4 minute read
Community
HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS EXPRESSIONS PONDER THIS! Tis the Right Time to Rejoice
By Hazel Rosetta Smith Life is full of swift transitions, trials and tribulations are a part of the journey, how we handle them is what counts. We cannot help but feel a sense of anxiety when our thoughts are centered on what we cannot do, instead of what is waiting just a breath away. No need to reiterate the words of that timeless song by Marvin Gaye, “What’s going on?” That is a question for which there is no logic or rational answer right about now. Stop filling your head with thoughts that are not serving any purpose other than to disturb your peace of mind.
Advertisement
Okay, I will say it, we are in the process of unwrapping a hot governmental mess. Thank God for those who step up to the plate to share “good news we can use” and cheery stories of joy and laughter. Tis the season to be happy, and that means you too. What you do for you is of the utmost importance. If you are good and kind to yourself, some of that kindness will make its way to someone else. Do not neglect or put yourself aside.
Si se puede, yes, we can…muster up the energy we think we do not have. There is a will deep within you and a way is there as well, waiting for you to heed its beckoning. Get ready to bust your best step into fantastic, without fear. Whether you know it or not, the wonders of the world are going on all around you. Whatever the circumstance, your present situation might need to be reevaluated. Do not feel guilty to admit that you feel good. It is your right to stand tall and proclaim proudly that you are content and comfortable. A dollar in your pocket does not signify selfishness.
In your darkest moment, the unexpected happened and it feels amazingly marvelous, you are still here. Wisdom is gained by cultivating an attitude of gratitude. We may be alone in our dwelling places, but loneliness does not deserve contemplation. With or without a mate or significant other, laughter is possible, happiness is plausible and downright good fun is present. All of it is attainable, individually, and collectively.
Throwback your head and let loose a good holla. Life is good. Stay focused on the best of your days and commit to making the rest of your days better than the ones before, because you believe you can. REJOICE! Make it a Merry Christmas wherever you are and more so, if you know the reason for the season. BE BLESSED BELOVED. [Hazel Rosetta Smith is a journalist, playwright, and director with Help Somebody Theatrical Ministries; retired former Managing Editor and Woman’s Editor of the New York Beacon News; current columnist for Harlem Community News, Inc. Contact: misshazel@twc.com]
DON’T MISS ANOTHER ISSUE SUBSCRIBE TODAY! GO TO PAGE 23 Visit our website to learn more: www.harlemcommunitynews.com
BRONX UPCOMING EVENTS
Now Until
January 15
This fall, OSL’s Music in Color concert celebrates the music of Eleanor Alberga. Born in
Jamaica and currently based in the UK, Alberga composes with a deeply emotional language and structural clarity that has drawn high praise on an international level. OSL musicians will
perform her Jamaican Medley, String Quartet No. 1, and the North American premiere of her
Shining Gate of Morpheus for horn and string quartet. Join online at hostos.cuny.edu for FREE.
Now Until January 10 12:00-4:00pm
For Love and Only for Love: Letters to New York
NYBG partners with Make Music New York on their annual winter solstice festival with the world premiere of “For Love and Only for Love: Letters to New York,” an immersive choral installation by composer Pete Wyer. Explore the Native Plant Garden at your own pace and socially distanced, as prerecorded music – performed by choirs of up to 72 voices projected over 24 independent speakers – inspires reflection of love, gratitude, acceptance, and our connection with na-
Mamie Minch and Tamar Korn (Dec 27) Bald eagle watch (Dec 26)
ture during the pandemic. At the Garden. 2900 Southern Blvd. FREE with admission.
December 26 1:00-2:00pm
Birding: Bald Eagle Watch
Winter is a spectacular season for observing bald eagles in New York City parks. See if you can spot any on this adventure with Urban Park Rangers. Social distance guidelines are in effect. Palisade Avenue and Spaulding Lane in Riverdale Park. FREE
December 27 1:00-2:00pm
Winter Tree ID
This program will explore beautiful Crotona Park while learning how to identify trees by the bark, buds, and other distinctive characteristics. Enjoy the subtle beauty of trees in winter. Social distance guidelines are in effect. Crotona Nature Center in Crotona Park. Crotona Park East and Charlotte Street. FREE.
December 2 7 12:00-12:30pm
Mamie Minch and Tamar Korn
The first of two events filmed at Wave Hill’s Aquatic Garden, this performance features Mamie Minch and Tamar Korn, a duo who are each acclaimed solo performers in their own rights. When performing together, each artist brings their individual knowledge of genre, styles, voices and spirits together, creating an immensely rich, unique, and diverse universe of sound. On Wave Hill’s Instagram (IGTV) for FREE.
December 28-30 5:00-10:00pm
NYBG
This holiday season, let it GLOW at The New York Botanical Garden in an allnew outdoorexperience illuminating NYBG’s landmark landscape and Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. NYBG.2900 Southern Boulevard. $18-$30.
