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Our Environment-It is Not Always About Being Right But Being Real

5/26/2014

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Is there a legitimate call to nature? Hmm? Not so long ago, life was simple. Purists and those who promote a higher level of conscious awareness, continue the conversations of clean air, food and water. Still, there seems to be debatable intolerances.

Along the way, there have been those bought or sold by whatever was popular at the time, but when it comes to our environment, should that be the definite article?

There are the effervescent television ads claiming that if you buy a certain car you are doing your part to support cleaner air. Then there are the constituents who say they are constantly lobbying for the rights to create new ways to make our beautiful planet greener than ever.

It used to be, that all you had to do, in doing your part, was to keep simple habits, like throwing out your trash properly. What seems to have clouded the judgement of some who are just looking out for the bottom line? Like those caught between the Moon and New York City, the line is over dramatized as to how we fix the growing need for environmental change, not for a town, state or country, but worldwide.

Ideal or Idealized Gesturing-Commiting to clean living is not a new concept. Henry David Thoreau, born David Henry Thoreau was one such conveyor of all things natural. Born in 1817, many topics were his blank canvas. With a vast knowledge on many subjects, one of his passions was simple living. He was a naturalist by most descriptions and was known as one of the leading transcendentalists of his time.

He wrote in one of his most notable efforts, his book entitled, 'Walden' said, "I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived.

This Concord, Massachusetts native believed in direct action, when it came to his many beliefs and he would not falter. He gave lectures, wrote books and contributed to an idealism that he felt would be long lasting if people would just listen to the earth.

Mr. Thoreau had the right idea. It always seems that when somone has come to the end of their life or has had to face major crisis it is then that they reflect deeply on how they could have made small changes with greater impact. He did not want to be one with regret for not having tried.

Some speculated that he was slightly eccentric but always up for good rhetoric on topics important to him. He was not a push over as he was an abolitionist and fought The Fugitive Slave Law. But was he right or even realistic on how to procure a safer atmosphere for his day and ours or did he just spin a tale of panic, interwoven with myths and dreams?

Another fighter of organic mainstream was Rachel Carson. Ms. Carson had a love for the sea and all things naturally crafted. Born in 1907 in Springdale, Pennsylvania, it would seem at first breathe, she was destined to pursue a better quality of life. a fervor which had been bestowed upon her by her mother. She became a writer and ecologist, donating many hours of research to and writing about conservation and utilizing natural resources.

She enlisted the help of many to incite clear thinking on cleansing land and sea of pollution. She knew that it started with our thinking process. In her own words she reflected her true feelings:

"The more clearly we can focus our attention on the wonders and realities of the universe about us, the less taste we shall have for destruction". Clear heartfelt disdain for earth's ruination and the halting of blind altercations to the earth and sea as she saw it, was her mantra for life.

After graduating from the Pennsylvania College for Women, (Chatham College today), she went on to Woods Hole Marine Biological Laboratory and received her MA in Zoology from John Hopkins University in 1932. In her book 'The Sea Around Us', a prize winning love story of earth's seas, was one way she tried to get us to reflect on the vastness and wonderment of earth's largest mass, water. To respect it.

The view not besmudged by any other notion than an honest love for creation.

With all of the education these two individuals displayed, was it enough to change the minds of the masses? No. There is still a lot of work to do in order to get ideas to cross over into reality. Are we facing intense issues regarding global warming? Yes. Are there many who run the gambit of ideas from local to legislative? Yes. But who is right?

The Fight To Be Right-When dwelling on how long the fight for what is right has been going on compared to what could really be done, given the structure and money used for polling and research, many could have used that revenue to really make a sustainable difference. Buying the car that uses better fuels-good, selling cleaner oils globally would be even better. Where to get the money?

The money spent on ads alone encouraging people to buy cleaner greener products, which are so expensive to begin with, makes you wonder if it is worth it at all. Also, the same individuals who buy the greener cars need to stop smoking. The business owner who wants to have a reusable bag program needs to ponder the other best practices he regards as passable but not really green.

If everyone in the world switched to vehicles that could make the air quality improve, are those the only measures we need to take and if not, what else can be done is the growing question.

Food and Our Environment-Better?-Buying and eating organically is a good idea but if the produce is locally grown, even better. If it has to ship from another country than the carbon footprint has a cramp in it. The reason-it has to be flown here, hence additional fuel usage and then trucked once it lands. But then, how does that work for the other honest working farmers who are trying to uphold the value and propegation of good eating habits for us "greeners" and still make a profit?

Some conventional ways to support all of our farmers whether organic or not may be to research what really is better organically or conventionally. Fruits that have peels, one might see as ok, as opposed to buying strawberries or other fruits and vegetables that are easily susceptible to pesticide penetration.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture states however, that based upon 100,000 government tests of fruits and vegetables, after being thoroughly washed, may still retain up to 50% pesticide residue.

How much is too much when taking in pesticides is anyones guess. The fact is, the variety of produce purchased, with or without peels, most likely will have some residual chemicals. There are so many on the market that are FDA regulated but in some lands there are no guidelines, so do your research, if you can find accurate information at all. Growing your own produce would be ideal, in a perfect world.

Tapping Into Your Water Source-Globally, we spent 50 million dollars on bottled water, U.S. consumption being around 10.8 billion dollars in 2011. Fifty million dollars. This staggering figure does not include flavored or other fortified water, and keep in mind that was back in 2011.

To make us feel better and maybe ease their own conscience, some make claims of endorsing green living or contribute revenue based on percentages purchased by the consumer. Others have reduced the amount of plastic used in making their bottles. Still, is bottled water THE relevant concern?

The glamorized commercials of running brooks and pleasant sounding streams or the sports enthusiast pulling out the name brand logo might make you pause.The decision to drink bottled over tap may depend on your lifestyles or local water source. In which case, you have every right to research if tap water is agreeable for you and your family.

There are many opinions, thoughts and compromises on green and what it means. The truth at the heart of it-it is up to you how you want to maintain a safe clean lifestyle.

Valid points and questionable motives aside, I think Rachel Carson summed it up well in her timeless commentary:

"Only within the moment of time represented by the present century has one species-man-acquired significant power to alter the nature of his world".

Right say you Rachel, right say you.









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Sounding Off On Negative Online Comments

5/20/2014

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There is a certain politeness that many today have gotten away from. It could be with the onslaught of media focusing on faceless commentary, a society mesmerized by texting or a general aversion to Facebook and other venues that we have become complacent with how human interaction should take place.

These resources while valueable have there place in society despite popular opinion that whatever makes you feel good you should do, without compromise or care.

Some love the idea that all you have to do is type, point and click through a conversation. That might be the end of it but with the barrage of feedback hitting the vi-ways , it might behoove you to rethink some of the steps you use in letting others know how you feel when it comes to their articles and opinions.

An example where things can go too far comes from a lovely town in Connecticut. In June 2011 the then Torrington Superintendent cited issues regarding the feedback his resignation drew in. Many less than stellar comments being made went from nasty to some sort of free for all commentary that spiraled out of control. One local newspaper had a 'Sound-Off' section after the article for anyone to comment, and boy did they. None I can put into print here seemed to defy proper decorum. Going beyond pithy words of disdain, some seemed to rant on just to make infamous comments that fell on deaf ears.

Many who were actually passionate about the former school leader's approach to reform and sudden resignation were heard and remembered. Others who had that 'go for it' kind of reasoning were met with other unsettling remarks that never settled on any one real issues being resolved.

That brings me to my next point. Media is changing. Not to meet our needs alone but as a way of safeguarding itself. Too late to thwart the masses. Once the iron is hot it is a long time before the burn off occurs. Personal opinion is just what it is, personal, not degrading. There is a grand difference.

Here are some points to keep in mind when encountering what seems to be mindless banter:

Keep It Real While Keeping In Control
I enjoy a good comment especially when the person knows what they are talking about. What I find less favorable is when the comments become off-color, riddled with cursing and rants and no resolution. We are always telling our children to be respectful. Is it too much to ask to have that start at home so to speak. They pick up everything we do as adults, the good, bad and the ugly. We see some kids act out and after seeing the parents we wonder how can that be. Everyone is so clean cut and mannerable, right? Wrong. Seems that behind closed doors the gloves come off and the wild west speech frenzy sends us running for cover.

Why not think carefully before choosing your words if that seems to be your habit of communicating. With varied upbringings, values and cultures there is no telling what may or may not strike a negative chord with you but well thought out speech goes a long way to being heard with respect. The same respect, I might add, that you try inculcating into your children. It starts with you.

Curtail The Drama
Once its out, vicious words cannot be taken back. Even worse, once viral, webbed or printed, even if retractions are made, tend to burn in the eyes and memories of the beholder who can then go back countless times fueling pointless hostilities. There is nothing wrong with disagreeing, there is an issue with continued bullying in media. Efforts to fuel opinion goes awry when the subject matter has been lost in a quest to have the last word or the can you top this style of response aimed at making the blood boil.

What is it that you are really trying to say that has to escalate to that level? Make clear points so as to retain your own dignity. I always say, "everyone has a voice, it is up to you how you want to be heard". Not free wielding, got to get your attention verbage but meaningful, accountable, engaging dialogue.

You don't need to become a writer in order to be heard but you have to value yourself first before you decide to deliver worthwhile, meaningful commentary to others.

Ask yourself these questions:

Free speech is a wonderful thing but should it be tempered?

Are their ways to share how you feel without obliterating or isolating others' views?

What is too much when it comes to personal opinion?

Should feedback be viewed as just sharing your true feelings?

Who should make the call as to what is acceptable or unacceptable?

What is the genuine purpose for your response?

You may find the deep down emotions for the way you respond to others eye-opening and reflective. It might even cause you to rethink some things, but hey, that is only my opinion.


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And Now A Word From Our Sponsors

5/13/2014

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Mother or mentor, nanny or nurse, we have all benefitted from the help of someone who cared. Where would we be without a warm place to sleep, food to eat or someone to watch over us as we grow through life, just trying to make it.

There are no dollar figures on the guidance and structure received from parents, guardians and extended connections. One thing is certain: we needed the essential levels of training, discipline and love associated with our growing pains.

Coming of age is hard and harsh as raw feelings are maturing. Not knowing where to go or how to channel them is a challenge. Younger and younger are the faces of false maturity, where those who think they are of a certain age, experiment, often going down the wrong path. There is nothing wrong with learning the ropes but as any mountain climber will tell you, you must have proper training to survive.

Long ago on a stage far, far away (Colorado), the comedian Sinbad gave a hilarious yet telling quip in one of his routines. After enlisting a mother and her two young sons through a few teasing rounds, he focused his attention on the boys, who when asked if they thought they knew more than their mom, the eldest of the two half-kiddingly responded that he did.

The always observant comedic genius of spontaneity looked down at the boys and responded, "if your momma dropped you off right now on XWY street, you wouldn't know your way home!" The snap-witted comment caused the mother of two to go into hysterics, clapping her hands in uproarious agreement, followed by thunderous laughter from others in attendance. But it is so true.

Our youth have a false sense of security, through some misleading and unrealistic programming, certain social media tying myth to some strange form of reality. Make no mistake our children are brilliant, stronger by the day and have abilities far and away more advanced than most of us from the 70'and 80's because of heightened technology alone.

Back then our idea of action heroes came in the form of stylized kicks and punches by the likes of the Bionic Man, Mod Squad, Bruce Lee movies. We got in trouble, some worse than others but this twenty-first century generation makes us look as if it is impossible to relate in a normal fashion.

Communication is not the raw stuff of actually sitting and talking to the person right beside you. We have resorted to texting within inches of the physical location of our intended recipient. In order to keep the bonds of open, honest lines of conversation going and surpassing the common trends, we need to talk to our youth in order to get and stay touch with them.

They not only need us, they want us to be involved in their lives. Common sense has to be taught, it is not inherent upon our first butt slap into this world.

Parents: teach your children right-right now. Do not become a sponsor for when sports uniforms and instruments need a check written, with a side order of parenthood.  

Get involved, stay involved. Be the parent.


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The Opposite Of Right

5/7/2014

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In general there is a line being crossed or blurred when it comes to telling the truth. Expressions such as 'a little white lie', 'fib', 'slight exaggeration' seem innocent. But, how do you feel when you fall on the sword by becoming the butt of the lie, having been betrayed, made a fool of, or worse?

What starts as a diversion, quickly cascades, morphing into something you cannot recognize nor do you want ownership of. Years ago there were neighborhood kids who lived for the next lie, watching as it unfolded, causing pain to those involved and to unsuspecting by-standers. Here we are in 2014 and some of those traits are still there, fight it. Fight the urge to lie. Easier said-I know.

Lying creates this wall of insecurities, self-doubt and distrust. All you have at the end of the day is how you have treated someone, so treat them right the first go-round by being honest.

The outcome minus naivety might surprise you. When you live foul or are not being your real true self-the best you, things become distorted, dirty. Example: suppose you were having some friends over for dinner. You lay out the best dinnerware, setting quiet lighting, just right. Adding the perfect flowers which send an inviting aroma understatedly through your living space. Your enthusiasm ignites as you unravel the bags from the local market, preparing a half-vegan, gluten-free, with a special filet mignon for the meat lovers.

Now the sizzle begins. Chop, chop, chop of the onions, garlic, leeks and 'shrooms wafting throughout, competing with the scented bouquets of the dining room and open garden patio. You with me? Obedient romaine dances with carrots, beets, goat cheese and a homemade vinaigrette whispering the same notes of the evening twilight. The doorbell rings, you simultaneously cascade toward the door with a revolving pirouette to rescue your burgeoning baked potatoes, some sweet, some white, from the oven. The orchestrated smatterings of prepared butters begin their ritual over the spuds as everyone hugs, kisses and appreciates the time they have with you and yours over a glass of well-chosen wine, special, for the occasion.

Proudly, you take a moment to step back, mentally high-fiving yourself for the performance of the evening that just took place in this kitchen, you are the MASTER!

Plating everything up, you carefully balance the ginormous tray of dishes dipping the tray to eye level so your guests can prepare themselves to be wowed. Instead, gasps and shrieks. One person storms out, while yet another brushes what seemingly feels like something crawling on them. What is up?

At first glance, everything seems fine, veggies-check, salad-check, meat, check-check. You even whipped up a surprise for dessert so what is the problem?

Maggots begin crawling from underneath every orifice of your display, turning your stomach and sending you and everyone in the room reeling with disgust. This is what a lie looks and feels like. Ugly. Nasty. Revolting. It may seem cute or funny in the beginning but boy does it leave you feeling empty and twisted in the end. Lies have ruined friendships, families and many a business relationship on this planet we call earth.

Is the opposite of wrong, right? Or are you still confused?

In the words of one of my auntie's who has long since passed on:

"Just tell the truth!"

















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    The Floral Greens Publishing Concept


    First off-let me thank you personally for visiting us here at Floral Greens Publishing LLC. Our Target Focus: World Class Customer Care and dedication in offering fun, professional results without breaking your wallet, adding positive value to your business.

    The concept is simple. Deliver honest, stellar work. The rewards: balanced wellness for home and business. We love exceeding our clients' expectations! So bring on your deadlines and count on well researched, accurate work every time.

    As CEO, Owner and Founder of Floral Greens Publishing LLC Dawn is dedicated to fulfilling all of your publishing needs, offering traditional & digital services in:

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    Speaking-where we create customized discussions and project enhancements that target and strengthen business and home life. Whether you work as a team, solopreneur or just want to better organize your daily thought-life, the skills you achieve with us will prove to be the gift that keeps on giving.

    Getting our start as Independent Publishers also known as Indies, we have gained momentum and continued respect as a powerful force in social media and publishing arenas.

    As true advocates of spoken and written word we support our public libraries and appreciate their positive effects on our communities in building literacy across the country and the world. Through our ongoing efforts we diligently strive to shed renewed life on Deaf Culture with stories, poems and novels featuring American Sign Language.
     
    Why stop there? As a self-professed "Frugal Guru" Dawn loves writing about bargain shopping and sharing her many successful tips, recipes, consignment finds and other interests for the everyday lifestyle.

    Writing has been a life-long dream now realized and here at Floral Greens Publishing LLC we have hit the ground running!

    ~Remember, everyone has a voice, it is up to you how you want to be heard~Dawn

    Other Credits:
    Dawn is an active member of:
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    Amazon Author with three Kindle books to her credit:
    A Flowered Thorn
    A Letter For Brighton
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    "Making What You Write-Right"

    Contact Dawn at Floral Greens Publishing LLC for a free no obligation quote on freelance or contract needs at: dawnaharden@gmail.com or call 860-995-8772









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