Family, Marriage, Self Care

The Birth of a New Year

Michelle Niemi

One of my first thoughts when I woke up this morning was that I’ve been actively dreaming about my father quite a bit. It comes as no surprise, having lost him unexpectedly this past October. The part that IS surprising is that I don’t often dream about people I know. Or when I do, I don’t always see their faces, I just know that it’s them in my dream. But Dad has been showing up for me lately, and perhaps that’s just a really good way for me to work through my grief. It’s been comforting to hear his voice.

The next thing I thought about was that I am no longer 56, that my actual birthday had come and gone in January and I was now 57. It would be the first of many milestones without my parents. As I approach the anniversary of my mother’s death, I make a mental decision not to accommodate the anniversaries of my parents’ deaths in my head going forward. I know when they both died, and my brain should be able to do the math of how many years it’s been endured. I refuse to let a date of death to be a marker that I wallow in grief.

Once I got past the delicate beginnings of my morning and sat down with a cup of coffee, I began to look at the birth of this new year. Most mornings I sit in solitude, drink my cup of joe, perhaps read a positive affirmation or two, play my daily Wordle, and watch the news. This particular morning, I decided to forgo most of that. Definitely not the coffee, because….well I think it’s unkind to derive ourselves of all pleasure in the world. But having gotten through the brutal Michigan January and moving into February, it just seemed like a good morning to think about the year coming and what lies ahead.

The big event of the year is my daughter is getting married in the Fall. While I wish more than anything that my father could be there to see it, I feel a sense of gratitude that hers will. There’s an undeniable feeling of a light and happy spirit, knowing that these kids are not only getting married, but venturing off on what I will for now call the big adventure. More on that another time. But it feels damn good to know that I’ve successfully raised a good person, who was fortunate enough to find another good person to share her life with in this world.

Speaking of good eggs, I was lucky enough to meet one a few days after my birthday this year. In all my years of dating, and believe me it’s been a long time, I’ve been repeatedly told by well-meaning friends that your person arrives when you’re not looking for them. I never stopped wanting to find my person these past 20 years, and I would say I was kind of actively looking, but in truth I think I had just resigned myself to enjoying someone’s company now and then. I had accepted that if I hadn’t found him after all this time, he must not exist. I marveled at the people around me that were happily married or otherwise entangled with their person and wondered how they had found someone that made them feel so safe and loved. I wondered how they had found someone they could trust with their heart. It feels like I met my person. And just like my friends said, he blindsided me. I wasn’t prepared for how full my heart could feel, nor was I prepared to learn it felt different than anything I had ever felt before.

So, I look hard at the birth of this new year. It is a year of new beginnings. A new life without my parents. A new life for my daughter that now blesses me with a wonderful son, too. And this new man who has captured my heart. I approach the year softly after the previous year of grief and sorrow and remember that there is still much to be thankful for. It is okay to put down the grief of last year and move forward with my new life. It is okay to remember them with love but walk forward to the happiness that lies ahead of me.

I declare 2024 a year of love.

Self Care

Stroke of Genius: A Hilarious Guide to Bouncing Back!

LaShawnda

Life is like a game of Mario Kart – you’re cruising along, and then BAM! A banana peel called a stroke comes outta nowhere. But guess what? You’re not just any racer; you’re the one who’s about to make an epic comeback. OH YEA! Welcome to my guide to recovering from a stroke with style, humor, and a whole lot of attitude! LET’S GO!

Mind Games: Outsmarting Brain Farts

So, you’ve got this new sidekick called Brain Farts. Forgot where you left your keys? Couldn’t remember your neighbor’s name? No worries – it’s just your brain doing the cha-cha. Embrace the mental gymnastics with brain games, puzzles, and a sense of humor. It’s like flexing your mental biceps – you’ll be a mental ninja in no time.

Bod Squad: Flexing Those Recovery Muscles

Rehab, my friend, is the new gym – Stroke Gym, that is. Say hello to your personal trainer – Physical Therapist Extraordinaire. Limbs feeling like spaghetti? Time to turn them into noodles of steel. Throw in some funky dance moves, and you’ve got yourself a workout routine that’ll make even Jane Fonda proud. Yea, I said JANE FONDA! IYKYK!

Zen Zingers: Finding Inner Chill

Spiritual renewal, anyone? Meditation, journaling, yoga, or just sitting in a comfy chair contemplating the meaning of life – whatever floats your boat. Inner peace is the new black, and you, my friend, are about to become the trendsetter. DO NOT LET ANYONE MESS WITH YOUR PEACE!

Bank Breakdance: Financial Recovery Boogie

Money got you doing the cha-cha-cha? I feel you! Time to break out the financial recovery boogie. It’s like budgeting but with more pizzazz. Cut unnecessary expenses, make a game plan, and remember – you’re not broke; you’re just pre-rich. GET ON A BUDGET! It is hard in the beginning, but it gets better! Check out The Budget Babe to get a planner that will change your life!

Crew Love: Your Ride-or-Die Support System

Nobody conquers the world alone. Your squad – family, friends, and the occasional nosy neighbor – they’re your ride-or-die crew. Let them in on the joke that life threw at you, and watch how they turn your recovery into a Blockbuster comedy. Laughter truly is the best medicine. I surround myself with good authentic crazy! I love them! Get you a crew! And please, do an inventory of your TRUE friends. No one who smiles in your face and talks behind your back. I mean, not even take up for you in a room that discusses you. Just sayin’.

Life’s a rollercoaster, and strokes are just unexpected loop-de-loops. BELIEVE ME! But guess what? You’re the daredevil ready to conquer them all. Embrace the quirky, funny side of recovery in this unpredictable world. It’s not just a comeback; it’s a stand-up comedy routine starring you. Get ready to laugh, dance, and show life that strokes ain’t got nothin’ on your inner swag. You’re not bouncing back; you’re bouncing back with a mic drop. Boom!

Political

Rosalynn Carter’s Life: From Small Town to Big Role

LaShawnda

Rosalynn Carter, who was a top adviser to her husband, President Jimmy Carter, passed away at 96. She was known for shaping the role of First Lady, advocates for mental health, and influencing policies during and after their time in the White House. Rosalynn was an active force, sitting in on Cabinet meetings, advising on various issues, and even championing mental health legislation. Her dedication extended beyond the presidency, co-founding the Carter Center, focusing on human rights and global suffering reduction.

Born in a small village, Rosalynn faced challenges early on after her father’s death. Despite hardships, she excelled academically and met her future husband, Jimmy Carter, at a young age. Their marriage lasted more than 77 years, setting a record for the longest presidential union in U.S. history.

During her husband’s presidency, Rosalynn didn’t settle for a ceremonial role. She ventured on diplomatic missions, engaging in substantive talks across Latin America, advocating for important issues like human rights, arms reduction, and more. She was also a key player in the historic Camp David peace talks between Israel and Egypt.

Known for her strong will, she pushed for changes during challenging times, urging her husband to address the nation’s “crisis of confidence.” Despite criticism, she expanded the role of the First Lady, attended Cabinet meetings, and worked on policy matters. However, some doubted her commitment to feminism despite her significant professional achievements.

Beyond politics, she devoted herself to mental health advocacy, successfully influencing major mental health legislation. Her efforts faced setbacks but left a lasting impact on raising awareness and support for those affected.

Even after leaving the White House, Rosalynn remained active, co-founding the Carter Center and continuing her work on mental health. Her partnership with Jimmy Carter extended far beyond their political life, involving charitable endeavors like building homes with Habitat for Humanity.

Her legacy as a strong, influential, and dedicated figure in American history will be remembered fondly. Rosalynn Carter’s impact on mental health awareness and her tireless dedication to public service leave an enduring mark on the nation.

Uncategorized

Remembering Michelle Love

LaShawnda

Do you know what today is? It’s Michelle’s Birthday! She would have been 48 today.

We, here at ImpactUToday, want to wish our angel a happy heavenly birthday. Her impact with her heartfelt/personal writings at the beginning of our blog journey will never be forgotten.

You will forever be in our hearts and minds.

Technology

Motor City Metamorphosis: Detroit’s Sneaky Tech Revolution

LaShawnda

Hey! Detroit, the Motor City, is buzzing with something new, and it’s not just engines. They’re quietly becoming a big deal in the world of tech, especially this thing called artificial intelligence (AI).

Hush-Hush Geniuses

So, in the corners of Detroit, away from the car noise, some super-smart folks are working their magic on AI. It’s like they’re building the brains for the future, all low-key and behind the scenes.

Tech for Everyone

Now, Detroit isn’t just about cars. Nah. AI is like the secret sauce they’re adding to everything. You’ve got it in healthcare, money stuff, and who knows where else! It’s like they’re mixing and matching, creating a tech recipe for the whole city.

Startups Popping Up

Now, picture this: startups popping up all over the place like flowers after a spring rain. These aren’t your usual businesses; they’re like the cool kids bringing fresh ideas to the table. Detroit is turning into a playground for these startup whiz kids.

Smart and Savvy Crew

Do you know what makes Detroit’s AI scene even doper? The people! You’ve got the old-school experts who’ve been around forever, teaming up with the youngins fresh out of school. It’s like a crew of tech Avengers, working together to make the city the tech superhero it’s meant to be.

Detroit’s Tech Vibe

Detroit’s getting a tech makeover, and AI is the star of the show. It’s not a big noisy revolution; it’s more like a relaxed upgrade. Keep an eye on the Motor City because, behind the scenes, we are crafting a future where tech is as much a part of the city as music and cars. Detroit’s writing a new chapter, and it’s looking pretty good!

Self Care, Social

Helping Men Feel Safe to Share: Why They Need Support Too

LaShawnda

In a world where people often expect men to be tough and not show their feelings, the idea of creating safe places for men to open up without being judged might sound a bit different. But it’s really important for their emotional well-being. In a world where people often expect men to be tough and not show their feelings, the idea of creating safe places for men to open up without being judged might sound a bit different. But it’s really important for their emotional well-being. Men feel a lot of different things, just like anyone else, and they should have a place where they can talk about their feelings without worrying about what others might think.

The Pressure to Conform

Societal norms and traditional gender roles have historically placed a great deal of pressure on men to conform to certain expectations. Men have been expected to be strong, stoic, and unemotional, often discouraged from displaying vulnerability. This societal pressure can be stifling, leading to emotional suppression and potential mental health issues.

Men, Emotions, and Mental Health

Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being. However, the reluctance to express emotions can have detrimental effects on men’s mental health. While it’s important to emphasize that men and women may experience emotions differently, this doesn’t mean that men should be denied the opportunity to express themselves emotionally.

Suppressing emotions and bottling up feelings can lead to various psychological issues, such as depression, anxiety, and anger management problems. It’s crucial to understand that vulnerability and emotional expression are not signs of weakness; rather, they are manifestations of our shared humanity.

The Benefits of Safe Spaces for Men

Creating safe spaces for men to be vulnerable without judgment offers several important advantages:

  1. Improved mental health: Encouraging emotional expression can lead to better mental health outcomes, reducing the likelihood of emotional issues going unaddressed.
  2. Strengthened relationships: Men who can openly express their emotions often find it easier to connect with others and build stronger, more meaningful relationships with friends and family.
  3. Reduced societal pressure: Safe spaces provide men with the opportunity to break free from the constraints of traditional gender norms and be their authentic selves.
  4. Enhanced self-awareness: Emotional expression fosters self-awareness, helping men better understand their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
  5. Social support: Safe spaces offer a network of support, where men can share their experiences and find comfort in the knowledge that they are not alone in their struggles.

Creating Safe Spaces

Establishing safe spaces for men to be vulnerable isn’t about excluding women or perpetuating stereotypes; it’s about acknowledging that all individuals, regardless of gender, deserve a space where they can express their emotions openly. Here are some steps we can take to create these spaces:

  1. Encourage open communication: Promote conversations about the importance of emotional expression and its benefits within the family, workplace, and community.
  2. Challenge stereotypes: Encourage critical thinking and dialogue that challenges traditional gender roles and stereotypes, allowing men to be more authentic and emotionally expressive.
  3. Support groups and organizations: Many support groups, counseling services, and mental health organizations offer spaces for men to share their feelings and experiences. These groups can be invaluable resources.
  4. Education and awareness: Raise awareness about the importance of mental health and emotional well-being for men through workshops, seminars, and social media campaigns.
  5. Active listening: Be a good listener. Sometimes, just providing a listening ear can be incredibly supportive.

Men need safe spaces where they can be vulnerable without judgment just as much as women. Emotions are universal, and suppressing them can be harmful to one’s mental health. By creating these spaces, we can encourage men to embrace their emotions, build healthier relationships, and ultimately lead happier, more fulfilling lives. It’s time to challenge societal norms and embrace the idea that vulnerability is not a sign of weakness but a testament to our shared humanity.

Three Questions to Think About:

  1. Why should men be denied the right to express their emotions openly, just like anyone else?
  2. What if suppressing feelings leads to mental health problems and unhappiness? Shouldn’t we do something about it?
  3. Can we create safe spaces where men can be themselves without judgment?

Let’s support the idea of safe spaces for men to be vulnerable. Encourage open conversations, challenge stereotypes, and be a listening ear. It’s time to embrace everyone’s humanity and promote well-being for all. That’s my TEDTalk for today!

Join the movement. It’s as simple as that. #MenMatterToo

Political

Understanding Hamas and Its Global Impact

LaShawnda

In a world filled with complex global issues, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of organizations like Hamas and the impact they have. So, what’s going on with Hamas, and how is it affecting the world? Let’s break it down in simple terms.

Who Is Hamas?

Hamas is a Palestinian political and military organization that was founded in 1987. Its full name is “Harakat al-Muqawama al-Islamiya” or the “Islamic Resistance Movement.” It operates primarily in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, two territories in the Middle East that are at the center of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

What Are Its Goals?

Hamas has two main objectives:

  1. Resistance Against Israel: Hamas is known for its armed resistance against the state of Israel. It opposes Israeli control over Palestinian territories and seeks to establish an independent Palestinian state.
  2. Islamist Governance: Hamas also has a political wing that governs the Gaza Strip. In 2006, it won the Palestinian Legislative Council elections, gaining control of Gaza. Since then, it has been the de facto authority in the territory.

How Does It Affect the World?

Israeli-Palestinian Conflict:

Hamas plays a significant role in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Its armed confrontations with Israel often lead to violence and casualties on both sides, causing international concern and making it challenging to reach a peaceful resolution.

Regional Tensions:

Hamas’s actions have a ripple effect in the Middle East, influencing relations between countries in the region. For instance, its ties with Iran have caused tensions with other Arab nations that oppose Iran’s influence.

Humanitarian Consequences:

The ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel has led to humanitarian crises in Gaza, with its residents facing challenges such as limited access to basic services, including healthcare, education, and clean water.

Global Diplomacy:

Hamas’s status as a designated terrorist organization by many countries complicates international diplomacy and negotiations related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It can hinder efforts to find a peaceful solution to the long-standing issue.

In Conclusion

Hamas is a complex organization with both political and military wings. Its actions and goals have far-reaching effects on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, regional tensions, and global diplomacy. Understanding its role is crucial for anyone interested in the challenges and complexities of the Middle East.

Here are some questions:

  1. How might the global community balance its concerns about the actions of Hamas with the imperative to find a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
  2. In what ways do the regional tensions influenced by Hamas’s actions exemplify the broader complexities of political relationships in the Middle East, and what are the potential solutions to these tensions?
  3. Can international diplomacy effectively address the challenges posed by designated terrorist organizations like Hamas, and how can negotiations be facilitated to promote stability and peace in the Middle East?

What are your thoughts and comments?

Social

Why Gen X Isn’t Getting Busy in the Bedroom

LaShawnda

If you’ve ever wondered why Gen X, born between 1965 and 1980, isn’t having as much sex as you might expect, I am here to break it down for you.

Busy Lives and Stress: Gen Xers are often juggling jobs, kids, and aging parents. This leaves them stressed and tired, with little energy for romance.

Changing Priorities: They tend to focus more on careers and money than on romantic adventures. That means less time for intimate moments.

Technology Impact: While technology connects people, it can also keep them glued to screens. This can replace in-person connections and reduce physical intimacy.

Divorce Memories: Many Gen Xers saw their parents divorce. That can make them cautious about committing to relationships, which can lead to fewer romantic encounters.

Health Concerns: As they get older, health issues can affect their desire and performance in bed. This can naturally lead to less sex.

Midlife Reflection: Gen X is in middle age, and that can make them question the importance of sex in their lives, sometimes leading to a dip in sexual activity.

Changing Norms: Gen X is more accepting of diverse sexual orientations and relationships. Some may choose not to have sex or have non-traditional relationships.

In a nutshell, the reasons why Gen X isn’t having as much sex as other generations can be linked to their busy lives, changing priorities, the impact of technology, health concerns, past experiences, midlife reflection, and evolving social norms. Remember, everyone’s different, and not all Gen Xers fit this pattern, but these factors shed light on the changing dynamics of romantic relationships in our society.

Here are three questions to think about after reading this article:

  1. How do changing priorities and evolving social norms play a role in the declining sexual activity among Gen X, and what implications might this have for their relationships and well-being?
  2. What potential long-term effects might the impact of technology and past experiences have on Gen X’s overall satisfaction and happiness in their romantic lives, and how might this differ from other generations?
  3. In a world with busy lives, health concerns, and midlife reflection, what strategies or solutions can Gen X individuals and society as a whole implement to address the challenges mentioned in the article and promote healthier and more fulfilling relationships?

What are your thoughts and comments?

    Political

    Trump Supporter Mike Johnson Becomes House Speaker, Leading GOP to the Conservative Side

    LaShawnda

    In a big political moment, Republican Congressman Mike Johnson, who’s known for his close ties to former President Donald Trump, has been chosen as the new House Speaker. This move shows that the GOP, or the Republican Party, is leaning more to the conservative side. It could make the political scene more confrontational and divided.

    Mike Johnson is from Louisiana and has always supported Trump’s ideas and policies. He’s been a part of a group of very conservative Republicans called the House Freedom Caucus. Now, with him as House Speaker, it’s a sign that the Republican Party is embracing a more aggressive and conservative way of doing things.

    One of the main reasons for his election is his support for the “America First” agenda. This is all about things like strict rules on immigration, protecting American businesses, and a tough approach to other countries. Johnson becoming House Speaker tells us that the GOP is doubling down on these ideas.

    What happens next could be a big deal. With Johnson in charge, the Republican-controlled House will likely focus on things like cutting taxes, getting rid of regulations, and controlling who comes into the country. This might make the political disagreements between the two major parties even worse.

    Also, working with Democrats might get harder. Johnson’s ties to Trump and his strong belief in conservative ideas suggest that reaching agreements with the other side could be tricky. This could make it tough to pass important laws on things like fixing roads, healthcare, or dealing with climate change.

    The GOP moving further to the right is a big change. It might fire up the party’s supporters and win over very conservative voters. But it could also push away more moderate Republicans and create problems within the party. We’ll have to see if this new direction is a good or bad move in the long run.

    One thing is sure: Mike Johnson becoming House Speaker is a big moment in the story of the Republican Party. The GOP is showing that it’s serious about sticking to conservative values and ideas. This change could lead to a more divided and argumentative time in American politics, with the fight for the future of the Republican Party continuing in the spotlight.

    Here are a couple of questions:

    1. How has Mike Johnson’s election as House Speaker influenced the Republican Party’s direction?
    2. What specific policies and principles does Mike Johnson’s House Speakership represent?
    3. What are the potential implications of the GOP’s shift towards conservatism for bipartisan cooperation?
    4. How might the division within the Republican Party be affected by this move?
    5. In what ways might Mike Johnson’s association with Donald Trump impact his leadership as House Speaker?

    What are your thoughts and comments?