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2010-07-15T16:39:00.000-07:00

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2010-07-15T16:34:00.000-07:00

Global Thinking Women embraces social action efforts toward empowering women worldwide in support of “UN Millennium Declaration, committing their nations to a new global partnership”. Therefore, our goals are to collaborate with progressive women leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, media and researchers by utilizing global membership. The membership gives opportunity to share solutions in exposing and providing access to improve the way cultures address issues and solve problems. Global Thinking Women seek to team with organizations or institutions with the aim of sharing values, developing strategies, practices, and knowledge of the women’s social issues via global publishing collaborative context with data-driven.

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What is Seven Revolutions

2010-07-14T14:49:00.000-07:00

Well, it is an interdisciplinary course that studies the seven trends that are believed to “shape the world and challenge world leaders through the year 2025 and beyond.” The areas studied include: population, resource management and environmental stewardship, technological innovation and diffusion, the flow of information and knowledge, economic integration, the nature and mode of conflict, and the challenge of governance.
Over the next section learn more...Tune in!

A Day in the life of women supporting their men…

2009-09-01T14:22:00.000-07:00

An American viewpoint
'Yes, he was wrong, but I forgive him.' Women standing by their men—what’s your opinion is it cultural, financial or spiritual norm? What do you think? In an article by Emily Friedman entitled, “Why Women Stand by Their Men Wives Often Feel Pressured to Show Support, Experts Say” If [the couple] has children and they've had a relationship for a long time, then how do you walk away from it if you really care about the person?" said Puglisi. "A lot of women criticized Hillary when she didn't say something, but in the long haul these women feel that it's what's best for the family and them and the husband in the relationship."
http://abcnews.go.com/Health/story?id=4428736&page=1
An African viewpoint
In Africa, Kenyan women hit men with sex ban—the wives of the Kenyan president and PM have been asked to join in. Women's activist groups in Kenya have slapped their partners with a week-long sex ban in protest over the infighting plaguing the national unity government. The Women's Development Organization coalition said they would also pay prostitutes to join their strike. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8025457.stm?lsf
A Chinese viewpoint
Traditionally the family has been the most important unit of society, and this is still true. The family is also an important economic unit. In rural areas, where about 74 percent of China’s people live, the traditional family consisted of the head of the household, his sons, and their wives and children, often living under one roof. Same surname within their clan or village. In china the main form of wealth is land.
In a piece aired on 60 Minutes, “China: Too Many Men Lesley Stahl Reports On The Country's Unique Population Problem revealed, “The one-child policy is 25 years old, so the first generation is just now reaching marriage age, and for China that’s a big problem because it is estimated that as many as 40 million of its young men could spend their lives as bachelors.” Divorce in China may not be as high yet as in America but the numbers of divorced couples keep climbing. In China Beijing is No. 1 with the Divorce Rate of 39%.
With globalization, of course, the ‘backward’ countries are catching up. Women, especially, with access to higher education and higher salaries, are less willing to put up with traditional roles and expectations. Social and cultural moralists are having a field day, predicting, like always, dire consequences for the ‘social fabric’. According to the New York Times, “Chinese law, he says, recognizes seven grounds for the divorce of a wife -- childlessness, wanton conduct, neglect of husband's parents, loquacity, thievishness, jealousy, and malignant disease. Chinese law, he says, recognizes seven grounds for the divorce of a wife -- childlessness, wanton conduct, neglect of husband's parents, loquacity, thievishness, jealousy, and malignant disease.”
How will the new goals of reform the transformation of women… Join the conversation and add your comment at: http://eagles-thinkingwomen.blogspot.com/

Mind & Soul: The Transformational Power of Change by Elaine Yoshikawa

2009-01-20T11:07:00.000-08:00

New beginnings are new blessings--although on the surface they may not appear like blessings, especially if they are not of our choosing. Transitions can be fraught with difficult new experiences, and so it often gives rise to anxiety, frustration, and sadness. It can be painful and confusing to suddenly find yourself in difficult and awkward circumstances. Partly, the confusion arises from loss of identity. Transitions can be experienced as a temporary diminishment or loss of the self. We are no longer the person we were. This realization can be unsettling. Thus, transitional states not only affect what is external to us, it also transforms our internal life.
While difficult times of transition can be painful and stressful, nonetheless these are the kinds of experiences that mold and prepare us for the next chapter of our lives. New beginnings are rife with opportunities—opportunities for growth, learning, and achievement. They are opportunities for demonstrating and embodying trust. We trust that we have the strength to persevere and to make the necessary changes. We trust that each new path will be filled with enriching experiences that increase our fortitude, strengthen our resolve, and enhance our humanity.
Jean-Pierre de Caussade, a Jesuit priest, likens the turmoil and frustration of a life in transition to a stone that is being shaped by a mason. The stone suffers repeated blows in order to shape and mold it for its ultimate function. The stone doesn’t understand why it is made to suffer, and yet it trusts both the mason and its own purpose: “I know neither what he is doing nor why, I only know that he is doing what is best and most perfect, and I suffer each cut of the chisel as though it were the best thing for me, even though, to tell the truth, each one is my idea of ruin, destruction and defacement. But, ignoring all this, I rest contented with the present moment” (The Sacrament of the Present Moment, p. 56).
Although this poor stone is traumatized, it trusts the mason, trusts that being carved into something new is part of its ultimate purpose, and therefore contentedly waits for the unknown outcome. New beginnings require unwavering faith and inner courage. We don’t know what the future holds; all we know is that we are no longer the way we used to be. However, just like the mason’s stone, we can control our attitude. We can accept, trust, prepare, and grow into our ‘new’ future. We can be content with the understanding that we are being forged into something new for a reason.
Without the mason, the stone would be just an ordinary stone. Instead, it may perhaps be an integral part of a magnificent edifice. Without these transitional moments we would never know what we might ultimately become. Life blesses us with challenges and directs us (willingly or unwillingly) to the actualization of our hidden potential. We may find that we are grander than we could have ever envisioned, all for a new beginning.

A Night with the Lion King by Paige Eagles

2009-01-20T11:06:00.000-08:00

Go see it for an evening of magic. Go see it for an night of fantasy. For whatever reason, I urge you to see The Lion King at Arizona State University’s Gammage Auditorium. Imagine the timeless Disney cartoon that you experienced with your own child or watched as a child mixed with phenomenal music from Grammy and Tony Award winners Time Rice and Elton John - now multiply that to the tenth degree. This show is filled with beautiful dancing, powerful singing, and the most creative and spectacular set, costume and production design by Julie Taymor. Ms. Taymor directed, designed and conceived last year’s hit film, Across the Universe, featuring the songs of the Beatles. Her visual artistry is evident everywhere in the Lion King. Photo from Washington Post By Joan Marcus
Overall, the cast does an excellent job of making you feel part of the story. You become emotionally connected with the performance. If only for a night, you feel a part of the “Circle of Life”. I wondered how could the African Pride land be portrayed on a stage? The performance is not limited to the floors of the stage. The cast utilizes the entire theatre as birds soar through the air, elephants tramp down the aisles and giraffes stretch across the stage. This performance is not limited to a person‘s imagination as it exceeds reality and allows magic to be real.
The Lion King embodied all things African - the scenery, variety of exotic animals, the tribal music and dialect and of course, the unforgettable orange sun. It is refreshing to see a work pay homage to such a continent.
Another great aspect of The Lion King is the two child stars, playing the roles of young Simba and Nala. The duo truly held their own weight and added to the wonder of show.
One of my favorite characters is the sage baboon, Rafiki, played by Phindile Mkhize. This woman stole the show with her powerful voice and natural African spirit, as she is native to South Africa. For Ms. Mkhize, this is her debut in this role for The Lion King’s National Tour. She is a tremendous performer, as she has been in Sarafina 2, Mamma, Maria Maria, and WozaMyFohloza prior to joining this cast. Being an African American woman myself, it is a pleasure to see such a proud performance from a woman like Ms. Mkhize. This is not to take away from the excellence of the rest of the cast, as they were more than superb.
All in all this musical is more than great dancing and soulful singing. It is an experience. If you want to see a show that is a countless times better than a night out at the movie theater, go see The Lion King. If you want to be dazzled and treated to a night of wonder, go see this show. Whatever your reason go, go, go! Contact http://www.asugammage.com for tickets and show times. The Lion King runs from Jan. 2 – Feb. 8, 2009.

Would you like to write for Global Thinking Women?

2009-01-20T11:02:00.000-08:00

Would you like to write for Global Thinking Women?

Do you have expertise to share with other women?

February’s Issue will cover the theme:

Epiphany: How Sudden Insight Leads to the Revitalization of the Human Spirit

Submit articles, article ideas, or ideas for themes for upcoming issues to shavawnberry@cox.net

Articles are due on 5th of each month for each monthly issue.

My New Year’s Resolution: Leave The Past Behind by Wendy Brunner

2009-01-20T11:01:00.001-08:00

I pack my bags, gently laying the breakables on the bottom, surrounding them with softness and comfort, folding with care what is fragile as I gather together the errant pieces of my life. I lay the bundle at my feet.
I look at all that I have been through. I already miss my former life. I don’t want to let it go but I must.
We both know this is how it must be. We can’t move forward together; I cannot move forward with you. The pain is the worst I have ever known. But I know I will be ok. It’s how it must be for my growth. Holding on never gets me anywhere.
You don’t cry, you only look puzzled, like a child. Still, I m beginning to think you understand.
I think you know you’ve had control of me long enough, and, yet secretly you would like to go back to your room. In the past, you kicked and screamed and created quite a stir, unwillingly to let me leave, crying in pain that you wouldn’t be able to survive without me, holding on, desperate. But this time you remain silent, only watching. This is how I know it is the right thing to do.
“Now it is time” I say. All these hours and days— a lifetime talking is done. It has all been said. It has all been examined, from the beginning right up to this moment. This is the crossroads.
So, I step over the bag containing my past, turn, and simply walk away. I’ll travel lighter now, leaving behind the parts of me that have kept me small and contained.
This past year life has persisted in its insistence that the ideas in my head — ideas I have carried around for decades— are just that, ideas. Reality can no longer be denied or pushed aside. And though it has seemed abstract when I have heard this from others, the part of me that has been fighting back, resisting this natural course of events has finally given up. I am through grasping at people and places to make my “old life” feel like a good fit for me. Suddenly this new me, this fresh identity actually seems tangible.
So I say goodbye, leaving my bag of heartache and losses. I leave the old version of me at the curb.
It’s time for a whole new beginning.

Planning that “Trip of a Lifetime” by Marcela Marenco

2009-01-20T10:59:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, GTW!
As the New Year begins, I’ll tell you my secret to make the leap from the dream vacation or get-away ”wish”, to a concrete event. The key is simple: A calendar!
I found out that my travel ideas stayed as such if I kept “wishing” or “wanting” to go…. And they became a reality as soon as I started “plotting” every trip in my calendar. So, how do I do it?
First, write down all the important events you need to attend (e.g. family gatherings, birthdays, kids’ activities, work events, etc.) for the coming year. In this way, you can completely focus on your trip without having to switch dates back and forth. Plus, if something else comes up, you know it is probably not extremely important, so you can keep your focus on making your trip a reality.
Find a time of year that is suitable depending on your destination. If you are going to hike the Grand Canyon, maybe you want to choose the cooler weather, but not freezing weather! If you are going to Egypt, probably the summer months will be too hot to enjoy the bazaar or the pyramids. Think about what you want to do and plan accordingly. If time is not an issue, check hotel rates and airfares (if needed) to see if there is a big difference between seasons. Sometimes one week might have a great price in a particular month. Who doesn’t want to save (to shop later) if given the opportunity? To make your dream trip even more real, make your reservations as soon as you have set the date! This has some advantages. One, you can make your financial plans with real numbers (not what you think it might cost); also, you can start saving or paying in advance, so when the time comes you are better prepared. Plus, airline tickets offer great deals if you buy in advance –if your plan requires them. In addition, pay attention to cancellation policies just in case some real obstacle interferes with your trip. Don’t purchase tickets that you cannot change!
By writing down your destination and the reservation numbers on your calendar, you will already feel that your trip “wish” has moved to a more tangible level. This will give you a sense of accomplishment that is hard to beat. So, if you have always wanted to see the sunflowers in Provence or the White Cliffs of Dover, set it up. Make it real! And while you’re there, send us a postcard! Bon Voyage!! Marcela

Introducing Global Thinking Women’s Spring Interns—2009

2009-01-20T10:58:00.000-08:00

Maggie Flanagan is a senior at Arizona State University. She is currently working on her Bachelor’s of Arts in English Literature and will graduate in May 2009. She hopes to one day work as a writer and publish her own novels. She loves to travel and has been to several countries in Europe and the Middle East and would like to travel to more of Africa and the Far East. In her spare time, she enjoys blogging and writing. She works at Coach in Scottsdale Fashion Square on the weekends, and loves to shop!

Sarah M. Bramlett is currently a senior in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences working toward her Bachelor’s in English Literature at Arizona State University. She is originally from Southern California where she intends to return after graduation to pursue a career in writing and editing. She eventually aspires to be a free-lance writer, primarily focusing on nonfiction, novels and poetry. She will complete her Associate Degrees in both Anthropology and Criminology in the San Diego area, before beginning her Master’s in English Literature at San Diego State University.

Sarah Maschoff is an honors senior at ASU pursuing a degree in English Literature with a minor in Women’s Studies, as well as a Writing Certificate. Interested in a broad range of writing, she plans to pursue careers in both fiction and screenwriting. In the Spring of 2008 she had a recurring opinions column in ASU’s campus newspaper, The State Press, and just finished her first screenplay for production in the summer of 2009. She is currently working on her first novel and hopes to find a job working for the BBC in London after graduation

New Beginnings in the Kitchen: Healthy Dessert Options by Mary Powell

2009-01-20T10:57:00.000-08:00

It is the New Year. You try to count the number of calories you’ve ingested, too many for a TI-95 calculator to add up! You feel full, and bloated, like “Jabba-the-Hut” from Star Wars and never want to see another piece of pumpkin pie again (maybe lemon meringue…). We’ve all experienced the difficulties of eating healthy at the holidays. Friends have parties with lard-filled tamales, 7-layer dip and wonderful Christmas cookies that they slaved away to bake. Godiva chocolates jump up and wave at you; éclairs entice you to sink your teeth into their buttery, rich crust. We have also all paid the price after the holidays and stepped onto the scale to see ourselves weigh a little (or a lot) more than what we weighed in October. The Better Homes and Gardens ads with thin women, wearing Lycra Capri pants and indulging in chocolate cheesecake are unrealistic; we all know those models eat a carrot before the shoot and wouldn’t be caught dead eating such decadence. But, there is a remedy to the dieting blues. The following are some scrumptious “substitution” dishes that taste quite similar to the real food, are actually good for you and won’t pack on the pounds.
Pumpkin pie is a delicious dessert that everyone loves. With plenty of vitamin A and fiber, it can be good for the body. The fat and extra calories in the crust; however, make it an instant “no-no” for dieters. Try buying plain canned pumpkin-stay away from the sugar added “pumpkin pie filling”- and mix in your favorite sugar substitute. I prefer Stevia because it tastes most like sugar, and is all natural. You can buy Stevia at Sprouts, Trader Joe’s or Hi-Health. It is also being sold under the name Truvia in regular supermarkets. Add a dash of cinnamon to the pumpkin mixture. Next, pour a cup of nonfat, sugar free plain yogurt, mixed with a sugar substitute onto a piece of angel food cake or whole wheat bread. Spoon the pumpkin mixture on top of the yogurt and top it with some light cool whip, cinnamon and a graham cracker crumbled onto it. This dish may sound strange, but it tastes similar to pumpkin pie. You now have a dessert that is 250 calories, has ½ a gram of fat, significantly less sugar, and is actually good for you! You may vary this to mimic the taste of different flavors of pies. Instead of canned pumpkin try unsweetened, all natural apple sauce, or canned, sugar free cherries, spiced apples and other sugar free jams and fruits.
Another delicious and healthful recipe, which I drink on a daily basis, is my non-fat, sugar free cocoa. Cocoa is a major source of antioxidants which may help stimulate dopamine, the euphoric feeling that people with obsessive compulsive disorder, like me, have trouble producing. This may account for why those of us have obsessive compulsive disorder crave carbohydrates and sweets. I take a ¼ teaspoon of regular baking cocoa, unsweetened and add it to three scoops of Stevia, although you may use any sugar free sweetener. Then pour a hot cup of skim milk or water onto it and you have hot cocoa that is 5 calories, sugar free, and fat free. It is lower in calories than the store bought sugar free cocoa, and is better for you because it is made with 100%, pure cocoa bean. It makes an excellent hot drink during the winter months, and despite the caffeine in the cocoa, helps me get to sleep! I must admit, I catch a lot of flack for my eating habits. I have had friends exclaim, “Ew, what are you eating!” or stare at my plate and ask, “What is that?” But with high cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure running in my family, I cannot afford to be lackadaisical about my health. I refuse to feel deprived when it comes to eating, holidays or not. A few adapted recipes keep me healthy, and fitting into the same clothing I wore in high school (yes, I still need to get rid of those balloon legged, skinny ankle, nineties jeans). Don’t worry about looking like someone on Sex in the City; just treat yourself right by eating nutritiously. We only get one body and it needs to last us a lifetime.

Inspiration: The Bucket List by Shavawn M. Berry

2009-01-20T10:55:00.000-08:00

Some of you may have seen the 2008 movie, The Bucket List, which starred Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson. The premise of the movie surrounds the idea of making a “bucket list.” A bucket list consists of the 100 things you would like to do before you die; in other words, what do you want to make sure you do before you kick the bucket! Although for some, contemplating what to do with our lives prior to our deaths may seem unpleasant, the idea is to make sure that the time we spend on this earth is passionate, filled with things and people we love, and above all, guided by our own special purpose for being alive. Maybe we know what that is, maybe we don’t. The important thing is to work to discover the way (or ways) in which we can be of service to the world, while at the same time, building experiences into our lives that inform, inspire, and enrich our spirits. I remember a Jackson Browne song in the mid-seventies called, “For A Dancer.” The lyrics are about a young woman who has died, and the singer is standing near her grave, convinced “she’d rather we were dancing...dancing our sorrows away.” I always loved that image. To me, it indicated her life had been well-lived, even if it was short. Each one of us has dreams and desires we would like to see manifest. Unfortunately, for many of us, these dreams remain simple thoughts floating around our addled brains late at night as we fall into sleep! We daydream about Paris, or that novel we will write “when we have the time.” We think we will visit our best friend in Myrtle Beach one “ethereal” perfect summer; however, we never actually see any of these things become realities. Author, Henriette Anne Klauser, Ph. D. has written several books outlining the power of writing down what you want, including (appropriately) “Write It Down, Make it Happen.” She contends that something happens in our brains when we make a list of our goals. Listing them in our heads doesn’t cut it. We must physically write them down. So what would make your bucket list? Make a list today of everything that you absolutely do not want to miss in this life! And, once you do, set about making your list come to life.

The Thing About Change - by KimEagles

2009-01-20T10:53:00.000-08:00

After observing several disturbances to the peace and tranquility in our lives, most on us are forced to make a change at some point . It is that, or be miserable! We all make particular poor choices, bad decisions and untimely speculations. We become baffled, perplexed, bewildered and wounded from self failure—even to the point of being un-willing to parlay another bet in which winnings from a previous bet were gambled and lost. Finally, we panic or give up. Past waves of doubt tend to consume and baffle the mind with entirely too much clutter. It’s time to get a handle on making wise choices, attain wisdom, knowledge and understanding—and more specifically, to realize the task set before us—it’s time to consider making a change about something in our lives.
Change requires preparation—whether your decision has been to change your thinking and communication process or your heart toward forgiveness of others. You might want to change a relationship with your children, change your marriage, change your friendship with someone, or change to a healthier lifestyle. Or, perhaps you seek a change in your career, or a change in the dynamics within your family—it may also be your desire to change you financial situation. Finally you may long to transform living in a constant state of depression, fear, and worry to a new state of living. Regardless of what is the matter, we must prepare the way, throwing out the items of hindrance and destruction. The preparation for change requires getting things in order and asking some very direct questions. The questions are simple: why, what, when and how do you want to change?
The wise person needs to have clarity and complete understanding of the reason for desiring change. If there is no vision, no motivation, or a set purpose to the change we plan to make, there is no real passion to change. Therefore, you must dig deep and intentionally discover what’s been causing your stagnation and failure in order to develop, progress, or make necessary changes. The following format is a pathway to discover everything you need to know about making a lasting change.
Discover why you want to change
Why is used to ask a question, talk about the reason, purpose, or cause of something (for what reason?). As you determine the motive behind your desire to change , you must keep the question alive by not only asking, ‘why’ I want to change—but also and more importantly for ‘what reason I want to change’—the ‘why’ becomes our vision for changing.
Also, ‘why’ is used to express agreement with a suggestion or proposed course of action—such as “would you like another coffee?” “Why not!” It becomes a reason or purpose for something. So we see that ‘why’ becomes the vision and the purpose to change.
Discover what you want to change
“What” is word used in direct and indirect information or about the purpose of something. For example, it asks, “What time is it?” It is used to seek information. What is constantly asking you to define the directive question of describing the something “you” want—so, we see that “what” becomes the seeking variable for the specific information leading you to the purpose of change. Also, ‘what’ is a pronoun asking you the direct question of “What are they doing or what am I doing?”
Discover when you want to change
When is used to ask at what time or at what point something happens. When ask you the direct question, “When can we expect you to change?” The word “when” is a conjunction is also used to ask at what time or at one point something happening, for example, “They think I’m really easy going, when, in fact, I’m not.” “When” is also used to indicate a time at or during which something is happening “When did it happen?”

Discover when you want to change
When is used to ask at what time or at what point something happens. When ask you the direct question, “When can we expect you to change?” The word “when” is a conjunction is also used to ask at what time or at one point something happening, for example, “They think I’m really easy going, when, in fact, I’m not.” “When” is also used to indicate a time at or during which something is happening “When did it happen?”

Discover how you want to change
‘How’ is used to indicate the way in which somebody does something; to ask a question about someone, or as a means to change the subject of a conversation. It is also used as a suggestion. It gives instructions such as a “How To” manual. The “ how” of something gives detail or step-by-step instructions or outlines—step 1, step2 and so on. Finally, the why, what, when and how you want to change begins by you realizing that you must possess a willingness to change.
The Goal of Changing Your Life in One Year
It is my belief that when we make a decision to “believe” that there is a lot that we must all come to grips with. And it is to the degree that we make an honest assessment of where our hearts are, then start from that point and go forward, that we truly begin to experience all that life has for us. No matter where we are in our spiritual journey, there’s always room for growth that will bring us to a place of greater service and intimate relationship with our spiritual source.
The Goal of Changing Your Life in One Year system I have outlined here, uses learning wisdom based on Proverbs. The intention is to evoke proactive change and new awareness in various areas of life that have complicated and/or stifled healthy growth in our lives. This series is a tool for an introduction to self evolution of past and present beliefs, concepts, and misconceptions that may have caused confusion and misdirection. Having used the system, I know it works. It will excite you so much that you cannot wait for the next day to venture into finding out about just who you are! It’s thrilling to actually create your own personal blue print of your life’s experiences. The program’s theory helps you to see what makes you who you are and reveals who you desire to be. No more hiding and being fearful of the past. Choose to change! Be intentional and live! Let’s make this year different. If you are interested in this program of journaling for self-growth, send for your first week’s journal today at Kim_eagles@msn.com .

“Celebrating a Moment in History” by Kim Eagles

2008-11-11T10:51:00.000-08:00

It’s not often that we get an opportunity to celebrate a moment in history—a women’s right to vote and man’s first step on the moon. But a couple of days ago, change occurred in America. Whether or not your personal favorite candidate won the 2008 Presidential Election, Barack Hussein Obama by sixty-five million Americans is our nations 44th President Elect. Not bad for a black man raised by single women once on welfare. As predicted by the late great Sam Cook in 1964 in the lyrics of his song, “A Change Gonna Come”, if you’ve have not heard this song; I highly recommend you do so. Because, ‘change’ is here and emotions ran high with this worldwide announcement of the United States electing the first Black President. For some individuals came tears of joy, some fell to their knees in thanksgiving, some speechless and for some people they became fearful of the future sending “them into mourning” as quoted by Family Activist James Dobson.
But for one individual when asked what he experience having the first African-American elected for the highest seat in U.S. history he stated, “As I walked on campus today, for the first in my entire life I felt that people looked at me differently”. Imagine, enduring a lifetime of being made to feel like a second class citizen, being made to feel not quite equal to others. This was a thirty-five year old black man holding back tears from a silent emotion never before having had the chance to share this hidden sentiment. The sentiment unknown to others is that many African-Americans continently endue a sense of racial differential as far back as slavery that has unfortunately been carried into 2008.
Martin Luther King’s dream came true November 4th, 2008. People of all races, creeds and colors voted for a man because his values, intelligence, dedication and love for the American Dream was chosen to lead change. Not since the horrific tragedy of “9-11” has United States come together in emotional solidarity in “The Audacity as Hope” coined in the title of the book written by Barack Obama. After being called a nigger, a Chicago thug, a terrorist, a Muslim and a man not ready to command has been chosen by the people and for the people of American. All races of people have experienced ethic harassment that we’ve had to overcome, I know I have. Once being told that I’d never be accepted in the business world because after all, “you’re black and you’re woman”. Something that I’ll always remember—however, perhaps it’s what has helped me fight for women’s issue still today?
It has to be said, racism its subliminal messages have existed for far too long! We must learn to celebrate victory and come together as one nation, under God. Remember that freedom is never free, the cost of freedom is begins in the value of a persons life. Countless individuals have died for a cause to unite a nation that we call a United States of America that includes a diverse melting pot of survivors of battle into a ‘new world’. We are America. We are one nation. We are a place where we embrace hope of the human spirit.
Take a moment to reflect on the words of a portion hope as described in Dr. King declaration of hope…
“This is our hope. This is the faith that I will go back to the South with. With this faith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day. And this will be the day; this will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with new meaning, "My country 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the Pilgrim's pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring!" And if America is to be a great nation, this must become true…
…And when this happens, when we allow freedom to ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, "Free at last, free at last. Thank God Almighty, we are free at last." http://www.freemaninstitute.com/Dream.htm
Mans division and discourse kills and stills hopes, faith and dreams. As both parties elected there candidates: one Democrat and one Republican our civil liberties were allowed to be activated. As a nation, each of us were given a right to vote our hearts, our conscious and our convictions—either candidate confirmed to be up for the task via their credentials and near impeccable public service throughout their lifetime. However, one of the biggest misconceptions is that individuals makes kings and kingdoms; a verse in the bible confirms, “He changes times and seasons; He sets up kings and deposes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning”. Daniel 2:21

Vote! Politics and Society: A History Lesson by Sue Grace

2008-09-24T12:59:00.000-07:00

Let’s play a game of Historical Anachronism. Pretend, for a moment, that we don’t have a Presidential/VP ticket. Pretend, instead, that all the candidates run for President and that the top voter-getter wins the top office, the one with the second-highest number of votes wins the Vice Presidency. The combinations are interesting to consider: President Sarah Palin and Vice President Barack Obama. President Joe Biden and Vice President John McCain. Or how about a tie between John McCain and Sarah Palin that is decided by a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives?

These various scenarios entered my head while reading the book “Adams versus Jefferson: The Tumultuous Election of 1800”, by John Ferling. The resulting election crisis led a few years later to passage and ratification of the 12th Amendment, requiring that presidential electors vote separately for president and vice president.

In the election of 1800, Vice President Thomas Jefferson ran against President John Adams. Jefferson teamed up with Aaron Burr, a former New York Attorney General, State Senator and Republican organizer. The Republicans identified Jefferson as their pick for president and Burr for Vice President. Four years before, Jefferson ran for president, placed second and served as Adam’s Vice President, though they came from two different parties.

Voting was an arduous process in the early days of the Republic. Election polls were few in number, requiring in some cases, two-day trips to vote. The country had a patch work quilt of different election laws, some of which didn’t call for secret ballots. In some parts, voting was done orally. And voting was prohibited, not just for women and blacks but, in some areas, Catholics, Jews and Indians. State legislators voted for presidential electors in nine states. In the others, they were chosen by popular vote.

Adams campaigned more successfully than other members of his party. But when the electoral votes were counted, he came in third in a field of five, with 65 votes. Jefferson and Burr were tied at 73 a piece. Because there was no clear winner, the Constitution required the House of Representatives to make the choice.

For four months, despite several roll call votes, the House remained deadlocked. Republicans feared Federalists would simply refuse to allow the transfer of the presidency to the other party. As March 4 approached (the original Inauguration date), threats of mob violence, and even Civil War, began to spread. Governor James Monroe of Virginia ordered the state militia to guard the arsenal so that the weapons stored there wouldn’t fall into Federalist hands.

Finally, Federalist Congressman James Bayard of Delaware offered to abstain from voting. Suspicions immediately emerged, that he had made a deal with Jefferson to soften the Republican agenda. Historians have given credence to these arguments based on Jefferson’s policies and decisions while in office.

So with the vote of one congressman, crisis was avoided and peaceful transfer of governance was made possible, a rare accomplishment at that time in history.

Health & Wellness: Retreat & Rejuvenate by Sue Grace

2008-09-24T12:58:00.000-07:00

If I could pack a bag, throw it in the back of my car and head down the road for my ideal vacation, I would probably end up on an isolated Pacific Coast shoreline where I could hear sea lions barking and waves crashing and where the scenery is like something out of a sports car advertisement.
Instead, this summer I ended up in a less exotic, but beautiful, vacation spot along the shoreline of Lake Michigan in my hometown, Milwaukee. I found it restful and renewing; my husband, however, dragged his working world with him, complete with laptop and cell phone, mentally staying in his office-away-from-his-office for much of our trip.
His experience of our “vacation” is truly American. As a nation, we take less time off than workers in most other industrialized countries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, roughly 25 percent of American workers don’t receive paid vacation. And many who do skip the time off and bankroll the extra pay. Others skip it to avoid dealing with the piles of paperwork and backlog of emails they would face upon their return. Or, like my husband, they take “pseudo vacations.”
The devaluation of leisure has led to higher levels of stress among workers, and subsequently, cardiovascular problems. A Farmington Health Study, which examined women’s responses to questionnaires over a 20-year period, found that those who vacationed once every six years were eight times more likely to develop coronary heart disease or have a heart attack than women who vacationed at least twice per year. Another nine-year study of 12,000 men at high risk for coronary heart disease found that those who didn’t take a vacation at least once a year increased their risk of death from heart attack by 32 percent.
Vacation offers what is called “a respite effect.” Try out some of these ideas to provide a respite from the grind of daily living.
Electronics-free zones
· Pick a location that makes it easy to tune out. The Sheraton Hotel in Chicago has developed the “BlackBerry Check-In Program.” Guests who turn-over their PDAs are rewarded with various freebees such as complimentary dinners and free or upgraded accommodations.
· Find isolated, scenic destinations that make it easy to disconnect. One of my personal favorites is Chiricahua National Monument. Located in southeastern Arizona, the natural beauty of its rocky spires is greatly enhanced by its peace and quiet. Only dedicated nature lovers will travel to this remote location.
Retreat & Rejuvenate
· Try a retreat. Retreats provide the perfect environment for reflection and meditation. “Retreats are a means to look within ourselves in stillness and silence, to locate what may be missing in our lives…”, writes Lani Luciano in “Where the Spirit Moves You.”. Whether for spiritual renewal or for personal growth, retreat opportunities are abundantly available and very popular with Americans. The website Findthedevine.com is a good source of information on the subject.
· Add physical activity to your vacation. How about bicycling through Sonoma’s wine country? Or white water rafting on the Colorado River? Adding a physical element adds to your ability to truly relax and unwind. Once you get your heart working in the fresh air and sunshine, it is hard not to let go of one’s troubles, if only for a few days!

Inspiration: Walking Meditation by Shavawn M. Berry

2008-09-24T12:57:00.000-07:00

I first experienced the meditative peace of walking during the eighteen months I lived with my mother after my father’s death. My friend Cathleen and I walked the wooded pathways of a nearby park three times a week. We did it for exercise, but also saw it as a chance to talk freely about our lives. It deepened our connection, got our hearts pumping, and cleared our minds; however, it is the solace that came from those walks that has stayed with me ever since.
Whatcom Falls Park, where we took our walks, is full of ancient evergreen trees. Its woods are home to ravens, spotted owl, deer, squirrels, and a plethora of wild birds. We usually took the same route each day, crossing down to the entrance of the park, and then heading for the duck pond. Once in a while I brought bread to feed the ducks, and a large scramble of mallards and their ducklings immediately surrounded the waters in front of me, begging and squawking as bread sailed through the air. Occasionally, even a seagull who had flown up from Bellingham Bay several miles away, joined in the fun. After we fed the birds, we’d head down a pathway that led deep into the park, crossing a small bridge over Whatcom Creek to get into a large cathedral of trees that felt like sacred ground to me.
Crossing under that thicket of trees, sunlight spattering the ground, birds calling in the distance — there was nothing that could have offered me more in terms of assuaging my grief over my father’s death, and the other losses that coincided with it, including the break-up of a long term relationship with my boyfriend. It was almost as though the trees knew me, knew my sorrows, and offered themselves as living examples of how to endure. That’s why I love trees — everything from mesquite to saguaro to willow to redwood. They endure. Barring interference from human beings, most trees will outlive us. They were here before we were born, and they will likely be standing with their branches touching the sky on the day each one of us dies. The act of walking in any natural setting — whether a state park, a mountain trail, or through someplace urban and lovely like the Desert Botanical Gardens here in Phoenix — allows us to reconnect with silence, with God, with the sound of our footsteps and heartbeat, with spirituality, and with the slow grace that accompanies peace.
Walking in nature is a meditative act. Nature can truly be a balm for whatever ails us.
I remember walking through grief. I remember the way the sky looked through an umbrella of tangled branches. I remember the sound of the river and coming face-to-face with my ability to continue living, even in the face of a very real death.
In our society’s quick worship of the automobile, some people have never had the very real pleasure of taking a walk. Try it. Go down to the promenade at Tempe Town Lake or to Papago State Park. Walk at dawn or by moonlight. Reconnect with your inner life and find out how healing a walk in nature can be.

Mind & Soul: Spiritual Rejuvenation Through Prayer by Elaine Yoshikawa

2008-09-24T12:56:00.000-07:00

The benefits of prayer are numerous. The act of prayer lifts us up, enriches our souls, opens our hearts, and brings us back to a conscious relationship with God (whatever you conceive God to be). In her autobiography, The Story of a Soul, St. Therese of Lisieux says: “prayer is an upward leap of the heart, an untroubled glance towards heaven, a cry of gratitude and love which I utter from the depths of sorrow as well as from the heights of joy. It has a supernatural grandeur which expands the soul and unites it with God.” When prayer originates from the depths of our hearts, it is an act of love, and all acts of authentic love rejuvenate the spirit.
This is why prayer is so important. It reminds us that we are part of something universal and that we are more than what external circumstances may indicate. In the depths of our inner being, we can encounter God who infuses us with life, breath and spirit, who renews us with His eternal presence. We can experience His divine love by accessing the deep stillness within our own being for “prayer is essentially standing face to face with God, consciously striving to remain collected and absolutely still and attentive in his presence, which means standing with an undivided mind, an undivided heart and an undivided will in the presence of the Lord...” (Living Prayer by Metropolitan Anthony of Sourozh)

There are as many types of prayers as ways to pray. St. Climacus suggests that we choose any prayer, long or short, and that we repeat the prayer slowly and deliberately, with full attention on every word. As is often the case, when the mind wanders, gently redirect the attention back to the prayer. If the words you are presenting to God are not fully attended, they are not fully possessed by you, and thus, they are not yours to give as a true offering to God. You should offer to God in prayer, only what is genuinely yours.
Thomas Keating in Open Mind Open Heart writes: “prayer is not only the offering of interior acts to God: it is the offering of ourselves, of who and what we are.” In other words, in prayer we offer all that we are to God. We pray not with words alone, but with our entire being. In contemplative prayer, in which “the Spirit prays in us and we consent,” we can experience the essence of all prayers—union with God. At this level of prayer, there is no intermediary, there is no separate will – there is only God or Spirit. The individual in prayer disappears, and it is God praying through us. In this way, God gives to us, transforms us, and deepens our relationship with Him.
In the end, when we pray, we are giving and receiving through an act of pure love. As a result, the mind, soul and spirit are refreshed, renewed, and rejuvenated.
Elaine Yoshikawa, Ph.D., is a Lecturer in Philosophy at ASU, Polytechnic Campus. Her current research interests are: Virtue Ethics, Christian Ethics, Buddhist Ethics, and Happiness.

Scribbling Down Your Trials and Tribulations by Mary Powell

2008-09-24T12:55:00.000-07:00

When most people think of relaxation, they envision themselves sitting next to a pool with a cool Pina Colada in one hand and a Danielle Steele novel in the other. But, what most people don’t envision is sitting and typing at one’s computer; however, this can be quite therapeutic and rewarding.
Journaling can be used as a means of relaxation and therapy. Recording stressful encounters and pent up emotions helps a person clarify and alleviate feelings that would typically stress them out. For example, recording a stressful occurrence regarding a family member or work situation can help you reassess the situation and place it into perspective. I find that while I journal, my emotions feel expurgated, as if a weight of burden has been lifted off of me. I try to envision my stress being physically transferred from my thoughts onto a sheet of paper or into the computer so that the burden is literally released.
Journaling to soothing music, or describing a peaceful photograph or painting also serves as a relaxing activity. Describing the peaceful imagery of trees, plants and other rejuvenating scenes allows you to feel transported into a stress free plane. Writing about interesting quotes also helps to serve as a therapeutic journaling exercise. Choosing a quote on a theme that may be a source of stress, such as friendship or family can allow for you to think about that experience, and release pent up emotions. Quotes of empowerment can also provide you with an encouraging writing topic.
Research shows that journaling has several health benefits, including decreased symptoms of asthma and arthritis. It also improves cognitive functioning and strengthens the immune system. One word of caution, if you are using journaling as a means of relaxation do not be too concerned about writing a perfect piece of prose or perfect penmanship as journaling can then become a means of stress. Also, when recording negative feelings it is important to add thoughts of encouragement to yourself, as well as the positive aspects of the situation so that the writing experience is not a negative, stressful one (Scott about.com).
Many women like knitting, sewing or scrap- booking as stress alleviating hobbies. But next time, try journaling instead. In the fast paced world of instant messaging, texting, My Space and blogging, you just may be surprised at how relaxing it feels to scribble down your day’s trials and tribulations.

STUDENT INTERNS SOUGHT...

2008-09-24T12:54:00.000-07:00

STUDENT INTERNS SOUGHT...
To work on Global Thinking Women’s Newsletter or on creating other exciting opportunities for thinking women in our area. Do you love to write, have an aptitude for editing or proofing, or enjoy graphic design? Do you love to plan events?
Do you want to gain valuable experience?
If so, we would love to hear from you!
Contact Kim Eagles at kim_eagles@msn.com
or Shavawn Berry at shavawn.berry@asu.edu
for more information

Travel: How to Find a Charming, Beautiful Hotel by Marcela Marenco

2008-09-24T12:52:00.000-07:00

A trip starts with the place you choose to stay at. The view of the city will definitely be marked by this decision, so invest the time to choose right.
Many people believe that a good hotel has to belong to one of the big chains, but that is not always the case. A good hotel choice is based upon two important characteristics: service and location.
First up: Service.
A hotel can be gorgeous inside and out, but if your stay starts with a bumpy arrival, or you find yourself in a battle to get decent service, or if your checkout from said hotel was a complete fiasco — those are going to be the things you will remember about your trip. You have to feel a sense of joy when your day is over and you think of going back to your hotel. If you dread returning to your “home away from home,” the hotel is not worth what you have paid for it, no matter how many stars it may have garnered.
The other crucial element: Location
Location is a key ingredient to an enjoyable trip. The area should be safe and central. You don’t want to be taking taxis in a city you are not familiar with (for obvious reasons), so minimize your exposure to the need for an excessive amount of transportation by choosing wisely. Here in the States it might be a little more difficult to avoid taxi rides, but in Europe, for example, where everything is generally close by, there is no reason to choose a place far from town. Plus, the pleasure of leaving the hotel and being in the middle of all the wonderful movement and action of a strange city can be quite exciting!
So, how do you find a wonderful hotel?
Besides using travel books and relying on the personal recommendations of friends, you can use the Internet! We have such a wonderful cyber-tool at our fingertips, that it would be a waste not to use it! It takes time to search out the real gems, of course, but traveling is usually an investment, so do your homework.
Read about the city, and then find the hotels that are consistently recommended. Read all the reviews people post online about each place. Pay attention to where the reviewers are from. For an American, the room might have been “too small” because everything here is so big, while for others room size might have not been an issue. Every detail counts. And most importantly? Have fun with exploring your options in discovering that “charming hideaway” you have always wanted to visit! You won’t regret it!

Film & Television: Confessions of a Soap Opera Addict by Julianne White

2008-09-24T12:51:00.000-07:00

“You sound like my father.”
That was enough to shut him up. My husband hates being compared to my father. But really, he sounded just like him. Dad’s favorite thing to say to me when I sit down to watch my soaps is, “How can an educated, intelligent woman sit still for such tripe?” Shawn had just said much the same thing to me. My usual response is, “Because I like them.”
I’ve tried explaining that they are like novels that never end and that continually introduce new characters. I’ve tried explaining that they make me laugh with their ridiculousness at times. I’ve tried explaining that they are my “down time” during the day, when I can just be mindless and I don’t have to be smart or “on” (that one never works; I have a reputation for expending a great deal of mental energy analyzing the storylines and character development of soaps, sometimes publishing some of my findings in academic journals, so that argument doesn’t usually go over very well.) After nearly 40 years of watching these perpetual novels, though, I have given up trying to explain it to those around me who do not understand. I now simply say, “I’m watching. Deal with it.”
I know all the marks against them. I know that their storylines can be downright ridiculous. I know that the characters are often baffling, and that the acting is sometimes really bad. I once made a list of those things that drive the “uninitiated” away:
· Convenient attacks of amnesia, and recoveries timed to coincide with ratings “sweeps” periods;
· Melodramatic death scenes, often that are over-the-top; also, many (some would say too many) instances of characters who disappear after an accident, are declared dead, and return later (usually after Pilot Season in Los Angeles is over);
· Convenient moments of eavesdropping, hearing the absolute wrong thing, and then acting on misinformation that often leads to misunderstandings (at best) or tragedy (at worst);
· Dramatic pauses, timed for commercial breaks or weekends;
· Weddings interrupted at the altar with last-minute confessions;
· Constant paternity questions; often, on a single soap, there might be no child ever conceived of two parents who loved each other and were in an exclusive, loving, supportive relationship;
· Constant near-confessions, followed by , first, a commercial break, then an interruption (phone, doorbell, whatever), then, a change of heart and lame-sounding (to everyone except the person on the screen listening) excuse to cover up and mislead;
· Lies, lies, and more lies (no one in Soap Opera Land every tells the truth the first time);
· Character who “die,” only to return later (no one ever really dies in Soap Opera Land). This is separate from the annoyance described above about unrecovered bodies because when the story was actually written, the character really dies; following many years and, perhaps, the change of the head writer, though, the character is mysteriously brought back to life;
· And time that stretches and changes to accommodate a storyline; for example, a pregnancy that lasts for 12 months, or a school year that begins in October (this one was famously spoofed by that wonderful satire from the late 70s/early 80s, Soap).
My friend Robin and I began calling it Soap Opera Land to distinguish it from reality. Things happen there that are not possible in Real Life. Soap Opera Land is a place where the Physical Properties of the Universe Hold No Sway. (We did the same thing for watching “Star Trek,” only we called it “Definitions,” such as, a “Class M planet” means: “Looks like California.”) In order to watch and actually enjoy soap operas, therefore, one must have no qualms or hesitations about indulging in a healthy dose of what Coleridge called a “willing suspension of disbelief.” Men in general (who are represented here by my husband and my father) and all those other non-believers out there are missing this key ingredient, without which it is impossible to enjoy the genre. Next time: Why suspending disbelief is fun!

GLOBAL THINKING WOMEN.

2008-09-24T12:50:00.000-07:00

ARIZONA THINKING WOMEN have become GLOBAL THINKING WOMEN.

You may have noticed that our name has changed. At a meeting at the end of August it was decided to make our name more inclusive, so we chose “Global Thinking Women.” We considered just plain, “Thinking Women” but others had beaten us to the punch on that one! We are in the midst of writing up our goals and objectives, and will share them once they are solidified. In the meantime, we hope you appreciate our new moniker as a sign of our deep desire to reach out to thinking women everywhere!

Foods To Help You Catch Enough Z’s...by Mary Powell

2008-09-24T12:48:00.000-07:00

Ben Franklin once said “Fatigue is the best pillow.” But what if you are fatigued and still can’t get to sleep? There are a few healthy snacks that can help you overcome this dilemma.
According to the Sleep Aid Center, there are ten foods that aid in obtaining a healthy night’s rest. Warm milk contains tryptophan - an amino acid that acts as a sedative, as well as calcium, which helps the brain use the tryptophan. Turkey also has tryptophan, which triggers that sleepy feeling after a delicious Thanksgiving meal. Honey allows the brain to stop producing Orexin, a neurotransmitter that makes our brains alert. Try mixing some honey in a cup of chamomile tea before bedtime and you should feel sleepy. Other sleep aid foods are bananas, which contain serotonin, melatonin and magnesium; magnesium aids in muscle relaxation. Whole wheat bread, flaxseed, almonds and potatoes also aid in a good night’s rest. If you are watching your diet; however, you will not want to eat carbohydrates within three hours before bedtime as it is more difficult to burn these off while you are inactive.
The Sleep Aid Center states that spicy foods, caffeine and alcohol should all be avoided near bedtime. Although alcohol can make a person feel drowsy, it can cause sleepers to reawaken several times during the night.
There are people who brag that they don’t need much sleep; however, lack of sleep can cause devastating health consequences. Researchers, at the University of Chicago, have found a connection between deep sleep deprivation and Type 2 diabetes. As well, people gain weight from lack of sleep as Leptin and Grehlin are hormones that help the body maintain a stable body weight. When a person does not obtain enough sleep, levels of Grehlin increase, causing a greater appetite, while levels of Leptin, an appetite suppressant, decrease. This can actually lead to obesity over time (Sleep Aid Center).
So despite forewarnings about eating before bed time, do not hesitate to feast on a small piece of turkey, sip a cup of chamomile with honey, or have a handful of nuts before bedtime. Those snacks may aid in eradicating insomnia, along with type 2 diabetes and weight gain.

Sleep that knits up the ravelled sleave of careThe death of each day's life, sore labour's bathBalm of hurt minds, great nature's second course,Chief nourisher in life's feast.
William Shakespeare, Macbeth

Just Breathe by Kim Eagles

2008-09-24T12:47:00.000-07:00

Breathing correctly affects our ability to maintain good health. Who knew that every breath we take impacts our brain, acts as a stress reducer, prevents mental sluggishness, and assists in good digestion and physical endurance?
Interestingly, during the recent 2008 Olympics in Beijing China announcers would elaborate and give specific details about the athlete’s performance, technique, conditioning and mastery of their individual sport. More importantly, they talked extensively about how controlling the breath was just as essential to their performance as perfecting their sporting abilities was. For some of those champions, effective breathing made the difference between winning a medal or not placing in the top three in their event. Proper breathing is also extremely important to those of us who, perhaps, are not so Olympian in our physical abilities! According to Yoga experts, breathing is important for several reasons. It is the only means to give our bodies and our various organs the supply of oxygen vital to our survival, as well as get rid of waste products and toxins. Oxygen is the most vital nutrient our bodies need. It is essential for the integrity of the brain and our nervous system. If our brain doesn't get enough good oxygen, the results are mental sluggishness, negative thoughts and depression. If our deprivation continues, eventually vision and hearing may decline. Older individuals and those whose arteries are clogged often suffer from senility as a result of oxygen deprivation to the brain. Poor oxygen supply affects all parts of the body. We feel tired, nervous, and irritable. Generally, in this state we are not very productive. It may also cause us to sleep badly at night; in addition, it lowers functioning of the immune system, making us susceptible to catching colds, flu, and other bugs.
In an article called “Keep Breathing” posted on a Respiratory Therapy blog, the author explains a bit more about the effect of breathing on our well-being: “… The truth is that breathing goes further beyond other body functions in that we can voluntarily control it. Most body functions are essential, but it’s very difficult to control the rate or speed at which blood is filtered through for good digestion. But breathing! It’s a simple matter of brain power to inhale deeply, hold your breath for a moment, and let it go. The ability to control your breathing (to an extent) gives you a lot of power over yourself. Next time you’re stressed out, stop yourself and take in a very deep breath. Fill your lungs until they feel like they’re going to explode. Close your eyes, hold it for a moment, and slowly let it out through pursed lips. Repeat this exercises a few times, making sure to breathe deeply and slowly. I can’t make you any promises, but I bet you feel a little more relaxed” (http://keepbreathing.wordpress.com). Obviously, the positive affects of breathing are far reaching. This essential, natural, bodily function is expressed deeply throughout our lifetime. We may hear the power of our breath in love songs to denote emotional affection; in tests of physical endurance; in our anticipation of a baby’s first breath; or in saying goodbye to a loved one as she expels one final breath at the end of her life. We’d be wise to remember that our next breath is not promised to us. So, let’s breathe in life as a gift, and consider our breath for its therapeutic and healing attributes every single day.

September, for me, is a time of new beginnings. From the Editor

2008-09-24T12:46:00.000-07:00

As a kid I loved September because the days started to cool, leaves on maple and oak trees began to change color, the air took on a moist earthy tang, and a new school year began.
This month Global Thinking Women are reflecting on the subject of rest and rejuvenation. Knowing that my tendency is to overfill my cup in terms of commitments and responsibilities, it seems to appropriate to consider the real need to remind myself that just as the ocean ebbs and flows, so should my life. As human beings, we need rest. We need down time to care for our weary bodies and minds. We need peace and quiet to contemplate our spirituality and our place in the world. We cannot always be crashing like waves onto the shore; we also need to pull back, re-group, and reassess, prior to rushing forward again.
Now that I teach college, September is typically the beginning of a new academic year with all of its attendant flurry and frenzy. I always have more to do that there are hours in the day; however, a part of me enjoys the frantic aspect of the preparations, the excitement of meeting new students, and the freshness of the young minds I encounter as another year begins. The trick is to remember to incorporate time for rest into this new and exciting time. Even if it is just planning a lunch with a friend allowing yourself time to sit and talk about the detritus of life, or making time to lay in bed with a good book, doing so allows your mind to wander to new places and find sustenance in the process. We must remember that in order to be able to work and play at our optimum energy and capability, rest and renewal are crucial. Our bodies need time to dream and time to rest.
This month, let’s take time to breathe in the beauty of life. Slow down. Take a nap. Sit with a cup of green tea and read from a book of poems by Rilke or Langston Hughes or Theodore Roethke. Sleep on the couch, snuggled up with the love of your life. Admire the lovely fluff of your cat’s tail.
Slow down and savor your life.

Inspiration: Gratitude Journals

2008-08-16T14:21:00.000-07:00

Inspiration: Gratitude Journals
by Shavawn M. Berry

There is something very cathartic about acknowledging the blessings we have. Writing about what we truly appreciate about our circumstances, even when they are challenging, is the first step to finding a calm, centered place of peace inside ourselves. It allows us to truly see our fortune as human beings. Focusing on developing and maintaining an “attitude of gratitude,” does wonders for our ability to see how truly wonderful (full of wonder) our lives are.
Starting a gratitude journal is simple. Get yourself a pretty notebook and cover it with pictures of things you love. Buy a series of colorful pens to write with. If you are like me and you prefer to type your journal entries rather than write longhand, you can create a word document that you add to each day, or use journaling software (like Life Journal, www.lifejournal.com ) that is available for purchase. Once you have your journal, choose a time of day (evening often works well in terms of reflection) in which to write about what you are grateful for. Each day try to list a minimum of five things that make you glad you are alive. On some days discovering what you are thankful for will be easy.
On more difficult days, you may simply write things like, “I am thankful for the challenge of my illness, my anger, or my grief.”
It is relatively easy to be grateful for the victories in our lives, but there are gifts inside our sorrows and losses as well.
Whether we’ve won the lottery or not, we have reason to be thankful. And when we offer up our grateful hearts, we make room for more abundance, love, and sustenance to come our way. Gratitude is absolutely crucial. Why should Spirit shower us with more if we cannot even see what we already have? Each one of us has a plethora of reasons to give thanks. That is why keeping a gratitude journal can be a life-altering experience. Writing down all the ways in which you are truly blessed will transform your life. Try it.
You will be amazed.

The Importance of Nurturing Ourselves by Shavawn M. Berry

2008-08-16T14:18:00.000-07:00

The Importance of Nurturing Ourselves

This month’s issue of Arizona Thinking Women focuses on the very important issue of self care. It is difficult, if not impossible to continually care for others, if we do not care for ourselves. As women, we are often taught to give everything away – our tenderness, ideas, hard work, passion, love, and our ability to nurture others. We sometimes do this at the expense of our own health. We must learn to strike a balance between caring for our own lives, and caring for our children, husbands, partners, parents and friends in order to have the energy needed to care for others.

Self care comes in a myriad of forms. For some of us (ok, me) this takes the form of solitude and down time. For others a trip to see a matinee, a half hour work out, or the ability to get out of the house to sit in Starbucks and have a cup of coffee and write in one’s journal might do the trick. We may need a trip to our church, mosque or synagogue. A yoga or spin class might offer relief. There are as many different ways to relax, unwind, and lay down our burdens as there are people on the planet. Meditation, prayer, talking with close friends, sharing a bottle of wine…the possibilities are limitless as long as we do not limit them by thinking that taking any time for ourselves is selfish.

To help us to assess if we have over-extended ourselves and need to take a step back, visit http://www.myselfcare.org/self.htm (www.myselfcare.org). Perhaps there are clues in the assessment that will allow us to see the areas where we may need to increase our efforts at self care, so that we can continue to deftly handle our personal, emotional, physical, and vocational responsibilities.

In this issue we have addressed nutrition, skin care, travel, meditation, self knowledge, and the value of developing and maintaining an “attitude of gratitude.”

Every day I wake up and consider how lucky I am as a woman living in the luminous state of Arizona, one of the most beautiful, energetically vibrant places on the planet.

Let’s take care of ourselves this month! We deserve it.

About Mary Powell

2008-08-16T14:16:00.000-07:00

Mary Powell lives in Phoenix, Arizona. She has taught English at North High school for nine years. She is currently earning her Ph.D. in English Education at Arizona State University, and hopes to teach new English teachers at the collegiate level. She is working on two research studies at Arizona State University; one involves interviewing English teachers who work in urban districts, who are in their first five years of service. The other involves using student book choice in her Language Arts classroom in order to promote student literacy. Mary has written an autobiography entitled A Taste of Memories. She hopes to work on a book this summer on the results from her book choice program.

Stevia: A Healthy Sugar Substitute by Mary Powell

2008-08-16T14:14:00.000-07:00

Stevia: A Healthy Sugar Substitute
by Mary Powell

With millions of Americans struggling with Type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease affecting an estimated 80,700,000 Americans in 2005, it is no wonder everyone is watching his/her sugar intake (American Heart Association). There are many products out there on the market-from Nutra Sweet and Splenda to Equal, so it can be difficult to make a healthful choice when selecting a sugar substitute. One sugar substitute I have used for the past few years is Stevia.
The Guaraní tribes of Paraguay and Brazil have used Stevia for treating heartburn and other afflictions for centuries (Wikipedia.com). It comes from the Paraguayan bush, which is in the chrysanthemum family (msn.com). Stevia is an all natural herbal sweetener that is calorie-free and proven to not elevate glucose levels. In fact, it may even enhance glucose tolerance in diabetic individuals. It is 200-300 times sweeter than sugar so a minute amount (a scoop the size of the tip of one’s pinky finger) is enough to sweeten a cup of coffee (msn.com). It can be purchased at health foods stores and some produce chains (Sprouts carries a bottle that runs a little over twenty dollars; it lasts a long time). Many people prefer Stevia because it is chemical free and does not have any type of after taste like some sweeteners on the market Stevia comes in the form of individualized packets (good for travel), powder, and liquid form. “Pure Stevia extract” is far more potent than Stevia mixed with fiber or other additives, and thus, may give you more “bang for your buck.” If the powder is too strong, you can turn it into a “working solution” by diluting one teaspoon of the powder into three tablespoons of water. This can be added to foods using a dropper. Make sure to refrigerate this liquid after preparing it (stevia.net).
Stevia has proven to be a controversial product. In the early 1990s the United States banned it as a food, allowing it to be sold as a supplement only. This was due to a 1985 study which reported that some lab rats, pre-treated with Stevia had mutagens in their liver extract. A mutagen is a substance that has changed its DNA, and after many alterations, can prove to be cancerous. Since the ban on Stevia imports in 1991, Stevia advocates have shared a belief that the FDA responded to industry pressure and that it is not a health issue. In 2006, the World Health Organization performed an intensive study of Stevia and found it to be harmless (wikipedia.com). Japan has used Stevia since the early 1970’s, consuming it in Coca Cola, as a table sweetener and in other foods. It accounts for 40 percent of their sweetener consumption. Today, Stevia is cultivated and used in foods in east Asia, including China, Korea, Malaysia and Tawain. It can also be found in parts of South America including Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Columbia and in Israel (wikipedia.com).
I use Stevia on a daily basis, mixing it with non-sweetened baking cocoa for a healthful cup of hot cocoa which is rich in antioxidants; at 5 calories per cup, I am willing to indulge. I also use it to sweeten plain yogurt, hot tea, cereals and even baked goods.
Stevia has its controversy, with its opponents and propenents. Yet, excess sugar has proven to be unsafe, taking millions of lives with it in the United States alone. Ultimately, you must decide what is safe for yourself and your family by remaining educated about what you put into your body.

Travel: Israel — Spirituality, Adventure, and Relaxation.

2008-08-16T14:13:00.000-07:00

Travel: Israel — Spirituality, Adventure, and Relaxation.
by Marcela Marenco

First of all, if you want to take care of your spiritual needs, what better place? Jerusalem is home to three main religions, and its buildings are proof of it. The Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Dome of the Rock, and the al-Aqsa mosque, are a few examples that will, without a doubt, solidify the stories that until now are only part of a Holy Book for most people. If you feel these places are too busy for meditation, walk up to the Mount of Olives just outside the old city, where you will find peace by admiring the sacred sites that surround you. Religion and culture and are tightly entwined, so even though you might not be a follower of any particular faith, it is truly amazing to stand on soil that has provided so much history and guidance to the world.
If your trip must involve adventure and relaxation, you can drive to Eilat, passing through the Negev, a marvelous rocky desert filled with canyons and extraordinary views. Eilat, at the beginning of the Sinai Peninsula and on the Gulf of Aqaba, is a resort area where tourists enjoy water sports, hiking, wild jeep tours, and exciting camel treks. If we talk about relaxation, we cannot forget the Dead Sea. The lowest place on earth and the saltiest body of water, it is famous for its healing, rehabilitation, and beauty treatments. One option to enjoy this area is to book a Dead-Sea Spa package, and if you want to add more excitement, a hike at the Qumran, about a mile from the northwestern shore, will be an unforgettable experience. One caveat: follow the safety procedures that might be applicable during your stay. Places I suggest:
The American Colony Hotel in Jerusalem (www.americancolony.com). You will love the location, the history of the place, and the service. Just a tip: Do not tell “friendly” vendors you are staying there since prices will hike in a second!
If you are looking for something more affordable, a new boutique hotel called Harmony, in the heart of Jerusalem, has wonderful reviews on service and location. Tel: 972-2-6219999.
There are very few hotels that have direct access to the Dead Sea, and from them, the Hod Hotel (www.hodhotel.co.il/english/index.html) and the Lot Spa Hotel (www.lothotel.co.il) prove to be, according to the reviews, above the big-chain resorts that are far from the beach and do not provide the expected service for the price.
In Eilat, on the beach, the Rimonim Eilat (www.rimonim.com) offers guests a beautiful view, good service, and recently remodeled accommodations that beat prices of nearby resorts.
If you do not mind being far from the beach, Cactus B&B (www.cactuseilat.com) is a good option that will offer the comfort and relaxation you want.

Health & Wellness—Protection From Over Exposure To Sun

2008-08-16T14:12:00.001-07:00

Health & Wellness—Protection From Over Exposure To Sun
by Sue Grace

The sun we Arizonans love so much does most of its damage to our skin before we reach the age of 18, hiding in our skin cells for years until it emerges in the form of wrinkles, age spots, or leathery skin. The most serious damage, however, isn’t cosmetic. Sun exposure poses serious risks to our health, and can lead to vision problems and skin cancer, which, in some instances can be fatal. The use of tanning beds is equally hazardous as direct sun exposure, though many individuals think it is a safer way to obtain that golden glow.
Sun Exposure Facts
1. There are two types of ultraviolet rays, UVA and UVB. UVA rays responsible for deep tanning and age the skin prematurely. UVB rays cause burning and are primarily responsible for skin cancer.
2. It is estimated that most of our lifetime sun exposure has occurred before we turn 18. Children should therefore be taught sun safe behaviors at an early age. According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, Arizona ranks number 2 in the world for incidences of skin cancer. Australia ranks number 1.
3. Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It makes up 4 percent of all skin cancer cases, but results in 79 percent of all skin cancer deaths. If detected early, melanoma can be treated successfully.
4. The organization “Prevent Blindness America” warns that damage from UV exposure can cause cataracts or be a factor in macular degeneration. People who have had cataract surgery or other retinal disorders, and people who take certain medicines, such as tetracycline, sulfa drugs, birth control pills, diuretics and tranquilizers, are also at special risk for eye damage. Sun exposure can also suppress the immune system.
Preventative Measures

· Wear sun screen, making sure you apply the recommended amount. Many people fail to following directions on the labels and don’t receive the full protection the product offers. Wear lip balm.
· Wear specially designed clothing that guards against UV rays.
· Wear darker colored clothing and hats with a tight weave.
· Eyes also need to be properly protected so wear sunglasses with UV protection.
· Never expose an infant to intense sunlight.
· Avoid sun exposure between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. when rays are strongest. For further information about sun safety, visit the AZ Department of Health Services website, www.azdhs.gov.

Becoming The Real You

2008-08-16T14:09:00.000-07:00

Becoming The Real You
by Kim Eagles

Coming to grips to who you truly are within your place in life takes almost a lifetime to accept and/or discover. More importantly it takes courage to be real and transparent. As individuals we shape ourselves into beings of complexity and resolution. Our unique exclusivity, rareness and distinctiveness as individuals is as original as our fingerprints. We think and examine possibilities that perplex and bewilder those around us. If fortunate we act on our gut and gifts—basing our choices on what we intuitively “know,” not what society offers us as answers.
Your individuality and unique development mark you as a limited edition. You are unwilling to tolerate what Cosmopolitan, Vogue and Vanity Fair dictates you become. The real you is too keen on the idea of true adaption to your life as an organic being, too powerful to submit to ordinary pressures, still you often allow fears to contain your possibilities.
The authentic you questions and challenges media and mere sensationalism that baffles the copycat mentality in advertisement and consumerism by standing tall in the belief in being who you were created to be and shining as that special person of destiny.
Have you found the real you yet? If so, stand up and be counted.
“This process of finding one’s self can be painful,” according to an article by Karen Wright in the latest issue of Psychology Today. Many people try to mask their in authenticity with “cosmetic surgery, psycho pharmaceuticals, and perpetual makeovers.” According to Stephen Cope, author of Yoga and the Quest for the True Self, “People feel profoundly like they're not living from who they really are, their authentic self, their deepest possibility in the world. The result is a sense of near-desperation.”
Although it can be hard work, there are real psychological benefits to self-recognition. Wright reports, authenticity is correlated with many aspects of psychological well-being, including vitality, self-esteem, and coping skills.” A life that remains unexamined often leads to anxiety or depression.
It’s like the old joke: “You can never hide from yourself, because no matter where you go, there you are.” http://www.utne.com/2008-05-21/Science-Technology/Finding-the-Real-You.aspx?blogid=36
When you were a child, you thought like a child. As an adult the goal is to live life as who you really are. Unfortunately, our circumstances sometimes deter us from our individual path. Circumstance — no matter how difficult — can no longer be an excuse. As hard as it may sound—our evolution and development as human beings must be nurtured consistently. Why? Because someone other than you may need to know the real you. Your transformation impacts those around you, causing them to self-reflect and, perhaps, even change. Authenticity breeds authenticity.

Mind & Soul: Meditation and Peace of Mind

2008-08-16T14:07:00.000-07:00

Mind & Soul: Meditation and Peace of Mind
by Elaine Yoshikawa

For many of us, everyday life is fraught with conflicts, distractions, and stress. We are conflicted by the many roles we play in our personal and professional lives. We are also conflicted by our inner divisive desires and thoughts. We often feel scattered and fragmented as we perform task after task. Fortunately there are many ways to alleviate the negative symptoms of a fast-paced life. For instance, meditation is an ancient practice that can reduce stress and reconcile the psychological fragmentation that many of us experience. We can sit quietly, breathe, and be.
The beneficial psychological and physiological effects of meditation are well documented. For example, neuroscientists have discovered that experienced practitioners of meditation have more activity in the left frontal lobe of the brain than non-practitioners. This part of the brain is associated with feelings of happiness and contentment. According to the Dalai Lama, the spiritual and political leader of Tibet, we can discipline our minds to cultivate states of happiness and peace. We can learn how to gather ourselves, calm down, and experience psychological harmony.
Here is a basic exercise. For a few minutes each day, give yourself time to breathe. Sit in a comfortable position with a straight back and breathe slowly and deeply. With your full attention, follow your breath, in and out. Typically someone who is new to meditation will find that the mind and attention tend to wander. This is natural. Do not judge, do not evaluate—just detach. As thoughts arise, merely observe the thoughts, and allow them to fade away as you refocus your attention on inhaling and exhaling. With practice, you may lose the sense of having a separate self and merge with the act of breathing. As you allow the natural rhythm of life to breathe through you, there is only breathing, stillness, and silence.
There are numerous types, theories, and formal systems of meditation, especially within the eastern religious traditions. However, an essential objective of most meditative practices is to stop the flow of thoughts in the mind. When we stop the thoughts, we can experience the deeper aspects of our inner self, a self that is undivided, harmonious, and tranquil. At the highest levels of meditation, we encounter what is holy and sacred within us. In the Wholeness of Life, J. Krishnamurti writes: “Out of that immense silence there is that which is sacred; then only is there a possibility of coming upon that which is the eternal...”
Life is rife with potential sacred experiences. The sacred aspects within us are like precious gems that we can excavate from deep within our being. Meditation alleviates stress and disciplines the mind, but more importantly, the diligent practice of meditation can lead to a more comprehensive and profound understanding of our deeper nature.

Politics and Society

2008-08-16T14:05:00.000-07:00

Politics and Society
by Jocie Fong

“Civil Rights Initiative” threatens beneficial state programs...
The words “civil rights” are almost always associated in our public discourse with one of this nation’s proudest accomplishments: the legislative victories of the 1950s and 60s, which committed the United States to equality under the law for all people. Affirmative action and integration programs were and are a large part of this effort, recognized as necessary steps beyond the civil rights legislation to actively address centuries of extreme inequality between the races and genders.
By divorcing the term “civil rights” from its context in this nation’s history, an organization called the American Civil Rights Institute, headed by Republican activist Ward Connerly, purports to fight for civil rights by working to eliminate affirmative action, one state at a time. Connerly has helped secure affirmative action bans in California, Washington and Michigan and now has his sights set on Colorado, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Arizona for 2008.
The Arizona measure, locally sponsored by Maricopa County Attorney Andrew Thomas and equivocally titled the “Arizona Civil Rights Initiative” (ACRI), is slated to appear on the November ballot. But a Michigan-based organization called the Coalition to Defend Affirmative Action, Integration, and Immigrant Rights And Fight for Equality by Any Means Necessary (BAMN) filed a lawsuit on June 30 that could derail the proposition. BAMN maintains that the signatures collected to qualify the measure for the ballot were obtained illegally and may not be valid. Similar legal battles have challenged Connerly’s efforts in other states; and in Missouri and Oklahoma, his measures were denied because of underhanded signature-gathering methods.
If approved, the ACRI will strip Arizona’s public institutions of the freedom to promote diversity and ensure equal-opportunity within their ranks and operations. The vague language of the measure to “prohibit preferential treatment or discrimination by the state government,” doesn’t begin to hint at what is really at stake. Not only will all public colleges and universities in Arizona be prohibited from actively recruiting and providing tailored assistance and scholarships to minority and women students, but the ACRI will also cripple state programs like the Minority and Women-Owned Business Certification Program and the Office of Indian Education. ASU’s Bridges to Biomedical Careers Program, NAU’s Multicultural Student Center, and Uof A’s Arizona Hispanic Center of Excellence are also at stake in this fight, not to mention the weighty prospect of taking another step backward in the struggle for a society truly suited for “colorblind” policy.

Global Sustainability

2008-07-21T15:38:00.001-07:00

Paige Eagles—a junior at Arizona State University will cover issues of importance regarding Global Sustainability within our environment, population, conflict, poverty, consumption, health, and climate change.

Film & TV...

2008-07-21T15:37:00.001-07:00

Julianne White received her Ph.D. in English literature from the University of New Mexico in 2002. She wrote her dissertation on the poetry of the great Irish poet, William Butler Yeats, and her three areas of specialty were Rhetoric-Composition and Victorian and Modern British Literatures. She is now a Writing Programs Instructor at Arizona State University in the English Department, where she teaches composition, business writing, and sophomore level English survey classes. She also teaches part-time for ASU-Polytechnic during the summer, where she enjoys teaching film, literature, grammar, and writing classes at all levels. She teaches at least one class online every semester.
Originally from Houston, Texas, Dr. White taught high school there for 12 years before making the leap to the Ph.D. program in New Mexico. She graduated from Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas, with a B.A. in English in 1981, and from the University of St. Thomas in Houston with a Master of Education, Secondary English, in 1993. Her family all live in the Houston area, and her parents have retired and now live in a beach house in Galveston, where she makes a pilgrimage every summer. Two weeks of warm Gulf waters, fresh crab, shrimp and Gulf redfish, and the smell of Coppertone are enough to refresh her soul and allow her to return to the desert Southwest, a climate which is more kind to her arthritic joints.
Diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 1993 at the tender age of 37, she has been forced to make adjustments in her life and acknowledge her physical limitations. Thank goodness, rheumatoid arthritis does not cripple the brain—although her husband would swear that it does effect her memory, which is nearly gone. Luckily, she can still type at the keyboard, operate the TV remote, and turn the pages of a book. That’s all she needs. She and her husband Shawn, a professional chef, live in Coolidge, AZ (which is about 25 miles south of Chandler) with their 7 cats: Bean, Sheba, L’il Sam, Gigi, Maximus, Tink, and Indy.

Health & Wellness

2008-07-21T15:34:00.000-07:00

Sue Grace has spent the last 18 years working and advocating for Arizona’s behavioral health system. From 1991 to 1996 she served in the Arizona House of Representatives and served as a State Senator from 1997 to 2000. She focused much of her attention on improving the level of behavioral health care for Arizona’s citizens and spearheaded funding for construction of the new Civil Unit at the Arizona State Hospital, and, in her last year, successfully sponsored funding for Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) teams across Arizona. Sue served for several years as a board member and President of MIKID (Mentally Ill Kids in Distress) and also was an Ex-Officio Member of the AZ State Hospital Advisory Board.
Sue worked from 2005 to 2007 as Family Involvement Specialist for ValueOptions, where she provided technical support to family mentors, served as primary trainer for Family Essentials Trainings, researched and developed recommendations for family support programs, analyzed demographic trends and developed reports that helped identify service recipient and family member needs in our service system.
Currently, Sue works as the Peer Specialist Training and Evaluation Coordinator for Magellan Health Services, where she partners with community members and providers and other department members to develop peer specialist programs aimed at promoting recovery and resiliency.
Sue earned a BA in Journalism from Marquette University and a Masters in Public Administration from ASU. She has lived in Arizona since 1983, and has been married to Vic for 28 years. She has 2 daughters, Elizabeth and Irene. Sue’s first grandchild, Valencia Grace Bergeron, was born in May.

About Mind & Soul…

2008-07-21T15:33:00.000-07:00

Elaine Yoshikawa received her B.A. in Philosophy from University of California, Berkeley and later received an M.A. and Ph.D. from Arizona State University. Her area of specialization is Ethics, specifically Virtue Ethics and moral psychology. While a graduate student she was the Editorial Assistant for the journal Philosophical Studies as well as the Undergraduate Academic Advisor for the Philosophy Department in Tempe. She is currently a Lecturer in Philosophy at ASU’s Polytechnic Campus. She has been teaching philosophy for 12 years and over the past five years has given presentations and talks in the community on various topics such as: Virtue Ethics, Happiness, and Business Ethics. She is presently writing a book entitled: Virtue, Happiness, and Self-Transformation and is developing a new university course on happiness. In addition she has been a computer programmer, a piano performance major at the Eastman School of Music, and a doctoral student in spiritual psychology. She also has a keen interest in Christian Ethics, Buddhist Ethics and Eastern Philosophy.

About Finance & Business

2008-07-21T15:32:00.000-07:00

Cindy Wilson has been married to the same man for 35 years and has 4 children and 1 adorable granddaughter. She and her husband John are credentialed licensed ministers with Foursquare Church International and are currently planning a church in the east Mesa area. Cindy is also a certified Pathway to Purpose Life Purpose Coach, Facilitator and Instructor for women, couples and young adults. As a coach she helps her clients determine their individual purpose and personal goals. As a business woman she has owned and operated a number of businesses including Agape Graduations and Alphagraphics Print shop franchises. For the last 6 years Cindy has been a Franchise Consultant with Franchoice where she had the opportunity to profile individuals and guide them in successfully selecting franchise businesses. Cindy’s passion for seeing women realize their God-given design has been the driving force behind her involvement in women’s ministries, tiaraladies.com, and small group development.

About Travel

2008-07-21T15:31:00.000-07:00

Marcela Marenco graduated from Arizona State University with a BS in Psychology in 2005. She has traveled extensively, and has lived in South America, Asia, the United States, and Europe. This multi-cultural exposure gives her an understanding of people from different ethnicities and backgrounds. She thrives on assisting others, and working to bring about meaningful and lasting changes. Marcela is married and has three children. She is also fluent in Spanish and English, with intermediate knowledge of Japanese, Dutch, and French.

About Politics & Society

2008-07-21T15:29:00.000-07:00

Jocelyn Fong is an Arizona native and recent graduate of Goshen College with a Bachelor’s degree in Peace, Justice and Conflict Studies. While in school, Jocie worked as a student researcher, assisted an international relations course, and studied and volunteered abroad in both Costa Rica and Guatemala. After graduation, she served a 10-month Americorps term as a Public Ally in Phoenix. Placed at Anytown Arizona, a local nonprofit dedicated to prejudice reduction education for youth, Jocie supported the organization in many capacities, including program coordination, web design, curriculum development, proposal writing, and large group facilitation. She plans to pursue a graduate degree in Public Policy and spend her career researching, writing and learning.

About the editor...

2008-07-21T15:27:00.000-07:00

Shavawn M. Berry received her Master of Professional Writing (MPW) degree specializing in Creative Nonfiction and Memoir at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles in 1998. She currently teaches writing fulltime at Arizona State University including composition, business writing, and creative writing courses and workshops. She specializes in spiritual and healing writing as well as writing aimed at changing/creating discourse. Ms. Berry’s prose, essays, articles, and poetry have been published in Poet Lore, California Quarterly, Westview - A Journal of Western Oklahoma, Meridian Anthology of Contemporary Poetry, Concho River Review, North Atlantic Review, Synapse, Blue Mountain Arts/SPS, Living Buddhism, addictionsolutions.com, and buddhajones.com, among others. She is currently working on a spiritual memoir, a collection of poetry, a novel, and a collection of essays.
You can read samples of her work or peruse her blog by visiting her website at http://www.shavawnmberry.com

Whole Life Living...

2008-06-26T13:38:00.000-07:00

Lifestyle: Whole Life Living

Lifestyle encompasses a way of life and the characteristic include a wide variety of behavioral choices—a manner of living combining life and style within our society. If we are fortunate, the yield produced offers certain gifts of love, delight, tranquility, fortitude, and charity. Often times ‘choice’ is key in defining the type of life and style of life we live.
Daily talks show, media, peers and culture tend to suggest trends; concepts and ideas as ‘how to live just like the rich and famous’ to entice our human senses toward the ‘glamorous life’. However, the goal is seeking to attain a healthy, fit and well balanced life enjoying and participating in the fruits of the spirit. Everyone desire the components of the secret of youth and antidotal remedies that are proven to work in order to effectively for a quick nip and tuck here and there, or to lose weight, take a little pill to have more energy, purchase a cream to get rid of those unwanted wrinkles. In fact, many do pay whatever the costs to attain the fool proof prescription for certain imagine of life.
The good news is that there is hope for those not willing to ‘buy’ whole life living. Here’s an exclusive, from a personal interview conducted with a friend that we all love and admire that quotes: “Lifestyle for a complete and whole life living experience begins with; love tender affection for somebody such as a close relative or friend, or for something such as a place, an ideal, or even a pet or animal. Secondly, seed joy; feelings of great happiness or pleasure, especially of an elevated or spiritual kind, to delight in something you enjoy. Thirdly, hunt for peace; tranquility a calm and quiet state, free from disturbances or noise, mental calm, a state of mental calm and serenity, with no anxiety, it bring harmony to life.
Fourthly, patience; the ability to endure waiting, delay, or provocation without becoming annoyed or upset, or to persevere calmly when faced with difficulties, its sure to relieve tension and stress. Fifth, kindness: the ability to behave kindly, the practice of being or the tendency to be sympathetic and compassionate. Remember to throw in a couple of compassionate acts of showing consideration and caring—the rewards of fabulous.
Sixth, is goodness; a quality of good, virtuousness, the nutrition or other benefit to be derived from something, this is more difficulty but produces strength when needed. Seventh is faithfulness; unwavering in belief, believing firmly in something or somebody, especially God or a sound theological doctrine—and consistently loyal, trustworthy and loyal, especially to a person, promise, or duty. Here’s an additional tip, fellowship with trustworthy friends to build you up as well.
Eight is gentleness; kindness, being moderate in force or degree so that the effects are not severe but mild, using little force. Take is easy on yourself remember to forgive you and others, that’s really was essential in my case. Ninth is self-control: restraint with the ability to control your own behavior, especially in terms of reactions and impulses”.

2008-06-09T18:13:00.000-07:00

Arizona Community of Thinking Women

NEWS RELEASE

Media Contact:
Kim Eagles – Founder
kim_eagles@msn.com

Wanted! Summer of 2008
Arizona Community of Thinking Women is looking for volunteers for board member over the following categories:

Social Action
Events
Research
Community Leadership
Writers
Educators
Research
Student’s Life
Community Outreach
Professional Life
Politics
Finance
Spiritually
Diversity
Film and Media
Book Club

Your task will include forming a staff of associates (your peers) to produce a social network virtual article column to express the views of generation to work in conjunction with a global project:
The “Global Social-Research Labs without Walls” project will use the social representation discourse approach to study network to network social on-line research effectiveness. As young women of Arizona let your voice be heard!
According to Luc K. Audebrand he describes how the social representation of a social object of 'fair trade' has particular meaning in the specific community of 'students'.
http://atlas-conferences.com/c/a/m/k/93.htm

What is social representation?
“In order for people in groups to talk with one another, they need a system of common understanding, in particular of concepts and ideas that are outside of 'common' understanding or which have particular meaning for that group. Words thus become imbued with special meaning within particular social groups.
Moscovici described social representation as:
“systems of values, ideas and practices with a two-fold function; first, to establish an order which will enable individuals to orientate themselves in their material and social world and to master it; secondly, to enable communication to take place amongst members of a community by providing them with a code for social exchange and a code for naming and classifying unambiguously the various aspects of their world and their individual and group history” (Moscovici, 1973)

The virtual community is a tool of empowerment, speed and convenience. By using social participatory ‘network to network’ research this project monitors the relationship of mutual exchange and sharing in the ‘knowledge of mobilization’ and promoting social values:

Building Leaders
Building Community and Resources
Collaborative Opportunities
Universal Vision-mindful of Global Community Issues
Develop the Spirit of Volunteerism

The goal will be to establish quarterly events, conference and seminars for future female professionals, academic undergrads and graduate student with like minded vision and goals to build support and advancement in their field on expertise and knowledge.

The theory of perception..

2008-06-09T11:42:00.000-07:00

The theory of perception becomes the process of using the senses to acquire information about the surrounding environment or situation that is apt to change at varying levels in each individual. Achieving mutual perception is a wise and a thought provoking method of conveying artful communication—and art is of course, in beauty is in the eye of the beholder or audience.
Currently, completing the final stages of a first publication it was imperative to find the appropriate voice and tone that would transmit truest intention of the journey of the manuscript. The intention is for the author and reader is to have a common relationship of ‘give and take’. Within the first few lines the voice of the printed words gained rhythm and flowed as the text began to take shape just as a stream of water gathers space and momentum in the sand—it formed a silhouette of its own.
Although this piece is based on scripture it offers practical guidelines as an invitation to gain wisdom from the truest form which is the book of Proverbs. Proverbs has an intentional purpose of living a changed life from a useful perceptive of wisdom, knowledge and understanding. With momentum in place, the read is careful to use spiritual truth to illuminate the traveler of literature to new heights of self awareness for themselves to cause a pleasing accomplishment of self discovery.

Friendships are tricky...

2008-06-08T15:16:00.000-07:00

Friendships are tricky just as any relationship goes; it has its ups and downs that can jar our emotions if we let it. The popular sitcom ‘Friends’ become extremely indicative of situations comedy that portrays various incidents that occur within comradeships. Not all friends and friendship are ideal to say the least. We waiver in and out of these relationships depending on the need that is being fulfilled or not, and this requires work and commitment...any thoughts?

Global Research and the Collaboration

2008-06-06T17:49:00.001-07:00

Here's news from MIT...
"Collective efforts lift us all to the starry heights by Charles Vest President Vest was recently asked to write an opinion piece for the first-ever "world university rankings" issue of the Times (UK) Higher Education Supplement.
The focus of the piece was on how higher education is likely to evolve, on a global level, in the future. MIT was ranked third in the survey, out of 200 universities around the world, behind Harvard and Berkeley.
Collective efforts lift us all to the starry heightsEveryone everywhere gains by combining competition with collaboration in higher education, argues Charles Vest.
In its new ranking of the world's 200 best universities, The Times Higher found the top three to be US institutions - Harvard University, the University of California, Berkeley and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. There are good reasons why US universities fare well in competitive rankings, and other nations could profitably consider the structural and policy factors that help them achieve such heights.
But collaboration may be even more profoundly important than competition in determining the future of higher education. Indeed, informal global cooperation is already beginning to create the meta-university that will see the best scholarship and teaching shared worldwide.
The factors I believe contribute the most to the excellence and competitive success of US higher education include:
The diversity of institutions - from small liberal arts colleges to large public and private universities - allows students to select the school that best matches their needs New assistant professors have freedom to choose what they teach as well as research Our research universities weave together teaching and research in ways that bring freshness, intensity and renewal to both activities We welcome students, scholars and faculty from abroad. Their intellectual and cultural richness help define our institutions Support of frontier research in our universities has long been an important responsibility of the federal government, which awards grants to researchers on the basis of their merit in a competitive marketplace of ideas A tradition of philanthropy, fostered by US tax law, encourages alumni and others to support our colleges and universities. Scholarship funds they provide allow talented students from families of modest means to attend even the most costly schools Open competition for faculty and students drives excellence"

what about social networking, do you have concerns?

2008-06-06T17:42:00.000-07:00

Thought's on social networking and your opinion? A social network is a social structure made of nodes (which are generally individuals or organizations) that are tied by one or more specific types of interdependency, such as values, visions, idea, financial exchange, friends, kinship, dislike, conflict, trade, web links, sexual relations, disease transmission (epidemiology), or airline routes. The resulting structures are often very complex.
Social network analysis views social relationships in terms of nodes and ties. Nodes are the individual actors within the networks, and ties are the relationships between the actors. There can be many kinds of ties between the nodes. Research in a number of academic fields has shown that social networks operate on many levels, from families up to the level of nations, and play a critical role in determining the way problems are solved, organizations are run, and the degree to which individuals succeed in achieving their goals.
In its simplest form, a social network is a map of all of the relevant ties between the nodes being studied. The network can also be used to determine the social capital of individual actors. These concepts are often displayed in a social network diagram, where nodes are the points and ties are the lines.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_network

What is a women's perceptive?

2008-06-06T17:37:00.000-07:00

So, what's a women's perceptive? According to Why Women Are More Perceptive The Definitive Book of Body Language by Barbara Pease, Allan Pease, "Overall, women are far more perceptive than men, and this has given rise to what is commonly referred to as "women's intuition." Women have an innate ability to pick up and decipher nonverbal signals, as well as having an accurate eye for small details. This is why few husbands can lie to their wives and get away with it and why, conversely, most women can pull the wool over a man's eyes without his realizing it.
Research by psychologists at Harvard University showed how women are far more alert to body language than men. They showed short films, with the sound turned off, of a man and woman communicating, and the participants were asked to decode what was happening by reading the couple's expressions. The research showed that women read the situation accurately 87 percent of the time, while the men scored only 42 percent accuracy. Men in "nurturing" occupations, such as artistic types, acting, and nursing, did nearly as well as the women; gay men also scored well. Female intuition is particularly evident in women who have raised children. For the first few years, the mother relies almost solely on the nonverbal channel to communicate with the child and this is why women are often more perceptive negotiators than men, because they practice reading signals early." Any thoughts?

What is Self-expression?

2008-06-06T17:34:00.000-07:00

Self-expression is about being able to say what you mean or want to say. ... What is so special about self-expression?

Create a Community Program Challenge

2007-07-07T13:23:00.000-07:00

HERE’S YOUR CHALLENGE:

You are invited to join and develop your NEW COMMUNITY PROGRAM through “ODATS-Organizational Development and Training Systems”. We are looking for innovative new community programs to offer hope for the future!

By elevating understanding of our community needs – you can develop new organizational leadership, strategies, small business and training within your community. Presently operating a consulting and professional coaching firm using the "ODAT Systems for Men and Women" I am eager to share 'team building skills and need assessments' for effective leading in the following areas of: • Organizational Values Development • Transitional Leadership • Teams Building, Planning and Strategies • Developing Effective Communication • System Analysis and Training • Understanding Cultural Diversity to your vision of a NEW COMMUNITY PROGRAM.

Here’s how to submit your project:

THE ORGANIZATION PROFILE

ü Title of NEW COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

ü About the DIRECTOR (attach resume)

ü Describe your commitment and motivation for this program (150 Words)

ü Describe your passion behind this new organization.

ü Describe your skills and experience.

ü What is your personal role in the organization?

THE SERVICE PROFILE

ü Who will benefit from this new organization? (150 words)

ü Describe your service (250 words)

ü Provide a brief track record of your organizational experience (150 words)

ü When did (will) you establish the organization?

ü Do you already have stakeholders? Please list and describe. (150 words)

ü What is the needed number of volunteers?
Ø Year 1
Ø Year 2
Ø Year 3

FUNDING RESOUCES PROFILE
ü Cash on Hand (List amount)
ü Funding Partners (List current partners)
ü Grants (List keywords such as: Community, revitalization, women, children, social etc.)

PROFILE YOUR BUDGET (Please itemize –3 years)
Budget Narrative Justification

$ YEAR 1
$YEAR 2
$YEAR 3
Ø Staff

Ø Fringe Benefits

Ø Travel
Ø Equipment

Ø Supplies

Ø Contractual

Ø Other

Totals

$ YEAR 1
$YEAR 2
$YEAR 3

MARKETING PROFILE
ü Who will do your marketing? (200 words)
ü Who are your competitors? (150 words)
ü Why is your organization unique? (50 words)

For additional information contact:
Kim O'Guinn-Eagles
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY OUTREACH
UCP-SARNET UNIVERSITY-COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP
Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ Kim_eagles@msn.com
http://ucpsarnet.asu.edu/
Please Note: Student interns needed for the following positions:
Marketing
Media
Editors
Business
Technical Support
Graphic DesignContact for more information Kim_eagles@msn.com

Send to completed profile to Kim_eagles@msn.com DEADLINE - fall 2007

UCP-SARNET UNIVERSITY-COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP
Arizona State UniversityTempe, AZ
Kim_eagles@msn.com
http://eagles-thinkingwomen.blogspot.com/
http://ucpsarnet.asu.edu/

Thinking Women's New Term for Dating...

2007-06-06T08:29:00.000-07:00

I’d like to make a fun contribution to this topic. I’ve been married for close to 30 years—so to say the least—I’m a bit out of practice in the new dating department. But I think its time to re-create a new and more PC term for the thinking women of today. We have evolved from the “I Love Lucy and Mrs. Cleaver” days of the TV world—into a new and fabulous breed of fundamental women. Let’s develop a new term of significance that we can affectionately relate with as cultured individuals that don’t have to settle for stale terminology that’s out-of date and uncomfortable to use. Let’s take a poll and declare something new and relevant! I vote for changing from using ‘My Boyfriend’ to using ‘My Dating Partner’. It portrays the sentiment that this person is—my choice. This choice also suggests that the relationship is open-ended and the potential is hopeful and validated by both partners. It’s ageless and timeless and non-offensive…
Just thinking out loud!

Thinking Women - Remember to "Write"...

2007-06-04T17:01:00.000-07:00

Remember to “Write”.

Self-expression is one of the last true forms of art. Music (e.g. to listen, to dance, to sing) and literature become home of the deepest secret talents of the gifted muse of ideas, thought and feelings. Therefore, I remember to jot it down.
As I write out my thoughts, it allows me to be authentic. My goal becomes to not be afraid of what I am actually thinking out-loud and pondering over. If I do not “chicken-out,” the art of writing gives birth to whom I really am—a self-challenge if you will.
I compare writing to a gardener tending to his garden. At first the potential green-thumbed competitor seeks out its plot in the earth and speculates and envisions what variety of plant-life he perceives to uproot in weeks to follow. He attentively hones in on his collection of memories: colors, smells and textures, of perhaps childhood archives of happy times. And, he may briefly anticipate and even wonder what impact this floral gallery may spark from a distant admirer. Or perhaps the gardener’s motive is simply his own selfish indulgence of experiencing the miracle of sowing and reaping. Comparing the gardener and the writer, perhaps it is the wonderful feeling of simply getting your hands in the soil and experiencing the delight of getting dirty in your own space.
So, I have to remember to write, and dance and sing and plant and grow and play and even at times, show-off a bit of what God has given and even what he died for. He died so that I could live.

What Think Women should know about "how most time is spent in the workplace"?

2007-06-04T11:09:00.000-07:00

Top Time-Wasting Activities (%):

1 Surfing Internet (personal use)
44.7%
2 Socializing with co-workers
23.4%
3 Conducting personal business
6.8%
4 Spacing out
3.9%
5 Running errands off-premises
3.1%
6 Making personal phone calls
2.3%
7 Applying for other jobs
1.3%
8 Planning personal events
1.0%
9 Arriving late / Leaving early
1.0%
10 Other
12.5%
http://www.salary.com/careers/layouthtmls/crel_display_nocat_Ser374_Par555.html
-by: Dan Malachowski, Salary.com

Interviewing Tips:

In view of our experience, we offer the following advice to young women and minorities who are applying and interviewing for academic jobs:
· Consult Academe for the average salaries of the institution in question.
· Know your worth in your field.
· Ask your interviewer about the salary range for the position that you hope to be offered.
· Discover other aspects of the institution.
· Before going to the campus, talk to other faculty, graduate students, and undergraduates about the treatment and feelings of minorities on campus.
· Include the salary you expect in your cover letter.
· Be aware that you may get a stock reaction from a discriminatory institution, in that they will not meet your fair salary request.
To find an approximation of your worth, examine the salary ranges published in the job advertisements in your field in the Chronicle of Higher Education and in your professional journals. This will give you an idea of what is being offered in the market. You may also talk with graduate student or postdoctoral colleagues about their interviewing experiences to learn whether the salary you have been offered is commensurate with what they have received.
http://sciencecareers.sciencemag.org/career_development/previous_issues/articles/1960/women_and_minorities_negotiating_salaries

Thinking about Career Options?

2007-06-04T09:30:00.000-07:00

12 Indestructible Careers
Information from MSN - By CareerBuilder.com

While we haven't quite reached the age of flying cars, we've certainly made significant strides in civilization. Gone are the heydays of goldsmiths and wheelwrights, but an element of those jobs live on in one form or another. With advancements in technology and science, so come changes in jobs working with them.And while there are certainly more than 12 occupations that will stand the test of time -- like artist and politician -- check out this list of jobs that have staying power:

1. DoctorWhy it's everlasting: While humans pride themselves on being the most intelligent of species, we still have a mortality rate, and we still get bumped, bruised and diseased along the way. We will always need people to investigate and treat our medical conditions.What it pays: The median annual salary is $120,000.
2. TeacherWhy it's everlasting: There will always be a need for education, and there will always be a need for people to do the educating.What it pays: The median annual earnings of kindergarten, elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers ranged from $41,400 to $45,920.
3. MorticianWhy it's everlasting: Unless a solution for mortality is found and available to everyone, there will always be a need for someone to care after the deceased. What it pays: The median annual salary is $37,000.
4. Waste Disposal ManagerWhy it's everlasting: Humans create a lot of waste, biologically and otherwise. We'll always need people to maintain and relocate our messes.What it pays: The median annual salary is $35,000.
5. ScientistWhy it's everlasting: Humans will always ponder our surroundings and how it all works. We need people to dedicate their lives to the cause and effects of ourselves and our environments to deal with changes.What it pays: The median salary for a research scientist (biotechnology) is $70,000. The median annual salary for a environmental scientist is $42,000. 6. Tax CollectorWhy it's everlasting: As the old saying goes, "In this world nothing is certain but death and taxes." For all reported income, there will always be a form of collection to aid government programs.What it pays: The median annual salary is $38,000.
7. BarberWhy it's everlasting: People will always need to have their hair cut and groomed.What it pays: The median annual salary is $21,200.
8. SoldierWhy it's everlasting: Even if world peace were a reality, there would still be a fear of future wars based on history.What it pays: The basic pay for enlisted personnel is an annual income of $14,137. The position also includes paid housing, food allowances, healthcare at little to no cost for the soldier and their family, extended vacation/leave, education stipends and additional incentives.
9. Religious LeaderWhy it's everlasting: As people continue to ponder the meaning of their own existence, a majority find a need for people to assist them with a form of spiritual guidance.What it pays: The median annual salary is $34,000.
10. Law Enforcement OfficerWhy it's everlasting: If we are dependent upon a system that governs, we will also be dependent upon people to enforce the rules of that system.What it pays: The median annual earnings at government state and local levels are $38,236. The median annual earnings for companies are $62,700.
11. FarmerWhy it's everlasting: One of the basic human needs is food and, even though farming is increasingly consolidated, there will still be a need for someone to grow it.What it pays: The average net cash farm business income is last reported at $15,603. Government subsidies and additional incomes or cost reductions are not included in this figure. Incomes for ranchers and farmers vary with the weather, price of farm equipment and factors that involve the quality and quantity of the product.
12. Construction WorkerWhy it's everlasting: In the same way we'll always need food, we'll always need a form of shelter to protect us from the elements. We will always need construction workers to build and repair our buildings.What it pays: The median annual salary is $35,000.* Salary sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Payscale.com, the Department of Defense, GoArmy.com and About.com.

So what’s an Eagle-Thinking Women Anyway?

2007-06-01T20:43:00.000-07:00

So what’s an Eagle-Thinking Women Anyway?

The Eagle-Thinking Women are powerful, beautiful and an independent thinker. Take a look at what wikipedia has to say about the eagle.

"The eagle has been used by many nations as a national symbol, depicting power, beauty and independence http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eagle". Therefore, it’s my thought that women are liken to those attributes of eagles, for example:

· Eagles are at the top of the food chain
· Eagles are almost impossible to kill because they are strong, fast, have sharp talons, amazing vision, and a sharp beak.
· Eagles rarely fall prey to other animals.
· Eagles can be killed by drowning while attempting to catch a fish.
· Eagles can swim, but they refuse to let the fish they have captured go and the fish can be so heavy that they will pull the eagle into the water.
· An eagle can dive at up to 100 MPH. http://epedia.pbwiki.com/rss2.php

The Eagle-Thinking Women are strong, fast, have sharp talons, amazing vision, and a sharp beak.

Relationship
· The bald eagle will mate for life unless their mate dies, then they will find a new mate.
· The bald eagle courtship ritual is very interesting to observe. The male and female eagles lock talons in the air and then fall downward until they are within a few feet from the ground.
· Before they actually fall to the ground they break apart and fly upward. The eagles will stay together in their nest which they have built high up in a tree or on the side of a cliff.

Parenting
· Most of the eagles responsibilities are shared by both the male and female.
· The female eagle will usually lay only 1 to 3 eggs at a time.
· The eagle covers the nest with leaves and other items they can find in the forest when they leave to hide and protect the nest from predators. However, most often only one of the eagles will leave the nest while the other stays to protect the eggs.
· When an eagles egg hatches, the parents will look after it until the day it learns to fly.
· Once the baby bird flies the adult parents will stop feeding it, so it will learn to gets it's own food.

So, what type of Eagle-Thinking Women are you?

Getting 'un-stuck'

2007-05-17T10:42:00.000-07:00

"I am concerned about several issues such as quality education for every child and health cost - lowering or using tax dollars more efficiently, which is another concern, and or of course, improving quality of life in general. Therefore, I seek to nurture leaders personally and professionally-I believe when others become successful then I'm successful!"

Okay, check this out…

By Women for Women
Report from the Futurist Cathy Olofson

Scenario
"At the current rate of social change, women won't achieve full equality to men until the year 2270. But women won't be that patient. They'll become economic separatists, rejecting the corporate and social status quo, and instead look for ways to create their own opportunities. We see it now: Women are choosing smaller, more flexible companies over traditional ones. Today, more American women work for women-owned businesses than for the Fortune 500. Continued frustration with the intransigence of large corporations - their reluctance to promote women more aggressively or to adopt more family-friendly policies - will prompt women to look for even more radical ways to bring about economic equality."

So What?
"We'll see the rise of women-centered economic activism. Women will choose to work for, and to buy products from, companies owned and run by women. Companies will have to be accountable to women or risk decline. Companies will have to disclose their hiring, paying, and promoting practices regarding women."

After reading this article, here’s my quandary: What can women do to get their valued pay scale in the workplace? I have a master’s degree but I’m having difficulty with accepting my current income…and I can’t get unstuck?