Monthly Archives: April 2023

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Calling All Writers: Join our Blogging Community and Share Your Unique Perspective!

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Greetings everyone,

I am reaching out today to offer an opportunity to my fellow writers to join and contribute to the One Lifetime blog. We welcome writers from all backgrounds and walks of life. Embracing diversity and inclusivity will enrich the quality of our content for our readers. As long as you are respectful and considerate towards others, and possess a passion for providing informative and helpful content, you would be a perfect match for our blog.

If you have a passion for writing and wish to become a part of our vibrant community of writers, then we would love to hear from you. Your unique perspective and experiences will add to the richness of our content and help us reach a wider audience. We encourage individuals from all walks of life to join us, and we welcome diversity and inclusiveness.

So, if you are interested in sharing your thoughts and ideas, or if you have a story to tell, please feel free to comment on this blog post. We look forward to hearing from you and welcoming you into our community of writers.

Your suggestions and feedback are also highly valued, as we strive to improve and enhance our blog. Our ultimate goal is to provide informative, engaging, and helpful content to our readers, and we believe that your contributions will help us achieve this.

Thank you for your interest in our blog, and we hope to hear from you soon!

Ray Barbier

creative commons, Poems and Writings, Thought of the day

Your thoughts, your words, and your actions are what define you.

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I know I am not the best writer on the block, but I do the best I can and do it because it is what is within my heart to do. I do not write for likes or fame, I write to express my views and the feelings I have. Sharing what I have learned and what I am yet to learn in this journey of life. I only hope it helps someone to find their own answers to the questions they have in life.

Each person needs to seek out their own answers, it is a personal journey we all are on in life. We can find hints and keys to the answers from others but we must find the correct answers for ourselves. So always be objective and open-minded when reading or hearing other people’s concepts of truth or wisdom. Never follow anyone or anything blindly.

Out of all the things we experience and have in life, your thoughts, your words, and your actions are what define you. The rest of the stuff is but window dressing and speed bumps on the road of life. So always think before you speak or act and try to minimize any negative thinking.

If you have passion and basic writing skills, blog or write a book about your thoughts and feelings. If you are more the Vocal type do podcasts or youtube videos. Don’t Do it for the money or the fame, do it for your passion and to help others, my friends. Not saying you should turn the money down if it is to come your way, Just make it a lower priority.

Well, I wish you luck on your journey through life, may you learn and share much with others in your lifetime.

Ray Barbier

creative commons, Random Thoughts, Thought of the day

You may be the result of your past, but you are in control of the present and who you can become in the future

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Looking back at your life in retrospect allows you to see where you made mistakes and where you made some good choices as well. But one must not get stuck in regret and nostalgia, if you do then you will become stagnant and never move forward. Learn from the past, but do not live in it.

It s just as important to plan for the future, but do not allow yourself to be blind to the present due to focusing too much on the future. It is a balancing act between looking forward, backward and living in the present. The present should be the highest priority since the past is gone and the future is not here as of yet.

You may be the result of your past, but you are in control of the present and who you can become in the future. But it all starts here in the moment you are living. Let go of the mistakes of the past, the fear of the future and focus on making a difference in the here and now.

Regret, fear, and nostalgia tend to keep one paralyzed mentally and emotionally thus making it hard for someone to move forward with their life. Forgive yourself for past mistakes, put aside the fear you feel due to the uncertainty of the future, and let go of nostalgia as soon as you are able to.

Using tools such as meditation, mindfulness, and music, and getting help from mental health professionals can aid in moving forward and dealing with the fear and guilt you may be facing. This is your only life to live, so use all tools available to help you become the best version of yourself that you can be.

Most of all tell that little voice in the back of your mind always telling you things such as you are not good enough or that you can not do something, to be quiet and go away. Try Replacing it with positive affirmations and thoughts when you are able.

May you have a love-filled life and may you share the love you have with those around you.

Ray Barbier

creative commons, Health, Mind Exposure, Thought of the day

Unlock the Power of Mindfulness: Benefits for Your Physical and Mental Health

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Mindfulness is a simple yet transformative practice that can have significant benefits for both our physical and mental health. It involves being fully present in the moment and observing our thoughts and feelings without judgment. Although mindfulness has its roots in Buddhist meditation, it has evolved and found its way into various secular contexts and is now widely practiced in different settings, including hospitals, schools, and workplaces.

The benefits of mindfulness are numerous and well-documented. One of the most significant benefits is that it can reduce stress and anxiety. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that mindfulness-based stress reduction was effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with generalized anxiety disorder. Another study published in the journal Psychiatry Research found that mindfulness-based stress reduction was effective in reducing stress and improving the quality of life in patients with chronic pain.

In addition to reducing stress and anxiety, mindfulness has been shown to lower blood pressure, improve sleep quality, and enhance overall well-being. It can also help manage chronic pain, reduce symptoms of depression, and improve cognitive function.

The benefits of mindfulness extend beyond physical health. It has been found to improve emotional regulation, increase empathy, and enhance social connections. It can also help us to be more resilient in the face of challenges and better able to cope with difficult emotions.

One of the best things about mindfulness is that it can be practiced anywhere and at any time. All you need is a quiet place to sit or lie down and a few minutes of your time. There are also many resources available to help you get started with mindfulness, including guided meditations, books, and apps.

If you’re interested in exploring mindfulness further, here are some useful links to get you started:

  • Headspace: This popular mindfulness app offers guided meditations and mindfulness exercises to help you reduce stress and improve your well-being.
  • Mindful: This website offers a wealth of resources on mindfulness, including guided meditations, articles, and videos.
  • The Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program: Developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, this eight-week program has been shown to be effective in reducing stress and improving overall well-being.
  • Insight Timer: This app offers a wide variety of guided meditations and mindfulness exercises, as well as a community of practitioners to connect with.

In conclusion, mindfulness is a powerful practice that can improve our physical and mental health in numerous ways. By being fully present in the moment and cultivating a more positive mindset, we can lead happier, healthier lives. With the abundance of resources available, anyone can start practicing mindfulness and enjoy its many benefits.

Ray Barbier

Poems and Writings, Random Thoughts, Religious, Thought of the day, Thought's on World Issues

Embracing Inclusiveness, Compassion, and Tolerance: Building a More Loving and Accepting World

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Greetings, my friends,

Today, I want to talk about three essential values that can transform our society and create a more compassionate and inclusive world. These values are inclusiveness, compassion, and tolerance, and they are the building blocks of a harmonious and thriving society.

Inclusiveness means embracing diversity and recognizing that each person has a unique and valuable contribution to make. We live in a world filled with different cultures, beliefs, and backgrounds, and when we embrace this diversity, we create a sense of belonging for all. When we are inclusive, we uplift each other and foster a spirit of unity.

Compassion is about empathy and kindness. We all experience hardships and difficulties in our lives, and when we show compassion to those who are struggling, we help them to feel supported and understood. Let us never forget that everyone is fighting their own battle, and a little kindness can make all the difference.

Tolerance is about respecting and accepting others, even when we disagree with them. We all have different opinions and beliefs, but when we approach each other with an open mind and heart, we can learn and grow from each other. Tolerance means recognizing that every person is valuable and deserving of respect, regardless of their differences.

In our fast-paced and often self-centered world, it can be easy to forget the importance of inclusiveness, compassion, and tolerance. But if we want to build a better world, we must embrace these values with all our hearts. Let us see the goodness in others and work towards creating a more harmonious and loving world.

May we all strive to live with an inclusive, compassionate, and tolerant spirit. Let us spread love, joy, and peace wherever we go.

In conclusion, the values of inclusiveness, compassion, and tolerance are essential for building a healthy and harmonious society. By embracing diversity, showing kindness and empathy towards others, and accepting and respecting others, we can create a more loving and accepting world. Let us remember the Bible verses that remind us of the importance of these values and strive to live with an inclusive, compassionate, and tolerant spirit. May we all work towards building a world where everyone feels valued and appreciated, and where love and kindness are the guiding principles.

Now that we have reflected on the importance of inclusiveness, compassion, and tolerance, it is time for us to take action. Let us commit ourselves to practicing these values in our daily lives and in our interactions with others.

Let us challenge ourselves to be more inclusive, to listen to those who have different perspectives, and to learn from them. Let us show compassion to those who are struggling and offer them support and encouragement. And let us practice tolerance by accepting and respecting others, even when we disagree with them.

We can also take action by advocating for these values in our communities and workplaces. We can encourage others to embrace diversity and create a culture of compassion and acceptance. By working together, we can make a difference and create a more inclusive and tolerant world for all.

So let us go forth from here with a renewed commitment to inclusiveness, compassion, and tolerance. Let us be the change we want to see in the world and work towards building a better future for ourselves and for future generations.

Here are a few Bible verses that relate to inclusiveness, compassion, and tolerance

Inclusiveness

  • Galatians 3:28 – “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you, are all one in Christ Jesus.”
  • Romans 10:12 – “For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him.”

Compassion

  • Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
  • Colossians 3:12 – “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”

Tolerance

  • Matthew 5:44 – “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
  • Romans 12:18 – “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

These verses remind us of the importance of treating others with love, respect, and kindness, regardless of their differences or beliefs. Let us hold these values close to our hearts as we strive to create a more inclusive, compassionate, and tolerant world.

Blessings to you all, and may your heart guide you through this life.

Ray Barbier

Poems and Writings, Thought of the day

How to Find Your Passion and Turn It Into a Career

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We all have dreams and aspirations in life. We all want to do something that makes us happy and fulfilled. We all want to make a difference in the world. But how do we find our passion and turn it into a career?

Many people struggle with this question. They feel stuck in a job that doesn’t suit them. They feel bored and unchallenged. They feel like they’re wasting their time and potential. They feel like they’re living someone else’s life.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. You can find your passion and turn it into a career. You can do something that you love and get paid for it. You can create your own destiny and live your own life.

But how do you do that? How do you find your passion and turn it into a career? Well, there’s no magic formula or easy answer. It’s a process that requires some exploration, discovery, and experimentation. It’s a journey that takes some time and effort. But it’s worth it.

In this blog post, I’ll share with you some tips on how to find your passion and turn it into a career. These tips are based on my own experience and research. They’re not definitive or absolute. They’re just suggestions that might help you along the way.

Tip #1: Explore Your Interests

The first tip is to explore your interests. What are the things that you enjoy doing in your spare time? What are the topics that you’re curious about? What are the skills that you want to learn or improve?

These are clues to your passion. They’re indicators of what makes you happy and excited. They’re signs of what you’re naturally good at or drawn to.

So make a list of all the things that interest you, no matter how big or small. Don’t limit yourself by thinking about what’s realistic or profitable. Just write down everything that comes to your mind.

Then, try to find ways to pursue these interests. You can take online courses, read books, watch videos, join communities, attend events, volunteer, or do anything else that helps you learn more about your interests. The more you explore, the more you’ll discover what you’re passionate about.

Tip #2: Identify Your Strengths

The second tip is to identify your strengths. What are the things that you’re good at? What are the talents that you have? What are the compliments that you receive from others?

These are clues to your passion too. They’re indicators of what makes you confident and competent. They’re signs of what you can offer to the world.

So make a list of all the things that you’re good at, no matter how big or small. Don’t be modest or self-critical. Just write down everything that comes to your mind.

Then, try to find ways to use these strengths. You can offer your services, create a portfolio, start a blog, join a team, or do anything else that helps you showcase your strengths. The more you use them, the more you’ll develop your confidence and competence.

Tip #3: Experiment with Different Options

The third tip is to experiment with different options. What are the possible ways that you can turn your passion into a career? What are the opportunities that are available to you? What are the risks and rewards of each option?

These are clues to your passion as well. They’re indicators of what makes you challenged and satisfied. They’re signs of what you can achieve in life.

So make a list of all the possible options that you can think of, no matter how big or small. Don’t be afraid or hesitant. Just write down everything that comes to your mind.

Then, try to test these options. You can do research, conduct interviews, take internships, start side projects, or do anything else that helps you validate these options. The more you test them, the more you’ll learn what works and what doesn’t.

Finding your passion and turning it into a career is not a one-time event. It’s a process of exploration, discovery, and experimentation. It may take some time and effort, but it’s worth it.

Because when you find your passion and turn it into a career, you’ll be happier and more successful in life.

You’ll be doing something that you love and love what you do.

You’ll be creating your own destiny and living your own life.

And that’s what life is all about

Random Thoughts

The older generation has so much to give

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The aging population in the world has been cast aside, and modern society looks upon the older generations as disposable. Politicians see the elderly as a financial burden due to social security and Medicare costs and have forgotten the many years of work and taxes the older generation had contributed to our great nation. The saddest part of all is that the good part of those wanting to do away with social security and so on, are old enough or close to the age of being recipients of social security.

This modern world is for the younger generation to enjoy and the elderly or older generation is considered disposable in many people’s eyes. Those who are the parents and grandparents of the current generation are no longer considered important to a percentage of those in power and in our population. The same people who got us to the moon revolutionized the technology industry, built skyscrapers, and raised the current generation are now looked upon as unimportant.

The not-quite-elderly, those in their 50’s suffer a lot of age discrimination when it comes to employment, either they have a hard time finding work or they get forced out of their job when employers hire younger staff to replace them and/or take the hours they once had. Experience and loyalty do not count for much nowadays in the workforce, it is all about being young, the quantity of work over quality, and in some cases, it is about physical beauty and so on.

I will say at least the federal government is stepping up when it comes to young children, but they sure drop the ball when it comes to the older generation and those not fortunate enough to have children. Life is precious be it in the spring, summer, fall, or even winter of its existence. To overlook or cast aside life in any of its seasons is wrong.

There is enough inequality and inequity in this world as it is, do we have to add to it by categorizing a certain age group as 2nd class citizens? We all are Americans, regardless of our age, sex, religion, color, or political affiliation. Seems we humans get too stuck on separating ourselves by labels and categories, falling prey to elitism and bigotry. No one is disposable, no one is lesser nor is anyone greater. We all matter, and we all are human beings.

The older generation has so much to give, wisdom from experience, stories of their lives that are memories of not-so-recent history, and most of all their love and companionship.

Ray Barbier

creative commons, Poems and Writings, Random Thoughts, Thought of the day, Thought's on World Issues, Ukraine

Will we move forward or will we move backward in our society?

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Children are exploited and forced to work jobs that are dangerous and should only be worked by adults. A sheriff and others spouting racist remarks and talking of murder or assassination of a reporter. Immigration problems and mass shootings are being sidelined for partisan politics and profit.

Ukraine, Russia, and China being a thorns in the side of the West, a battle of powers for what each side thinks is right. Countries raising the age for retirement which only adds to the suffering of the older population. Taxation is geared to make the working class shoulder the burden as the wealthy pay less.

Once again a security leak puts many in danger and all for an ego boost for a lost young soldier. We suffer severe weather, yet there is still disbelief in global warming and the science behind it. Book banning brings back fears of censorship and information control. The freedoms and rights of one group are attacked for the fears of another.

Compromises are rare due to the polarization of politics and the partisan agenda of both parties. Moderates of both parties are becoming rare and those who are moderate, keep quiet as the political divide grows. It is a time of rebirth it seems, and with birth comes great pain and disturbances.

The question is, Which way will humanity go? Will they seek out the path of inclusion and progress or one of status quo and stagnation? Will we move forward or will we move backward in our society? Can we come together for the betterment of all humanity or will we fall apart as a society?

The choice is in each individual’s hands and it is something we all have to take part in. Raise your voice to be heard and let your vision of what our future should look like be heard. Silence only allows others to make the choices that you will have to live with.

Be heard, be seen, and be open to compromise and new ideas my friends. Grow as an individual and contribute to the growth of the world and society we live in.

Ray Barbier

Poems and Writings

We live our lives in a linear fashion as the universe deals in its circular motion.

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We live our lives in a linear fashion as the universe deals in its circular motion. We spend our time looking for the light as we stumble in the dark. Ever reaching out for a connection with others as we blind ourselves to the connection we have to everything.

We fear what we do not know or understand as we hate what we see in others that we first hate within ourselves. We can not forgive ourselves so we find it hard to forgive others. Yet we love others far easier than ourselves and find ourselves still feeling alone.

We need to let go of preconceived notions and embrace the commonality between all things. We need to open up to possibilities instead of closing off new opportunities. We seek acceptance of others but find it hard to accept ourselves.

We all are part of the whole, yet we hold on to the misconception that we are totally individual and alone. We distance ourselves from others in a sad attempt to keep ourselves free of pain. Being distant only brings us emptiness and feeds the loneliness within us.

Hope is what we seek, but some of us seem to embrace that which is bleak, Faith is what we desire to obtain but doubting is a habit we find hard to quit. Questioning is good only if it leads us to some kind of epiphany or truth.

We live our lives in a linear fashion as the universe deals in its circular motion. Walking the path of life step by step putting one foot after the other. Evolving as an individual and as a species within the infinite vastness of the universe.

creative commons, Poems and Writings, Random Thoughts, Thought of the day

Learn to love unconditionally, be compassionate and find understanding for your fellow humans

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Hate is a very infectious and overwhelming emotion, it consumes you when it is in your heart. It blinds you to the love around you and it keeps you from being able to love those around you. Hate can come from fear, it can come from the feeling of not being in control, it has many sources but only love can help stop the hate.

We as humans get too wrapped up in our own minds to listen to our hearts sometimes. We tend to join in with what our peers think or do too quickly and without thinking about how it will affect others and ourselves. We also tend to like to rally against a common enemy or cause, it makes us feel like we are a part of something. We forget to look and think for ourselves when we get too focused on the moment.

Most religions teach us to love each other and embrace forgiveness. Unfortunately, some people get too wrapped up in seeing the sins of others instead of seeing the actual person that is sinning. They should love everyone for who and what they are, for no one is perfect and no one can live life without sinning in one way or another. You do not have to agree with how everyone else chooses to live their life, you however should respect everyone’s right to choose how they want to live.

I believe and have been taught that we all have been given the right to choose our paths in life, free will, and all. Who are we to say how another person must live or worship? We are not here to judge one another or to dictate how others should live or behave, we are here to help and love one another. Look beyond a person’s mistakes, sins, color, religion, or any other thing that you may want to dislike and see the person beneath all of that.

That person you are persecuting, hating, or harassing because of the choices you dislike is a human being. They are someone’s father, mother, sister, brother, daughter, or son. They could have been your friend or the person who could have helped you down the road when you needed help.

This world is already hard enough to live in, so why create more anger and pain in it when you could find love for your fellow human beings? We have much more pressing issues in this world than a lot of what people are getting worked up about. We have a world war looming around the corner if we are not careful, and it won’t be one any side will come out victorious and without tragedy.

Regardless if you believe in global warming or not, there has been an increase in disastrous weather events across the world. Viral outbreaks, food shortages, and clean water shortages have become more commonplace as well. On top of that, it seems that we are experiencing an uptick in mental illness which in turn adds to the current problem of violence and crime in the world.

Too many voices out there trying to divide, confuse and spread hate along with chaos. Not enough voices out there trying to spread love, compassion, and understanding. Too many people believe conspiracy theories over facts and science. Too many people have lost faith and trust in our governments and news agencies. Hard for many to know who or what they can believe nowadays.

And still the poor are getting poorer and the rich are always getting richer. The homeless, elderly, and childless are forgotten or cast aside in this world. People point fingers at one another instead of offering a hand to help. Some hold on to the past and won’t let go of either what they saw as the glory days, then there are those that can not let go of the mistakes and pain of the past.

We have so much to address as a species, but first, we must stop the hate and division so we can work together to make this world a better place. Learn to love unconditionally, be compassionate and find understanding for your fellow humans.

Ray Barbier