTIONS & CHALLENGE YOURSELF Ask your mind the right questions.Put your brain to work and ask it for help, ask it to guide you in the right direction. Slow down, sit in silence with your thoughts and really get to the bottom of what you want out of life and pursue what lights you up. Live a little, go a little crazy. Challenge yourself to try something you’ve never done before and get out of your comfort zone every day (or at least a couple of times a week). Try new things and see what they’ll lead to. Things may surprise you and you might just find your way to your dream life. You’ll never know what is possible if you don’t put yourself out there. Challenge yourself, grow and learn a little something along the way.

Be Specific, Set Goals To truly learn how to find your passion in life you need to get really specific about the results you want in your life. Once you’ve found your WHY – get specific and set the right goals to support these results. Make your goals S.M.A.R.T. Specific Measurable Attainable Relevant Time-sensitive

Seven Secrets To Being Happier Everyone wants to be happier but did you know

there are some scientifically proven methods that can make you happier almost immediately? Yes, there are actionable steps that you can take right now to improve your quality of life.

Here are a few tips that are scientifically proven to make you happier.

1. TALK TO A STRANGER Often we’re surrounded by people but still feel lonely. Studies have shown that we’re happier when we make social connections.

Connecting with a stranger can boost your mood.

2. MEDITATE According to studies, Meditation has been proven to improve your mood, along with reducing stress and the stress hormone cortisol. It has also been “shown to improve symptoms of stress-related conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome, posttraumatic stress disorder and fibromyalgia.

3. GET QUALITY SLEEP Getting adequate sleep can help you feel better mentally and physically. It’s best to get 7-8 hours of sleep and stick to a sleep schedule where you go to bed at the same time each night.

4. REDUCE YOUR NUMBER OF CHOICES People tend to think having lots of choices makes them happier but it can actually lead to frustration (think about that overwhelming feeling when you walk into IKEA).

5. INVEST IN EXPERIENCES, NOT THINGS As humans, we go back to a base level of happiness.

When you purchase an object whether it’s a new car or an expensive pair of shoes, you get used to them.

Experiences are new and exciting and create lasting memories.

6. CALL A FRIEND This can immediately boost your mood. It reduces loneliness and makes you feel more connected.

7. KEEP A GRATITUDE JOURNAL Writing down 3-5 things you’re grateful for can statistically improve your life on as little as 2 weeks.

noitcefrep sel more authenticity

FIVE THINGS YOU SHOULD GIVE UP TO BE TRULY HAPPY

01

02 03 04 05

Giving up the need to always be in control No matter how many times we try to deny it, we can never be in control of everything. We can never be certain that things will ALWAYS work out the way we want it to be. And quite frankly, the only thing that we get from always trying to control everything is frustration. So, instead of worrying about everything and complaining about how things didn’t go as planned, let’s try to take everything that is out of our control as an opportunity for us to adapt and grow. Remember that we were never meant to control everything.

Instead of wasting all your energy on things that are beyond our control focus all your attention to the things that you can control. Now, instead of complaining about my losses and my life’s circumstances, let go, accept what it is and most importantly, appreciate what I have.

Giving up the need to impress everyone Sometimes this is what we do. We all strive to show the world this image of us – this image of perfection — just so we can feel accepted and loved.But the reality is, no matter what we do we can never impress everyone and we should never try to.Instead of focusing all our energy on striving to impress the world – we should put all our attention into embracing ourselves – flaws and complexities included.Stop putting on a facade. There is no need to put on a mask. You are enough just as you are and you don’t need anyone’s approval for that.You are smart enough. Good enough. Strong enough. You are valuable just as you are – we want you to always remember that!

Giving up the need to always be right Always had this strong urge of always wanting to be right? Regardless of what the situation is or what the consequences will be? We get it, you still want to prove that you are right. But of course, sometimes it isn’t. But it can be just too difficult to admit that you were wrong or too difficult to swallow your pride and stop protecting your ego. And where does that get you? It only ends up hurting other people and ending great relationships just for the sake of being right. It only causes a great deal of stress and pain – it’s just not worth it. If you want true happiness, it's time to realize that sometimes it’s just so much better to choose peace and kindness over being right.

Giving up the fear of failure Growing up, we are taught that failure was a bad thing – that if you fail or make mistakes it meant that you didn’t do or give your best. And that it is something that should be avoided at all cost. Now I want you to remember this: Never let the fear of failure stop you from achieving your dreams. Never let it keep you from chasing the things that set’s your soul on fire.Failure is not always a bad thing.

Making a mistake is not always bad. It only means that you are actually trying – that you are actually doing something.Yes, sometimes failure can be painful. It can sometimes turn your whole world upside down. But more often, failure also leads to learning, to growth and a chance to gain a whole new perspective.

Giving up the need to complain about everything Focusing all your energy on all the bad things (even the smallest one) and complain about it? Yeah, not a good idea. Complaining about the bad things and sometimes even feeling the need to look for the negative on something that is good just so I can complain about it. Sounds silly, right? But sometimes that’s the reality. When we are faced with struggles, so much stress and back to back disappointments we start to lose sight of everything that is good and we focus all our energy on the negativity. And we tell you, doing this does not benefit you in any way. It doesn't make you feel better.

It doesn't change the circumstances. Yes, life can sometimes become too overwhelming but if we let ourselves dwell on all the negativity and in all our losses, we tend to lose sight of the things that truly matter. If you feel the need to vent out about a problem – do it. Talk about it, scream if you must.But don’t give it the power to rule and ruin your entire day – you are in control!Always remember that regardless of what the circumstances are there is always something to be grateful for.The sooner you believe this, the happier you’ll be.

Poetry of the month

Those Words by Sophia Naves

There are words that hurt more than others those that follow you, even when you try to outrun them, those that you hear when you close your eyes, and when it starts to get dark, they haunt you.

I’ve tried to forget them, I’ve tried to rip them out, and when I think I’ve outgrown them, and they can’t touch me anymore, and I think I'm safe now.

This time, they can’t hurt me, I’ve saved myself.

Then, I close my eyes, and that familiar darkness fills it all.

At the beginning it always relieving because I recognise it, and in that emptiness where nothing else is feeling the void, where no one, and nothing else is occupying that space, where my mind is most vulnerable, the darkness betrays me and they take advantage.

They crawl up from my veins, from down below where I thought I buried them, where I thought, they could never come back from.

But yet, in that moment I still feel like someone is burning them in my heart,

reminding me all the things I’ve done wrong, and all the ways I’m not enough. Those word said in the wrong moments, with the wrong intentions, from the people that matter the most, I can’t erase them, Why How many words have we forgotten, how many do we forget every day The ones that matter the most.

Yet, this follow my every step.

Just Get Up An Excerpt from the play "Just Get Up" by Therese Adelina Callison and Jonathan Ali Gonzalez

STRONG LANGUAGE. CHARACTERS: Sara: Female, mid-20’s. Type-A, future interior designer. Ambitious and controlling, yet attentive and loving.

Zoey: Female, mid-20’s. Sara’s best friend.

Encouraging, helpful, and loves to do tarot readings in her spare time.

It is April of 2020 in the Coronavirus pandemic. Sara is going through a breaking point moment in her relationship. She calls Chloe, her old college roommate and friend, to vent and catch-up on facetime.

SARA: …and I hate enabling this behavior. We are just not growing at the same pace anymore. I can’t afford to take steps back right now. Moving in together was his idea, not mine. And that meant so much to me because it came from him. He was telling me what he wanted. That he wanted me. It feels like he gave up on our future. What happened to us?

ZOEY: Oh my god, shut up! Shut up! SHUT UP! [she slams her phone on the table] Sorry, my Co-star app. No, girl, you need to do what's right for you.

SARA: I’m just exhausted. I feel like my mom. And her mom.

Fuck, I said I would never be like this.

ZOEY: You can’t fix him. You have to make a change. At the end of the day, all you have is yourself. Light a candle, take a bath, maybe let me do one of my tarot readings on you.

SARA: Zoey, you know I don’t believe in that stuff.

ZOEY: I just think it would help! Trust me, the Universe is speaking to you through me, and I need you to open your ears.

Please?

SARA: Fine ZOEY: What sign are you?

ZOEY: The Universe just knows. [beat] How do you feel?

SARA: God, that’s a loaded question. I don't know.

ZOEY: I think you do know. You just don’t want to admit it.

SARA: [Chuckles] You’re really good at tarot cards.

ZOEY: What can I say? I predicted the horse that would win the Kentucky Derby, without betting, just because I was drawn to the name. Her intuition, though.

SARA: Honestly, this makes sense. I’ve been so frustrated lately. I am stuck in this cycle. I keep trying to force something that clearly isn't there. Oh my God. What’s wrong with me? I don’t want to give up everything we’ve built. I wanted a life with him. We always talked about New York. He’d be a “hotshot lawyer, fighting for justice and inequality.” I’d get into Pratt; start my own company. I mean, even if we got home tired, it would all be worth it, because we’d be together. We’d be doing what we love. We used to talk about rescuing a dog. Watch movies together. Talk about how frustrating it is to style the bohemian aesthetic with mid-century modern but compromise because, that’s what I always do--compromise.

SARA: Virgo

Cut to Sara talking to Michael.

ZOEY: [scoffs] Of course.

SARA: How do you think that makes me feel? I feel invisible around you. Like I don’t matter. Like our plans no longer matter. I get that what you are going through is hard, but everyone is going through it. And instead of connecting more with you, this is the farthest we’ve ever been. It’s like you gave up on me. On us. I had my life planned out around us. But you can’t get off the fucking computer for a second to talk to the woman you supposedly see a life with. You don't know how to communicate, Michael. I got into my dream school and you didn’t even bat an eye. Do you even care about going to New York with me? Do you even care about being a lawyer anymore? Do you care about me anymore? I just feel like I’m painted to be this annoyance in your life that has to nag you all day long to do your laundry, clean your house, and manage your money. I don’t want a baby, Michael. I avoid museums and take birth control for that. I want a partner. But you don't let me in. You smoke weed and get lost in that computer: binging, playing games, and wasting our money on dumb shit. Jesus, I'm exhausted.

I feel like I give and give and give, but you’ve left me empty. God, I look so stupid.

SARA: What does that mean?

She takes a moment to breathe, almost as if connecting to a Higher Power. She shuffles the cards.

ZOEY: (As she is shuffling the cards) Okay so we’re just gonna do a general reading, so pick one card and we’ll see what the Universe has to say.

ZOEY: Oh my god. Can you believe? Okay, so you got the star card. I’m getting that a cycle has recently ended and because of that you are standing firm in your authenticity. You are not afraid to be who you are and show who you are underneath; all your layers. And because of the cycle you’ve been through, you learned that you are divinely protected, and divinely loved. You are not afraid to take new opportunities and go down a new path. You know that your future is bright. And that you can overcome anything. Continue to stand firm in your authenticity and shine bright.

SARA: Wait, how was that so accurate?

feb ruary

Journal Prompts

1. What 5 things do you love about yourself?

2. What part of your life are you happy with?

3. What 10 things are you good at?

4. How do you show yourself love?

5. What does self-love mean to you?

6. What important quote inspires you?

7. What three things do you love about your personality?

8. What makes you unique?

9. What brings you peace?

10. What do you see when you look in the mirror?

Welcome

to #TwentyTwentyWON! words by claire muselman

Welcome to #TwentyTwentyWON, the year we all quit ‘shoulding’ ourselves. It is time to flip the script! We as humans continuously take an approach of ‘I should have’ or ‘I should not have’ when reflecting on what has transpired within our lives. As we have entered a new year, and a month surrounding love (think SELF LOVE!), it is incredibly valuable to take time to reflect. I am challenging all of us to consciously stop ‘should-ing’ ourselves and take time to find more grace in our daily activities. Reflection is taking a pause to give serious thought to an area of focus and create awareness of a situation. ‘Should-ing’ is beating yourself up about a past you are unable to change and makes you feel, plain and simply, bad. There are enough reasons someone can come up with to feel unhappy with their present life circumstances so in the honor of self-love this month, let us flip the script and write a new path forward.

The next time you are having a conversation with friends, pay attention to how many times you hear the following statements: If only…, I should have…, If I can get here…, If I can … then I will be happy. We spend a lot of our time in life thinking that if we lose the weight, make it to summer, secure the promotion, complete the degree, then we will be happy. What about the moments right now? There is a lot of time that can pass between when these kinds of statements are let out into the universe and the moment in which the goal is achieved. How can we change that to be happy during the journey or the process rather than thinking hitting the destination will bring us happiness? Let us explore this one together.

What about your life can you find to be happy about this moment? Are you drinking a cup of coffee? How does it taste? Did you take a hot shower today? How did the water feel on your skin? What scents can get

My body is great because it can move me to get there and I can reward it by giving it strength, agility, and movement! This rewires the brain to think of this as an opportunity rather than a

you lost in a moment of happiness simply by pausing to inhale? There are an infinite amount of possibilities to find happiness in this very moment by taking time to enjoy and savor life. What I have learned is there will always be if only moments as mentioned above.

The difference is how to stop yourself in various moments to feel JOY.

punishment. I get to versus I have to. The entire month of January, I practiced this. I feel happier.

Getting up is not as hard as it once was and has created a better foundation for my mornings. Trust me, this has been a game-changer as it is the single digits of winter in the Midwest. The cozy bed is so tempting to stay cocooned; however, as a result of this reprogramming, my energy towards

When my alarm goes off in the morning, I can tell you the excuses to start running with why I should stay cozy in my bed and not get up to go to the gym. My brain is incredibly functional when that alarm goes off to create excuses, I am quite impressed…especially as we are at a pre-coffee moment. Waking up to instantly think of excuses is not the way I want to live my life.

Through reflection, I identified this is something that needs to change moving forward. I wanted to rewire how I approached this element of my life because it is the foundation and tone set for my entire day. I made a conscious effort when I heard the alarm go off in the morning to start thinking, What do I GET to do today?

I have it written in giant letters across my bathroom mirror. I focus on the things I have the ability to do and the opportunities not everyone gets in life.

others is more embracing, and my smile is more genuine…especially pre-coffee.

In 2018, I underwent five surgical procedures on my left hip. There was a period of time I could not walk which is mentally, physically, and emotionally challenging. The road to recovery was difficult as there were times I was not able to stand and I remember falling to the ground when attempting to squat vividly. More so, I remember feeling the defeat and sadness running across my body as I had previously been a regular weight lifter and marathon runner. The weakness felt overwhelming. I take these moments of reflection to remember when my alarm goes off and I have the ability to get to the gym, this is awesome!

What scripts can you flip?

There are ten areas of life we tend to focus on to consider how fulfilled we feel, and as this month is all about love, let us collectively find ways to enhance our own lives to better love ourselves. Life is all about balance, like the cookie and the gym, or work and fun! Take a moment to reflect on how you feel about the following ten areas: Education, Financial, Health, Career, Family, Spiritual, Relationships, Romance, Travel, and Adventure.

During this movement, assess your present feelings on one to 10 scales, with one representing not fulfilled at all and 10 representing feeling fabulous!

Education Financial Health

What does education look like for you? For me, I am someone who wants to be a continual life-long learner, regardless of organized formal academia, industry designations, or courses that pique my interest (check out coursera.com). When I assess my feelings on education, I have spent the better part of my life in school and am finally ending my academic career with a doctorate. This may not be the path for you. I can tell you it was a really long road and while I feel great at the finish line, it took a lot of endurance to get here. Looking into our industry, becoming more educated in Risk Management has piqued my interest and therefore, I am exploring the Associate in Risk Management offered through The Institutes. Designations may be a thing for you and they may also sound awful if you were not a fan of formalized test-taking. What other avenues pique your interest? Do you want to learn more about medical terms, procedures, and offerings? Do you read? Have you picked up any podcasts over the past few months? The world offers an incredible amount of information now available at our fingertips. Take a moment to assess where you are and then think about the areas you would like to explore.

Ahh, finances. Awareness is the first step in creating a plan you can be comfortable with yourself about and therefore, it is important to begin by assessing where you are in thought and in life with your financial situation. Are you happy with where you are? What do you need? How can you get there? Do you need help? As someone who is inheriting their student loans from undergrad to doctorate this year, I am going to need to reassess my current situation because being in school for a substantial part of life can be expensive. Creating awareness into all of the avenues where revenue is coming in and where expenses flow out is the first step to getting your head into a place of understanding. There are a plethora of resources available through apps, websites, and financial planners to assist in this process. Assess your fulfillment level around your finances. Make a plan. I promise, there is no greater feeling than that of having your finances in order.

Nothing like a pandemic to make us grateful for our health! Awareness is a key component to health because what you do not know can hurt you. Are you aware of your family background and are you having annual check-ups? When was the last time you went to the dentist? Have you had your eyes examined within the last year? These somewhat small events can lead to big health impacts and many insurance programs offer preventative maintenance for no additional charge. No one is going to take care of you unless you take care of you. Aside from the assistance of providers, how are you feeling mentally? How are your eating habits?

Are you exercising? Heath has a variety of avenues one can explore when assessing how fulfilled you are in this segment. Take the time to pinpoint your feelings and what you can do to increase your own score in this area. Even drinking a glass of water as you read this can make a difference.

Career Family

How engaged do you feel on a daily basis with your work? Do you feel connected to your work through your purpose? Do you find meaning in the work you do? What do you want your professional life to be? Career can be scary if you are thinking of making a change and can also be liberating. Not loving what you do or aspects of what you do can be detrimental to your life. If you are not in a spot to change careers if this is not something you feel fulfilled with at the present time, are there ways you can change the way you think about the work you do to increase your satisfaction? Is there another outlet you need to feel content in this segment? Life is too short to show up every day for at least eight hours a day doing things you do not like. Not sure where to begin? If your organization has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), start there! Having a professional opinion may be the gamechanger you were looking for to spearhead you into the direction of your dreams.

Family can be looked at from a variety of angles. There is the immediate, nuclear family, extended family, and then there is the family you create. I hope you all have fabulous relationships with all of your family members and life is blissful. In reality, this is not always the case. What relationships have you had to reconsider?

I am not someone who is very close with my parents, or even my extended family.

As an adopted kiddo, I have a different perspective on family and the relationships that have created what I consider my current family. Some of the most challenging decisions I have made have been to disconnect from family members who were quite toxic in my life and especially when looking out for my daughters. I have also truly embraced my ex-husband and his wife as we all co-parent together. We receive a lot of comments on what a unique situation we have and it was a lot of work! Our daughter has been our top priority since we decided to separate and as a result, we work together, ebb and flow, to create the greatest support system we can. At the end of the day, I consider family those who show up for you and love you regardless of what your life experiences have been. Family relationships take work, nurturing, and grow over time. How do you feel about your family? Are there ways you could enhance this segment of your life by spending intentional time with your children? Picking up the phone to call an aunt, grandparent, cousin? The intentional time is what makes these relationships grow and will be what is remembered when life moves on.

Continue Reading..

To find out the other categories read the full article on justbeginmag.com

WHAT

WOMEN CREATE

WHAT WOMEN

just begin magazine | 01

Just Begin Magazine highlights the creative spaces of extraordinary women through inspirational stories.

Each issue will inspire and motivate creativity.

E

E M N O CRE W T AT A H W

Madison Nuñez

Nude Velvet Skincare

How did the idea for your business come about?

What are the daily changes you face as a female entrepreneur

The idea for Nude Velvet Skincare sparked at a time when I was going through a difficult season in my life.

It felt like everything was going wrong, from my job at the time, family, health and self-confidence. I turned to self-care practices like skincare as a way to fuel my confidence and get back into a positive routine. I found serenity in feeling beautiful and healthy on the outside that it reflected so much more on the inside. I was able to rise above what was bringing me down and power through the tough times. Now, I realize this was all a lesson preparing me to discover my purpose.

Much later I took the plunge and launched Nude Velvet in hopes I could guide someone on their selflove journey through taking care of their skin.

One of the challenges I face as a female entrepreneur is asking for help when needed. Being a one-women show, I handle everything from finances to product development and everything in between. It can get overwhelming at times and I am not a pro at every single thing I do. I find it difficult to ask for help without the fear of being rejected, however, I try to remind myself that the answer is always no if you never ask.

What was your key driving force to become an entrepreneur?

Having worked in a few corporate jobs, I knew that I wouldn’t be fulfilled sitting behind a desk all day. I crave creative freedom and the ability to build something great from nothing.

How did you come up with the name for your company?

The name Nude Velvet just came to me one day. I created a logo for fun and decided it was such a luxurious name for a skincare brand. Nude is not merely a color but a representation of all beautiful skin tones and shades in their truest form.

How did you raise funding for your venture?

Nude Velvet is a clean and environmentally friendly skincare line devoted to promoting self-love with the sole message that women should “choose themselves”.

A priority of looking after your skin as a way to disconnect from the busy nature of day-to-day life and in order to care for yourself. True beauty stems from within. When we focus on ourselves, we better show up in our lives, for our families and the world. Not only are you buying skincare products to enhance and correct your skin but more importantly, you are making the commitment to prioritize yourself.

How do you market your business, and which tactics have been most successful?

I have found that after much trial-and-error people are looking to connect with not only your products but the story behind your brand. I am very adamant about telling our brand story through our social media, website, marketing collateral, etc. I also find that being open to feedback and allowing customers to give their insight is a great way to keep them coming back.

What kind of culture exists in your organization, and how did you establish it?

I seek to create a sense of community within Nude Velvet. An escape for women who feel the need to disconnect and acknowledge that without putting themselves first, it’s difficult to help others.

Can you describe/outline your typical day? (Routines, Rituals, that you live by) Being a self-care advocate I typically allow myself to have slow mornings. I indulge in a good face mask every morning. Masking is a great way to multi-task while reaping the skin benefits. I also like to plan out my day/week while sipping on my favorite cold brew.

What is your favorite aspect of being an entrepreneur?

Knowing that the sky is the limit.

If you had the chance to start your career over again, what would you do differently?

I am a big believer in “you are where you are because of the choices you have made”. Truthfully, I do not regret a single decision I have made in the creation of my brand. I took so much time curating every little detail. It hasn’t been easy and I have made some mistakes, but without them, Nude Velvet wouldn’t be what it is today.

How has being an entrepreneur affected your family life?

Being an entrepreneur has affected my family life in a positive way. My significant other is also a fellow business owner and it’s nice to have someone that can relate!

What is your greatest fear, and how do you manage fear?

Fear of failure. I try not to focus on fears so I do everything I can to avoid it! It also motivates me to do better and keep pushing for my ultimate goals.

read the full article on justbeginmag.com

Kenesha Medina

Twisted Medium

How did the idea for your business come about?

I wanted create a space where all of my creative medium could live and all people could relate to in some way. A space where nothing was off-limits and I didn’t feel confined to what I could or couldn’t create.

What was your key driving force to become an entrepreneur?

I wanted to create freely and was driven by the notion that whatever I produced was up to me.

How did you come up with the name for your company?

I have multiple mediums to my creativity that change ever so often and have no contact form, therefore, Twisted Medium.

How did you raise funding for your venture?

I didn’t - I took the little savings I had and poured my heart into it. I didn’t have profit in mind and I learned as time progressed and with the support of others.

What makes your business unique?

It has no parameters, is ever-evolving and it supports the community through quarterly donations to organizations in need.

What are the daily changes you face as a female entrepreneur Having to manage a full time job and a small business, balancing the time of individual health and the health of your growing business and remaining relevant and appealing to the consumer community. Yet, above all it’s the surprise that comes to people when they learn its a one-woman show currently - that there isn’t a team behind the production of it all. Juggling the pressure and expectation that comes with being a business vs behind one person is difficult.

How do you market your business, and which tactics have been most successful?

Organic connection. I utilize Instagram as my main platform outside of my site and Shopify as a means to connect and create community. I have 0 marketing campaigns or ad space currently and although I see the value in it for the future, it hasn’t been a tactic I’ve adopted just yet.

What kind of culture exists in your organization, and how did you establish it?

“Everyone and every thing is welcome.” It reflects in the goods that are released and the people that invest in them. It reflects in the affordable price points. It reflects in the stories and the messages behind the pieces. It reflects in the communities that we give back to and the people we get to call our customers who purchase with the intent to give back.

Can you describe/outline your typical day? (Routines, Rituals, that you live by) I write everything down. I need to visualize my thoughts the way I visualize my tasks - on paper. I’m a proud small business owner but I also still manage a full time job outside of it so it’s integral to keep track and stay on top of all of my tasks and above all how I feel and where I am headed. Outside of this daily ritual, Monday through Friday I make my writing and lists top of mind, I meditate, drink my water, attend to my full-time role, get home and taken my dog for a walk and attend to orders for Twisted. On weekends I keep the same morning routine, followed by a workout, quality time with my partner, and organize all aspects of current or upcoming collection drops, operations, content creation, sourcing, designing and further educating myself on the consumer market.

How has being an entrepreneur affected your family life?

Balance is my greatest friend. I’ve accepted that some days the sea saw will lean more towards work and others towards family but the key is that they both get proper attention and intention. I personally have learned that both fulfill me and both make me better.

NOBODY IS FORBIDDEN.

If you had the chance to start your career over again, what would you do differently?

I would listen more. I wouldn’t be intimidated by asking more questions of people I admired along the way. I would let my curiosity guide me earlier on. I wouldn’t think I had to choose a career based on financial security, so long as I loved it wholeheartedly and was willing to let that be my guiding force towards never giving up. Yet somehow, I think I would still end up a place similar to now, perhaps more advanced in the game and with a bigger network, but I’d still end up at Twisted Medium.

How do you define success?

Happiness. The kind that doesn’t care to be anywhere else other than the present moment.

What is your greatest fear, and how do you manage fear?

Creating work that isn’t accepted or loved. After a lot of soul searching I accepted that what you create is not for anyone but you, that is how you create great work, by understanding that it’s yours to love before it’s anyone else’s to judge. If we create from a place of “will this be something they will like” we will always be at war with our creative genius. I manage fear by reminding myself of this truth.

What is your favorite aspect of being an entrepreneur?

The freedom to create from the most raw, authentic and childlike parts of myself.

HOLISTIC

LIVING

HOLISTIC

LIVING

HOLISTIC

LIVING

How To Create A Healthy Home

A healthy home is essential for overall wellness – your living environment is a huge part of a healthy lifestyle! From air quality to non-toxic cleaning supplies, there are many different factors in making your house a healthy home.

Check out these four components to help guide you to create a healthy home!

Home wellness means creating a safer environment for me and my family to spend our time. As a society, we spend up to 90% of our time indoors. As the popularity of working from home continues to grow, it will become even more imperative that we are aware of the health of our home environment.

Holistic wellness incorporates several pillars of health. Nutrition and mental health are important, of course, but you shouldn’t overlook other aspects of a healthy lifestyle. We're equally if not more passionate about non-toxic living.

This includes home wellness!

Otherwise, the toxic burden of your environment will hinder the healing modalities plus the time and money you're investing into your home wellness.

What does home wellness mean? Home wellness is a concept that centers around the health of your home and how it contributes to your own health status. For instance, if you eat a ‘clean diet', but live in a moldy home filled with furniture off-gassing formaldehyde, you’re missing out on a key part of your health journey.

What does home wellness mean to you? We’d love for you to tell us your unique definition!

We’ve included the details of how to make your home a healthy one in this article. Check it out and let us know what do you score on the home wellness scale?

Furniture

You may not know that furniture plays a huge role in your home’s health. Modern furniture is manufactured with cheaper materials and finishes, which can cause a lot of offgassing. These chemical emissions can pollute your air and quickly turn a healthy home into a toxic one. When purchasing furniture, go for pieces made with natural materials such as wood and organic cotton. Be sure you avoid furniture finished with stain repellants or fire retardants. Vintage furniture is a good option, but be sure it’s never been stored in a moldy area.

Finishes

Much like furniture, building materials today are more toxic than you’d think. From paint to drywall to linoleum flooring, the finishings in your home make a huge difference to your home’s health. Often, pre-fab homes, mobile homes, or very newly built homes will be the worst offenders when it comes to toxic finishes. Also be sure to consider the little details like lightbulbs, fire alarms, and appliances. Some of these may contain toxic chemicals or emit unnecessarily strong EMFs.

Cleaning products

The products you use to clean your home go a long way to making your home a healthy one or a toxic one.

Conventional cleaning products contain synthetic preservatives, disinfectant agents, and “fragrance” to mask the noxious smells of the chemicals. These products contain endocrine disruptors and irritants. (source)Instead of reaching for that product that boasts its ability to clean “99.9%” of germs–often invalidated and unnecessary, anyway–go for cleaners made with safer ingredients.

Detoxifying products

Include detoxifying products in your home’s wellness plan to help counteract some of the inevitable toxins! These are all great way to detox your home: Air filters Air purifiers Water filters Salt lamps Beeswax candles Air purifying plants Mineral-based paint

How To Make Yourself A Priority Here are two powerful words that science says you should do to help you reach your full potential – Love yourself. More studies are now showing that self-love and self-compassion could be the answer to many of life’s woes. It is the key to having balanced mental health and keeping anxiety and depression at bay. As we embrace once again the month of love this 2020, Valentine’s Day, the month of the Full Snow Moon, I urge you to enter into a new love affair – a love affair with yourself.

The rewards are lasting and more fulfilling than any other relationship you will ever have. Only when you are mentally and emotionally secure about yourself, will you be able to give the right kind of love to others. You cannot serve in an empty vessel, you first need to fill your own void.

According to the World Health Organization, more than 264 million people worldwide suffer from depression and a good number of them are women.

The reason is rather biological as women go through a rollercoaster of hormonal changes in different stages of her life – premenstrual, postpartum, and postmenopausal. According to studies, women also tend to be moreover critical of themselves. People in low quality, troubled relationships are more likely to become depressed. Having low self-esteem can affect relationships. The most important aspect of the relationship that usually suffers is trust issues. The best relationships arise between two people who are both secure with themselves and help lift each other up instead of bringing each other down. When you are sad, frustrated, and depressed, entering into a relationship is not an assurance of happiness. Never try to find your happiness in other people. Instead, learn to be happy alone first, and let that happiness resonate with the person you love. There are many ways to help yourself and avoid being part of these statistics, but first, you

Start a love affair with yourself.

Investing in yourself will be the most rewarding investment you will make in your life. Make everything else secondary. There’s nothing in the world more important than you. This is not saying you should be selfish, it only means you should be kinder to yourself, the same way you are kind to others.

Accept yourself.

Loving yourself starts with getting to know who you really are deep down, and what defines your entire being. This means also embracing every part of you, including your weaknesses and physical flaws. Learn to accept these things as part of who you are. Loving and treating yourself need not be a great big production.

There’s no need to spend lavishly either. It starts with simple things.

Have a date with yourself.

You don’t need a companion to have a good time. Treat yourself to a good cup of coffee in your favorite coffee shop. Go ahead, buy yourself a little extra something If there’s something you’ve been longing for.

must learn how to love yourself.

Respect yourself.

Learn to say no to things that you don’t believe in, to things that don’t define you, and to let go of things you can’t bear. Respect yourself by considering your own feelings and taking care of your emotional needs. If something doesn’t feel right, then just learn to walk away.

Don’t wait for special occasions.

don’t forget the most important person in your life – yourself.

Surround yourself with warmth, beauty, and comfort.

Bring out your best linens and use them. Light that fancy candle. Use your best dinnerware. Don’t wait for a special occasion to use your most expensive things.

You bought them and deserve to use them as much as you need. The power of self-love is what will truly make your life more meaningful and abundant. Give yourself the best gift this Valentine’s Day and go out and love yourself.

JUST BEGIN MAGAZINE

Why it matters to love yourself..

Breaking the Stigma on Mental Health words by samantha diaz

We all know what a sensitive subject mental illness is. It’s not the easiest conversation starter and if you want to raise the subject with someone, you may think you aren’t qualified to hold such a conversation. This isn’t true. You don’t need a psychology degree or expert knowledge. No one expects you to have expert medical knowledge, the doctors are there for that. One of the best things you can do is be there for someone, to show that you care and that they have your full attention. The fact that you have noticed someone who might need help is great, now it’s about taking the next step forward and encouraging the person to talk

MENTAL HEALTH CONVERSATION STARTERS: Going for a walk or doing an activity together is a great way to chat. It may help the person open up more as they won't feel as though it’s an ‘all eyes on them’ situation. Sitting across from each other at a table for instance could feel like more of an interrogation. You want to AVOID that scenario!

Don’t always be afraid to ask directly.

Depending on the individual, they may appreciate your directness. It is better to get to the point rather than regret not asking the question.

Try not to make a massive deal out of it. You don’t want them feeling like they are appearing on Oprah! You don’t need to get them to lie down whilst you make notes... you can talk anywhere you both feel comfortable.

It’s so important that you continue to treat the person as you would normally. A person with a mental health issue doesn’t need treating any differently. They are still the same person that you have always known. All you can do is listen and offer your support just as you would do for any other experience that they might go through in life.

If face to face is too much for whatever reason then perhaps a text to say you would like to talk, could be a way in? Perhaps writing a note or letter to them may help. By reaching out and recognizing their needs you have made a crucial step forward. The individual now knows that you have taken the time to notice

Mental Health Matters!

***Just to be clear, we are not health professionals. we write from

that they may need to talk. They know they are

personal experience. This article is intended for informational

not alone now and that you are there for them.

purposes only. Please, please, please seek the help of a medical professional for expert knowledge and advice.***

AVOID: THE TOP NO NO’S! Don’t tell them how they feel. That totally defeats the object. Let them tell you.

Don’t share your comparison stories or flip the topic onto yourself. Now is not the time for the “ I knew this guy once who …” or “I know what you mean, I hate feeling like...” They need to know that they have your undivided attention.

This is THEIR mental health, THEIR opportunity to speak out, don’t take that away from them.

Read the situation. If the person is uncomfortable and doesn’t want to talk, please don’t pressure them. They will more than likely close up on you and shut down the conversation. It might not be the right time for them, you must respect that and try to talk another time. Perhaps suggest that you are always there for them and that when they are feeling ready, that you will have a listening ear.

Try not to interrupt for the same reasons as in the previous points. Opening up about your mental health is hard. If the person is talking that’s great! Let them get it out, chances are they may have bottled things up for some time now. Keep them talking. Cutting them off midsentence and jumping in shows them that your not really interested in what they have to say. They will shut down on you.

Definitely do not say anything along the lines of; “ You will get over it”, “Pull yourself together”, “There are others worse off than you”. If there is even the slightest chance that this is your standpoint then might I suggest that you are not the person for the job!

Support, encouragement, and love is the order of the day!

t n e r e f fiD 5

S h o u l !wonK d

y T

itation d e M f Yo O s u e p

In our world where stress often dulled our senses, meditation offers time for relaxation and awareness. Did you know that there are different types of meditation? Many people who are engaged in meditation often do not know this. This blog will aid you in knowing the 5 different types of meditation you should know! This article will help you go from sticking to one type of meditation to exploring the 5 different types of meditation until you find the one that works best for you. Also do not forget that one can only attain utmost meditation through having a meditation space. Fewer distractions and more into self. Before jumping in, did you know all the yummy benefits of meditation? No? Here’s one just for you. Did you know that through meditation you’ll find happiness, joy, and meaning in your life, not only that! Meditation also increases your imagination and creativity.

LOVING-KINDNESS MEDITATION

BODY SCAN OR PROGRESSIVE

Loving-Kindness Meditation is also known as Metta Meditation. The goal of this meditation is to cultivate and nurture the character of love, care, and kindness towards others more especially towards your enemies and sources of stress. This sounds doubtful but keep in mind that meditation is a process it doesn’t fix everything overnight hence be patient with yourself and take each process one step at a time. While breathing deeply, send a message of loving and kindness to the world, to specific persons, or your loved ones. The key is to repeat the said message a couple of times until you feel and acquire the attitude of loving-kindness.

RELAXATION Progressive relaxation is sometimes called body scan meditation; it is a meditation that encourages people to examine and study your bodies for areas of tension. The goal of this meditation is to be conscious of the tension in your body and to allow its release. During a progressive relaxation session, the key is to start at one end of your body usually on your feet, and then work it out through the whole body. Also, this meditation helps in promoting generalized feelings of calmness and relaxation. Another benefit of using this meditation is that it slowly and steadily relaxes the body, that is why some people if not all use this form of meditation to help them sleep.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION This meditation is a form of meditation that urges you to remain aware and present at the moment. Mindfulness encourages awareness of a person’s existing surroundings. A form of mindfulness meditation is common to many forms of meditation, It has been found out to reduce fixation on negative emotions, improve focus, lessen impulsive emotional reactions, and improve the relationship.

BREATH AWARENESS MEDITATION This type of meditation encourages mindful breathing.

Through this meditation, one is encouraged to breathe slowly and deeply and, in the process, focus only on breathing and disregard other thoughts that would enter the mind. The key to this meditation is to focus only on breathing and be aware of ones breathing. One of the many benefits of this meditation is to reduce anxiety, improved concentration, and greater emotional flexibility.

ZEN MEDITATION en meditation is a form of meditation that aims to find a comfortable position, focus on breathing, and mindfully observe one’s thoughts without judgment. This form of meditation is like mindfulness meditation but requires discipline and practice. If you are seeking relaxation and a new spiritual path this meditation is the one for you.

Benefits And Uses Of White Sage words by samantha diaz

White Sage (Salvia apiana) is a plant native to high desert ecosystems and grows prevalently in California and in the Mountain West. For hundreds of years, White Sage has been considered a sacred, cleansing, purifying, and protective plant. The leaves of the plant are a whitish-green, and if you rub the fresh leaves between your thumb and forefinger, a refreshing, cleansing scent is released. Native Americans started the tradition of using White Sage, also known as Sacred Sage, to release lingering energies. White Sage has been used in ceremonies to seek blessings of health and prosperity, release spirits, encourage protection. Sacred Sage can amplify any clearing and protective techniques that you are already using. As a plant and a living being, Sage has a Spirit.

The Spirit of Sage is also dedicated to offering protection, blessings, and clearing.

WAYS YOU CAN USE WHITE SAGE TO CLEAR IN A SMUDGING PRACTICE You can perform this smudging ritual on anything or anyone that needs clearing. If it is a living being, just remember to ask permission.

You can smudge to help you clear a room, a building, or a property.

White Sage can assist you in releasing energies and thought forms from yourself or another that no longer serves you.

You can ask Sage to assist you in cleansing unknown energies from a stone, or an object that you received as a gift.

SAGE CAN HELP US Feel clearer Boost the energy in the room Reboot the spiritual energy in the space Ignite mental acuity Restore our intuitive balance and center When you first work with any plant for sacred reasons, it's important to say a blessing and introduce yourself to the plant. Most people, including myself, choose to burn it to release the healing energy it carries into the space around us.

Sage Smudging is a ritual where the leaves of the plant are burned. The smoke is directed into and onto areas that need clearing and release. The goal of smudging with Sage is to release a person or an area of any residual energies that are different than what you presently intend for space.

the first step of working with white sage Sage intuitively. Everyone has a process. Some like to Sage counter-clockwise, some like to Sage from top to bottom, some like to focus on areas of concentrated energy, such as doorways and closets. And as you smudge, you will likely feel called to open a back door and clear the energy there, and just follow your own guide. You know your space better than anyone. Many healers believe that when working with a Plant Spirit, they will guide you on how to use it, and I agree with this. So let it guide you.

the second step in smudging with white sage After you light the Sage, do not stop it from burning. The spirit of White Sage knows just how much needs to be released and will burn accordingly. If you feel you are done burning Sage, but the Sage doesn't feel that way place the wand in a fireproof bowl, or on the stove and allow the Sage to cease burning, naturally.

If you watch the smoke, sometimes it will drift to a particular part of the room, car, or person - that is usually where the healing/protection energy is most needed.

SO TO RECAP White Sage can assist with energetically cleansing and resetting a space.

You can work with it is by burning it around the place, object, or person you'd like to cleanse, this is called smudging.

If you are smudging a house, a wand of Sage might be best. If you are smudging a person, you may only need to use a leaf.

Using Sage to clear can be helpful after grieving, between clients, and after emotional releases.

Do use your intuition to guide the process and don't be afraid to come up with your own technique.

February 2021

HOROSCOPES Sound the alarm Mercury is in Raggaeton...whatever that means right?! Mercury is doing its backwards two steps which we call retrograde. During this time things aren't going as smooth as they usually do. Mercury rules communication and technology therefore it can make some crazy errors when in retrograde in these areas. The best overall rule is to take it slow, make sure to communicate well, don't take things personally and don't say yes (or seals the deal) till after when then the true agenda of the matter reveals itself. We do have some other astro events to help center us this month like the Lunar New year on the 12th (which is on the new moon) and the Virgo Full Moon. We got this!

Fiery siblings please let's keep our temper in check, have some patience and get on with the show. Mercury retrograde is in full effect till the 20th this retrograde in Aquarius might make us feel like we want to dwell in the past, what we might have had but really is it aligned with our true self? Nope! This retrograde might bring exes back into our journey too but remember why they are not here with you today. Good news! We have the Lunar New Year of the Metal Ox on the 12th this energy…….

ARIES

Mercury esta de madre this month for the earthy squad. This retrograde is not the time for you to say YAASS to anything! Some details are not very reliable, may not be honest and/or enough details available. Make sure to use the Lunar New year/New Moon to manifest exactly what it is that you want. Communicate it well, don't just ask for a new job, tell the universe "I want the Creative Director remote position so I can travel the world freely."....

TAURUS

Don't double think my airy twin. This month's retrograde is not here for your split personality. What's going to help you with Mercury in Retrograde? Not letting anxiety take over when things don't work out for you. Be gentle with yourself mi amor. The Lunar New Year on the 12th welcomes the Metal Ox meaning working hard and steady wins the race.

Pace yourself, wait till after….

GEMINI

Almost the whole month is about you LOL! We have Mercury in Retrograde under your sign, it should be easy for you to stay weird. Just remember not to let old habits make you question your inner quirky self. As well as, trusting that everything happens for a reason. There will be true friends to ask for help but I wouldn't let outsiders in. Not everyone has a heart of gold like you. Once we enter Pisces season…

AQUARIUS

Mercury would be in Reggateon once you got yourself more confident with your 2021 goals. Quien te Manda to take so long Leo?! No worries, just don't let things get to you because they are not clear during this time.

The Aquarius new moon on the 12th reminds us to connect with our loyal ones to manifest our goals. It's also the Lunar New Year of the Metal Ox, let this strong energy…..

This month is already emotionally intense due to Mercury Retrograde pero don't let it bring you down. I know how important relationships are for you Cancer, so make sure to check in on your squad during this time. It being in Aquarius it can hurt the dynamic of inner circles, so just be thoughtful. In some way you can handle this retrograde. You might be the anchor that helps your loved ones pero…….

CANCER

LEO

You might actually like this Mercury in Retrograde event! Why?! Because it's going to show you how to take your time to find balance in everything that you're trying to conquer. You'll learn how to be patient with communication, be gentle with your loved ones, plus let go of how things will work out. The Lunar New Year/New Moon is a great night to meditate on your goals.

Especially if you've been thinking……

Yes yes I know this Mercury en Retrograde ruined your whole game plan. Or maybe it’s giving you time to reassess everything? Till the 20th this retrograde will give you anxiety for the "what if''. Instead use the time to take a step back and look at every little detail. Especially once your Virgo…….

LIBRA

VIRGO

This Mercury in Retrograde can be a little hard for you to read. A lot of things will not be direct and clear so your intuitive self might have a bit of trouble dealing with this. Take it easy on yourself, try spending some time with friends and let time do its job.

Once Mercury goes direct after the 20th little by little things will reveal themselves to you. And by that time the Virgo Full Moon….

SCORPIO

Fiery amiga learn to lean on your amigas to find balance during Mercury Retrograde in Aquarius. This retrograde will teach you how to not say yes right away because the truth will reveal that maybe not everything is aligned to you. During the Lunar New Year/ New Moon (on the 12th) you should continue to stay devoted to create new goals but ones that light your fire. Then let…..

SAGITTARIUS

ou helped us bring in some structure for 2021 and now the Aquarius Mercury Retrograde is here to teach you how to have patience and take it easy. There is going to be miscommunication, technology failure, travel issues, deals not coming through but don't be so hard on yourself. These things aren't aligning clear due to Mercury, not you. This astro event runs till the 20th so taking up the majority of February.

Fortunately, Pisces season…..

CAPRICORN

Fellow mermaid friend, it's time to test your intuition during this Mercury in Retrograde till the 20th.

Things might not seem all there, people might not have your best interest, communication will be foggy, it will be a bit hard to work through all this. Just remember that you can tell others to wait and follow up after.

Meditate with your inner voice so you have a clear message. This Lunar New Year of the metal Ox will inspire you to…..

PISCES

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WORKPLACE

WELLNESS WORKPLACE

WELLNESS WORKPLACE

WELLNESS WORKPLACE just begin magazine | 29

Holistic Approach To Claims Written by Mollie Kallen

COVID-19 has forced many industries to re-examine their policies, procedures and their structures at all levels. The industry of worker’s compensation is no exception. I’ve been in this industry for over 30 years and have seen my share of changes, but nothing like COVID has forced us to make such sweeping changes at such a rapid pace Everyone is aware of all the current and impending physical changes that this pandemic has wreaked upon all industries. However, I think it is crucial that we examine the non physical changes and the application of these changes regarding how we will be dealing with claims now and in the future. The emotional and psychological impact on everyone as well as the financial impact of COVID have huge implications for all industries. This is why it is so important, especially in the industry of worker’s compensation, that we begin to look at the injured worker more holistically and take into effect all of the above factors.

What are the components of the self/someone’s spirit? Physical, Cognitive, Emotional and Social components make up an individual. I’m sure you can only think of yourself and your family in these realms and how they and you have been impacted by COVID. Now transfer those thoughts to someone who has been injured on the job. Another entire level of stress on all levels heightened by a sense of confusion, fear and separation from work. It is so important that we need to understand the injured worker’s current social, cognitive, emotional AND physical situation. This is a holistic approach. You cannot separate the injury from the person or the person from their environment or their culture . We will never get positive results in claims without looking at people holistically.

In order to look at holistic approaches, you need to understand the Social Determinants of Health (SDH). What makes up the Social Determinants of Health are: Economic Stability, Social and Community Context, Neighborhood and Environment, Healthcare and Education. Each of these components of SDH are equally as important as the other. They are not static but rather always changing in terms of levels of need and importance. They are affected by so many factors and clearly a work related injury cuts across all levels of SDH. It is so important that we look through SDH lenses combined with multi disciplinary approaches when dealing with claims. It is also crucial to recognize that empathy and education leads to empowerment or the injured worker and this increased empowerment leads to decreased legal, psychological and pain management services.

Given the Kaiser Family Foundations and ZeOmega and CODE’s collaboration study in 2019, the following is set of SDOH indicators that can be tracked and we will discuss in part two of this article how best to implement and address the SDHs listed and In the second part of this article we will more closely examine specific techniques as applies to case management in holistically dealing with claims to ensure successful outcomes for everyone.

TRAVEL TRAVEL TRAVEL TRAVEL TRAVEL

Sleepless in Seattle.. words by samantha diaz

While on my trip up in the Pacific Northwest, I knew I wanted to spend at least one day or two in Seattle. Are you wondering what is there to do in Seattle? Tons of cool and fun stuff! This article will show you what fun things to do in Seattle that will help you plan your itinerary to the Emerald City. Washington state in autumn is absolutely gorgeous! I can’t guarantee that it won’t rain, it is Seattle after all but it can be unusually wet during the winter months compared to other seasons in Seattle but it's still worth seeing!

STARBUCKS RESERVE ROASTERY

PIKE PLACE MARKET Pike Place Market is a Seattle treasure! It’s one of the oldest running farmer’s markets in the country, dating back to 1907! Here, you can shop locally sourced seafood, produce, flowers, art, and other souvenirs. In addition to shopping, there is an abundant, diverse selection of eats. Bakeries, fine dining, and restaurants from all over the world will keep you fed all day!

PIKE PLACE CHOWDER Pike Place Chowder is a supreme nook in Pike Place to get flawless chowder, especially unpredictable selections like grilled scallop chowder. Bread is a major focus here as well, whether it be seafood stuffed rolls or just buttery slices to pair with a bowl of bisque.

How about some New England clam chowder overflowing from a fresh baked bread bowl? Options are abundant, but keep in mind you’ll have to wait in a generous line on the weekends—however, it’s truly worth the sacrifice.

If you want a more dramatic Starbucks experience, visit one of the few Starbucks Reserve Roasteries in the world! Described in its own words as, “if Willy Wonka had built the ultimate coffee shop instead of a chocolate factory,” the 15,000 square foot, industrial-chic space is simultaneously warm and imposing. Witness the entire coffee-making process, sample rare coffees, and enjoy an exclusive menu.

NEKO - A CAT CAFE The ultimate destination for cat lovers and cats! Come hang out with the cutest kitties in Seattle. We serve beer, wine, coffee, snacks, and adoptable cats! I absolutely loved this place!

SPACE NEEDLE The Space Needle was built in 1962, the year Seattle hosted the World’s Fair. (Very mid-mod!) It stands at 605 feet tall, complete with an observation deck and rotating restaurant. The 360° views of Seattle and Puget Sound are seriously amazing. And on a clear day, you can see all the way to Mount Rainier! Once at the top, sip on a glass of wine at the cafe, and take in the city views.

Or, try walking across the newly-added rotating glass floors. (It’s trippy!)

ORIGINAL STARBUCKS As a Starbucks lover myself, I had to go visit the original Starbucks. Located in Pike Place Market, the Original Starbucks opened in 1971, putting Seattle on the map as the coffee capital of the US. I think it’s so cool to see where Starbucks all began! The line was crazy! In all honesty, you can get Starbucks anywhere but it's definitely a great photo opportunity! I'd suggest getting there very early if you plan to order anything to get anything. Besides that, there are other great coffee shops to explore like Joe's Chocolate Co. As a mocha expert, I have to say that Joe's Chocolate Co. has the BEST mocha I've ever had in my life. I would fly all the way back to Seattle for another cup! At Pike Place Market, you'll find lots of great local things and delicious seafood.

IN CLOSING… If you’re looking for more things to do while you’re in the Seattle area, consider heading over to Mount Rainier National Park! I hope you all enjoy this article about my favorite things to see and do in Seattle

Travel.

As much as you can.

As far as you can.

As long as you can.

Life is not meant to be lived in one place.

#LoveIsNotTourism

An Italian-American Love Story written by Barbara Estrada “Borders were closed, people were sick, and a virus was spreading…” The uncertainty began to sink when the Coronavirus pandemic took the world by surprise thus putting to the test all international, long-distance relationships into question.

Carlo is Italian. Bailey is American.

Love is not tourism

Bailey has called Brighton, Colorado, home since she was 5 years old. And, Carlo’s home is the capital city of the Piedmont region of northern Italy - Torino.

In her high school hallway, she saw the foreign exchange student from Italy and was instantly stunned by his beauty. A few weeks passed, while in the high school drama hall, Bailey bravely introduced herself to Carlo despite her adolescent insecurities.

The connection was instant. And, after 5 months of dating, the moment between two people happened.

“It was raining outside, but we were safe and warm in my car. I had never loved anyone before so it was pretty scary to tell him how I felt. I knew I had to do it,” said Bailey in one of the couple’s viral YouTube videos titled, How I Met My Italian Boyfriend.

The couple have known each other since 2012 and Bailey would visit Carlo at least 3 times in a year while navigating the 5,000 mile gap between the two. Despite the distance and time apart, the communication between the two improved over the years and expectations became mutual.

“I started my career with a video production job two years ago while he [Carlo] began his final years of medical school. I’m so proud to say that 8 years later, we are still going strong. 2019 was smooth sailing and our future together was so close that I can taste it,” said Bailey.

In the middle of their relationship, they even began a YouTube channel to share stories of their relationship. Their community has grown to 139,000 subscribers and growing. Their future together seemed so close.

UNTIL 2020 ARRIVED.

Love is Not Tourism

Italy was the worst hit country of the entire European Union when COVID reached Europe at the beginning of the year. The entire country was in lockdown for months. The worries of when the two would see each other sunk in.

ENIZAGAM NIGEB TSUJ

It all seemed like a simple life for Bailey until a couple months into her senior year at Brighton High School when things changed.

A fan from the YouTube community reached out to Bailey after she posted on social media asking people ways on how she can get to Italy during the pandemic. That’s when the Love Is Not Tourism movement came to her attention.

Love Is Not Tourism, as stated on the website, is a global grassroots movement dedicated to reuniting binational couples and families who have been forcibly separated by travel bans and border closures during the COVID-19 pandemic.

From social media to digital forums as well as multiple petitions across the world to ease travel restrictions for lovers and family members in various places, the movement has allowed couples from 16 countries like Germany, Canada, Austria, Norway, and so forth to reunite.

“There were thousands of stories and the worst story I read was about a pregnant wife who had to give birth without her husband being present. There were definitely degrees and it helped me to put things into perspective for me,” said Bailey.

The longest the couple has been apart was 6 months without seeing each other before the pandemic and survived it during a period of their relationships when things were difficult.

Bailey reflects on all the couples around the world, like Carlo and her, during this pandemic and it saddens her to see potential marriages and love stories disappear from rigid border policies. Her story is one of the many that are dealing with the separation despite the few countries like The Netherlands and Canada that have opened their borders for binational couples. Some only allow couples to reunite under special circumstances.

We are more than just a fling or puppy love. I’m here to tell the world that our love is not tourism.” “

SUSTAIN ABILITY SUSTAIN ABILITY SUSTAIN ABILITY

just begin magazine | 53

The Green Haven Project Written by Eddie Ortiz

One of the biggest issues facing America today is poverty.

Due to the pandemic millions have lost their jobs and their livelihoods. While our government consistently falls short of the standards of Covid-19 recovery set globally the common citizen is left to wonder how to make ends meet.

More importantly, how to put food on the table. In response to these growing concerns David Michael, a resident of south Florida began the Green Haven Project.

The Green Haven Project is an urban community garden born out of David Michael’s love for his community with the goal of providing low income areas with free, organic, high quality food. He has had plenty of support to help him pursue his aspirations of feeding the community, “Everybody has been supportive, family, friends, and the community.”

David Michael is a 34 year old originally from New York City but he has lived in south Florida for most of his life.

His passion for gardening wasn’t something that started out as just a hobby or something instilled in him by a family member. What inspired him to go down this path was, “I took an interest in gardening based on everything that’s been going on in this country when it comes to food.

It isn’t good, so I’ve been researching for the last few years.” What he found were issues that pertained heavily to the underserved communities of southern Florida. With the current state of the country the need for a solution could not be more urgent. “While I began teaching myself I realized that I could teach others to not rely on the government which doesn’t care about us.”

THE ISSUE Feeding America projects that in 2020 over 50 million individuals faced food insecurity. On average Native American, hispanic, and black communities are twice as likely to experience food insecurity. “The food provided to us is the main issue at convenience stores, fast food restaurants, gas stations or in any urban setting really, it’s all processed.” Often people don’t take into consideration what’s really going into their bodies. When you don’t have many other options or the means to access better ones then those concerns aren’t a priority. “There’s a lot of issues that are faced throughout the country by black Americans primarily regardless of where they’re at,” says David Michael. According to the American Journal of Public Health socioeconomic, racial, and ethnic disparities in access to healthy food can lead to unhealthy behaviors and chronic illnesses.

In stark contrast to the food being provided by local grocery Michael states, “We don’t use pesticides, everything is organic. Most companies put all kinds of things in their produce. In some instances the produce is genetically modified and doesn’t even contain seeds so you have to keep going back to them.”

MORE THAN JUST A GARDEN The Green Haven Project does a lot more than just providing food for the neighborhood. In fact, they go above and beyond to assist their community in as many ways as possible. “We mentor at-risk youth, we feed the homeless, we have containers where we store clothing, diapers, and dry food for anyone in need.” These services are being provided at no cost to the taxpayers, which begs the question, if a few determined individuals can accomplish this why can’t our local government?

This mentorship is essential in any given urban community however in southern Florida the school to prison pipeline.

According to the American Civil Liberties Union Florida’s school system puts students into law enforcement custody a shocking 30% above the national average. Black students are 3x more at risk and programs like the Green Haven project can provide the guidance and support needed to keep the atrisk youth from becoming yet another victim of the prisonindustrial complex.

Though it may not be intentional the GHP addresses three of the most commonly stolen items from retail stores. While you might think that highly sought after items might be along the lines of technology or jewelry its actually food, clothing, and diapers. Basic amenities needed by anyone but often unaffordable for lower income families and individuals.

How could any homeless person be expected to get themselves off of the streets without a full stomach or clothing on their back?

EXPANDING THE GREEN HAVEN PROJECT These issues are faced everywhere throughout America and for that reason David Michael intends for the Green Haven Project to continue to expand nationally. His goal is to spread both awareness and community gardens to all urban neighborhoods. “Once we have everything up and running all you really need is a few dedicated individuals to maintain the garden. Then we’ll start somewhere else, our goal is to start an urban farm in all inner cities.”

For those who are interested but not sure how to begin the GHP is willing to educate and train those who are willing to put in the work. “We try to train everybody from the dirt up to be successful and to grow their own food. The main goal is to have the community maintain it themselves.” As a grassroots movement with knowledge of agriculture they intend to plant the seeds of their organization early, “We want to create a curriculum and a program for people that want to learn. As of right now we’re unable to work with schools due to Covid but where we’re located we’re very involved in the community.”

HOW TO GET STARTED While some people may not be located in southern Florida David Michael encourages being self taught. As agriculture varies from area to area adaptability is a key component, “I learned from watching various youtubers and videos online. There wasn’t a particular one I watched or listened to because every area they spoke of us was different, it’s not south Florida. So, you have to work with what you have and just go from there.” The hardest part of starting an urban farm is finding a viable location to utilize. “To anyone trying to start this in their own community I would say find anywhere you can grow and get into contact with the landowner. It’s tricky because everywhere has different rules and regulations when it comes to that stuff. Tap into your local community and officials and do some research.” One key component in urban gardening is gardening sustainably so as to ensure that you can make the most out of your situation. The GHP practices sustainable farming methods and makes sure to keep crops that grow year round to consistently provide for their community.

For those who are seeking to contribute, it is encouraged to visit the actual GHP urban garden rather than just sending money. “It makes a huge difference when people come and experience what's taking place in areas like that versus just sending money. I rather people just come and see the issues for themselves.”

The Green Haven Project is located in Overtown, a neighborhood in Miami, Florida. Their Instagram page is @green.haven.project. In the words of David Michael, “We need more people to stand up and get active. To see a problem or issue in their community and do something about it.”

Get Involved

@green.haven.project

www.greenhavenproject.org

Make Love Not War With The Weeds in Your Garden

One of the best ways to display your love for mother nature is to take an active part in it and reduce your carbon footprint by living sustainably. This isn’t to say that it's the responsibility of the individual to counteract pollution when over 70% of it is produced by just 100 corporations. However, while we wait for lawmakers to protect the environment we might as well watch grass grow. There’s a number of reasons to get into gardening including but not limited to saving money, passing time while socially distancing, reducing your carbon footprint, and providing yourself with organic produce. While many people believe that the first step to gardening is the laborious task of pulling weeds it turns out they may be more beneficial than previously thought.

How Weeds Can Benefit your Garden One important thing to remember about weeds is that they are themselves plants. Though they are considered to be a nuisance they still function as any other plant would. They pull nutrients from the soil which is then dispersed amongst the stem and leaves. This means that once a weed dies and its stem and leaves are left to rot above ground those nutrients are returned to the topsoil. This is essential because topsoil exhausted of nutrients cannot grow produce. On the average farm topsoil erodes much faster than it can recover. However, with the proper usage of weeds you can prevent this from happening and continue to reuse your garden which is a key component of sustainability.

It’s important to note that in nature vegetables and fruits don’t grow separately from weeds they grow alongside them. It’s our choice to maximize yield for certain crops that can damage our ability to continue to farm an area. Weeds also protect the soil by preventing it from being blown or washed away by the elements. These same roots that hold the soil together will eventually decay, fertilizing and providing aration. Meaning, water and air are able to penetrate deeper into the earth providing the plants therein with the sustenance they need to grow.

The 3 Best Weeds To Keep In Your Garden The 3 Best Weeds To Keep In Your GardenTo begin with clover is an essential weed for gardens and this applies to what is simply referred to as clover and microclover as they are essentially two variations of the same plant. Clover is essential because it can take nitrogen from the air and infuse it into the soil around it. This air to earth conversion of nitrogen is a highly sought after characteristic which dates back to original Native American farming in which nitrogen converting beans were used in conjunction with corn and squash to create what was called a Three Sisters Garden. In a Three Sisters Garden the plants live symbiotically which is also possible with weeds.

The squash leaves would also provide a ground cover which prevents water evaporation and protects soil, yet another mutual attribute of the clover. Clover’s roots also collect phosphorus and moisture which aids with any plants that require a large amount of water, like the squash. ids with any plants that require a large amount of water, like the squash. Dandelions are often hated for their persistent nature but they can serve as a valuable asset to any home garden. Dandelions herald the arrival of honeybees and the dispersal of the intensely invasive pest, the army worm. Not only do they ward off army worms they attract garden defenders like the parasitoid wasp, which contrary to its threatening name is no threat to humans. The parasitoid wasp hunts other insects and functions as nature’s pest control. You’ve more than likely seen dandelions growing through cracks in concrete and places where other plants dare not to traverse. This is because of their deep growing roots which not only provide for the dandelion but have the added benefit of softening even most tightly packed soil. These deep roots collect nutrients like calcium, copper, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus.

Lastly, Chickweed functions as a great indicator of the fertility of soil. The only issue is that it can also serve as a warning for a few different extremes such as overtilling, excess potassium and sodium, or a lack of calcium and phosphorus. This property of chickweed means gardeners are able to better anticipate their garden's needs and adapt their methods to ensure that their soil is fertile and ready for planting. For example, the presence of chickweed could mean it's time to allow some clover to move into the area and stimulate the accumulation of phosphorus.

All of the aforementioned weeds are edible and contain medicinal properties making them a versatile addition to any garden. The most effective way to utilize these weeds is to prune when necessary so as to not smother plants. Once pruned allow the leaves and flowers to decompose where they lie or spread out evenly along the topsoil. Try not to disturb the roots to encourage regrowth for continued use or if they decay then their decay will provide nutrients for the soil. For those who haven’t been convinced to spare the weeds but still want to get their hands dirty consider natural alternatives to weed killers. One natural remedy is a gallon of white vinegar mixed with a single tablespoon of vegetable oil.

The Root of the Issue The absolute antithesis of sustainable farming and gardening is the continued loss of topsoil. Big farms deplete the soil of its nutrients, combine that with constant tilling and no weeds to prevent soil erosion and you have a dust bowl. Insecticides actively harm the beneficial insects which exist to pollinate plants and contribute heavily to a healthy ecosystem. By allowing weeds to grow that attract both pollinators and natural pest killers like the parasitoid wasp and lace wings we can produce healthy organic produce without any of the harmful chemicals polluting our planet. Who knows? With enough pest killers we might be able to stave off the next locust swarm.

Show the earth some love, and yes, even the weeds.

LEADERS MAKING A

DIFFERENCE

LEADERS MAKING A

DIFFERENCE just begin magazine | 58

Jill Eichenbaum Jacobs Deputy City Attorney, City of Palm Bay

Early Career and Established in the WC Industry

I am pretty much an open book, which is what happens when you mix an attorney who loves to talk with a woman of a certain age. (No shyness!) I am Philly-area-born and raised with and still call that home even though I have been in Florida since 1984. I remember telling my parents I would be back in 3 years!

I consider my sons to be the greatest accomplishments of my life, and that will never change. There was a time when I thought I wanted to be a police detective, until I found out about the height requirement (this was the late 60’s and early 70’s). I am still a great investigator when it comes to my claims. I wish I had musical or artistic talent. Even a little bit. I love to cook and bake, and that’s kind of artistic, I suppose. I have actually contemplated opening up a small bakery, or maybe a bakery truck, as a retirement career.

I went through a period of time where I thought the grass was greener and changed jobs a few times with absolutely disastrous results. I know many of my workers’ comp colleagues in Miami thought I was nuts at the time; but those moves led me to where I am today. I have learned to trust myself, and figured out that sometimes you just have to shake up your own life!

I got started in workers’ compensation defense litigation by answering a blind ad in the Miami Daily Review, in 1988. I had been working 2 glorified clerking jobs since passing the Bar the previous year. That ad, as it turned out, was for an old, established insurance defense firm in downtown Miami named (then) Peters, Pickle, Niemoeller, Robertson, Lax & Parsons. They were in the Ingraham Building on SE 2nd Avenue, which was magnificent. The firm produced attorneys and jurists like Dewey Knight and William Hoeveler.

They had a senior associate handling the workers’ comp who was about to go out on maternity leave.

The senior WC partner, Mr. Joseph Neimoeller, had to come out of retirement to train me. The associate never returned, Mr. Neimoeller retired for good, and there I was! Fortunately, the caliber of insurance claims client represented by the firm was exceptional, and I was lucky to be further “trained” by awesome adjusters, who also went on to be leaders in the industry!

After Peter's Pickle, I learned more, and got great exposure at Miller Kagan & Chait (Now MKRS).

From there, it was in-house for Liberty Mutual, state mediation, private mediation, and then in-house at The Hartford for the 13 or so years leading up to my “grass is greener with disastrous results' ' period.

Finally, like Dorothy leaving Kansas, in 2015 I landed in a place called Palm Bay.

What I wish I had known in the Beginning I wish I had learned how to market and generate business. It sounds odd, since marketing is not part of what I would consider part of the skill set of a quality attorney. But it is a big deal. I never thought “a book of business” should be the focus of my development, or a measure of my worth. Not that my clients didn’t like me, no doubt they LOVED me! But the files I worked on were not mine, and I never sought or created an environment where I would have business to bring with me, had I decided to go on my own. To be fair, it was a different time, when I was coming up as a lawyer. I was having children before the ADA, before FMLA. I was Mommy-tracked even before it was a thing.

Establishing your own identity, separate from the firm, is very important. I look at the strong, influential women in the legal profession, and they have “it”. I admire the younger women I see at the WCCP Forum, the Comp Convention, who are already visible, entertaining, speaking, getting involved with the Bar section.

There’s hope for late bloomers – look at me! I am doing a great deal of the visible stuff now, happy to say, and loving it.

Current Role, Most Significant Impact (Deputy City Attorney, City of Palm Bay) There are probably 3 or 4 areas where I think I have made an impression, if not a major impact. When I was hired by the City of Palm Bay, I was tasked with developing a way to manage, in-house, all of the City’s workers’ compensation risk matters and related litigation. The City had gone back to a self-insured status after years of full coverage. Essentially I was creating the department from the ground up. This included development of best practices for the City as a self-insured entity consistent with all state laws; directing our Third-Party administrator, drafting and implementing return-to-work, reporting, safety and loss prevention guidelines; conducting training and meetings with various departments, and overseeing outside litigation from the 5 years which predated the City’s self-insured status.

Another aspect of this newly created role involved reviewing and closing stagnant claims. As a result of my efforts, I recovered more than $1 Million Dollars in neglected reimbursements during my first year alone, that the City has been able to use for necessities like a fully loaded fire truck and several police squad cars. As a talker, it’s not surprising that I love to do training. I have developed and presented training modules for HR and all department heads, about WC basics; for Palm Bay Fire and Police departments, I have implemented training programs on Florida’s Heart and Lung bill, the Firefighter Cancer bill, and the new PTSD law for First Responders. These videos and power points are now used for on-boarding all new hires in those departments. Handling litigation in-house has been a huge financial benefit, as well. In 2017 we hired an amazing Risk Manager, Pamela Torres-Spivey, and together I like to think we have made reductions in the number of claims in litigation, length of disability, a return-to-work rate of nearly 90% (with great collaboration between Risk and HR), and open-close ratio of less than 0!

Mentors Over the course of my professional career (so far) I have had a few “Rabbis”. Early on, Mr. Neimoeller from Peters Pickle always stressed that “attorneys should always be nice.” As simple as that, he said; if opposing counsel needs a few extra days to get you discovery, let him have it. You never know when you will need a favor. The other thing he taught me, before I took my first claimant’s deposition, was “tell him to put his hands on the table. You want to check and see if there’s dirt under his nails, he could be working!” The late Jere Chait, partner at Miller Kagan & Chait, was another.

He hired me away from Mr. Neimoeller after beating me in a case with 2 carriers. Literally left me holding the bag. But he said he liked how I handled myself. I learned a lot about talking to clients from Here, the importance of telling the truth, good or bad, and being thorough.

he importance of telling the truth, good or bad, and being thorough. Judge Alan Kuker was my favorite goto advisor, both while he was on the bench, and after he retired and started meditating. He not only helped me develop as a trial lawyer, but I could talk to him about things – like changing jobs, career goals, taking chances. More recently, I have to mention Andrew Lannon, former Palm Bay City Attorney, and Patricia Smith, his very wonderful successor. Mr. Lannon hired me in 2015, and I can never thank him enough.

He saw something in me, maybe reticence, and had me pushing the limits of my comfort level, having me speak on subjects outside of workers’ comp (disaster!), invited me to interview with the thenPresident of the Brevard County Bar, who wrote a featured article about the new Workers’ Comp scene in the City. Under Mr. Lannon, I was published twice!

With Mrs. Smith, I had a role model and an introduction to FAWL and BCAWL (Florida Association for Women Lawyers, and the Brevard County Chapter). She also had me sharing my knowledge of workers’ comp with lawyers in the community. So, after 28 years of just “being a lawyer”, suddenly I was involved in the Bar, doing ethics training for elected officials through the Florida League of Cities, becoming a Master member of the Judge William Wieland American Inns of Court, and more. They both have definitely taught me to be a better listener, and thereby a better teacher.

Critical Situations and Decisions I stress, I don’t sleep, generally make myself and everyone around me nuts! Then, I stop, breathe, and listen. I have learned how to listen more and better in this job. Realizing not everyone knows about workers’ comp issues like I do, and that not everything is about the workers’ comp impact or claim. I have had to learn to think GLOBALLY here, considering how and what I say or request will impact other departments, and the City overall. Then, I make lists. Writing down the issues, pros and cons, possible solutions, helps a great deal. Finally, I try to never lose my sense of humor!

Enjoyable Fulfilling part of job Helping my City. Educating the departments and elected officials about workers’ compensation, making changes in processes and procedures that enhance efficiency and save money. Getting good results, that is my job. I try to be a good representative of the City of Palm Bay, out in the legal community; it’s how I show our officers and officials how much I appreciate their ongoing trust and confidence in me. Plus, it helps that I work with an incredibly wonderful group of people – smart, talented, funny, kind, relaxed and dedicated.

My Superpower Like Wonder Woman, I would have beauty from Aphrodite, strength from Demeter, wisdom from Athena, speed and flight from Hermes, eyes of the hunter and unity with beasts from Artemis, Sisterhood with fire, and the ability to discern Truth from Hestia. She also seems very empathic, and then there’s that cool thing she does going from a business suit to a cape and back again! When my children were younger, I would have said “the ability to read minds”, would have spared us all a lot of drama. At times I think the ability to see the future would be a plus, but not so much. It’s far better to learn how to Trust the Journey!

Our Return to Work Program The City of Palm Bay’s entire workers’ compensation program is unique, in great part because the Risk Management department was relocated to the City Attorney’s office in 2015. This way, we have been able to ensure that our procedures for reporting accidents, preventing injuries, triage and initial medical are properly handled.

For Return-to-Work, we got together with HR and came up with a program that has been really effective, with about 90% of employees with lost time claims returning to light duty and then full duty. As part of training, employees are instructed to bring the initial DWC-25 or discharge note to risk management immediately following their appointment.

The restrictions are then sent to an HR analyst, and accommodations are requested. HR requests from the employee’s department and if they are unable to accommodate, the analyst checks with all other departments (though COVID concerns now limit inter-departmental work). This is repeated for each medical visit. Full hourly wages and benefits continue even if the tasks are much lighter, so that the employee can maintain insurances and contributions to retirement. Sick and vacation leave continue to accrue. And the employee has the option to use accrued sick time to add to the compensation rate, to bring him/her up to net. The employee continues on the regular payroll schedule, and the Third-Party administrator reimburses the City biweekly.

It requires a lot of good, solid, communication, but it is so worth it.

consistent

Change The Industry Go back to focusing on quality claims handling and legal work. Not that these have disappeared, but around 15 years ago, we started hearing words like “calibration” and “efficiency” in both aspects of the industry. Suddenly adjusters were carrying 200 claims because everything was computerized, and lawyers (defense) were measured based on how well they “document” files, i.e. use of computerized pull-down bars and check-off boxes to demonstrate an ability to review the file. Analysis and expertise stopped being valued, and in fact have become detrimental to some careers.

As a result we have inexperienced claims supervisors and managing attorneys who do not need to know the

My Leadership Style Assertive when necessary. I find it hard to delegate, partly because I have such high expectations for myself, I feel like it would be burdening on others without the same knowledge or passion (an administrative assistant, for example). Trying to force that leads to frustration. What I try to do is figure out each individual’s strength and if possible, assign tasks that are better suited.

I am not currently in a leadership role, being the only one in the office who does what I do. However, during the years that I was a “supervising” attorney, I had tremendous and very visible support from higher-ups – the managing attorneys in charge of the offices, the regional director of counsel. That support was critical to my success; if I am ever in such a role again, those managers’ actions would be my guide.

There is a reason that the Workers’ Compensation section of The Florida Bar, and the entire industry, are the best. We are the friendliest and most compassionate group of people, we like each other, and frequently come together for meaningful and charitable events, like the Friends of 440 Scholarship Fund, and Give Kids the World Village. We now have our own Inns of Court, for mentorship and more. Get involved! There are a group of us who started out practicing on both sides of workers’ comp, back in the late 1980’s.

We became friends, from law school and it carried over. In the years since we have danced at each other’s weddings, attended our kids’ birthday parties and mourned together at our parents’ funerals. To the younger attorneys and claims professionals

law in order to “manage” the attorneys. Okay, rant over. I would teach young attorneys to pick up the phone more. We have really gotten away from just talking to each other, which used to be the primary way we got issues worked out. Now, litigation is almost a war of e-mails.

I would say not to lose sight of these relationships.

Pick up the phone, talk to each other. You can still be zealous advocates for your clients in front of the judge, then….go to lunch! (After COVID).

DOCTOR TO

KNOW

DOCTOR TO

KNOW

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DR. PAUL ROETTGES Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon at Orthopaedic Associates of St. Augustine

Dr. Roettges, a First Coast native, is a graduate of the University of Southern California and received his medical degree from Loyola University. He went on to study Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Arizona and completed his fellowship in adult hip and knee reconstruction at the renowned Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida.

Dr. Roettges performs hip and knee replacements and has additional training and interest in anterior hip replacements, revisions, as well as complex unresolved hip and knee pain.

He specializes in the evaluation of painful or malfunctioning joint replacements to see if revision hip or knee surgery could improve the function and quality of life for the patient.

He is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Orthopaedic Association and American Association of Knee and Hip Surgery.

Tell us something interesting about yourself most people don’t know.” Let our readers get to know you on a personal level.

I grew up in Jacksonville and my parents are both symphony musicians with the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. I was born in New York as my dad was finishing his masters at Julliard.

What is your “why?” What inspires you everyday to do more/better?

I'm inspired each day to work hard and care for patients to provide for my family, make my parents proud, and improve the lives of patients.

Take us back to when you first began in medicine what was it like for you?

No one in my family is in medicine so every year was pretty unknown when I got into medicine. I never quite new what I got myself into or what the next step in the training was until I was deep into it.

How do you find balance with your work life and your home life?

It's difficult. Mainly long days. There are many days I leave before my son wakes up and come home after he is asleep. I enjoy movies with the family and surfing with friends when I can.

What is the most challenging part about your job?

The long hours and the day is never over feeling when you are always thinking about your past or future patients/surgeries.

What is your philosophy in treating a WC patient?

Treat all WC patients just like any other patient. I try not to have the WC component have any effect.

If you could change one thing about WC industry what would it be? the "51%" standard. Most WC injuries are not so clear cut and open to interpretation. Also the concept of MMI is difficult. Often patients may continue to regain their function months or years after their injury.

What’s your biggest professional accomplishment to date?

I was awarded the Leonard Pelltier Excellence in Research award in my residency. Matching and completing my Fellowship at Mayo Clinic. I also have been chosen #1 Orthopaedic physician in the 904 area code by Void magazine 2 years running.

What are the company’s vision, mission, values, and culture?

Mine would be to provide compassionate, individualized, evidenced based medicine to the North east Florida Community.

What final thoughts would you share with those in workers’ compensation?

Worker's compensation can be complex at times.

Having open dialogs with your liaisons, work place, and physician will make everything work out the best.

Often the goals of all 3 parties are more aligned that one may think.

904-825-0540 appointments@oastaug.com

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"Take What You Need, Leave What You Can" Community Food Fridges Help Feed The Miami Community

By Barbara Estrada It’s rectangular in shape, covered in color with words and figures that depict a piece of life. Have you guessed it yet? It’s a community fridge. As of August 2020, South Florida has seen a surge of community food fridges across the city to address the growing food insecurities, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I believe everyone, no matter where they came from or who they are, should have access to food.

We need to fight to make food a human right,” said Co-Founder of Buddy System MIA, Jessica Gutierrez.

Jessica, along with the other Co-Founder, Kristin Guerin, established a South Florida network of volunteers to assist “buddies'' (people who are atrisk and need assistance to deliver medicine, groceries) during the beginning of the pandemic.

They called it, The Buddy System.

As weeks passed by and the U.S. economy was plummeting into a deeper hole every day, the initial mission evolved and shifted from delivering groceries to immunocompromised people to addressing the problem of food insecurity in the local community.

She credits Thadeaus Umpster, who is a part of the In Our Hearts network based in New York City, and set up a glass-door fridge outside his building to then see the positive response from the community after receiving a donation from one of the health-food stores that regularly donates to the organization’s food share.

Food insecurity is a topic that Jessica is still learning as she continues to educate herself on the systemic issue that comes with hunger in America.

The U.S. food stamp program came to be when the country severely suffered during the Great Depression. The original Food Stamp Program of 1939, under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, was initiated to align growing food surpluses with a concern for the needs of the poor as the country emerged from the Great Depression.

Volunteers would wait an average of 4 hours at a food distribution center instead of going to grocery stores. This was not sustainable for neither the buddies or volunteers.

The small team of four realized they needed to be more efficient so Buddy System MIA turned into a non-profit to be able to host their own food distributions once a week during the summer.

Then, another roadblock happened because they had to depend on food donations every week.

In July 2020, Jessica moved to New York City and came across a community food fridge in her neighborhood in the Bronx.

“That first day of being here [the Bronx] is where Buddy System needs to go.This is a food distribution that can literally happen every day,” said Jessica. Despite getting laid off from her job in March of 2020, she turned her energy into helping others.

79 percent of the food insecure population in South Florida qualify based on income for SNAP (foods stamps) and other federal nutrition programs, while 21 percent do not qualify for federal nutrition programs, according to the Florida network the U.S.-based non-profit organization, Feeding America.

And, the most striking about these statistics is that 22.9 percent of children in South Florida are food insecure, meaning 280,630 children go to bed hungry, according to a study conducted by Feeding South Florida.

Those that don’t qualify are often at the mercy of relying on emergency food assistance programs to afford their basic needs like food.

Across South Florida, you can donate and/or take food from 7 fridges in neighborhoods such as Overtown, Little Haiti, Richmond Heights, Wynwood, Homestead, and Coconut Grove.

The initiative is compelling, but the captivating part of these fridges is the art that goes along with each individual fridge. Natalie Galindo, born and raised in the neighborhood of Kendall, is one of the first artists who brought to life the first fridge in Overtown.

She personally knows Jessica, who was looking for artists in the community, and called on Natalie to use her artistic skills and highlight the culture and history of the community with the help of another local artist, Vanessa.

“It’s important to involve local artists and add creativity to initiatives like this so that people can enjoy it by adding life to them,” said Natalie who holds a BFA from the University of Florida.And, the network of community fridges is set to continue to grow in other pockets like Hialeah, Opa Locka, and Little Havana.

Although the efforts from Buddy System MIA are greatly admired, it’s important to note that these are all “band-aid solutions.”

“Buddy System is not going to fix your problems nor is someone going to save you, but we get to save ourselves,” emphasizes Jessica on the importance of teaching the community to take care of each other, participating in saving your community and vocalizing food insecurity as an issue.

“Take what you need, leave what you can.”

BeTriForUs Written By Anailis Diaz

Meet Stephanie Rodriguez. A loving and caring selfless individual.

Many know her for her role at Zenith Insurance Company. The Claims Physician Partner has been in the industry for over 25 years.

Within her role at Zenith, Stephanie has facilitated relationships with medical providers throughout the State of Florida. Stephanie helps ensure that policyholders and their workers’ are receiving the best and appropriate care they need to get back to work. n addition to her work at Zenith, Rodriguez is the President at BeTriForUs. “I’ve always been about giving back to the community. I volunteered for various organizations but over the last 10 years, I have been involved in promoting the inclusion of people who have disabilities,” says the Sarasota native.

BeTriForUs is a non-profit organization committed to helping differently-abled individuals by promoting their inclusion in activities that they often are excluded from. This is typically accomplished through helping them compete in triathlons.

“I come from a background of running and cycling. Those are my loves. I love to work out. I am an endurance junkie and love endurance sports. I use that as an abled body athlete to help people with a disability to perform and participate in sporting events such as triathlons or a running event. Something they wouldn’t be able to do without that partnership. What is has done over the years is that it has helped make them part of the community,” says Stephanie.

Their mission is simple. BeTriForUs wants to help those that are often treated differently because of their physical disabilities. The motto for BeTriForUs is “We all have disabilities; however, some peoples are not physical”. It is not right to treat differently-abled people as outcasts because their disabilities are visible. We are part of a movement that is larger than any one person, but we feel it needs to start somewhere. We hope to leave an imprint on society that encourages all to treat differently-abled individuals as people, because that’s what they are.”

Stephanie says she and BeTriForUs are looking to build a new team. “We are building a new team this year. Actually, we’re starting to get back into racing, as the COVID restrictions are starting to rise a little bit.”

The organization has all types of volunteers in the Florida area. They fundraise all year and are always looking for individuals who want to help.

For more information on how to become involved, visit www.betriforus.com

WCI’s Love for Give Kids the World Village

By Anailis Diaz

Over the last 8 years, WCI has loved and contributed to Give Kids the World! The village is an 84-acre, nonprofit resort in Central Florida that provides weeklong, cost-free vacations to children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. The Village and its community partners provide children and their families accommodations in fully-furnished villas, transportation, tickets to theme parks, meals, daily entertainment and much more.

The love for the Give Kids the World has grown throughout the industry and over the years!

Since 2012, over 4,000 attendees of WCI’s annual Education Conference in Orlando have joined in and off the Village each August to volunteer and raise funds for the Village. Back in 2019, the WCI Spirit to Serve Committee had over 1000 volunteers from 187 companies who completed over 4,000 man power hours.

For those unfamiliar with GKTW, it has been an organization that has changed the lives of many children and families.

“The story of Give Kids The World began with a little girl named Amy, a wish, and the desire of one man to make that wish come true. Amy had leukemia and a wish to visit Orlando’s theme parks. To facilitate this wish, a respected hotelier was asked to provide a complimentary stay for Amy and her family. Although the hotelier gladly obliged, the remainder of Amy's travel plans took too long to arrange, and her wish was never granted. Time simply ran out, and Amy had passed away.

This unfulfilled wish inspired the hotelier to make a vow that no child in need would ever be failed again. That man was Henri Landwirth, and his desire to ensure that Amy's story would never repeat itself is a mission Give Kids The World has fulfilled since 1986.”

Robin Fielding, one of the founding members of the WCI spirit to serve committee has been involved recalling the love and reason behind supporting the organization.

“GKTW simply touches my heart! The story of their founder Henri Landwirth, who was a Holocaust survivor, is wonderful and the village is just amazing. My grandmother, as a child, had to hide out for 2 years in a basement to avoid the same fate that Henri faced. For Henri to then offer wish kids a once of a lifetime, no cost, carefree vacation, where they can forget their worries and just be a kid again is priceless. When you have a sick child, not only are you fighting the illness, but you are dealing with difficulty for the entire family. To be able to bring the entire family together to be just a family is an incredible bonus.

Give Kids the World’s philosophy is ‘happiness brings hope! This volunteer position has been one of the greatest gifts of my life and I’m proud to serve.”

The WCI Spirit to Serve Committee found ways to keep the love and passion alive through the trying year of 2020. Although WCI had to postpone the annual in-person GKTW Service Day and Gala for 2020, they went virtual raising $93,000 in support of the GKTW mission.

“CO-VID19 was certainly a big blow for these families and thankfully, this past January they welcomed families back. WCI is working with GKTW to create new opportunities to support them. We’re very excited to create a support system that most benefits the village.

Stay tuned!,” says Robin. The love for the village is a big thing within the WCI community. WCI has raised more than $300,000 for GKTW over the past 8 years! Many within the industry look towards continuing to make a difference within the lives of thousands of children and families.

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