Chasing the Light: 5 days of Sunrises

During my recent vacation, I made the decision to get out and watch the sunrise every morning for five days straight. There's something truly transformative about starting your day with the calm and beauty of the dawn. Each morning, as the sky shifted from darkness to a palette of pinks, golds, and blues, I felt a sense of peace wash over me.

Watching the sunrise was a gentle reminder to start each day with a clear mind and an open heart. Also:

• Natural Light Exposure: Morning light helps regulate sleep and improve mood.
• Stress Reduction: Watching nature scenes like sunrises lowers stress and anxiety.
• Mindfulness and Well-being: Sunrises enhance mindfulness and emotional well-being.
• Vitamin D Boost: Sunlight helps your body produce Vitamin D, which supports mood regulation. * Did you know that you don't "get" Vitamin D from the sun rays? The sunlight actually triggers your body to start producing Vitamin D.
• Gratitude and Connection: Experiencing sunrises can increase feelings of gratitude and connection.

I hope you enjoy these five little photos from those serene mornings and that you also consider getting outside to find some peace in the morning light.

Women's Quarter Series: Patsy Mink

 

 

What is our purpose? To realize our goals. To shape history.
Not just react to it. To leave a legacy that inspires others to go further than we have.

 

A Trailblazer in American Politics

While on vacation in Georgia, I stumbled upon a quarter featuring Patsy Mink! Patsy Mink's contributions have left an indelible mark on the nation, yet there are facets of her life that remain lesser-known. Let's take a moment to appreciate Patsy Mink and explore some unique facts about her remarkable journey.

Introduction to Patsy Mink

 

Patsy Takemoto Mink was an American politician who made history as the first woman of color and the first Asian-American woman elected to the United States Congress. Born on December 6, 1927, in Paia, Hawaii, Mink dedicated her life to public service, championing causes such as education, women's rights, and social justice. Her pioneering spirit and relentless advocacy have earned her a prominent place in the annals of American history.

Unique Facts About Patsy Mink

1. Early Academic Struggles and Triumphs: Despite facing significant racial and gender discrimination, Mink excelled academically. She was valedictorian of her high school and graduated in 1948 with a degree in chemistry from the University of Hawaii. Yet, she still faced rejection from multiple medical schools due to her gender so her pursued a law degree instead!

2. Co-Author of Title IX: Patsy Mink was a key architect of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits gender discrimination in any educational program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. This landmark legislation has paved the way for countless women and girls to participate in sports and receive equal educational opportunities.

3. Pioneering Environmental Advocacy: Beyond her work in education and women's rights, Mink was an early advocate for environmental protection. She played a significant role in passing the Environmental Education Act of 1970, which aimed to increase environmental awareness and education among the American public.

4. Legacy of Leadership: Mink's influence extended beyond her legislative achievements. She founded the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus in 1994, advocating for the interests of Asian Pacific Americans in Congress. Her dedication to civil rights and social justice has inspired a new generation of leaders committed to continuing her work. She had a position in Congress for 24 years.
   

 

Here are some of my favorite quotes: 

"I didn't start off wanting to be an advocate. I saw injustices and I had to speak up. To me, there was no choice."

 

"We have to create opportunity for our young people. We have to create a way for them to get involved in their communities, to see the connection between what they learn and how they live."

 

"You were not elected to Congress to avoid controversy. You were not elected to Congress to sit back and hope for the best. You were elected to Congress to speak out and take action."

Women's Quarter Series: Nina Otero-Warren

Nina Otero-Warren: A Trailblazer in Education and Politics

I found the amazing Nina Otero-Warren's quarter in my office drawer. I must have stashed it away without looking and came across it last week. Her contributions to education and women's rights are truly inspiring and can remind us of the importance of preserving cultural heritage, even if it's not your own culture. Also, the fact that my favorite suffragette, Dr. Alice Paul, requested Nina to head the 1917 New Mexico chapter of the Congressional Union (precursor to the National Woman’s Party) warmed my heart. It's reported that Alice Paul and other suffragists had realized that the support of the Hispanos of New Mexico was crucial to winning suffrage, so Nina was an ideal choice. Being a strong woman, Nina insisted that suffrage literature be published in both English and Spanish, to reach the widest audience. And on that note, it feels appropriate to provide a Spanish version of this blog post too. I used ChatGPT to provide it below the last photograph. Any errors in the translation using that program are unintentional.

Quick facts:

• As a Republican party nominee, she was one of the first Mexican-American women to run for political office in the U.S. congress but it was reported that with her stance on Spanish-language instruction in schools, a drive for the employment of Hispanic teachers, and news of her divorcing her cavalry office husband once she learned that he had a common-law wife and children in the Philippines, ultimately cost her the election
  
  
• Following in her mom's footsteps of being an activist for social and educational developments, she was controversial in her advocacy for bilingual education in New Mexico schools while also fighting so that Native American children weren't sent to boarding schools that were off their reservations.
  
  
• Due to prejudice against divorced women, Nina would claim to be a widow, which is why she continued to use Otero-Warren.
  
  
• The words on her quarter next to her likeness is Spanish for the suffragist slogan, "Votes for Women."
  
  

Sienna photograph of Nina in a stylish hat, glasses, and business coat

 

My favorite photo of her laughing - she is a senior citizen;
still wearing a beautifully stylish hat.

Spanish Version: 

Nina Otero-Warren: Una Pionera en la Educación y la Política

Encontré la increíble moneda de Nina Otero-Warren en el cajón de mi oficina. Debo haberla guardado sin mirarla y la encontré la semana pasada. Sus contribuciones a la educación y los derechos de las mujeres son realmente inspiradoras y nos recuerdan la importancia de preservar el patrimonio cultural, incluso si no es tu propia cultura. Además, el hecho de que mi sufragista favorita, la Dra. Alice Paul, solicitara a Nina que encabezara el capítulo de Nuevo México de la Unión del Congreso en 1917 (precursor del Partido Nacional de la Mujer) me llenó el corazón de calidez. Se informa que Alice Paul y otras sufragistas se dieron cuenta de que el apoyo de los hispanos de Nuevo México era crucial para ganar el sufragio, por lo que Nina fue una elección ideal. Siendo una mujer fuerte, Nina insistió en que la literatura del sufragio se publicara tanto en inglés como en español, para llegar al mayor público posible. Y en esa nota, me parece apropiado proporcionar también una versión en español de esta entrada del blog. Utilicé ChatGPT para proporcionarla a continuación de la última fotografía. Cualquier error en la traducción usando ese programa es involuntario.

Datos rápidos:

• Como candidata del Partido Republicano, fue una de las primeras mujeres mexicano-americanas en postularse para un cargo político en el Congreso de los Estados Unidos, pero se informó que su postura sobre la instrucción en español en las escuelas, su impulso para la contratación de maestros hispanos, y la noticia de su divorcio de su esposo oficial de caballería una vez que se enteró de que tenía una esposa de hecho y niños en Filipinas, finalmente le costaron la elección.

• Siguiendo los pasos de su madre como activista por el desarrollo social y educativo, fue controvertida en su defensa de la educación bilingüe en las escuelas de Nuevo México, mientras luchaba para que los niños nativos americanos no fueran enviados a internados que estuvieran fuera de sus reservaciones.

• Debido a los prejuicios contra las mujeres divorciadas, Nina afirmaba ser viuda, por lo que continuó usando el apellido Otero-Warren.

• Las palabras en su moneda junto a su imagen son en español para el lema sufragista, "Votos para Mujeres".

  "Una fotografía de Nina en un sombrero elegante, gafas y abrigo de negocios."
  "Mi foto favorita de ella riendo - es una persona mayor; aún lleva un sombrero bellamente elegante."

Staying S.A.N.E. During Election Season: Vote & Chill

Image 1. shows a woman voting. Image 2. shows same woman with a guy at home relaxing.

Welcome to my little survival guide for navigating the treacherous waters of the upcoming election season. In this post, we'll explore some easy strategies for keeping our cool while the U.S. political sphere spins around. Here is my simple acronym to remind us to take care of ourselves: S.A.N.E.

Sane: (adjective) Having a healthy mind; showing good judgment and understanding.

I've never seen so many of us red-faced as with our highly charged political climate. Anxiety is rampant even before casting our votes or awaiting results. This year, I'm taking a different approach. Once I've chosen the candidates I will vote for [see below], I'm shifting my focus back to my life. America is full of stressed-out people sharing memes, articles, and engaging in debates. While I've done my fair share in the past, this year it feels fruitless so instead I will make my decisions, vote, and chill. 

Here's how I hope to keep my sanity:

S - Shut Off: Unplugging for Mental Health

In the midst of political noise, I will disconnect. I will set boundaries to limit news and social media. Instead, I have decided to engage in more offline activities and rediscover some hobbies or try some new ones.

A - Actively Disengage Arguments: Navigating Political Discourse

I will still challenge divisive rhetoric by helping to cultivate empathy for differing viewpoints but I will also exercise my right to say that I've made my decisions and don't want to engage in further discussions. I want to navigate political discourse with grace and encourage those around me to be mature and do the same.

N - Nurture My Body: Engaging in Physical Activity & Fresh Food

I will take care of my physical well-being by engaging in some consistent exercise. Whether it's a brisk walk or Qigong, I know that physical activity helps reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall health. Also, I have to make sure I am really nourishing myself with the right foods. Sometimes when stressed, I will go for an easy option that is not always the best for me.

E - Embrace Appreciation, My Family & Friends

I will focus more on being thankful for the great things in my life. I want to reflect and express gratitude for little things and cherished moments much more. Refocusing on my life, family, and my personal well-being is healthy.

I can hear naysayers' question, "But what if the election results are unfavorable and democracy seems to be at risk?" Then, my friend, you can adopt the following plan with me! No matter your political leaning, if the election goes poorly for the US you can:

* Stay Informed * Get Involved in Advocacy Groups * Contact Representatives *
* Support Legal Challenges * Stay United with Advocates *

Ultimately, even if some people label my S.A.N.E. goal as selfish, I know in my spirit that my mental and physical health are vital aspects of my life right now. I hope you too will prioritize your own well-being too. ❤️

____________________________________________________________

*Side note: let's not forget that the US Presidential election is only one position we are voting for! These other elections are so important. 

U.S. Senate: Approximately one-third of the 100 seats in the Senate will be up for election. 

U.S. House of Representatives: All 435 seats will be up for election, as they are every two years. 

Governors: Several states will hold gubernatorial elections. 

State Legislatures: Many states will have elections for their state legislatures, including both upper and lower houses. 

Local Offices: Various local positions, such as mayors, city council members, and school board members, will also be on the ballot. 

Ballot Measures: Voters in some states may also be asked to vote on various ballot measures and referendums.