I contemplated how I would dedicate this month’s blog to volunteers and the people of Haiti who are dealing with life after the January 12, 2010 earthquake. The word that came up for me was service.
So, since Q’s B-Spot is geared toward teenagers, I want to take a brief moment to acknowledge YOU all over the world and here, in our own ‘backyard’ who served through your school, a TV show, spiritual organization, concert/telethon or fortunate enough to actually visit Haiti to help fellow youth and teens. Selfless service is one of the highest acts a human being can perform.
I salute you.
Remember to take care of self and remain focused – after all, you still have to study and keep it (your own daily life) moving, right?
Next on Q’s B-Spot: (it’s just too hot to reveal …Stay tuned!)
Teen Task: 1. Give yourself a chance. 2. Be grateful for the ability and opportunity to serve others. 3. Continue selfless service for whatever (noble) cause you have chosen 4. Give YOURSELF heart-shaped balloons, roses and a bear….hug 5. Discuss this blog with your parents or with people you feel safe sharing your thoughts.
Fun Fact: Yéle Haiti is a foundation started by Grammy-Award winning musician, producer and social entrepreneur Wyclef Jean. In response to the January 12, 2010 earthquake, Yéle Haiti has prepared and distributed over 60,000 hot meals in a pilot program that began Sunday, January 24th, 2010.
Thank you for reading. Don't forget to visit us at www.beyondlabelz.com ~ Quelyn
Copyright©2010 Quelyn Purdie
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Monday, January 18, 2010
Resolution 2010
Below is a list of resolutions and sample actions to hoep you begin your journey towards an even healthier and meaningful life. but first let’s quickly review the word resolution. in my last blog about Precious, The Film, I briefly discussed the root word 'resolute' and defined it as resolving to do something, for a greater good or personal advancement. Remember the scene in the social worker’s office, towards the end of the film where Precious grabs her two children and vows to never see her mother again? This is an example of being resolute. Now let’s begin….
1. End toxic relationships. Sample action: increase time with new friends or establish a new network of support.
2. Stop eating chips and soda for breakfast. Sample action: eat fruit salad or a piece of whole fruit i.e., pear, orange, tangerine, melon; and/or bowl of hot cereal.
3. Increase test scores. Sample action: ask a classmate who is doing well in my class or stay after school with my teacher or tutor.
4. Increase focus. Sample action: go to bed earlier; create a quiet, beautiful spot in my room/apartment to focus on my breathing for a few minutes each day and evening before bedtime.
5. Arrive to school on time. Sample action: rise about a half-hour earlier or leave my home about a half-hour earlier.
6. Spend more time with my little brother or sister. Sample action: help my brother or sister with their homework.
7.Talk to my parents (or guardian) more. Sample action: ask my parents how their day was, or ask them to share a story about their favorite relative or family tree.
8. Conquer boredom. Sample action: Volunteer or intern for 2 hours a week or more at my neighborhood church, community center, library, school, hospital, radio/tv station, museum. bookstore, recordshop, toy store.
9. Start planning for college. Sample action: set up regular meetings with my guidance counselor or mentor regarding exam prep, college tours, help with applications.
10. Stop texting while driving (walking, climbing/descending stairs, etc.)! Sample action: I will wait until I pull over or in a safe spot to text. Stop talking on my cell before crossing the street or while driving. Remember – “Don’t tempt fate. That text or talk can wait” (Oprah, Oprah Winfrey Show, 1/18/10)
Next on Q’s B-Spot: The Idol Affect: Q-Tips For Your Audition or Interview
Teen Task: 1. Give yourself a chance. 2. Choose one or more resolutions from the list above (you can also create your own) and add 2 more actions you can do NOW for each resolution. Write your resolution and action plan in your journal or notebook. Remember, you resolve to do something for a healthier and meaningful life. 3. Discuss this blog with your parents or with people you feel safe sharing your thoughts.
Fun Fact: Youth 14 years of age or over are not required to have employment certificates to work as caddies, babysitters or to engage in casual employment such as yard work and household chores in and about a residence or on the premises of a non-profit, non-commercial organization, not involving the use of power driven machinery. Click here for more information! http://schools.nyc.gov/StudentSupport/StudentAttendance/WorkingPapers/default.htm
Thank you for reading. Don't forget to visit us at www.beyondlabelz.com ~ Quelyn
Copyright©2010 Quelyn Purdie
1. End toxic relationships. Sample action: increase time with new friends or establish a new network of support.
2. Stop eating chips and soda for breakfast. Sample action: eat fruit salad or a piece of whole fruit i.e., pear, orange, tangerine, melon; and/or bowl of hot cereal.
3. Increase test scores. Sample action: ask a classmate who is doing well in my class or stay after school with my teacher or tutor.
4. Increase focus. Sample action: go to bed earlier; create a quiet, beautiful spot in my room/apartment to focus on my breathing for a few minutes each day and evening before bedtime.
5. Arrive to school on time. Sample action: rise about a half-hour earlier or leave my home about a half-hour earlier.
6. Spend more time with my little brother or sister. Sample action: help my brother or sister with their homework.
7.Talk to my parents (or guardian) more. Sample action: ask my parents how their day was, or ask them to share a story about their favorite relative or family tree.
8. Conquer boredom. Sample action: Volunteer or intern for 2 hours a week or more at my neighborhood church, community center, library, school, hospital, radio/tv station, museum. bookstore, recordshop, toy store.
9. Start planning for college. Sample action: set up regular meetings with my guidance counselor or mentor regarding exam prep, college tours, help with applications.
10. Stop texting while driving (walking, climbing/descending stairs, etc.)! Sample action: I will wait until I pull over or in a safe spot to text. Stop talking on my cell before crossing the street or while driving. Remember – “Don’t tempt fate. That text or talk can wait” (Oprah, Oprah Winfrey Show, 1/18/10)
Next on Q’s B-Spot: The Idol Affect: Q-Tips For Your Audition or Interview
Teen Task: 1. Give yourself a chance. 2. Choose one or more resolutions from the list above (you can also create your own) and add 2 more actions you can do NOW for each resolution. Write your resolution and action plan in your journal or notebook. Remember, you resolve to do something for a healthier and meaningful life. 3. Discuss this blog with your parents or with people you feel safe sharing your thoughts.
Fun Fact: Youth 14 years of age or over are not required to have employment certificates to work as caddies, babysitters or to engage in casual employment such as yard work and household chores in and about a residence or on the premises of a non-profit, non-commercial organization, not involving the use of power driven machinery. Click here for more information! http://schools.nyc.gov/StudentSupport/StudentAttendance/WorkingPapers/default.htm
Thank you for reading. Don't forget to visit us at www.beyondlabelz.com ~ Quelyn
Copyright©2010 Quelyn Purdie
Thursday, December 17, 2009
PRECIOUS: A Call To Action
F*** that day; that’s why God, or whoever,
makes new days. –Precious
Stellar performances. Raw. Honest. Resolute. Necessary.
The word 'resolute' immediately came up for me at the end of the film. Why? Well remember the scene in the social worker’s office, towards the end of the film where Precious grabs her two children and vows to never see her mother again? This is an example of being resolute or resolving to do something, for a greater good or personal advancement.
Let me interject that although the film Precious was shot right here in New York City, the subject matter, including incest, exists in the crevices of communities all over the world.
What was the most powerful force in Precious’ life that propelled her out of her mother’s bubble of mental illness, incest and codependence? For me it was love.
Love: Ms. Lichtenstein, the principal at Precious’ school (remember when Ms. Lichtenstein went to Precious’ apartment building and gave her the information to Each One Teach One alternative school?); The Each One Teach One office where Cornrows takes the time to explain what an alternative school is; Precious’ classmates at Each One Teach One; The steadfast persistence of Ms. Rain, the GED teacher; even the candor of Ms. Weiss, Precious’ social worker. They had her back. Their actions are also called taking care. And, Precious responded by trusting the love and concern others had for her. Precious, indeed, gave herself a chance.
I am who I am today because of all the beautiful people who loved me and believed in my true greatness as a teen who lived in foster care and through young adulthood. (Check out my memoir, Validation Denied, Grace Bestowed: somewhere between the ghetto and God was something called foster care…).
Why peoples that barely know me should be nicer to me
than my mother and my father? I feel warm. –Precious
So, for starters, as the public at large, our call to action is really simple. For those of you who might be shy or reluctant: gently meet the eyes of a teen(s) as you walk by and give a nod of reassurance. No words need to be uttered, not even an embrace; just an acknowledgement that their existence is crucial, and that they are great and valued. For those of us who teach, counsel, coach or guide in a professional capacity, perhaps we can become better listeners, more compassionate and be an appropriate stepping stone for the troubled teen who trusts in our guidance and professionalism.
Next on Q’s B-Spot: Resolution 2010.
Teen Task: 1. Give yourself a chance. 2. Go see Precious 3. Write in your journal or notebook which character(s) you relate to or discuss how the film, as a whole, strengthens you in your own journey towards self-love and resolve. 4. Discuss this blog or other topics, personal concerns or issues with your parents or people with whom you feel safe sharing your thoughts.
Fun Fact: Gabourey Sidibe (“Precious”) was born in Brooklyn, New York and had no acting experience or formal training. Ms. Sidibe, a psychology major, was nominated for several awards following her landmark debut, including Golden Globe for best actress. She is already cast in her next film, Yelling to the Sky, to be released in 2010.
Thank you for reading. Visit our website at www.beyondlabelz.com ~ Quelyn
Copyright©2009 Quelyn Purdie
makes new days. –Precious
Stellar performances. Raw. Honest. Resolute. Necessary.
The word 'resolute' immediately came up for me at the end of the film. Why? Well remember the scene in the social worker’s office, towards the end of the film where Precious grabs her two children and vows to never see her mother again? This is an example of being resolute or resolving to do something, for a greater good or personal advancement.
Let me interject that although the film Precious was shot right here in New York City, the subject matter, including incest, exists in the crevices of communities all over the world.
What was the most powerful force in Precious’ life that propelled her out of her mother’s bubble of mental illness, incest and codependence? For me it was love.
Love: Ms. Lichtenstein, the principal at Precious’ school (remember when Ms. Lichtenstein went to Precious’ apartment building and gave her the information to Each One Teach One alternative school?); The Each One Teach One office where Cornrows takes the time to explain what an alternative school is; Precious’ classmates at Each One Teach One; The steadfast persistence of Ms. Rain, the GED teacher; even the candor of Ms. Weiss, Precious’ social worker. They had her back. Their actions are also called taking care. And, Precious responded by trusting the love and concern others had for her. Precious, indeed, gave herself a chance.
I am who I am today because of all the beautiful people who loved me and believed in my true greatness as a teen who lived in foster care and through young adulthood. (Check out my memoir, Validation Denied, Grace Bestowed: somewhere between the ghetto and God was something called foster care…).
Why peoples that barely know me should be nicer to me
than my mother and my father? I feel warm. –Precious
So, for starters, as the public at large, our call to action is really simple. For those of you who might be shy or reluctant: gently meet the eyes of a teen(s) as you walk by and give a nod of reassurance. No words need to be uttered, not even an embrace; just an acknowledgement that their existence is crucial, and that they are great and valued. For those of us who teach, counsel, coach or guide in a professional capacity, perhaps we can become better listeners, more compassionate and be an appropriate stepping stone for the troubled teen who trusts in our guidance and professionalism.
Next on Q’s B-Spot: Resolution 2010.
Teen Task: 1. Give yourself a chance. 2. Go see Precious 3. Write in your journal or notebook which character(s) you relate to or discuss how the film, as a whole, strengthens you in your own journey towards self-love and resolve. 4. Discuss this blog or other topics, personal concerns or issues with your parents or people with whom you feel safe sharing your thoughts.
Fun Fact: Gabourey Sidibe (“Precious”) was born in Brooklyn, New York and had no acting experience or formal training. Ms. Sidibe, a psychology major, was nominated for several awards following her landmark debut, including Golden Globe for best actress. She is already cast in her next film, Yelling to the Sky, to be released in 2010.
Thank you for reading. Visit our website at www.beyondlabelz.com ~ Quelyn
Copyright©2009 Quelyn Purdie
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
This Is It: MJ Rocks 'til You Shine!
I saw the film This Is It on opening night with my heart wide open for whatever was to take place in the film. I will admit - borrowing from Wendy Williams’ “in my head” phrase – Michael Jackson was always ‘the boyfriend in my head’ since I (and the rest of the world, of course) first laid eyes on him and his brothers, Jermaine, Jackie, Tito and Randy, known as The Jackson Five; so my ‘2-cents’ might be a little biased but, if you saw the film, perhaps you will agree on a few things.
For me, This Is It is a magical, musical meditation on the human condition through the heart, mind and eyes of a great being and artistic genius who was just days away from bestowing upon us probably the concert production of all time. But more importantly, and this may seem cheesy, seeing Michael in action as a teacher was ‘the icing on the cake’ for me.
I saw Michael guide his rehearsals with great respect for all performers and crew who responded in turn, with their very best efforts. It seemed they could all rehearse non-stop for days while in the midst of a magical, joyful and soulful environment guided by the genius of MJ and director, Kenny Ortega whose professional relationship we would, I guess, never fathom. I experienced an elevated way to give and receive direction, coaching, concern or thought with great respect and love for all involved. I kept thinking ‘that’s how I’d like to be remembered as a director and teacher’
And when Michael felt something was not quite right, for example, a musical note, he stated his case, made sure he was understood, received the appropriate response and they kept it moving with no bruised feelings. Michael remained true to his inner voice while being respectful and professional.
The first and only time I saw Michael live, in concert, was in the 1970’s when he performed with his brothers, and sister, Janet, at the Westbury Music Fair, Long Island, New York (see page 20 of my memoir, Validation Denied, Grace Bestowed). But now, as a woman, I left one of my favorite movie theatres, thoroughly satisfied. (Hint: If you plan on seeing This Is It make sure you sit through the credits!).
Let It Simmer. ~ Michael Jackson, This Is It
Next on Q’s B-Spot: Precious the film.
Teen Task: 1. Go see This Is It. 2. Jot down how the film inspired you in your own creative or career journey. Include how you can build trust in your own inner voice. 3. Always give yourself a chance. 4. Discuss this blog or other topics, personal concerns or issues with your parents; just let them know what’s up with you – at least they can’t say they didn’t know, right?
Fun Fact: Rita Hayworth, who was featured in a vintage footage in Michael Jackson’s This Is It, was born as Margarita Carmen Cansino, in 1918, in Brooklyn, New York.
Thank you for reading. Visit our website at www.beyondlabelz.com ~ Quelyn
Copyright©2009 Quelyn Purdie.
For me, This Is It is a magical, musical meditation on the human condition through the heart, mind and eyes of a great being and artistic genius who was just days away from bestowing upon us probably the concert production of all time. But more importantly, and this may seem cheesy, seeing Michael in action as a teacher was ‘the icing on the cake’ for me.
I saw Michael guide his rehearsals with great respect for all performers and crew who responded in turn, with their very best efforts. It seemed they could all rehearse non-stop for days while in the midst of a magical, joyful and soulful environment guided by the genius of MJ and director, Kenny Ortega whose professional relationship we would, I guess, never fathom. I experienced an elevated way to give and receive direction, coaching, concern or thought with great respect and love for all involved. I kept thinking ‘that’s how I’d like to be remembered as a director and teacher’
And when Michael felt something was not quite right, for example, a musical note, he stated his case, made sure he was understood, received the appropriate response and they kept it moving with no bruised feelings. Michael remained true to his inner voice while being respectful and professional.
The first and only time I saw Michael live, in concert, was in the 1970’s when he performed with his brothers, and sister, Janet, at the Westbury Music Fair, Long Island, New York (see page 20 of my memoir, Validation Denied, Grace Bestowed). But now, as a woman, I left one of my favorite movie theatres, thoroughly satisfied. (Hint: If you plan on seeing This Is It make sure you sit through the credits!).
Let It Simmer. ~ Michael Jackson, This Is It
Next on Q’s B-Spot: Precious the film.
Teen Task: 1. Go see This Is It. 2. Jot down how the film inspired you in your own creative or career journey. Include how you can build trust in your own inner voice. 3. Always give yourself a chance. 4. Discuss this blog or other topics, personal concerns or issues with your parents; just let them know what’s up with you – at least they can’t say they didn’t know, right?
Fun Fact: Rita Hayworth, who was featured in a vintage footage in Michael Jackson’s This Is It, was born as Margarita Carmen Cansino, in 1918, in Brooklyn, New York.
Thank you for reading. Visit our website at www.beyondlabelz.com ~ Quelyn
Copyright©2009 Quelyn Purdie.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
