Unmute

  I s there life after death? I think that's a question that every human being struggles to answer. Although we all hold separate and distinct viewpoints, beliefs or ideologies on the answer to this question the concept is a revolutionary one.        What if death wasn't the end? What if it represented the beginning of something powerful and awe inspiring? What if it required death in order to unlock a change in perception, open a closed door, or provide a different vantage point on a perspective? I've had times in life when I've embraced the thought of death and times when I was immobilized by the fear of it. Regardless of the varying outlooks I've had about death; I can honestly say I've always respected the fact that one day I will die. Yet, I find myself faced with the earth shattering question "Are you ready to die?"  What is insanity? Insanity is continually doing the same thing, but somehow expecting a different result. Simply put, you can't

Our life is full of relationships. Throughout our lifetime we experience our connections with people in multiple ways. We engage in familial relationships, friendships, dating/courtships, marriages, business involvements, and situationships. All of these interactions impact us both in positive and negative ways. Whether the influence in our life is good or bad the relationship is governed by us, we get what we allow.         Years ago I had a former best friend. This friend was incredibly intelligent, articulate, passionate, business savvy, funny, talented and gorgeous -- the total package. She was one of the most colorful people I have ever known. We had some very memorable moments together. But, the problem with our relationship was I didn't get out of it what I put into it. Anytime she needed encouragement, support, care, understanding, compassion, etc I was there. But when I needed support that mirrored what I provided to her it was always suspiciously absen

I can remember learning how to color back in kindergarten. My teacher would hold up a perfectly colored coloring sheet that she provided as an example of how the completed assignment should l ook. Next, she handed out the blank coloring sheets and gave the instructions on how to successfully complete the task. Excited, everyone would pull out their set of crayons and begin to color. She would walk through the rows of desks looking at the humble beginnings of these future masterpieces. Occasionally, she would remind us, "Children, remember to stay inside of the lines."Once completed, she would ensure names were on all the coloring sheets and then proceed to hang them up on the bulletin board for everyone to see.        Having your artwork on display for the teacher, classmates and parents was a really big deal. Everyone one would huddle around the bulletin board to determine who submitted the " best" and "worst" work. The inspections were always

A s a survivor of sexual abuse and trauma I've had numerous people,  places, things and ideas impact my ability to utilize my voice. Well if I'm being more transparent--- I'd have to say experiences, relationships, learned behaviors, people's perceptions, environments, belief systems and my own misconceptions were equally contributing factors in stifling my voice. What is voice, you ask?         Voice, in this context, could be defined as the ability to express oneself freely without reservation. To vocalize. To give voice to. Voice embodies the essence of who you are as an individual. It is the expression of who you are. It's that special or unique quality that makes you distinctly you.         Now that we have a general understanding of what voice is, how could we possibly have it muted? Imagine bursting with excitement because you received life changing news and immediately you decide to tell your closest friends. Picking up the phone, you dial the first