Happy 2016! Welcome to a New Year!

Hello Everyone,

Welcome to a Brand New Year 2016. Cheers to everyone! I just came from a great party celebration. I saw many people that I have not seen in a while, also new faces. I became friends with a couple of people and we will definitely be keeping in touch and communicating. It definitely was great to go out this year. I had not gone out to a party for 3 years now outside the house. This year, I wanted to go out and let loose, enjoy and welcome a new year amongst many people.

I saw some of my fans and those who follow me and my blog as well as people who came up to me and said, that my face looks familiar. I guess because of my blog site and that my picture is everywhere lol. It felt great, and especially people coming and giving compliments in front of my parents. I love to write a lot and I assured them today that I will continue on with my passion in 2016 and that this year, I have fresh new articles coming your way, and I am going to strive to write every day. If not every day at least, 4-5 times a week. I am going to make it a mission to keep writing and reach for the stars day by day.

I look forward to this new adventure. Thank you to my family, friends and fans.

Thank you to those who have been with me through this journey and I look forward to 2016 with you and others who will be joining me. Blessings to all and have a fabulous 2016.

Love,

Talin Orfali

Black Friday Ridiculousness

There are several reasons why I do not encourage and support Black Friday, Boxing Day, and whatever shopping days there are and I think it is absolutely ridiculous. What I don’t understand is that after Thanksgiving or any other occasions like after Christmas as well some people go out the next day forgetting everything and take advantage of Black Friday sales. I think it is hypocritical because just the day before everyone sits around the table being thankful for family, friends, food, and everything around us and you see people writing twitter tweets and Facebook status messages saying that the important thing is family and friends to get together and they also say, it is not the things that matter in life and how we should be thankful every day, then you see the same people out the next day doing the complete opposite.

Are people so dependent on materialism? I think so and I know so. When it is evident that some people in the world do not have anything, that they are in absolute desperation, but still manage and continue to survive and when there are people that are just barely getting by.

Another part of all this Black Friday ridiculousness is that, people line up for hours and days in front of retail stores just so that they can get their hands on a stinking product first and so that they can brag on their social media news feeds and to their family and friends on saying “Hey I got this awesome big screen TV”, or this awesome new cell phone or whatever else. They will stand and freeze and do anything they can to get their hands on anything regardless of weather conditions and whatever else. I think that is absolutely absurd and sad on many levels.

I would rather go shopping when I absolutely need something. I don’t go shopping for the sake of going shopping and blow all my money on unnecessary things.

Some people’s actions are selfish and acting like children starting unnecessary fights in retail stores just for the sole purpose of buying something where you can get it another day. Some people will get injured, have cuts, and get arrested and thrown out of stores. People get tackled, pushed, shoved, bud in line, swear at people, throw punches at each other just so that they can have materialistic satisfaction no matter what cost. It is not only immature behavior but disgusting as well.

People have to stop this utter stupidity. All people are doing is making corporations richer and these corporations are attracting sales so people dig into their pockets further. These are business tactics so that people can rush to the stores and cause all this attention and ruckus. So ridiculous. Some people have become so spoiled, that they don’t even care. Be content and satisfied with what you have.

What is your opinion on all of this?
Have you witnessed it?

Conan O’Brien Takes Assistant Sona Movsesian to Armenia

Dear Conan O’Brien, Sona Movsesian, Team Coco, and Crew,

I would just like to say thank you to you all for making the trip to my homeland Armenia and for taking Sona Movsesian who had never been to Armenia. That is such an incredible and beautiful gesture that you made for Sona and that flair was definitely felt throughout the Armenian community of the world. Not every boss in the world would do those beautiful and thoughtful things for their friends/workers and that there tells a lot about a person’s character and personality and Conan, I have a tremendous amount of respect for you and your crew, not only because you took Sona to Armenia, but you as a person who demonstrates quality, who is dedicated, and put your employees first. That is a rare occurrence.

You have no idea on how much we Armenians appreciate all that you have done and continue to do. Now, a lot more people know about us and that is something that I/We will forever be grateful for.

It is so awesome on how the #ConanArmenia show was presented to the world. Thank you for adding humor into the show, which made me laugh hysterically. I have watched the episode at least 10 times by now, if not more. I just cannot get enough of it. Sona is a beautiful person who is so full of life and I would love to meet you Conan and Sona someday and tell you in person.

As the show was airing, I was sending out live tweets and explaining to what was going on and I was so excited about it. I must have sent hundreds of #ConanArmenia hashtags throughout the world.

On behalf of all the Armenians in the world including myself, thank you for introducing Armenia our homeland to your viewers and fans, thank you for taking the time to travel thousands of miles to be with Armenians, getting to know and embrace our culture, language, heritage, making Armenian friends, putting us on the map and as well as addressing an important and integral part of our history about The Armenian Genocide, for saying the word Genocide, visiting the Genocide memorial with Sona in the end of the show really put a sweet and touching tribute and for recognizing what had happened to 1.5 Million Armenians who were displaced, massacred in 1915, and for letting people know about it.

When Sona was explaining about her family and what had happened in the village we lost of Sepastia which is now in Turkish lands, really made me all the more emotional as I am sure the Armenian community of the world. I started to cry too with Sona and I felt her feelings about it.

Again, we cannot thank you enough for doing this. We love you Conan, we love you Sona, and may you all have continued success with your show in Los Angeles or wherever life takes you.

Sincerely,

Talin Orfali
talinorfali.wordpress.com

A Day In The Life in Cuba – The Reality

In life, one of the most incredible experiences is travel. I believe that when you travel to see the world, different lifestyles, realities, different people, places is something that is such a great thing. You become more aware, educated, informed and get in touch with your personal self to get a better understanding than what you hear in the media and pictures, also to change your perspective on things of the way your life is and in your own backyard to appreciate, count our blessings, and to be grateful for everything you have in life where others are less fortunate and do not have much. For example, in Cuba.

I have traveled to Cuba 13 times in my lifetime. I have traveled almost all over the island and have seen cities, and towns along the way. I have spent time with the locals, and met families, and have seen the way people live their day to day lives with the bare minimum. Some people make about $12.00 – $30.00 a month. Maximum 35 if they are lucky. Most people work in the resorts and touristic parts, some who are teachers, doctors, room makers, cleaners, bartenders and more.

A lot of people nowadays are so picky about what they want to eat, some people have a fridge full of food, pantries full, stomachs full, and they still are trying to figure out what to make. I admit, I am one of them, but It is really an eye-opener when you see the world. Not only in pictures, but when you see it with your own eyes. That is a whole new ball game. Well, some people in this world unfortunately do not have that option. Cuban people get a certain amount of food per month or every 2 weeks and that they need to space out how much food to eat during the day, some have to struggle to make their own food.

As I was going through towns from Cayo Santa Maria, back to Santa Clara where the airport is to come back home, I saw some of the most saddest things I had ever seen, there are run down buildings that look like they will collapse any minute, people walking around the streets with heavy bags, people cutting grass with machetes or some sort of cutter, some people going somewhere with horses, busted up cars, and it just made me tear up and think to myself, how can people live like this day in and day out? I teared up and so did the person who was sitting next to me and I overheard 2 ladies behind me saying that, we shouldn’t complain anymore and be choosy about everything we have. This really opened up my eyes one of the ladies said, and the friend of hers or whoever it was said, yes that’s true, you are right.

I have been through towns and cities in Cuba, and some of the conditions of the homes the Cuban people live are terribly sad. It breaks my heart. They don’t have proper windows, the roofs of some of the houses are coming apart, a lot of the houses are the size of a 14 to 17 foot place and some of the houses are even smaller than that. Can you imagine a family of 5 living there? Well, I met this family of 5 and they live in such a small house and they have to go outside of the home to use the toilet and to shower they have buckets inside the house and there is running water outside, so they have to go out to get running water then come back to wash up inside where there is just a drain.

In Cienfuegos, Cuba when I went. I had met an entertainer and then he invited my family and I over to his house, so the next day we took the taxi over to his place. We met his family and I remember how hospitable they were with us and so friendly. So, we took them a few items we do not need anymore and they were so happy. So the mother of the entertainer made us a whole table full of food, and started preparing the day before when the entertainer told them we are coming over. The dinner we had was so delicious and it was probably their months worth of food for us for that night. It was done without our knowledge or else we would have refused and if we did, they would get offended, so we ended up eating all of it as we were hungry. They then served us coffee and then we went back to the hotel.

They were so incredibly friendly and we got to see how they lived the whole day. They struggle so much with the deplorable conditions they live in. Some places though are really nice. It depends on the monthly salary as well. Again, I came to my resort and I just thank my lucky stars. I showed a few Cubans my pictures from my Camera, and they have never even seen an airplane in their lives, they have never even seen a camera, let alone the type of clothing I was wearing. It absolutely broke my heart to pieces.

I will continue to visit Cuba. I really like the people there and they are so friendly, witty and energetic, but for some people you can see the sadness and depression in their faces and you can tell some of them don’t have much, and some show they are happy, but they are not. The desperation can be seen. They love it when you give them shoes, clothing and anything else. For these people I will donate and give them the shirt off my back. Put yourself in their shoes and see what its like, but some people don’t realize.

I see them working so hard at the resorts, non-stop and they have to travel long ways to make a Buck which is a Peso there. There are people who come to these resorts who travel there, and I see how rude the guests can be to them and waste so much food on their plates, demand things from them. I mean at the end of the day, they are human beings just like us and deserve to be treated with respect and to have patience. Those Cubans see it and they said, I wish I had this much food at my home and I can see the frustration and sadness in their eyes. I am very observant when I travel. Some of these tourists don’t realize that, however I do and I am compassionate and patient with them. I put myself in their shoes and I go from there.

Moral of the story is that you should always be thankful for what you have. You never know what someone else is going through and people in this world do not have anything, so we must stop begging for more, being desperate for buying the next newest and latest smartphones, or super expensive things that really suit no purpose in life. Some people are so spoiled to the fullest extent. It is unbelievable. We should always count our lucky stars because people in this world aren’t so lucky.

Have you been to Cuba or anywhere else and have seen the way people live?

Do you travel to other destinations to see other peoples reality and what it is like?

Would love to hear from you.

Not Knowing How To Appreciate Somebody Really Hurts

When people who do not know the definition of appreciating you (me), or even think about you (me ) and only approach you (me ) only if they need something done, or anything from you (me), do not worry, what goes around comes around. Let nature take its course.

I always say this, people who are far away are always sweeter than the ones who are near and the ones who are near always get used, get volunteered into things, and expect so much more from, thinking you have time and can do things quickly. Unfortunately that is how it is. People do not realize I have feelings too, and I have so much going on for me too.

I am not complaining about doing things for others, and going out of my way to do so, but there is only so much you can do and then not be appreciated for it is absolutely hurtful.

This past week and for a while now, I have been so hurt beyond repair, my heart is aching so badly, to the point where I think about what happened when I go to bed, when I am sleeping, when I wake up, when I am going about my day, when I babysit, during when I am working, and even during my happy moments where I try to take it out of my mind. It is still there. I cried for many days and I have been so upset, disappointed on how people can be this way to others, especially if they are your own flesh in blood or whoever they are. It absolutely hurts like crazy. I really do not want to discuss what happened, but it hurts emotionally and mentally. It killed any spirit that I have left.

Its not so much about being chosen to be part of something precious and beautiful, it is the principle behind it and something to show gratitude, but unfortunately some people are not gifted with being thoughtful, and being appreciative toward others.

Well, I am not doing it anymore. Not going to allow others take advantage of me and take me for a fool. I really do not have time and energy for it anymore. Time to look after myself and go after what makes me happy, be with those who appreciate, love me for who I am, what I am passionate about and what I love to do with my own time. I have put my foot down. I am so tired of crying and being so hurt. Enough is enough.

My Beautiful 30th Champagne Birthday Celebration

On April 30, 2015 I turned 30 years old. They say that the day you are born of the month and the age you turn becomes your champagne birthday. It was a big milestone I celebrated about a week or so ago. On May 1st, 2015 All my great friends who are like family to me came and celebrated my birthday with me. There were so many surprises for me one after the other and I was absolutely touched and from the bottom of my heart, I appreciate all the hard work, determination, dedication and everything that went to giving me the best birthday celebration of my life.

This week has just been incredibly overwhelming and the beautiful feelings I had and still do. I was so absolutely touched and surprised so beautifully, that even as a writer/blogger myself, I just didn’t know and have all the words to say how grateful I am for all the excellent incredible detailing that went into my beautiful party. I apologize deeply that it took me a while to put all my full feelings and input on my birthday celebration.

First and foremost, I want to acknowledge, and thank my sister/good friend Aline Rosy of many many years now, who is a ray of sunlight and brightness in my life and 2-3 months before my birthday, when we were discussing my birthday celebration details, and where I want to celebrate my birthday, it took a while for me to decide where and we finally decided to have the party at my house. So as the weeks and days got closer, Aline went to the ends of the earth to make sure my birthday will be a very memorable and special one and she sure demonstrated excellency from her caring heart, her beautiful soul into making everything so perfect. Not one thing was left out.

As my birthday week finally arrived, My Sisters Aline and Talar came and assisted with decorating my place to make it all ready. Now as the day on May 1st when I had my party arrived, I had one surprise come to me after the other. It was fantastic and absolutely beautiful.

Aline

– She made this incredible bean dip with cheese, and other yummy ingredients, which was so delicious. I could not stop eating it and which was all finished the very next day with left overs.
– She also ordered and custom made a special yummy birthday cake which was the Facebook Like Thumbs up symbol made by Alice Lumsden Vee which represented me and my social media journey. I said in my mind, I have to cut this beautiful cake now?
– She also surprised me with delicious image cookies by Passion For Desserts with images from Bradley Cooper, Social Media, I love Montreal, Boston, Champagne Bottles, Armenia Flag, My Image, my 30th birthday, My Expertise in Cooking, also Travel, done by Alxiomir Portales.
– She then surprised me with a beautiful collage on a big board filled with all my great memories, and everyone who is in my circle, and my world with stickers and everything that represent me and my life and my moments from the past to the present.
– Also All the other detailing that was beautifully thought of and done.

Aline’s excellent efforts did not go unnoticed and everything went so well. That night will forever be embedded in my heart and it will spoken about for years to come. I am absolutely grateful for everything. I cannot thank her enough. I love you so much, so deeply. Not just for everything you did, but just for being you, and for being one of the greatest friends well more so part of my family, for being there for me, and loving me unconditionally. Hugs and kisses. I am truly blessed.
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Thank you to everyone who contributed to my birthday, my best friend and sister Talar, My boyfriend Armen who surprised me with 24 red roses, who brought the food, the colourful 30th birthday decoration theme, the balloons and so much you also contributing to my birthday. I love you so much! My brother, my great friends who brought delicious desserts, food, drinks, and everything else. You all are part of my family and I love you all so deeply. Kisses and hugs… This was the best birthday ever.

To all those who could not be there to celebrate with me, but were there in spirit, thank you for being part of my life. I wouldn’t be where i am today without you all.

God bless everyone!

Creator of the Armenian Alphabet – St. Mesrob Mashtots

In 362 A.D in Taron, St. Mesrob Mashtots was born and passed away in February of 440 A.D. St. Mesrob Mashtots was a theologian in Armenians, Hymnologist, as well as a linguist. In Our Armenian culture, he is best known as for inventing and creating the 38 Letter Armenian Alphabet in 405 A.D. It was an incredible step to increasing, strengthening and establishing a bond between the Armenian Statehood, Armenians Living in the empire of Byzantine and the Armenian kingdom. It also created a sense of identity and difference in the world that prospered into a beautiful language with creating words, where we are now able to read, write, speak and express ourselves in our Armenian communities, churches, in our homes, and in our day-to-day lives.

In Armenia, we have a Library called the “Madenataran“, where his Statue and the Armenian Alphabet beside him sits, and where the most important books, scriptures and important parts of our Armenian Heritage sits in the museum within the Madenataran. In 2005 Armenian Alphabet turned 1600 years old, where then as a celebration a field with all the Letters in the Alphabet was created by the Mt Aragats.

St. Mesrob Mashtots also created the Albanian, and Georgian Alphabets.

St. Mesrob came from a village in “Hatzetgatz Kyough” (HATS-EH-GATS KYOO-GH), and passed away in Vagharshapat (Vagh-are-shahpat), then he was laid to rest in the town of Oshakan. To this very day many tourists and visitors to Armenia, visit his tomb in the church to pay homage and respects to the creator. St. Mesrob Mashtots spent most of his life devoted to Christianity, and to spread the word of God. He is known to be a big icon in the world and prominent individual, which inspired many people in the Global world history and still does to this day from hearing about his biography, what he accomplished which changed our Armenian identity and put a positive and beautiful impact in our world.

Without St. Mesrob, we would not have our alphabet, our ability to read, write and communicate with the words and our beautiful language that exists in our world. This is an example of how Turkey failed to wipe Armenians off the face of this earth during the April 24, 1915, Armenian Genocide, because to this day we continue to speak, read and write our beautiful Armenian Language. Thank you to St. Mesrob Mashtots for giving us our identity. We Armenians are forever grateful and we are so blessed to have you in our life and your legacy will live on within our hearts forever.

Links of Interest:

click this link to see the Armenian Alphabet: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armenian_alphabet

click this link to see the Madenataran Library in Armenia – http://www.armeniapedia.org/index.php?title=Matenadaran

100 Years, 100 Reasons – Armenians Are Still Here – 1915-2015

This year in 2015 on April 24th, It will be Armenian Genocide’s 100 Year Commemoration.
The Turkish Ottoman Empire failed to wipe Armenians off the Earth and here are 100 reasons why Turkey Failed. #TurkeyFailed

1. We can Still read Armenian
2. We can still speak Armenian
3. We have 38 letters in the Armenian Alphabet
4. We are the first Adopter of Christianity in 301 A.D.
5. Our Flag is Red, Blue and Orange
6. Armenians have been Around for thousands of years and will be here forever
7. We can still write in Armenian
8. We are few in the world, but will always remain Armenian
9. We have the first church built named “Sourp Etchmiadzin”
10. We have a beautiful Country
11. The Apricot, Grapes, Pomegranates are fruits of our Nation

12. William Saroyan’s Quote “I should like to see any power of the world destroy this race, this small tribe of unimportant people, whose wars have all been fought and lost, whose structures have crumbled, literature is unread, music is unheard, and prayers are no more answered. Go ahead, destroy Armenia. See if you can do it. Send them into the desert without bread or water. Burn their homes and churches. Then see if they will not laugh, sing and pray again. For when two of them meet anywhere in the world, see if they will not create a New Armenia.”

13. Our Armenia Capital is Yerevan
14. We can sing Armenian Songs
15. We can pray in Armenian
16. We have many churches across the world
17. We have many Armenian Community Centres across the world
18. 13 Million Armenians are living around the world
19. Armenia became independent in 1991 from the Soviet Union
20. St Gregory the Illuminator was our first Catholicos
21. We have Armenian Inventors, Innovators
22. We have So many Armenian Singers and Performers
23. Armenians are great at Chess
24. Mesrob Mashtotz, Creator of the Armenian Alphabet
25. Vartan Mamigonian – year 451 Vartanantz
26. Sassountzi Tavit – David of Sassoun
27. We have beautiful Armenian Scripture
28. Armenians have the rarest and most beautiful books in Madenataran – Library in Armenia
29. We have Khor Virap Church
30. Mount Ararat will always be ours even though The Turkish Ottoman Empire took it away from us
31. Hagop Oshakan, novelist, literary critic
32. Atom Egoyan who is a film director, producer
33. Isabel Bayrakdarian/Serouj Kradjian — Armenian Pianist, Singer
34. Cher Sarkissian — Singer “Cher”
35. Daniel Varoujan, lyric poet
36. Vahan Tekeyan, poet, political leader
37. Arshile Gorky, abstract painter
38. Hovhannes Shiraz, nationalistic poet
39. Paruyr Sevak, Eastern Armenian poet
40. Tigran the Great — Dikran
41. Charles Aznavour – Armenian singer
42. Kirk Kirkorian – Businessman and MGM Owner
43. Kev Orkian — actor, musician & comedian
44. Eric Bogosian, playwright and performance artist
45. Ken Davitian, actor
46. Robert Zildjian, founder of Sabian Cymbals
47. We have delicious Foods
48. Armenians have the best coffee
49. Andre Agassi — Tennis Player
50. Geghard Church
51. Garni Temple
52. Republic Square of Yerevan
53. Lake Sevan
54. Zvartnots Airport and Cathedral
55. St. Hripsime Church
56. Tatev Monastery
57. The Yerevan Opera House
58. Erebuni Museum
59. Sardarabad
60. Gyumri
61. Kohar Music School – Kohar Music
62. Shushi
63. Nagorna Gharabagh – Artsakh
64. The Armenian Dram — Armenia Money Currency
65. Dilijan
66. Talin City
67. Oshagan
68. Armenian Alphabet Field
69. Mamig Dadig Statue
70. Noravank Church
71. Beautiful Hills and Mountains
72. Our DOOF Kar — Our Armenia Rock
73. Rich and beautiful Agriculture
74. Hayasdan is Armenia
75. We have beautiful and rich history, that will always remain part of us
76. Armenians are Forever
77. We have Armenians in Sports
78. Jermuk Falls
79. Ararat Cognac
80. Yeraplur
81. Akhtamar
82. Armenian Cross Rocks — Khatchkars
83. The Gate to Armenia is Always Open – Welcome!
84. Mayr Hayasdan Statue — Mother of Armenia statue with a Sword
85. Beautiful Roads leading to beautiful cities and towns of Armenia
86. beautiful trees and nature
87. the skies, the ground, Armenia is natural
88. Armenian Communities of the world Come together to commemorate the Armenian Genocide
89. We Armenians get together in our communities
90. Armenians enjoy parties and get togethers
91. Ararat the Movie
92. My Uncle Rafael Movie
93. Musa Dagh
94. We feel great when we hear someone speaking Armenian in a store and just hear our beautiful language spoken
95. Armenian Folk dances are beautiful
96. Armenian Patriotic and National Songs are touching
97. Wedding attendances are large
98. Our Armenian Identity is special
99. Our hearts, minds, souls, body, physically, mentally and emotionally will always be Armenian
100. After all that we have been through from the Armenian Genocide and beyond, we are still here and will be forever.

 

There are so many other reasons.

God bless Armenia and Armenians!

Because, Turkey Failed – The Armenian Genocide 100 Year Centennial

Hashtag and Keep this going #TurkeyFailed

– We can still say our Armenian Alphabet, Because TurkeyFailed
– We can still hold our Armenia Flag high up in the air, Because TurkeyFailed
– We can still talk in our Armenian Language, Because TurkeyFailed
– We have beautiful and rich history, that will always remain part of us, Because TurkeyFailed
– Red Blue Orange, Because TurkeyFailed
– We are still here, Because TurkeyFailed
– We have our Armenian Landmarks, Churches, Community Centres, Because TurkeyFailed
– We have the greatest innovators, celebrities, musical artists, artists, and many other talents, Because TurkeyFailed
– We will always have Mount Ararat and it will be returned to us once again, Because TurkeyFailed
– Turkish Ottoman Empire wiped out more than 1.5 Million Armenians, But were still here, Because TurkeyFailed
– More than 13 Million Armenians around the world, Because TurkeyFailed
– Armenians are Forever, Because TurkeyFailed
– 100 years later, we are still here, Because TurkeyFailed

April 24, 1915, Because, TurkeyFailed

 

The Armenian Genocide Centennial

100 Years

Letter of Appreciation to Mrs. Amal Clooney – Human Rights Lawyer

Dear Mrs Amal Clooney,

It is with heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to bring up one of the biggest Crimes of the 20th century and more specifically about The Armenian Genocide which took place on April 24, 1915. The Turkish Ottoman Empire committed this crime against Armenians and tried to wipe Armenians off the face of the earth with Ethnic cleansing which they did not succeed. 1.5 Million Armenians were massacred, our lands were stolen, Mount Ararat was stolen from us and Thanks to you for addressing this matter to make this globally well known. I opened up the Toronto Star this morning and I happened to see the Article about You and about the Armenian Genocide, Freedom of Speech and human rights.

We Armenians in our communities across the world cannot thank you enough for your efforts. We love you and we are so proud of you for standing up to end this denial of The Armenian Genocide, to recognize, to support us and having our backs. It takes a lot of guts and I applaud you for it, and as I am sure a lot of us do. Thank you again Amal. It means so much to us. God bless you always. Mr. George Clooney definitely knows how to pick em. Love you both so much! I hope to meet you someday and offer my thanks to you in person. Thanks again!

Sincerely,

Talin Orfali

Articles in relative to Mrs. Amal Clooney’s Representing Eloquently about The Armenians, Human Rights, Freedom of Speech and the Armenian Genocide:

Horizon Weekly
http://www.horizonweekly.ca/news/details/60540

Time Magazine – Online Edition
http://time.com/3687958/amal-clooney-turkey-armenian-genocide/

Daily Mail UK
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2929573/Amal-Clooney-takes-genocide-denying-politician-Human-rights-lawyer-leads-fight-Turkish-MP-prosecuted-calling-death-1-5-million-Armenians-international-lie.html

Thank you to Mrs. Amal Clooney for taking the stand to stand up for Armenians and Representing The Armenian Genocide.

The Purpose of Blogging – Why do we do it?

In the past few blog posts with the subject of communication and along the lines of what is relative to that, the way we feel, how we get our words and points across to the world and how we do it to reach out to others, and to share with the world our points of view, opinions, suggestions, to raise awareness on issues, to advertise, promote, social issues, recipes, tips, organizational ideas, simplifying life and so much more. We all have our own perspective and our own purpose when blogging and writing about our life. The question is why do we do it? Why do we spend time with writing? Why do we post our blog entries?

To answer those questions is quite simple. We all have a voice and existence in this world and there is just so many stories, journeys, experiences, moments, memories, being helpful, useful and beneficial information about life, travel, food, the holidays, situations, issues to address to the world and things that happen to us to share, to give our insight, and so much more. We spend time writing is because it gives us a boost, and the most important thing is how we feel, and how we want to communicate to the world. Blogging is a therapeutic yet rewarding feeling. It is like writing in our diary, but a virtual diary that we want to post public. We post blog entries to contribute something, an idea and something to share with the world.

Now with this being a virtual diary, there comes responsibility and thinking before we press the post button. There are private issues and things that should not be published of real private matters in ones home, in ones personal life. back in the day and maybe until now people have a personal and private diary, and I am sure you do not want certain people to open it up and unlock your diary of real personal things that you do not want people to see, its almost like the same thing with public blogging. You do not want to post private matters for the world to see, so always be mindful and think before you post something so personal.

Never keep your blogging private. It defeats the whole purpose of writing and expressing to the world. If you want to keep some of your writings private, make a diary, and keep it for yourself in hiding, but hiding a blog is pointless. Somehow no matter how private a blog is, somehow it can always be seen in a way.

Never stop blogging, never stop writing and most importantly never lose your purpose and perspective on why you started blogging in the first place. Never give up what you enjoy doing, never ever let anybody tell you to stop doing what you are good at. Well, nobody is perfect, however that should not define anything. You are in control of your own destiny, your own goals you want to attain from blogging and writing to the world. Remember you do not have to be a perfect blogger, its how you feel and what you want to accomplish. The beauty of blogging is something that is indescribable and the future of journal writing which is now.

So, what is your purpose? Why do you do it?

Communication Style – What is your Type?

As we go through life from the moment we are born, communication is and will always be a vital asset in our day-to-day lives. We need communication when we speak to our family members, boyfriend, girlfriend, wife, husband, partners, groups, friends, colleagues, our bosses, fellow students, teachers, traveling, in social media, sending e-mails and so many different types of communication.

I attended a seminar “Inspire For Tomorrow” at my Armenian Community center and it was about communication, and I learned so much in a couple of hours. It put things into a new perspective, it gave me new light, new ways to deliver our speech, our stories, and so much more. There are several ways you can communicate, but here are 4 styles of communication, that I have observed in my life and my thoughts on it all:

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– The Driver — Someone who is direct, to the point, detail oriented, who speaks their mind, who produces results, attaining goals, gets into competitive situations, taking charge and being in control, wasting no time to beat around the bush.

– The Relater — Someone who cares about a situation, who can connect with others by thinking of the other person first, who’s relationships and friendships mean the world to a person, someone who is relaxed, and feel cared for, becoming silent, introspective and withdrawn, being helpful, coinciding with others, comforting others.

– Analyst — One who always seeks data, second guesses people, making decisions after analyzing a situation, testing people, giving people to focus on interpersonal and communication skills, those who despise making mistakes, double-checking everything, not being able to trust situations and people until doing further research on a person.

– Expresser — Someone who recognizes emotions, who expresses feelings, and what that person wants to say, the over sharing person who keeps on talking, and beats around the bush, making a small story into a big one, gets excited, giving feedback, boring people because of overusing communication, explaining ideas to the core then saying things out of turn which then makes it into an argument and problems can arise of sharing too much information.

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All those 4 styles have good and the bad, but we must find a way to be consistent when we communicate with others, using the right tone, words, following up with someone privately about something that you feel is gone wrong, not announcing it in a public, group setting, taking up issues with the person directly, instead of involving others in the mix. People will appreciate it when someone brings the other person to the side and discuss with them a problem, situation or something going on, then finding a solution to the problem, solving whatever issue, and finding the right words, tone to express those feelings.

We must always think about how we are going to present ourselves, no matter where you are, whether it is about self-regard, being assertive, emotional self-awareness, self-actualization, independence. It could be a beautiful thing, but it is in the way we utilize it all.

Communication is a never-ending learning process, and nobody is perfect and makes mistakes, however to always learn from them and progressing to do better, to improve in relationships, friendships, is something that is imperative. If you believe you have made a mistake, do not worry, focus on the future and make it better, improve the way you speak to others, always ask for advice, always have a mentor, someone whom you can talk to a person whom you can trust if you are unsure of how to deal with a situation if you are unsure yourself. It is always good to ask, then to stay silent.

Always be confident, express your ideas to others, be in communication, always tell a person how you feel about something without offending them. There is always a way to go around it. How do you normally handle situations that are presented to you? What have you learned from it all?

Why is communicating and expressing yourself so important? Everyone has a voice, everyone has something to contribute to the world, that is why everyday in technology, and things of the world are being invented, new innovations, new concepts, context, perspectives, theories, discoveries are being made across the world, because many people communicate, and want to get out what they feel is right for the benefit of the world and its people. Each one of us can make a difference in this world, and communication is one of them and we begin just doing that. Without that everyone would not have a voice and this world cannot continue to move forward. That is exactly why Communication is key and so important in our daily life.

So no matter how we express ourselves, the most important thing is the way we do it and a way where it will not hurt others, and where we can find common ground with everything in our lives.

How do you communicate? What is important to you to get across to others? Best wishes to you in your journey. We can all do something positive, say great things and to avoid messy situations, by just changing our tone and the way we communicate.

Never Apologize for The Way You Feel

A lot of the times in life we go through many feelings, emotions, and sometimes we tend to apologize for what we are feeling and telling people our emotions. You have every right to feel what you are feeling, You never have to explain yourself to anybody. Never be ashamed of your feelings. I know they say that you have to express your feelings everytime and tell people exactly how you feel, however sometimes you cannot control feelings, you cannot explain the way you feel due to a certain situation. I know no matter what you have to tell someone how you feel, and not keep anything inside of you, but some circumstances say otherwise. It depends on the person and whom you can confide into easily.

If you keep on living your life on other peoples terms and the way they want you to feel, the way they want you to live your life always telling you what to do, forcing, commanding you to do something is not somebody you want to associate with. Find the path and the people who can relate to you, do what you feel is right for you. Sometimes you need to get out from the norm, and do what is best for you. If you keep on living your life to please others, to always try and impress others, to always keep proving yourself and working hard for other peoples approval, you are not going to get anywhere in life and all you are going to do is just live for other people.

Sometimes you need to put your foot down and say, okay enough is enough. People talk so much about you and your life, gossip, spread rumors, put words in your mouth and what you should do with your life, however sometimes people need to look at themselves in the mirror first before they point fingers, criticize and belittle you. Some people have nothing better to do, than talk smack about other people, when they need to sort out their life and what they need to do. Remember nobody full knows you and about your personal life and what you are going through, and you never have to explain yourself to nobody.

Ignore people who talk so much bogus about you, and ignore people and block them out of your life. Life is too short. Be happy, be you, live your life on your own terms and your own comfort, and do not worry about anything else. People are always going to judge and point fingers. Don’t let it affect you and your life, well-being and who you are. True, compassionate and understanding people will be there for you every step of the way without explaining yourself. Remember others opinions of you, do no matter. Its how you make an opinion of yourself that matters. As long as you feel good about yourself and bring yourself up with good thoughts, confidence, the way you are is what matters the most.

People will always do and say mean things, but never let that take control of yourself.

I have realized a lot of things in the last little while, that you cannot expect people to understand you, your feelings and be on the same page as you, not everybody will be your friend and agree with you. I recommend that people should never stop being themselves, be who you are, feel what you want to feel. In the end we are all human beings in this world, we do make mistakes, we do wrong in social issues, we tend to sometimes associate with people whom we always have to try to fit in, do things to stay in the loop, however you never need to try to fit in, try so hard, and try to stand out, because there will be people who will appreciate you for you and there will be people who will love and cherish you and the memories shared and will share in the present and the future.

Wishing you the best with everything and remember never apologize for the way you feel. Always be thankful and just go on with life. There is only so much you can do and life will never give you more than you can handle.

Ways that We Can End The Cycle of Bullying

Since I was a child up until High School, I was emotionally and mentally bullied and I know what it is like to be hurt so badly, being put down, always making fun of me because I was different then everyone else and it was the most toughest times of my life. I didn’t have friends, I didn’t have what others had when they were with each other in groups when I felt left out and being an outcast 99.9% of the time. They were moments that I will never forget, no matter if I have moved on or not. It sticks with you, however I have learned to live past it and began doing positive things in life, to move forward and to stop dwelling on the past. I have been taking a lot of new approaches to this matter and I am going to begin my own social group where people come together from all walks of life and make new friends, interact with others and just figure things out, hear other peoples perspectives on social issues.

There is always a solution and some form of ways to end this terrible cycle going on. Bullying is a very serious problem and it does need to be rectified as soon as possible. It is enough of torment, disgusting behavior that needs to be addressed quickly before it escalates even further.

Now here are ways that we can all come forward to end bullying:

– Creating small, intimate, or large social groups amongst you’re community for those who want to make friends and gather together to create a lovely group of individuals who can relate to one another, creating activities, discussing issues, doing fun, interactive, communication, group work.

– In this modern day society the importance of making it a mandatory course/subject that must be taken and taught in schools and institutions, also the workforce on the prevention of bullying, cyber bullying, social media safety, communications course which should teach students/workers what not to do, what not to say to their fellow peers/colleagues.

– Teachers, Parents, Guardians, School Guidance Staff, School Principals, and as well as outside of school grounds must always be involved in securing our schools, Implementing tougher penalties, more 0 Tolerance in Schools and also the workforce of any type of bullying that should not be allowed, suspension and expulsion.

– tell a person you trust about your feelings, what you are going through and never keep it inside you. Always tell someone you can confide into. Do not wait long to tell someone. In fact tell someone right away.

– Advocate and be proactive in this issue, write to your local papers, attend meetings, start a blog, use social media as a powerful tool to send messages, hashtags globally and come up with your own ways to prevent bullying

– Read up on inspirational quotes, save them on your computer, print them out and scatter positive, happy quotes where you can see them easily, and begin the journey to a happy road ahead.

– Always surround yourself with positivity, good people, do happy things for yourself, and stay away from negativity.

We are on the right road and path to make bullying history, and to look forward to a positive, happy and bright tomorrow. So start today, you can make a difference in someone’s life. No matter how old they are. Bullying has no age as it happens to kids, teens, young adults, youth, adults, and the elderly. Lets end this cycle now.

— If you have more ways to prevent bullying, write them below in the comments section. Thank you.

I Have Found My Mentor, My Guardian Angel

Since joining the social media world and more particularly Facebook, I have come across incredible, awesome and lovely people. Some whom I have met face to face, and some I have yet to meet. We are always in constant communication which is so lovely. It is great to encounter and chat with people, to make friends and to be in a total new interface of communication taking it to the next level. Once you meet a friend you met through a social media outlet face to face, its such a great experience that knowing you kept talking to that person with your fingers doing the typing, and now seeing them is a total different ball game. It is awesome how the world gets smaller.

However, there is this one person whom I have been friends with for about 3-4 years now, and we communicate on a weekly basis and, the reason why I call that person my mentor and guardian angel is because that person is one, which I am so glad to have met also. My guardian angel told me to never let anybody get to you, never let others belittle you and bring you down. That person has told me to always be happy in life, keep smiling, enjoy, laugh and live life to the fullest extent. Life is too short to be sad and dwell on the past.

At one point I had to open up to someone about what I am feeling and all those miserable feelings of that past that kept on haunting me with all that bullying toward me and everything going on when I was growing up. It was not a pleasant thing to go through with my peers at school emotionally and mentally bullying me to the point where I was not able to defend myself, with not being able to stand up for myself and back myself up in situations that I could not control. I just did not have the answers. Then those answers came to me and my mentor really came to me at the right place and at the right time. Everything was so timely. I just couldn’t believe it, but it did happen and its something I am ever so grateful for.

This person said to me, to never worry about what others think of me, as long as what you think of yourself which is the most important thing. That person said the more you worry and care about what others think, that is time wasted, when you could be focusing on positive, optimistic things and look forward to a beautiful life that is meant to be lived on your own terms, not anybody elses.

My mentor and guardian angel put my head back up and told me to be strong, to keep my head up, smile and not care about what people think of me. That person helped me in so many ways that I do not know and how to begin to even thank that person for everything that person said and did for me. I truly believe that each and every one of us has a mentor and guardian angel. We just have to look deeper and that person will come to our lives as a blessing, becomes like family and someone whom we can share everything with.

My guardian angel sent me so many quotes about life, about positivity, and giving me lectures and life lessons. This person has been through so much and now my mentor said to me, “I enjoy making people smile, to have a good time, to bring joy and happiness to kids, to youth, to young adults, and everyone”. That person said to me “Smiles are priceless to me” it does not come with a price tag. – I truly believe in that and its something that I find so warming, so pure and genuine.

Now, the reason why I am not naming my Guardian Angel, My Mentor and even the gender of this person is that I like my Guardian Angel to remain anonymous. My Mentor will forever be part of my life and its one of the greatest feelings in the world to know that someone genuinely cares for you with no strings attached. It feels amazing.

It is incredible on how the internet and social media can serve a great purpose in life. It helps people find other people in relative to their situation, it helps people find their way in life and listening, reading, observing and doing great things. Not everything in social media is bad. It is all in the way you utilize it. Some skeptics always have something bad to say about social media and the people you meet, but it is really not a bad thing at all. Who knows who you encounter. There are still some great people out there for each and every one of us to discover. Sometimes it can be hard to find, but sometimes everything can fall into place and we can find that person just in time as I did. I am ever so grateful for social media and the internet Because I found my mentor and Guardian Angel.