Francis Libermann Catholic High School 40th Anniversary

By: Talin Orfali – Student Alumni – Fall 1999 to 2003.

40 Years ago in 1977, Francis Libermann Catholic High School opened its doors to teachers, students and administrative staff, and this year in 2018, on June 3rd, we had the anniversary and reunion. Many past and present teachers, and alumni students were present.

A couple of months ago, I had opened up my Facebook, and on my news feed, I see an event from Francis Libermann of which a fellow classmate of mine from my time, invited me to it, I definitely said, I am going. At first, I had mixed feelings about it, and I was hesitant at first because my high school life wasn’t what I had expected it to be, but I toughed it out for 4 years. It wasn’t perfect and there were good times and bad times, but nothing really is perfect.

We envision high school to be perfect where everyone gets along, but that is not the case, however, I forgive those who have bullied me and belittled me throughout those times. I realize now that when you are a teenager going to school, all these emotions run high, going through the puberty stages where sometimes teens just don’t know what they are doing, plus getting through school with studies and everything else with making friends whereas some others don’t get so lucky about that. It’s a huge phase that kids go through before venturing out to college/university and maybe not and just going right to work or whatever the case may be.

Anyway, when I saw about 90% of the teachers at the reunion and anniversary, they all automatically remembered me even though 15 years have passed since I took my last walk out of those doors. I never visited back since then, but I feel like I really never left yesterday. I was so sad to hear about my favourite principal back in the day had passed away a few years ago from cancer. I was so devastated and cried. I truly know how to appreciate teachers and administrative staff for all the hard work and sacrifices they make and made to make sure we are educated and well looked after.

Some of the teacher’s names I had forgotten about and some that are still fresh in my mind, but they remembered me and some of the teachers said that they think about me from time to time. One of them said to me yesterday, Talin, you were my favourite student and I think about you all the time. I am so happy to be seeing you here today and in return, she was really one of my favourite teachers at the school. One of them always knew I was going to get into some sort of writing and when I spoke to her and told her what I do now, she got so excited to hear that I am doing what she thought I would do.

Anyway, I did a walk-through the school and I familiarized myself with the lockers I used to have, the classes I went to, the hallways that I walked around, familiar smells of the halls and classes, the gym, the library, and the staircases that was used to go up to the 2nd, and 3rd floors. The memories just came to me and some have faded and some have stayed with me. The washrooms and everything are also the same as I remembered where the washroom stalls are smaller.

I remember being part of teen voices, and other outreach programs. I was never really a sports person and I had joined into more interactive committees and creative writing.

I remember when I used to seldom take public transit home from school. I used to hate taking public transit up to now. That hasn’t changed. I remember getting a sign of relief when I saw I was being picked up by my dad or my brother and one of the teachers pointed that out to me yesterday, saying she remembers that I used to hate taking the bus and she remembers me being picked up. I said to her, nothing has changed on that front. LOL, and the only difference is that I drive now.

The 40th anniversary of Francis Libermann Catholic High School was definitely an eye-opener for me, which has overwhelmed me because time is flying and these are the moments of our lives that we will never get back and it teaches us to be grateful for each moment, even though they weren’t perfect and our expectations weren’t what we wanted, but we are getting older now and it truly makes you appreciate that little time you have in high school. Time never waits for you. You truly have to cherish life and the phases.

I was in tears while walking through the halls and I am in tears now as I write this now. I really miss high school a lot and I miss being a teenager. My advice to teenagers going to high school now, is to never waste a second of it, don’t take this time for granted. Even though it may not be a positive and good time for you, but also I want you to realize that high school is temporary and things do eventually get better and they will. It has for me. 4 years go by so quickly that you don’t even realize once you graduate and have your prom and then life changes right away. Well, it did for me.

2003 for me seems like yesterday, but in other ways, it does feel like its a long time. It really hit me hard yesterday and I just want to say how truly grateful I am for having a school to go to and getting to know many people of whom I am still in touch with. We didn’t really get along in high school, but we do now and that is what counts. Life and our personalities change and it’s absolutely amazing. You never truly learn to appreciate something until after the fact.

Thank you and congratulations to Francis Libermann and here is to another 40 years and beyond. I am super glad to be part of 4 years of it. All the best and may what happens between those walls be educational, fruitful filled with knowledge, respect, and getting closer with God in his teachings while learning valuable life lessons to take with you when you take your last walk out those doors. God bless Francis Libermann Catholic High School and all those in it.

Life is Like A Journey On A Train

Life is like a journey on a train…
with its stations…
with changes of routes…
and with accidents !

By: Mark Anthony – http://www.evidenceofeternity.com/blog/life-is-like-a-journey-on-a-train/

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We board this train when we are born and our parents are the ones who get our ticket.
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We believe they will always travel on this train with us.
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However, at some station our parents will get off the train, leaving us alone on this journey.
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As time goes by, other passengers will board the train, many of whom will be significant – our siblings, friends, children, and even the love of our life.
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Many will get off during the journey and leave a permanent vacuum in our lives.
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Many will go so unnoticed that we won’t even know when they vacated their seats and got off the train !
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This train ride will be full of joy, sorrow, fantasy, expectations, hellos, good-byes, and farewells.
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A good journey is helping, loving, having a good relationship with all co passengers…
and making sure that we give our best to make their journey comfortable.
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The mystery of this fabulous journey is :
We do not know at which station we ourselves are going to get off.
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So, we must live in the best way – adjust, forget, forgive and offer the best of what we have.
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It is important to do this because when the time comes for us to leave our seat… we should leave behind beautiful memories for those who will continue to travel on the train of life.”
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Thank you for being one of the important passengers on my train… don’t know when my station will come… don’t want 2 miss saying: “Thank you”

Word’s From Andy Rooney – I’ve Learned

I absolutely love Andy Rooney’s sayings. He teaches people a lot about life and so many other things.

Take two minutes to read these sayings and be sure to read all the way to the bottom:

Written by Andy Rooney, a man who had the gift of saying so much with so few words. Rooney used to be on 60 Minutes t.v. show.

I’ve learned ….
That the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.

I’ve learned ….
That when you’re in love, it shows.

I’ve learned ….
That just one person saying to me, ‘You’ve made my day!’ makes my day.

I’ve learned ….
That having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.

I’ve learned ….
That being kind is more important than being right.

I’ve learned ….
That you should never say no to a gift from a child.

I’ve learned ….
That I can always pray for someone when I don’t have the strength to help him in any other way.

I’ve learned ….
That no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.

I’ve learned ….
That sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand.

I’ve learned ….
That simple walks with my father around the block on summer
nights when I was a child did wonders for me as an adult.

I’ve learned ….
That life is like a roll of toilet paper.
The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.

I’ve learned ….
That we should be glad God doesn’t give us everything we ask for.

I’ve learned ….
That money doesn’t buy class.

I’ve learned ….
That it’s those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.

I’ve learned …
That under everyone’s hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.

I’ve learned ….
That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.

I’ve learned ….
That when you plan to get even with someone,
you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.

I’ve learned ….
That love, not time, heals all wounds.

I’ve learned ….
That the easiest way for me to grow as a person
is to surround myself with people smarter than I am.

I’ve learned ….
That everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.

I’ve learned ….
That no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.

I’ve learned …
That life is tough, but I’m tougher.

I’ve learned ….
That opportunities are never lost; someone will take the ones you miss.

I’ve learned ….
That when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.

I’ve learned ….
That I wish I could have told my Mom that I love her
one more time before she passed away.

I’ve learned ….
That one should keep his words both soft and tender,
because tomorrow he may have to eat them.

I’ve learned ….
That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.

I’ve learned ….
That when your newly born grandchild holds your little
finger in his little fist, you’re hooked for life.

I’ve learned ….
That everyone wants to live on top of the mountain,
but all the happiness and growth occurs while you’re climbing it.

I’ve learned ….
That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done.

In The Heart Of The Sea – Moby Dick — Herman Melville

In The Heart of The Sea

Film Creator and Director: Ron Howard

Played by Actor Chris Hemsworth as Owen Chase.

Moby Dick – Based on the novel story.

Author: Herman Melville
Published: October 18, 1851

In my words about the movie and the true meaning behind it: 

It was a compelling movie. It tells a story, it captivates the hearts of many, the will to survive, the will to sacrifice, the will to go on, the bravery, to battle one of mother nature’s strongest most dangerous to battle the wild water, sea creatures, the violent weather, a vessel in the midst of everything, crossing paths with those who talk unrealistically to try to succeed in bringing a valuable resource in the world to the rich, so the rich become richer, where the mid and low-class work hard in dangerous and treacherous conditions to endanger themselves for the sake of doing so. The unfortunate thing is that they harm a sea creature in order to get that resource.  The sea creature is the whale. 

Most of the time it ends in tragedy and hopefully teaches the greatest lesson in life to never test mother nature’s strength and most importantly never to test what God created. It will eventually be the boomerang effect and come back to haunt you.

The vessel/sail ship that they took out to sea was named “The Essex” of Nantucket.

The survivors of the journey to the sea come back home to describe what had happened and why some of the passengers of the vessel did not survive and the ship that eventually listed, and sunk. They were embarrassed what was the end of the Essex. Of course, it was a mammoth sized whale.

Ben Whishaw plays the part of Author Herman Melville who writes the story.

A lot of lessons to be learned from this movie. If you have not seen “In The Heart Of The Sea”, I suggest you do.

All this and more.

A little bit about the Author Herman Melville:

Herman Melville was an American Novelist who also wrote poetry, short stories and one of his most popular was “In The Heart of The Sea” of Moby Dick.
He was born on August 1st, 1819 in New York City and passed away on September 28th, 1891 in New York City.

He has been influenced by Nathaniel Hawthorne, Edgar Allan Poe, and among many others

The World Is A Beautiful Place, We Need It

The World is Beautiful place to be and to live, and, of course we need it to go on about our day to day life  however, Some people take a lot of things for granted, some people take advantage of others, who are never grateful for those around them or the things they have, some people are so materialistic.

Some people have learned to hate, do and think negative things in life, greediness, selfishness, and who are surrounded by negativity, hate, killing, disrespect and lack of love, dignity and who have pessimistic attitudes. We need to change that, and we need to change that now.

We need to pray,
We need God,
We need people,
We need health,
We need togetherness,
We need more kindness,
We need more love,
We need more respect,
We need more inspiration,
We need more attention to goodness,
We need to accept each other,
We need to stop racism,
We need to be selfless,
We need to feel and be appreciated,
We need to be thankful,
We need to be thoughtful,
We need to spread more good news and good cheer,
We need to support each other,
We need to help each other,
We need to be around positivity,
We need to stand up for one another,
We need to be honest,
We need to be reliable,
We need to smile,
We need to be optimistic,
We need to follow the right path,
We need motivation,
We need fun times,
We need to enjoy.

We are blessed with many people and things in our lives, we just need to recognize, acknowledge and be well aware of that.

We are all special, beautiful and great in our own ways, we are also unique. We should always count our blessings and be who we are in the process.

What are you doing to better your world and everybody and everything around you?

My Sweet 16 Birthday that Never happened

When I was in high school and about to turn 16, I have heard about the sweet 16’s birthday parties and the fun those people had, and planned their birthdays that it was perfect, the people who had gone to those parties, the decorations, the planning all kicked off perfectly.

Even though I did not have friends back in the day, and those who I thought were somehow, I decided to throw a sweet 16 birthday party for me. As I had invited 20 people from my school. So now when it came toward the last couple of days to my birthday, I assured people to ask if they are going to be attending my birthday and they said yes we will be there. I got so excited. I remember it was April 28, 2001, on a Saturday and Monday is my real birthday on the 30th, and decided to have it 2 days early because of School on the right day.

As I had begun decorating, and had ordered the cake and the food, as well has putting some games so people can play. As the time was nearing for people to come, I got so excited that I stood by the door to wait for them to come, my anticipation was growing deeper. As I looked at the time again and it was 2pm where the time said on the invitations, I look at the clock and it said 2:15. I said ok its ok, they are running late. Then one person came around 2:30, I welcome her into the house and she decided to wait with me. then it became almost 4pm, and it was just her and I was devastated, humiliated, embarrassed, and crying so much.

That one girl who came to my party wiped my tears away and said it will be ok. Don’t worry, I am here. lets enjoy together. Who cares about the rest that stood you up? I said yeah you are right. So we enjoyed the food, and desert and cake and watched a couple of movies until it was time for her to go home. She hugged me and said, Talin, do not worry about anybody else, they are cowards. God is watching them. Then she left as her mom came and picked her up. My heart shattered to pieces. It was a feeling that I never wish on anybody else.

After her leaving, I let out a huge cry. I said, I cannot believe this happened to me and my mom comforted me and told me, don’t worry God will punish them. So Monday came and I was still crying and devastated. I did not enjoy my real 16th birthday, but I did go out to dinner with my family, which made everything better. I actually skipped school for a couple of days and just stood home. I just didn’t feel like seeing anybody. Then I decided to go to school on the Wednesday, and none of them said I am sorry and did not bother to give me an explanation as to why they did that. All the planning, food and everything went to waste, however we kept the food and ate it throughout the week.

From then on, I didn’t care about interacting with anybody and I just went about and studied, did my homework, attended all my classes, and then once school was finished, I’d never waste another second and just go home. I was so disgusted. That one girl changed schools the year after because her family had moved somewhere further, and that really made me even cry more. She was the only one who really cared. It was so nice of her. I still have the give she gave me 14-15 years later.

As I reached another milestone this year. At the end of April on the 30th of 2015, I will be celebrating my champagne birthday turning 30 on 30 and it is coming up so quickly. As I almost say Goodbye to my 20’s, I am truly hoping that I can have a sweet 30th birthday that will make up for the sweet 16th birthday I never had. I know it is not good to expect it, but when you’ve never had a birthday party reaching a milestone, it makes you wonder how and what might have been. I just want to have a great time with my lovely and beautiful loved ones I have in my life which really matter to me more than anything else.

Have you experienced a disappointing turnout at a party or function you have had? I am sure you felt humiliated and distraught. Have you had a similar situation where people didn’t bother to show up and not telling you why and not having the common decency to call and explain? If you have, I am so sorry to hear that. I know exactly how you feel. It is not a good feeling at all.

Hopefully nobody has to go through what I went through. Best wishes to you and may your dreams come true, because everyday is our birthday and celebrate it by the gift of breathing and living through another day. We are blessed and that is what matters the most.

Have We Become An Over-sharing Society on Social Media?

Since social media has come into today’s society for several years now, with an easy and instant way to communicate to the world about our every move, and everything that goes on in our lives. The question is, have we become an over-sharing society? Is it necessary to post every single thing that we do on a daily basis? Do we think a few times before clicking on the submit, send, post buttons? Things, that we do on a daily basis that are so common in this world, and things that we on social media platforms do not need to know about. Too much information is being transmitted through the world in an instant and some that should not even be. Once you post something, even for a few seconds and delete it, It is on the internet forever, and it very hard to delete it, because the internet has cached files and once you go on any search engine, it is very easy to see what you post. I have seen a lot of things on social media and it has become a very concerning thing.

I know we are free to post what we want, but some things should be kept private and even very personal matters in one’s life should not be shared to the world, especially when it comes to family life. I know although it is good to post to educate others on situations and everything and if you are going to post something, generalize on a topic, issue or subject, do not make it personal about you and your loved ones.

Here are examples of common things that we do that should not be shared for the billions of people around the world to see:

*****— I just went to the washroom — I just took a shower — I am now going out for a walk — I did laundry — I just cleaned the house — I did some gardening outside — I just changed the oil on my car — I took my car for a car wash — I am going out to eat with friends – *****

Those are the things I am talking about. Not just writing things online, but also photos and videos that are necessary. Nothing is kept private anymore unfortunately, but things should. I know you want to document everything in your life, you want to do everything to look back to those memories and enjoy it, but there comes times where you need to leave all technology behind and just focus on the moment and the memories to make, so you can replay them in your mind. Sometimes with technology we miss things happening in our lives with screens constantly in our faces.

There is more to life, than to post every aspect of it for the world to see on social media. Yes I am guilty of posting and doing things like that myself, but I know my limit and I am always within it. Always take responsibility, be responsible, and be smart.

Yes, there are great and positive ways to use social media and it is all in the way you use it. Always ask, do research and think before you post. Is it thoughtful, helpful, inspiring, nice and kind? Always THINK – BEFORE – YOU – POST –
Enjoy your social media journey, but limit yourself, and do good things with it.

Justin Bieber – Take Responsibility For Your Actions

In recent events, Justin Bieber was arrested for driving under the Influence (DUI), and Drag racing with a rented Lamborghini in Miami, Florida, and just before that He had thrown eggs at his neighbors home, causing financial damage to the property and more. Police searched his mansion and found drugs and all kinds of things, as well as he was caught urinating in a bucket in a restaurant I believe and so many other stupid things he has done in his so-called career as a star which he is anything but a star.

Hardworking ordinary citizens have 2 jobs to survive and make ends meet to provide for their families and themselves, while this Justin BIEBS Idiot spending 75,000 bucks like pocket change in a strip club, drag racing a Lamborghini, his huge mansion in LA, all his super duper expensive cars, and his spending habits, doesn’t give a crap about anybody but himself. Fans gave him all that attention, money and fame.  These teenagers and younger people take his stupidity and learn to do these things because of him and other idiots like him. That is why this craziness never ends, that is why teenagers and young adults say, if Justin Bieber is doing this stuff and getting away with it, we can do the same, and that makes it “COOL” to do stuff like that, when it really isn’t. It is so stupid, dumb and ridiculous. Stupidity will never stop when Idiots like Justin Bieber are on our TV screens. Our Society is doomed because of people like him.

Fine example, Look at the way he dresses and portrays himself. It is beyond disgusting, horrid, inappropriate and distasteful. He needs to learn manners, learn respect, learn how to be a proper human being with morals, common decency. He does not know what he doing most of the time. Yes, people make mistakes, and no one is perfect, but there is no excuse for his behavior, there is no excuse in the excuse book that can amount to anything he has done. For heaven sake, there are teenagers and little kids who look up to you, be a good example, be the bigger person, spread love, cheer, and be a good person, spread positivity, we would like to hear good things, and inspiring things . Justin must take responsibility for his actions, he needs to cut himself out from the entertainment industry and our TV screens, and really spend time and think about what he is doing and how its effecting a lot of teenagers and kids who are so vulnerable to these things.

What if when he was drag racing and doing stupid things in Miami, killed someone or injured somebody or may have caused a serious crash or something, or crashed into a business, building or something? Thank Goodness nobody got hurt during his stupidity. There is no excuse for that bad behavior to go for a joy ride in the middle a street. Its not even a race track. They are streets where everyone shares the road for heaven sake and for his father to block off the area, so he can do his stupid thing and boom getting caught. I am glad he was arrested. He needs to learn a lesson, and driving with an expired license and having his license revoked. Yeah very smart(sarcasm).  There is no excuse for drinking and driving and sitting behind the wheel of a car after heavily drinking.

He needs to see what drinking and driving does to families, and the victims of it. He needs to watch videos, he needs to get educated heavily, and for once stop his crap. I mean no offense to fans, but he really cannot sing, and his songs are just not anything special. Selena Gomez, girl you can do so much better than the biebs. I suggest those who are fans of him, stop supporting him, stop being on his side. There really is nothing good about this kid that I have seen so far. He needs to get his act together, he needs to own up to his acts and be a man, be mature, and stop this madness. . I am just so angry about this situation. I cannot believe our society is so saturated with these things.

Its not funny. This is serious stuff. Nothing to joke about at all. I am done with this Justin Bieber stuff. All I know is, that kid needs to be disciplined big time, social workers, police, put him on a curfew, house arrest, or something. This kid is out of control. Well, enough ranting. His disgusts me. Enough said.

Justin Bieber — Has Been Arrested for DUI – Anything Else?

I cannot believe I am going to spend my time writing about Justin Bieber, one of the people I absolutely despise and detest, but I have to. To spread awareness to children, teenagers and other fans realize that this kid is out of control and to warn them about stopping to give this guy attention that he is always seeking. It is getting way out of hand. Anything else Justin Bieber? He has been arrested in Miami, Florida for DUI Charges,  Drag Racing with a Lamborghini, and little did we know that his  Father orchestrated and helped him out with the racing to block off streets, then when the Police got involved, he resisted arrest, and driving with an expired and suspended license and then being bailed out for $2,500. His father should know better, and he should take his son and himself obviously and go to parenting classes teach him about better parenting and teach Justin Bieber to use his head and stop his stupidity.

So many lives have been cut short due to DUI, and someone elses poor decision, can destroy another persons life and their families forever and it seems like Justin doesn’t give a care about anybody but himself. People like Justin get away with so much because he is a celebrity and fame and fortune has got to his head. He does not realize that what he did is inexcusable. Justin should spend time in Jail and think about his actions. Normally mug shots do not involve smiling. This guy is smiling, like nothing ever happened, and then when he was listening or if he was listening to the Judge, it looked like his head was somewhere else, and then he left the court house and jumped on a Black SUV like he was leaving a concert or something. Its like ahh whatever I can do this again and get away with it. People will then say hey, since Justin is drag racing, so can I. It is beyond disgusting, he is disgusting and He needs to be disciplined big time and he needs help.

My thoughts and prayers to victims and families who have gone through this terrible ordeal of somebody elses stupidity to drink and drive while under the influence, and cut a life short because of senseless acts of another person. People like that need to go to Jail for a long long time. Lock them up and throw away the key.

He really needs to grow up. He thinks he can do whatever he wants without getting in trouble with all his immaturity. I honestly do not think what Selena Gomez saw in him, I do not know how she was so blind to have him as a boyfriend. Hes a kid who is so immature. He is the definition of immature. No offense to those who like this kid, but he needs help, Fame and Fortune got to him and he doesn’t know what he is doing 99.9% of the time. I personally have never liked this kid, and I never will. I am just venting out the way I feel about this kid. He is no adult to me. even though he is 19. He acts like he is 10 years old, but a 10 year old is better than him.

Justin Bieber needs to learn proper etiquette, manners, learn how to dress like a mature human being and like an adult and stop dressing like a slob and For Heaven sake, put your pants up and wear it like its intended to be. be proper, be a role model, be an inspiration. No wonder why these things never stop in society dressing like a slob and being of people like Justin. Teenagers and Kids will see his stupidity and do the same. Society is giving the wrong impression to the vulnerable teens and Kids. Unbelievable. This is what society has become and society learns from immature people like the biebs. DUI, Throwing Eggs at Neighbors house, urinating in a bucket, taking drugs, dressing like an idiot, going to inappropriate places and spending $75,000 like its pocket change  — YEAH Real mature!!! GROW UP JUSTIN!!! Learn lessons and just get off our TV Screens. We heard enough of you!! I think its time for you to own up to your stupidity and let go of showbiz for a while, and go to school to learn to be a better person and spend time with people who will teach him morals, respect, manners and so much more.

There will always be people supporting him, but not me. I cannot stand people like him. They will just put anybody with a mic. besides, his music stinks too, and I never liked his music or him to begin with. He is not my cup of tea and after this incident that just sealed the deal. Well, I spent more than enough time with this issue. He just needs to learn a lesson and stop being so dumb! Enough said..

Stop Hating Online – Get Educated On Social Media – StopCyberBullying

In this day in age,, we must be very careful on how we portray ourselves on social media. People of all ages use the internet from young kids all the way to seniors. Do we know what our children, teenagers and young adults post online? Do we monitor and supervise them or do we let them be free to make wise and smart choices when it comes to sharing and posting things on the internet? Whatever gets posted is there forever and many people can download, make screen shots, and do many crazy things with the content people post.

The use of mobile devices, tablets, and other forms of technology has made it so easy to communicate, post and sending out our thoughts, sharing photos, videos in an instant, where there are apps and software to alter photos and videos with Photoshop and so many other things. Most people now have mobile smartphone devices and tablets. What if those pictures, altered pictures, videos, and words are posted online and they are not very pleasant, they send out the wrong message of hate, bullying others, making threats, posting vulgar, profane language, thinking that they will never be caught when using another username?

Nowadays in schools, because of social media and how big it has gotten in our society, I think that Social Media, and Internet safety should be a course that should be implemented, and considered in schools. If not already done, but it is important that children, teens and those who are in college, should take this course, and be tested. How do we really know what our kids, teens and newly off to college teens are posting online? They think its alright to do whatever they want. They can do serious harm to others by embarrassing them, and it is not alright. take a stand, and monitor them. Have e-mails sent to you, monitor your internet browsing history and the cookies in your computer, and see what is going on with your child or teen.

Kids and teens say that they are joking around with posting photos and videos of other kids and teens in school, but on the contrary, it can hurt them, it can do serious damage to ones emotions and mental as well. It can carry out consequences, and it can do permanent damage and can hurt families. This also applies to any age, but if we do not teach our children, and teenagers now about what is right and wrong on social media, then they will think its okay to do it when they get older.

Many kids and teens feel so reluctant on getting their mobile phones, computers, and tablets taken away from them for when parents find out what they post and they stay quiet, thinking parent’s do not know what they are doing, but they can always find out and it is so easy to do that. Talk to your mobile carrier, or internet provider and ask them to get a service to monitor your child’s actions. I know that most parents trust their children, and the choices they make online or whatever, but it is vital and imperative to get involved at all times. It can ruin reputations of that family and worse, legal actions could be taken with the law. It is a good idea to have computers in a busy place in the house. Not in kids rooms. Somewhere central in the house, so that you can always view whats going on.

Get your kids together, ask them to leave their mobile devices on the kitchen counter, and get them to the living room, have the conversation, and set rules, boundaries, and time limits of using smartphones, internet usage, and explain to them the wrong and right way to use social media. It can save lives of bully victims, it can save hassle, and reputations.

Has your child or teen been a victim of cyber-bullying? Has your teen opened up to you about what he or she is feeling? Lets all work together to cut out bullying and make better choices. Get smart online, stop hating online, and start spreading cheer, happiness, kindness, inspiration, respect, love, and great things. Imagine how incredible social media can be when we all pull our weight and do whats right.  Best wishes and lets make social media fun and enjoyable like it should be intended!

Health Is Wealth – The Most Important Thing Above All Else

Today, I really need to discuss an important thing in our lives and something that is in all of us whether its physical, medical, relationships, mental, emotional and everything that plays a role in our daily and nightly lives, and it is about health. Health is the most important thing in our lives. Lets face it, without it, we won’t be happy, and we won’t be wealthy in terms of it. It is more important than anything else. Material things come and go, but our health is number one out of everything else.

I know that this is a touchy subject to some people and if not all people, and I know that some people do not get lucky to live a fulfilling life because of some health issues that make people limited to do things and its so unfortunate on how people have to go through these terrible ordeals of dealing with debilitating diseases, cancers, illnesses, chronic problems, and things that happen in the human body. I know some things are not even in our control, things happen which is something unbelievable when we hear it from our doctors. Some make it and some do not unfortunately, but in the end our health is so important and what we do with our bodies is imperative to do our best to take care of ourselves, to eat better, to exercise, and to try as much as possible to prevent things from happening to our bodies. I know no matter how hard we try, sometimes things happen unfortunately, but prevention is key and we are all able to do anything we want. Sometimes for some cases its not possible, but nothing in the world is impossible, because remember I’M Possible. right?

When women get pregnant, and start a family some parents to be really concentrate on the gender of the baby and are so concerned about whether they will have a girl or a boy and the anticipation of it all is something that a lot of parents to be want to know, but in the end I do not think it should matter, as long as the baby and mother to be is healthy, and as long as the baby is well really should be something that is most important. I know the whole excitement of creating a nursery in the home, buying baby products, clothes and what colours to buy when you know you are having a baby, but those things should be the least of ones worry. A baby who is healthy and doing well, should be the best gift of all. All life is so precious no matter how they come into this world and that’s what should matter.

Health is so important at any age and unfortunately no matter what age you are, things happen to us.

Health is not just about physical and medical, health is also about how people deal with emotional, mental and relationship health. In this life we have so much stress, life has become so fast paced and there are not enough hours in the day sometimes to fulfill everything we need to do, and sometimes things happen out of the blue which we cannot get to, people are so busy with school, work, home and so many responsibilities pile up, commitments we must attend to and everyone has worries and everything, which can lead to mental, emotional stress and its a crazy thing we all go through. In this day in age, a lot of families do not have too much time together as people have to work a lot harder to upkeep, put a roof over their heads, and so much more. It puts a number on people and its an unfair world we live in these days, but I guess you gotta do what you gotta do right?

I myself had a health scare, but everything is good news and I am happy about it. Thank goodness and thank the Lord our God. Unfortunately some are not so lucky and do not make it which is crazy and I wish everyone well, a good clean bill of health and wishing everyone all the best with everything. You maybe battling and getting through each day, and playing it be ear and I wish everyone many blessings. God forbid anything happening to everyone. Lets put our health forward and concentrate on that the most and never lose hope. Always have faith, always live life positive. I know it is easier said than done, but positivity is the key to anything in life and no matter what life throws at us. All the best to all!

So take it easy and live life to the fullest.

Merry Armenian Christmas — Orthodox Christmas

Armenia

Armenians celebrate Christmas (surb tsnunt, Սուրբ Ծնունդ, meaning “saint birth”) on January 6 as a public holiday in Armenia. It also coincides with the Epiphany. Traditionally, Armenians fast during the week leading up to Christmas. Devout Armenians may even refrain from food for the three days leading up to the Christmas Eve, in order to receive the Eucharist on a “pure” stomach. Christmas Eve is particularly rich in traditions. Families gather for the Christmas Eve dinner (khetum, Խթում), which generally consists of: rice, fish, nevik (նուիկ, a vegetable dish of green chard and chick peas), and yogurt/wheat soup (tanabur, թանապուր). Dessert includes dried fruits and nuts, including rojik, which consists of whole shelled walnuts threaded on a string and encased in grape jelly, bastukh (a paper-like confection of grape jelly, cornstarch, and flour), etc. This lighter menu is designed to ease the stomach off the week-long fast and prepare it for the rather more substantial Christmas Day dinner. Children take presents of fruits, nuts, and other candies to older relatives.

It is frequently asked as to why Armenians do not celebrate Christmas on December 25 with the rest of the world. Obviously, the exact date of Christ’s birth has not been historically established—it is not recorded in the Gospels. However, historically, all Christian churches celebrated Christ’s birth on January 6 until the fourth century. According to Roman Catholic sources, the date was changed from January 6 to December 25 in order to override a pagan feast dedicated to the birth of the Sun which was celebrated on December 25. At the time Christians used to continue their observance of these pagan festivities. In order to undermine and subdue this pagan practice, the church hierarchy designated December 25 as the official date of Christmas and January 6 as the feast of Epiphany. However, Armenia was not affected by this change for the simple fact that there were no such pagan practices in Armenia, on that date, and the fact that the Armenian Church was not a satellite of the Roman Church. Thus, remaining faithful to the traditions of their forefathers, Armenians have continued to celebrate Christmas on January 6 until today.^[42]

In addition to the Christmas tree (tonatsar, Տօնածառ), Armenians (particularly in the Middle East) also erect the Nativity scene. Christmas in the Armenian tradition is a purely religious affair. Santa Claus does not visit the nice Armenian children on Christmas, but rather on New Year’s Eve. The idea of Santa Claus existed before the Soviet Union and he was named kaghand papik (Կաղանդ Պապիկ), but the Soviet Union had a great impact even on Santa Claus. Now he goes by the more secular name of Grandfather Winter (dzmerr papik, Ձմեռ Պապիկ).

CREDITS: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_worldwide

Health Is Wealth – The Most Important Thing

Today, I really need to discuss an important thing in our lives and something that is in all of us whether its physical, medical, relationships, mental, emotional and everything that plays a role in our daily and nightly lives, and it is about health. Health is the most important thing in our lives. Lets face it, without it, we won’t be happy, and we won’t be wealthy in terms of it. It is more important than anything else. Material things come and go, but our health is number one out of everything else.

I know that this is a touchy subject to some people and if not all people, and I know that some people do not get lucky to live a fulfilling life because of some health issues that make people limited to do things and its so unfortunate on how people have to go through these terrible ordeals of dealing with debilitating diseases, cancers, illnesses, chronic problems, and things that happen in the human body. I know some things are not even in our control, things happen which is something unbelievable when we hear it from our doctors. Some make it and some do not unfortunately, but in the end our health is so important and what we do with our bodies is imperative to do our best to take care of ourselves, to eat better, to exercise, and to try as much as possible to prevent things from happening to our bodies. I know no matter how hard we try, sometimes things happen unfortunately, but prevention is key and we are all able to do anything we want. Sometimes for some cases its not possible, but nothing in the world is impossible, because remember I’M Possible. right?

When women get pregnant, and start a family some parents to be really concentrate on the gender of the baby and are so concerned about whether they will have a girl or a boy and the anticipation of it all is something that a lot of parents to be want to know, but in the end I do not think it should matter, as long as the baby and mother to be is healthy, and as long as the baby is well really should be something that is most important. I know the whole excitement of creating a nursery in the home, buying baby products, clothes and what colours to buy when you know you are having a baby, but those things should be the least of ones worry. A baby who is healthy and doing well, should be the best gift of all. All life is so precious no matter how they come into this world and that’s what should matter.

Health is so important at any age and unfortunately no matter what age you are, things happen to us.

Health is not just about physical and medical, health is also about how people deal with emotional, mental and relationship health. In this life we have so much stress, life has become so fast paced and there are not enough hours in the day sometimes to fulfill everything we need to do, and sometimes things happen out of the blue which we cannot get to, people are so busy with school, work, home and so many responsibilities pile up, commitments we must attend to and everyone has worries and everything, which can lead to mental, emotional stress and its a crazy thing we all go through. In this day in age, a lot of families do not have too much time together as people have to work a lot harder to upkeep, put a roof over their heads, and so much more. It puts a number on people and its an unfair world we live in these days, but I guess you gotta do what you gotta do right?

I myself had a health scare, but everything is good news and I am happy about it. Thank goodness and thank the Lord our God. Unfortunately some are not so lucky and do not make it which is crazy and I wish everyone well, a good clean bill of health and wishing everyone all the best with everything. You maybe battling and getting through each day, and playing it be ear and I wish everyone many blessings. God forbid anything happening to everyone. Lets put our health forward and concentrate on that the most and never lose hope. Always have faith, always live life positive. I know it is easier said than done, but positivity is the key to anything in life and no matter what life throws at us. All the best to all!

So take it easy and live life to the fullest.

What Makes You A Stronger Person? How Do You Handle Life?

In my life, I have been through a huge list of unfortunate things that have happened to me where people would be bully me emotionally and mentally, putting me to the curb when not needed anymore, people who have used me for material gain, people who only come to me if they need something from me,  the feeling of being isolated, and being an option to people and not a priority in their lives. I remember all those times and still comes back to haunt me to this day, but things have changed so much for me and for the better. Because of all the anguish and pain I had to endure personally, emotionally and mentally, now I have become a stronger person, I have a whole new pizzazz on life, a whole new approach to trusting very few people, choosing my friends wisely, opening up my eyes more and making sure I make the right decisions about hanging out with the right people. Everything in my past that I went through, has shaped who I am today and its made me better in making judgements on who should be in my circle and who should not. I think and I know that I have handled my life wonderfully and I learned a lot from myself and have spent so much time with myself just thinking about life, about what the next step is to further myself in a social aspect of life.

What made me a stronger person is that I look things into a positive perspective, I look at things as a cup that is half full, and no matter what life throws at me, I am always positive in the end. I know it is easier said than done, but being positive is easy, all you have to do is be strong, be who you are, always be yourself, make sure that you surround yourself with positive and great energy throughout your day everyday. When I was heavily bullied as I was in school back in the day, I put into thought that this is just temporary and things will get better and it did get better for me. I am so strong now that nothing or no one can break me. I have learned to stand on my own two feet, I’ve learned and I am still learning to this day. Life is a never-ending learning journey. Sometimes things come in our way, but in the end the ball is in your court, but make sure you hit a slam dunk and be strong.

Everything happens for a reason, and people come into your life as a blessing or a lesson and that will determine your strength to move on to bigger and better people and things in life. What shaped me to be stronger is that I cut out negativity, and I always instill in others that they too can do the same, all they have to do is try their best, and do it. I know sometimes it easier said than done as I said, but it will workout in the long run. I know that life is not perfect as we want it to be, and sometimes we get lucky and sometimes we do not get so lucky with how our lives are and have turned out to be and what we went through in the past, but take a look around, be blessed with what you have and who you have become. What have you learned from your past? Have you been a victim of bullying? What did you do to make yourself stronger?

What steps did you take to conquer and defy all the odds? Did you seek for help from others? did you dust yourself off and pick yourself up on your own? Did you tell someone about how you were feeling or are feeling? Always know you are worth it, you are important, you are a unique, special, confident, strong and beautiful person. As long as you know that for yourself, you do not need others to tell you all that. When you know yourself that you are enough and that you are all those great things, that is the greatest thing you can do for yourself. You have those gifts that are so precious. You are a precious human being who came to this earth for a reason, each one of us serves a purpose in our world and we can all make a positive influence, difference and change the world into a stronger and happier place only if we try to do our best no matter what life throws at us. Kindness, Respect and doing great things is the way to go.

Now tell me what has made you stronger? Life is a beautiful gift from God, and its such a lovely thing.  always be strong. Remember what doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger, and somehow struggles become success, and success becomes everything you want your life to be emotionally and mentally. Be positive, be strong, be you, and everything in life will come to place. Just believe in yourself, believe that you can conquer anything and throw negativity away and do not think about what might have been, or what could have happened differently. Keep going. Do not stop. All the best to you, keep smiling, be happy!

Dedicated to Primate Bishop Bagrat Galstanyan – A True Leader

I would like to introduce to you someone who is very dear to me in my heart and in my life, I would like to talk about someone who many of us in the world who love and appreciate him and his name is Bishop Bagrat Galstanyan of whom is our Canada Armenian Church Leader.  Please note when I say Srpazan that’s the Armenian word for Bishop.

Now, this past week, something unfair happened that there were elections of having another leader lead our Armenian Church Diocese Head in Canada, and the location of our head church office is in Montreal, Outremont, Quebec. The election was indeed a setup and a lot of people are against what happened, a petition is going around, and many people are quite upset about what happened and how the way things transpired. Most of the people are calling this a misjudgment and not making a great decision for our Armenian church of Canada with good intentions and I myself and others do not believe this election was done in a fair manner and things we done beforehand to alter the numbers. Something suspicious and fishy is going on and we want to get to the bottom of this and we want answers. Anyway,

in 2003 when I met Srpazan Bagrat Galstanyan, I knew right away I would love him and he became someone who I consider family to me. Srpazan has taught me so many things about life and his words, his speeches, the meetings I was in with him in ACYOC (Armenian Church Youth Organization of Canada), Kingston, Mississauga, traveling to Vancouver for our Sports Weekend in 2005, Going to Montreal/Laval sports weekends, Camping trips, and so many more memories. Srpazan Bagrat Galstanyan is someone who is very special and dear to me and the loss of him being our Srpazan and our leader has hit me so hard and it is hurting me beyond anything else. It is far worse than someone hitting me with a bat, but that does not even compare to the pain this is causing me and this has been on my mind since I heard about this on Monday Morning. I cried so hard, I cried so hard inside too, my tears rolled down my cheeks, and I am so angry!

Srpazan was there for me at my toughest moments when I was bullied, picked on because I was different and I went to events where I felt alone and left out, but Srpazan came to my rescue and he spoke to me, made me feel better about myself, and he gave me advice, he opened his heart to me. I will never forget that for the rest of my life. Srpazan was there for me when nobody else really was, I met many friends in Montreal because of Srpazan, and I was introduced to a whole new world and I was so excited to go to Montreal all the time and to see my friends. Srpazan after knew me by my first name, and he remembered what we discussed, he was always asking me how I am and how I am doing since we talked. THAT THERE TO ME SAID IT ALL! I knew I would love and trust him forever and I always will forever. He gave me the energy, he gave me something in my life that will always remain with me forever. He smiled at me always, and always excited to see me, shaking my hand, blessing my head with his hand. It was a great feeling!

I cannot stomach it To see him being treated unfairly, betrayed by his clergyman who he thought were his friends, who he thought were with him and support him and in a disgusting way his clergyman had to vote against him and on what grounds? This is unbelievable! and having these elections. What is this? A political race? Is this some kind of JOB race? I want Srpazan back, I want this whole bogus election to be void.

The true meaning of being Christian, and being a servant of God is to reach out to people in a personal level, to inspire, to help, to guide, to do great work for the community, to dedicate his/herself without asking for material things. I love Srpazan Bagrat so much! He will always be special to me and I Just want him back! Is that so hard to ask? This is betrayal.

Here is the Facebook page. Help and support us by getting him Back to stay with us, and there are pictures, videos, and links about him if you want to know more about our leader who is selfless, kind, spiritual, dedicated, caring, loving, humorous and so many more great qualities about him.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/STAY-WITH-US-Bishop-Bagrat-Galstanyan/401752986606195

The Petition: — Please sign and share with your friends and family. Thank you!

http://www.change.org/en-CA/petitions/bishop-bagrat-galstanyan-not-to-ratify-the-decision-made-to-replace-bishop-galstanyan?utm_campaign=signature_receipt&utm_medium=email&utm_source=share_petition

Thanks for reading about our lovely leader. Lets keep him here and lets bring him back to lead Canadian Armenians for a brighter future ahead.