#SMED 11
In his book, “Too Soon old, Too late Smart, the author Dr Gordon Livingston, provides the reader with 30 essential truths. One of the 30 essential truths relates to “The statute of limitations has expired on most of our childhood traumas. No matter your past, change is the essence of life. In order to move forward in life we need to learn to live in the present.” (advancedlifeskills.com,)
We’d like to believe in the famous story/movie ending, “and they all lived happily ever after” . Unfortunately life is much more complicated than the make-believe world of Disney cartoons and movies. Whilst children eagerly watch embrace the afore-mentioned cartoons and movies, many of them are often scarred for life due to traumas suffered during childhood, i.e being raped by a family member, poverty, ill-treatment and/or abuse by parents.
There are numerous social problems which beset young children and often it sets the tone for the manner in which they will deal with life during adolescence and adulthood.
To assist the young ones to deal with these traumas, life orientation plays a pivitol role in school education. If not addressed, children, when entering the world of adulthood, willl feel trapped, lost and ill-equipped to face the challenges of adulthood.
The author on the other hands provides valuable advice. He encourages us to let go of the past– and uses the analogy of the statute of limitation to bring across his point. In this regard the statute of limitations is an enactment in a common law legal system which sets the maximum time after an event that legal proceedings based on the event may be initiated. One of the reasons for the statute of limitations is that people want to get on with their lives and not have legal battles from their past come up unexpectantly.
In order for us to move forward, and lead our best life, we need to find the courage to break free from those traumas of the past.
In conclusion, “It’s up to each of us to get very still and say, “This is who I am. No one else defines your life. Only you do.” – (The Best of Oprah’s ‘What I know for sure).
Monday, November 14, 2011
FELINE STUDY SUPPORT GROUP
#SMED 11
During a previous blog I made mention of our beloved housecat, Chubby, that passed away last year. It would be terribly unfair if I do not commit pen to paper with regard to our current housecat, Chaos, who has been with us for more than four years.
Chaos too has an interesting history relating to her arrival into our family home. It dates back to one Sunday morning when my son left the church service as he was totally distracted by the sound of the a cat – only to find a small abandoned kitten, approximately three weeks old. Bottle-feeds, lots of love and attention, skin cleansing treatment followed and the rest is history.
Whilst the previous cat loved boxes, Chaos loves the feel of books, magazines and newspapers. Anything worth reading becomes her resting/sleeping spot. My current study papers, my son’s as well as the study papers of a family member who stays with us during the week, are the ones she seeks out on a daily basis. We often jokingly refer to her passing the exams with distinction when we all graduate from our respective studies.
On the other hand, I believe her need to be up close and personal when we are reading or studying , is just an indication of the love she shares with all of us. We are indeed blessed to have her as housecat.
In conclusion, I'd like to pose the following question :
Did my son find her? or
Did she find my son? I leave it you to you, the reader to decide...
During a previous blog I made mention of our beloved housecat, Chubby, that passed away last year. It would be terribly unfair if I do not commit pen to paper with regard to our current housecat, Chaos, who has been with us for more than four years.
Chaos too has an interesting history relating to her arrival into our family home. It dates back to one Sunday morning when my son left the church service as he was totally distracted by the sound of the a cat – only to find a small abandoned kitten, approximately three weeks old. Bottle-feeds, lots of love and attention, skin cleansing treatment followed and the rest is history.
Whilst the previous cat loved boxes, Chaos loves the feel of books, magazines and newspapers. Anything worth reading becomes her resting/sleeping spot. My current study papers, my son’s as well as the study papers of a family member who stays with us during the week, are the ones she seeks out on a daily basis. We often jokingly refer to her passing the exams with distinction when we all graduate from our respective studies.
On the other hand, I believe her need to be up close and personal when we are reading or studying , is just an indication of the love she shares with all of us. We are indeed blessed to have her as housecat.
In conclusion, I'd like to pose the following question :
Did my son find her? or
Did she find my son? I leave it you to you, the reader to decide...
TABLE MOUNTAIN : WELCOME TO CAPE TOWN
#SMED 11
Within the next few days we will know whether Table Mountain has been voted as one of the 7 Wonders of the Natural World. Voting closes on 11 November 2011 and the announcement will be made that evening at 21h00. Table Mountain is one of 28 finalists and together with Kilimanjaro, they are the only two sites from Africa in the competition.
Table Mountain is a South African icon and the only natural site on the planet to have a constellation of stars named after it – Mensa, meaning “the table.” (www.new7wonders.com)
I firmly believe that Table Mountain is one of the world’s great wonderS – hence I have made my vote count many times over. Working in the city we bask in the magnificence of Table Mountain on a daily basis – it cannot be ignored, looming over the citizens of Cape Town and providing us with a spectacular view en-route to work.
As an accredited tourist guide a must-have photo opportunity for all schools doing the guided walking tour of Cape Town Station, is the one depicting Table Mountain in the background.
I believe that for thousands of years Table Mountain has given us more than what we have asked for:
• nature in its natural environment at its best
• Providing daily silent fashion advice (clear mountain = light clothes)
• Contributing tour health and wellness
• Providing a quiet, serene spiritual place
• Provides artistic and cultural inspiration
Table Mountain, situated in the heart of Cape Town - and with her impressive presence which stretches from Signal Hill as far as Cape Point - looks upon us with a message and song that echoes ‘Welcome to Cape Town’
Within the next few days we will know whether Table Mountain has been voted as one of the 7 Wonders of the Natural World. Voting closes on 11 November 2011 and the announcement will be made that evening at 21h00. Table Mountain is one of 28 finalists and together with Kilimanjaro, they are the only two sites from Africa in the competition.
Table Mountain is a South African icon and the only natural site on the planet to have a constellation of stars named after it – Mensa, meaning “the table.” (www.new7wonders.com)
I firmly believe that Table Mountain is one of the world’s great wonderS – hence I have made my vote count many times over. Working in the city we bask in the magnificence of Table Mountain on a daily basis – it cannot be ignored, looming over the citizens of Cape Town and providing us with a spectacular view en-route to work.
As an accredited tourist guide a must-have photo opportunity for all schools doing the guided walking tour of Cape Town Station, is the one depicting Table Mountain in the background.
I believe that for thousands of years Table Mountain has given us more than what we have asked for:
• nature in its natural environment at its best
• Providing daily silent fashion advice (clear mountain = light clothes)
• Contributing tour health and wellness
• Providing a quiet, serene spiritual place
• Provides artistic and cultural inspiration
Table Mountain, situated in the heart of Cape Town - and with her impressive presence which stretches from Signal Hill as far as Cape Point - looks upon us with a message and song that echoes ‘Welcome to Cape Town’
SANTA SHOEBOX FESTIVE SEASON GOODWILL
#SMED11
On my way to work recently, I was intrigued by the early morning radio interview which encourage listeners to register for the Santa Shoebox. Immediately went online and selected two children for whom I had to prepare shoebox items.
I must admit that I have over the past few years contributed to shoebox items- but sadly, have neglected to ask probing questions as to the donations I provided.
Armed with Santa Shoebox shopping list, I was indeed impressed with the customer service and that staff at both Ackermans and Pep Stores in Belhar were aware of the project. They proudly informed me that their shoeboxes had already been dropped of the previous day.
On arrival at the delivery point in Gardens, I was once again blown away by the impressive administration and the friendly service from Santa Shoebox volunteers. And the rounds of spontaneous applause which erupted when Santa Shoeboxes were dropped of by the public.
Next year I will grows my contribution by more than 100%. I have already networked and lined up a few friends who will each contribute towards the Santa Shoebox project. I believe it is a project worthy of our support. You don’t need to have a lot of money to experience the spirit of giving .
The true spirit of giving requires that your gift comes from the heart and that you expect nothing in return. There is no expectation of anything in return and you simply get pleasure from knowing you have given someone a special gift that in some cases can change their lives. (www.christiandonor.com) The spirit of giving is reward enough for their efforts.
Against this background I hope that the two shoebox I have dropped off , will make a difference to the lives of to young learners in Cape Town. Come 2012 - In the spirit of giving, it is my endeavour to increase the shoebox donation by more than 100%
On my way to work recently, I was intrigued by the early morning radio interview which encourage listeners to register for the Santa Shoebox. Immediately went online and selected two children for whom I had to prepare shoebox items.
I must admit that I have over the past few years contributed to shoebox items- but sadly, have neglected to ask probing questions as to the donations I provided.
Armed with Santa Shoebox shopping list, I was indeed impressed with the customer service and that staff at both Ackermans and Pep Stores in Belhar were aware of the project. They proudly informed me that their shoeboxes had already been dropped of the previous day.
On arrival at the delivery point in Gardens, I was once again blown away by the impressive administration and the friendly service from Santa Shoebox volunteers. And the rounds of spontaneous applause which erupted when Santa Shoeboxes were dropped of by the public.
Next year I will grows my contribution by more than 100%. I have already networked and lined up a few friends who will each contribute towards the Santa Shoebox project. I believe it is a project worthy of our support. You don’t need to have a lot of money to experience the spirit of giving .
The true spirit of giving requires that your gift comes from the heart and that you expect nothing in return. There is no expectation of anything in return and you simply get pleasure from knowing you have given someone a special gift that in some cases can change their lives. (www.christiandonor.com) The spirit of giving is reward enough for their efforts.
Against this background I hope that the two shoebox I have dropped off , will make a difference to the lives of to young learners in Cape Town. Come 2012 - In the spirit of giving, it is my endeavour to increase the shoebox donation by more than 100%
PASSING ON THE TORCH
#SMED 11
This week’s blogs gets its inspiration from the phrase ‘passing the torch’.
We have all seen either on the news or in person the passign of the Olympic torch from one relay runner to the next until the torch is finally lit at the next Olympic site. The “passsing of the torch” is a pretty good metaphor for life. One generation must pass the torch to the next (www.unionchurch.com – Rev. Bruce Goettsche Series: Living with the Heart of God)
It is considered a great honour to be asked to light the Olympic Flame.
Our eldest son recently moved into his own home and in the process two beloved household items passed from one generation to another : a lounge suite and piano . Both items have been around for more than 30 and 25 years respectively. Although these two afore-mentioned items have been occupying space in the same house for more than 25 years, they have been separated by a distance of a few rooms since the beginning of time.
In their new surroundings they will however take up positions side by side, one providing musical sounds whilst the other provides comfortable seating capacity to those listening to the music emanating form the piano.
I can confirm that we already had the privilege of enjoying beautiful classical music in the comfort of newly refurbished lounge chairs. In today’s modern society where artists rely primarily on the use of keyboards, laptops and digitally enhanced music, it is indeed an honour to pass on from one generation to another, two household item – hence the reference to ‘passing of the torch’.
Whilst it may seem like the end of an era, I am confident that the passing of the torch spells the beginning of another journey allowing the next generation to build and create their own lasting memories.
This week’s blogs gets its inspiration from the phrase ‘passing the torch’.
We have all seen either on the news or in person the passign of the Olympic torch from one relay runner to the next until the torch is finally lit at the next Olympic site. The “passsing of the torch” is a pretty good metaphor for life. One generation must pass the torch to the next (www.unionchurch.com – Rev. Bruce Goettsche Series: Living with the Heart of God)
It is considered a great honour to be asked to light the Olympic Flame.
Our eldest son recently moved into his own home and in the process two beloved household items passed from one generation to another : a lounge suite and piano . Both items have been around for more than 30 and 25 years respectively. Although these two afore-mentioned items have been occupying space in the same house for more than 25 years, they have been separated by a distance of a few rooms since the beginning of time.
In their new surroundings they will however take up positions side by side, one providing musical sounds whilst the other provides comfortable seating capacity to those listening to the music emanating form the piano.
I can confirm that we already had the privilege of enjoying beautiful classical music in the comfort of newly refurbished lounge chairs. In today’s modern society where artists rely primarily on the use of keyboards, laptops and digitally enhanced music, it is indeed an honour to pass on from one generation to another, two household item – hence the reference to ‘passing of the torch’.
Whilst it may seem like the end of an era, I am confident that the passing of the torch spells the beginning of another journey allowing the next generation to build and create their own lasting memories.
MY BIG FAT BIG DREAM
#SMED 11
I believe that dreams are very important. It provides directions and purpose in life – something to hold onto and strive for.
My big fat BIG dream does not include wedding plans as those have been taken care of many years ago. Three family members will meet up in Austria. We will kick-start our tour of Europe by conducting a cultural tour of Austria - in particilar "The Sound of Music' tour.
This Big Fat Dream originated and started building up momentum after myself and two sisters found ourselves in Auckland doing a tour of the Northern Island.. This in turn led to a mutual agreement that in 2013 we would repeat the exercise by touring and visiting the hometime residence of the von Trapp family as in the movie, ‘The Sound of Music.’
My Big Fat Dream in this case resonates on two levels :
1. It is a big dream which has been cherished for a significant number of years and will continue until the arrival of departure date.
2. A fat wallet will be required to materialize the dream
Given the success of three- sister-alliance in 2009 where we met up and toured New Zealand, I believe our next Big Fat Dream of conducting ‘The Sound of Music’ heritage tour, will soon expand significantly in 2013 as we gear up towards the travel and tour planning packages.
Looking forward to saying BON VOYAGE when Big Fat Dream becomes a reality in 2013!
I believe that dreams are very important. It provides directions and purpose in life – something to hold onto and strive for.
My big fat BIG dream does not include wedding plans as those have been taken care of many years ago. Three family members will meet up in Austria. We will kick-start our tour of Europe by conducting a cultural tour of Austria - in particilar "The Sound of Music' tour.
This Big Fat Dream originated and started building up momentum after myself and two sisters found ourselves in Auckland doing a tour of the Northern Island.. This in turn led to a mutual agreement that in 2013 we would repeat the exercise by touring and visiting the hometime residence of the von Trapp family as in the movie, ‘The Sound of Music.’
My Big Fat Dream in this case resonates on two levels :
1. It is a big dream which has been cherished for a significant number of years and will continue until the arrival of departure date.
2. A fat wallet will be required to materialize the dream
Given the success of three- sister-alliance in 2009 where we met up and toured New Zealand, I believe our next Big Fat Dream of conducting ‘The Sound of Music’ heritage tour, will soon expand significantly in 2013 as we gear up towards the travel and tour planning packages.
Looking forward to saying BON VOYAGE when Big Fat Dream becomes a reality in 2013!
ONLY BAD THINGS HAPPEN QUICKLY
#SMED 11
Gordon Livingstone said, “Only bad things happen quickly. Virtually all the happiness- producing processes in our lives take time, usually a long time:
Learning new things;
Changing old behaviours;
Building satisfying relationships;
Raising children;
This is why patience and determination are among life’s primary virtues” (www.goodreads.com)
Against the background of the death of Michael Jackson and the subsequent recent guilty verdict against hismedical doctor, this is just but one example in which negligence plays a major role in bad things happening. Other examples are :
Negligence on the road leads to the quick death of innocent pedestrians;
Negligence by walking on the railway lines leads to a sudden death if struck by a train;
Negligence at level crossings leads to the death of innocent vehicle passengers.
Other example are substance abuse. Once exposed to, a person soon gets caught into the grips of the Methamphetamine (“Tik’) monster - resulting in theft, burglary and crime to sustain the substance abuse habits.
The above are but just a few examples where poor judgment and substance abuse ultimately leads to the setting for a terrible scene to unfold – rather quickly I might add.
Gordon Livingstone said, “Only bad things happen quickly. Virtually all the happiness- producing processes in our lives take time, usually a long time:
Learning new things;
Changing old behaviours;
Building satisfying relationships;
Raising children;
This is why patience and determination are among life’s primary virtues” (www.goodreads.com)
Against the background of the death of Michael Jackson and the subsequent recent guilty verdict against hismedical doctor, this is just but one example in which negligence plays a major role in bad things happening. Other examples are :
Negligence on the road leads to the quick death of innocent pedestrians;
Negligence by walking on the railway lines leads to a sudden death if struck by a train;
Negligence at level crossings leads to the death of innocent vehicle passengers.
Other example are substance abuse. Once exposed to, a person soon gets caught into the grips of the Methamphetamine (“Tik’) monster - resulting in theft, burglary and crime to sustain the substance abuse habits.
The above are but just a few examples where poor judgment and substance abuse ultimately leads to the setting for a terrible scene to unfold – rather quickly I might add.
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