http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/ What's on the minds of young leaders from around the globe? en-us http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/721545 Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:30:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/721545 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/721541
Now getting into lyrics. Words may be powerful but when they become lyric, that power appears amplified times ten. Lyrics strike a chord (pardon the pun) beyond vocal expression: they connect sound, melody, rhythm and meaning to surpass the lexicon of mere dialect, extending into a whole other realm of feeling. I've said it numerous times, but music is my lifeboat; continuously reviving my soul. I love it on a whole other level. ]]> Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:16:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/721541 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/721535
"On average, we have maybe 50 to 60 years on the planet. And we probably have 20 years when we're a vital presence, when you can actually do something with your life.
So what are you going to do with that time?
Are you gonna enjoy it, not get involved? Or are you gonna try and do something to make some other peoples' lives better than they are? Even if those people don't even appreciate what you're trying to do. Even if you're not sure yourself that what you're doing is going to make any bit of difference."

It speaks for itself, my thoughts exactly (although I'm hoping your vital presence can outlast 20 years).
]]> Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:10:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/721535 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/701649
Some argue acquiring knowledge is of the essence, yet once one reaches a certain level of knowledge acquirement, there are often limited few one can relate to. I guess the question is what is the proper mix? Does gaining technical knowledge help individual people as much as forging valuable relationships? What truly makes one happy? Of course it's all individual, for me, I think it's connections, and the realization of growth. Mutual growth (between individuals) is imperative, for as they say, if a tree (person) falls (grows) in the woods and no one is there to witness it, does it make a sound? (do him / her grow?). Another way to measure growth? Nelson Mandela said it best in A Long Walk to Freedom: "There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered."

Satisfaction is the ultimate goal for me, I need to be satisfied with my life and my efforts towards the common good - if I wasn't, I don't think I'd be a happy person. A co-worker was telling me today how one could spend their time complaining about the work they have to do, but this gets them nowhere ("no one cares" were her words). It's better just to do it, don't stress, there are so many worse situations one could be in - once again, simple words of wisdom, it all comes down to doing what one has to do to get to where they want to be and reaching for the top of every mountain.

Another co-worker in a separate conversation mentioned that people shouldn't spend their time "being crooked" (upset; holding grudges), and once again referred back to the fact that life is short. In a cute statement, she said, "as long as their not crooked enough to stomp on rose" which I thought very insightful. People can make the choice to bring themselves down, but when they bring others down, that's when there's a problem. It appears to be a choice. I have friends that live in the moment, and friends that think ahead to the big picture, and some that do a little of both. While living in the moment is all fine and good, it often defers their vision from the things that really matter; they are too caught up in the here and now - the little things. Living for the big picture similarly alters their visions to bypass the present and it's gift. I think a mixture of both is the best bet - living with one eye on the moment and one eye on the prize (the future).

Back to cyber world, I brought it up because I think there should be balance in life, and I always like to remind myself not to get too caught up in my "online shenanigans" for soon and very soon many of these "connections ' will amount to nothing, as people will inevitably come to the correct realization that they are often very fluid, transparent, and dispensable. The people that matter are the people that I set time aside for and spend time with, it's not realistic to rely on the online "image" of others for, in my experience, it amounts to little when ascertaining their true character. So, there is a little of what I've been contemplating lately: a piece of my thought train I will say. To end, I think life is a gift and people are a gift and I am a happy person to have come across so many genuinely amazing people to spend my (real, in-person) time with - people that teach me more and more about this game of living, and in my humble opinion, I think they are helping me win, then again, I think we all have the potential to be winners, it's all in the thought process (no cheesiness intended).


]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:04:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/701649 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/686607 It is the key to the future,
sometimes fleeting,
always waiting
for a life to pick up on it.

It is the passageway to wisdom;
the exit from innocence.
With it comes responsibility;
for it is a right of way
and passing the torch, an obligation.

Growth is the essence of victory,
for in it lies freedom
from caring about the lesser things,
as it reveals true importance;
obliterating the oppression of naivety.

For it is all about others,
connecting and caring, feeling and giving,
sharing the thirst and impressing the drive.
The present has knowledge knocking at its door,
waiting to break down every mould, stereotype and assumption

that held them back then,
but now; pero ahora; aber jetzt; mais maintenant;
the door is open
and knowledge [cognition: the psychological result of perception and learning and reasoning]
just walked in. ]]> Wed, 03 Jun 2009 07:56:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/686607 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/683125 to separate mind from body and soul;
The heart skipping a beat
to the rhythmic pattern of a voice;
Impressing the key
deeper and deeper.

Life sleeps and she awakens to recall
His fleeting image captured in dreamworld.
As it fades to reality
memories become the lifeline.

Then anhelo overtakes like fire,
imagination awakens and
revolutionizes absense
with empty fantasies,
fufilled and exceeded every time they are realized

Superceding boundaries of the mind,
words are volatile to contain
the intuition and passion, vigour and intelligence,
touch, taste, scent, and his light

It burns within; her blood boils,
and distance cannot control the flame:
he is fertilizer to her growth.
Only extremes can feel this deep,
and anhelo this powerful;
igniting the fire when they meet.
]]> Fri, 29 May 2009 10:33:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/683125 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/678929 limitations are on the inside.
I see beyond face value,
the surface is fleeting and inconsistent.

One day I realized, I am living. In laymen's terms, I am a human being on the earth, no better or worst than the rest. Why then, are we so often divided? We were all on the road to happiness at one point. Some are indefinatly lost in the misinterpretation of what that term means for avenues like the media have thwarted it's meaning. I have learned that happiness is found in satisfaction with ones self and others. Freedom is found when one realizes that perfection is, in fact, imperfect. Perfection often lacks character, it is devoid of that existential quality of occupying space and time, and it is an impossibility, for in the constant struggle towards it, one eventually comes to the (unconscious or conscious) realization that it is fleeting, inconsistent, and wholly in the eye of the beholder. Since one cannot control what said 'other' eye envisions, one cannot reach perfection. Fear of rejection is often the embodiment of this perceived need to be perfect. I often term my perception odd, for when I see others, I see myself. It is apparent that we all generally want the same thing (to be happy), but some are sidetracked by what others think, this is what saddens me. It does not matter what the rest of the world thinks about someone, all that matters is what they think of themselves, and that should never be negative. It hurts me to see people who are unconfident, because I know that they had it in them at some point, they have just let someone else take it. Confidence is power. They have given their power away like a sacrificial lamb, and for what? To please others it appears. There is a vicious cycle in this world called the need to please. This is fine when one is working towards their own goals, but when it becomes for someone else, then they begin to lose themselves. It is all in the thought process though, and right now I want to go back to basics. Life should be simpler, easier. Respect each other and respect ourselves. In doing so, one naturally wants the best for everyone else, and that is true happiness. Life has the potential to hit us in so many different ways, it is all how we perceive it. I choose to look at the potential in others and aim to bring it out, because no matter who they are, I know they have something to teach me, and even if it is teaching me what I do not want out of life, it is teaching nonetheless and I am always looking to learn, grow and...

I move beyond limitations of knowledge,
for I will never know enough.
I move beyond doubt,
for I am the only one with the power to eliminate it. ]]> Mon, 25 May 2009 19:51:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/678929 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/644423
]]> Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:27:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/644423 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/644401
Love cannot be didactically spoken with words or, theoretically, described with language. It can only be read using the language of love (which has not, as yet, been linguistically delineated). Love is a universal feeling, not of gender, age, tribe or race (in other words, it is blind). If put in mathematical terms, it is subjective. Love is the + 1 on a scale, with the other end hate being - 1, and indifference is the null middle zero. If this were the case, insomuch as it is measured solely as a comparative scalar in any one volition, it is objectively a conceptual absolute - there can by definition be no evaluation higher. In other words, it is the highest possible evaluation.

And by what objective standard does one measure their own intriniscally subjective interpretations? Reality, it appears. More specifically, the reality of the mind, as perceived in comparison to past experiences and associations. Therefore, it is evidently impossible to truly measure and thus, contain, the extent of this reality of love until after it is experienced.

The only proper definition of "love" appears to be the one that is factually good for a person and what is factually good is in the "eye of the beholder", thus, it is a decision. However, finding something missing in a relationship is as easy as one, two, three. This is often an escape measure from the confines of media's idealized vision of love. It is a search for something else when there is little proof that the here and now is the best (or worst) ever had (or will have). Furthermore, it is a bordom with the status quo that may or may not be the "love" of ones life, with "ones life" being the key words, as it would take until the near-end of life to know with certainty.

Love is a gamble, and cannot be felt in the absense of pain, for as noted by Friedrich Nietzsche, "A life with love will have many thorns, but a life without love will have no roses." According to Erich Fromm, love isn't a thing, its an art. It is an activity that a person can master through theory and practice like any other art. Love is something one does and as such, it requires knowledge and effort.

And with regards to attraction and love? A physical, scientific definition of love is the only definition that will be anywhere close to an accurate description of what is really occuring in ones body when they are in "love". It may also be possible that evolution has a bit to do with ones physical attractions to another. For instance, science has proven that humans are naturally attracted to larger pupils, and that when one is attracted to another, their pupils become larger. The person they are attracted to sees the larger pupils and becomes more attracted to them, and that person's pupils, in turn, become larger. Then they see that the other person's pupils are larger and become even more attracted to the other person, etc.

As of late, there is the study of pheromones that has also brought much light upon the subject of love. It appears very likely that what really turns a person 'on' is a high level of pheromones and the reason individuals have their own tastes concerning visuals is because they develop mental associations between certain features of anatomy and specific levels of pheromone intensity. While these suppositions may be scientifically verifiable and objective, attraction does not necessary merit the definiton "love", which should be reserved for when it has meaning. Hence, the question remaining: when does it possess meaning?

A postulation: throughout history, love has been defined and redefined until many people have such an all-inclusive definition that they call it ineffable, or beyond mere words. As such, it follows that their decisions about their loves are indistinct, the product of an inconsitent and often outright contrary set of beliefs about the very thing they want most from life. Our individual definitions of the word love are so multifarious and environmentally influenced (on a global scale), that sending (encoding) the "I love you" message to someone, may be numerously intrepreted (decoded) by the reciever(s).

Moreover, from an individualistic perspective, if the true, subjective meaning of words can be defined only in (comparative) retrospect, it is evident that love, as it is percieved by the individual, may be in the absence of objective and subjective verbal definition until the very end (of one's life, love, happiness). That is not to discredit the intrisic feelings of love. That is to say that it probably should not be vocalized (IMHO).

To conclude, love appears to have no authoritative definition, but rather is reworked and revolutionized through individual experience (and future perception of that past experience). I've come to the realization that making this post longer will not further my current quest of "putting a finger" on love's meaning, and somehow, I do not think that I should try.


]]> Mon, 20 Apr 2009 12:04:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/644401 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/644371
Stella Burry, a native of Greenspond, Bonavista Bay, is remembered as one who made an outstanding contribution to the community. Stella began her career teaching at the age of 17 and in 1922, she moved to Toronto to pursue studies in social work. Upon returning to Newfoundland (NL) in 1938, Stella began a life of work that characterizes her as a pioneer social worker in her homeland. In addition to the Emmanuel House, she initiated numerous community programs. Dr. Stella Burry died on January 13, 1991, at the age of 93, however her legacy of outstanding advocacy and concern for her fellow citizens lives on in the organization that bears her name.

SBCS provides opportunities to vulnerable populations for renewal and self-discovery through programs that affirm the individual’s strengths and abilities, restoring their sense of self-worth and capacity for change. It currently owns and leases 19 properties and employs over 90 staff. In addition to residential housing, the organization focuses on the creation of affordable housing, advocates for social policy change and develops programs that assist people to make sustainable connections with the workforce. “We see daily transformations taking place in people’s lives once they have the right balance of supports available to them. They need what we all need: a friend, a home and a job” says SBCS Executive Director Jocelyn Greene.

Under the direction of Jocelyn Greene, one of this country’s leading social justice advocates, SBCS has enabled many hundreds of program participants to transform their lives. The creative and far-sighted strategies developed by Jocelyn enable individuals with mental health issues to become full participants in their communities. For the past 30 years, Jocelyn has put into practice a philosophy that challenges conventional notions of the ways in which to support and assist mental health consumers. As a result of her advocacy efforts, comprehensive policy changes have occurred at the national and provincial level that are now acknowledged across the country as best practices.

With the assistance of $172 500 of Service Canada’s Homeless Partnering Strategy (HPS) funding, SBCS is redeveloping the former O’Mara Martin building at Rawlins Cross in downtown St. John’s. The design of the new structure is intended to reflect the look of the original building when first constructed in the 1900s. The building will house 18 single, self-contained apartments on the two upper floors. There will also be a common space that tenants may use for social events and meetings. The main floor will provide additional space for administrative teams that run the organization’s housing programs. The Brian Martin Housing Resource Centre, as it will be called, will oversee close to 100 rental units now managed by SBCS. It will also provide referral services for others in need of affordable housing including community agencies who work with vulnerable populations.

In completing the project, SBCS undertook a branding strategy to generate awareness and interest in what is now known as the “18 Lives” Campaign – so named to reflect the impact that the project will have on the lives of the 18 individuals who will live in the finished building. Funds generated from the Campaign will be used to complete the interior finishes in each of the suites in the new building. “We have outstanding support from the community for this project. Eighteen corporations and individuals stepped up to provide funds that will enable us to put quality finishes into each suite,” adds Greene. “It is very gratifying.” St. John’s City Facilitator for Homelessness Robert Abbott commends Greene for the project’s success. “I take my hat off to Jocelyn Greene and the great staff she has working with her on this project. It is truly the result of dedication and partnerships by all those involved.”

The Stella Burry community knows that when safe, affordable housing, effective employment programs and appropriate supports are available, they can transform lives in extraordinary ways. They acknowledge the pride of living independently and making positive decisions in ones life. One of the core components of SBCS is to provide leadership in the development, management, and access to supportive housing for marginalized individuals and through this project, they are once again doing just that. On a final note, Abbott points out that “Stella Burry has formed partnerships with the private sector and all levels of government i.e. municipal, provincial and federal. This is an example of making things happen when all partners are willing to work together and be creative in order to help 18 lives.” It is evident that SBCS see the world not just as it is, but as it could be and that is why, as the project is nearing completion, they can proudly say hope lives here.


To find out more about Stella Burry Community Services, visit their website at http://www.stellaburry.ca/ or http://www.18lives.ca/ to donate.

(Article written for InSight internal newsletter, Service Canada, Government of Canada) ]]> Mon, 20 Apr 2009 11:50:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/644371 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/644365 is the self in relation to another.
Reverberating through the mind;
Emotion wanders the senses,
feeling every minute, every acute second of passion.

And even here after the rains have brought life,
the rain spider creeps
like a second guess.
The pain in pleasure is as a pest to the land,
one will eventually consume the other.

Digging its way through the veins of existance
to find a home; A contentment.
They are a symbiotic pair,
for pain gives pleasure meaning and
pleasure gains value through pain.

One cannot exist in absense of the other,
for shielded from the light
the rain spider burrows itself deeper,
caves itself in, and is protected,
but this is not enough.

Breaking the surface,
It travels on the edge of freedom's risk;
Upon land that is meant to protect,
not knowing where the path will lead
yet sensing a purpose in the journey.




]]> Mon, 20 Apr 2009 11:03:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/644365 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/640613 on the shores of the subliminal
aching to feel the wave of emotion
already encircling, yet distant.
it speaks danger and she hears
serene;
a breeze of illusion
that feels safe
and easy, yet fastidious.
she scans the surface
and dives in,
free flowing in the current
that may take her nowhere
or somewhere
she is meant to be
where fools rush out
and waves rush in
where the past moves on
and life begins.
]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2009 12:28:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/640613 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/633645 That burns it away over time
Time that lasts one minute, one hour, one month or two
I do not recall when it went out
Or when it ignited for that matter

It is a flame that bears a scent
I try to control it yet it desires to grow
I try to confine it to the mortal realm
To change its pace, I softly blow,
Savoring it, expecting the bottom of the holder before my eyes

Soon enough thought my mind
Yet it has a life of its own; a breath of its own
It is living at the moment when I draw close to the flame
I smell the scent again, it does not fade
It is everlasting is on my mind

This is peculiar is on my mind
The flame that does not burn?
The scent that does not fade?
The candle that gives light alone
Lighting my life




]]> Mon, 06 Apr 2009 18:27:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/633645 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/618019 Waiting for the sudden turn of events
Or a signal to exit this war zone

Threats of mutual disaccord
And lust for substantial revenge
The wasting of precious time

Conflicts of culture shock
No empathy or sympathy
Internal battle meets external avenge

No desire for reconciliation
She abandons camp
Desperate to find her commarades

Eager to delve into the gossip pie
With a friend
After the bad date

(Piece chosen to be published the Paragon Creative writing journal; :))]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2009 10:41:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/618019 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/618017 Some aspect of freedom
Available in the creation;
Manifested as indifferent

Until definition makes ordinary

Posits its place
Sitting on the throne of the accepted
It is stagnant; still
Unrefined and reckless

It eats at the heart and
Tugs on the mind
Conformity in the flesh;
The antithesis of unique

It is no longer an anomaly
It is no longer a dynasty
It is no longer an identity
It is it's own obstruction

To define is to lose some aspect of the real

That in life is fleeting; short
Span of time to think, not delimit
Experience, not mimic
Witness, achieve and

Weave ones own fabrication,
Real or imagined,
Yet unordinary and truthful
To ones self

The definition is the memory,
And the memory lives
Through constraint and limitation
In the light

Forgetting what they said
Forgetting what they did
Remembering how they made one feel,
Not to be defined in any sense]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2009 10:22:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/618017 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/614433
From a global perspective, the current economic crisis is a relatively short-term issue when compared to the long-term issue of greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, it would be advantageous for government to focus on initiatives and build on existing projects that will promote growth, sustainability and most importantly, long-term profitability in the energy sector. These opportunities should provide new employment in an effort to lower the high unemployment rate.

While employment in the fishery, forestry and mining industries is on the decline, the province is strategically positioning itself as an internationally competitive energy producer. There are an abundance of energy resources ready for production. Placing funds into the provision of a sustainable energy supply such as the Lower Churchill Project is a viable solution to the problem of unemployment. This project is a significant source of renewable, clean electrical energy with mass potential for future benefits. Investing in the project will ensure a long-term energy supply for the province. Moreover, through the development of oil and gas, hydroelectricity and alternative energies, the province has significant potential for growth. Financial incentives should also include investing into the development of alternative energy sources such as solar power and windmill generators. Ultimately, a financial initiative that puts funds into developing the energy sector, while simultaneously being environmentally sustainable, is a good idea.

Although the energy sector should be of first priority for developing the province of NL into the future, there exists another avenue to explore. There are specific populations that need attention and a more focused analysis. Two subsequent ways to develop the economy of NL focus on the most pertinent demographic trends: the ageing population and the out-migration of youth.

The trend towards out-migration of youth has left rural NL with an ageing and shrinking population. As one witnesses the populations of communities in rural NL shrink, there is an alternative that may help improve the situation: The province’s unique history, culture and lifestyle provide opportunities for growth in the tourism industry. The scenic beauty and renowned talents of the people of rural NL in particular constitute an underdeveloped resource. With more focused promotion on its rich, traditional culture and history, the tourism industry has potential to flourish. Well known for its unique and dynamic people and places, NL is suitable for both business and vacation travel. Money may be invested into the improvement of tourism facilities (particularly adventure tourism) and services. The tourism industry provides work for the ageing population and may be an optional source of income particularly for seniors who could start up businesses such as Bed and Breakfasts and craft stores.

Furthermore, the government and private sector could work together to ensure rural NL is 'put on the map'. This would involve heavy promotion and a strategic effort to capitalize on one of the main assets of visiting rural NL: The fact that it is a relaxing getaway from the increasingly fast paced industrialized world. Encouraging major movie producers to film in NL is yet another way to boost the tourism industry. The Random Passage film site in Trinity Bight, NL has become a very popular tourist destination as evidence of this claim. NL as a whole is a cultural gem and a scenic masterpiece. One of its biggest assets is the fact that it is unique. An investment in tourism will bring economic returns into the future. Moreover, unlike investing in other industries, the tourism industry does not harm the environment but rather works to conserve, protect and promote its natural beauty.

In addition, while advances in the energy sector will undoubtedly retain youth in the province, in many cases, this will not suffice. There needs to be more incentive to stay in NL. If companies in the province offered to pay for university undergraduate or graduate studies in return for a commitment to work for the companies for a couple of years after graduation, this may be a good option.

At a more individualistic level, it is critical during this time of high stress and economic uncertainty that there is a work-life balance, all the while encouraging growth in the knowledge and skill set of our workforce. In this day and age, productivity is paramount. Increasing the incentive for workers in the service industries to obtain new skills such as French language training or computer related training in order to boost productivity has often brought about little response. There is a need for an initiative that will encourage workers to apply new skills to their positions by increasing the presence of training programs and the number of employees availing of their services. Programs that focus on training NL workers to work in the energy sector would also be beneficial. There should be more incentives for training. Establishing a system whereby workers who complete training will receive small reward items may boost participation rates.

The environmental revolution should be at the forefront of efforts to improve and develop the economy of NL. Concerns such as the ageing population, the out-migration of workers and high unemployment rates of the present time can be addressed with the help of strategic financial investments. The province has great potential in both natural and human resources, many of which lie untapped. It is up to the government to pursue strategies that ensure they use these assets to the best of their ability. If they pursue the energy resources in an efficient way, there is potential for vast financial gains as well as an overall bright future.


(A recent scholarship essay of mine, while this essay may focus on my homeland, I believe these initiatives are relevant on a global scale).
]]> Fri, 13 Mar 2009 09:08:00 EDT http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/614433 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/606051
"Located in Chiang Mai Thailand, the Agape Home for babies with HIV/AIDS opened in May 1996 as a response to the plight of children impacted by the spread of HIV/AIDS across Thailand. All of the children who come to the Agape Home to live are, or are at risk of being, HIV positive. Many of them have already lost their parents to AIDS, and there are no other options for their care..."

Friends of my family, Roy and Avis Rideout, started the home back in 1996 and it is still growing. Search YouTube for a video of recent additions. One of my longer term goals is to volunteer there in the future. To find out more, visit: http://www.nikkisplace.org/about.htm


]]> Wed, 04 Mar 2009 14:27:00 EST http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/606051 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/604429 The size of the universe blows my mind.

Check it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcBV-cXVWFweurl=http://www.mikekujawski.ca/2009/01/

]]> Mon, 02 Mar 2009 19:03:00 EST http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/604429 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/604213
Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have leadership in their bones according to internationally acclaimed author, speaker and workshop leader David Irvine. Tackling the bottom line issues in his opening keynote presentation at the 2009 Leadership Forum on February 19, it is easy to say that no one engages and inspires an audience like him. With profound insight, passion and humour, David brought a sense of vitality to the topic of leadership, both inspiring minds and warming hearts. David is a connector and a communicator, and his business is people. He is an internationally recognized authority on the topics of accountability, authentic leadership and balanced living. With over twenty-five years of experience in the fields of family therapy and organizational effectiveness, he offers a unique, personal and practical approach to transforming leaders.

According to David, “leadership is not a position – it’s a presence.” He educated about the importance of building a strong culture within the public service saying “we need to build cultures that attract, retain and unleash greatness.” Paying tribute to his gymnastics-champion-walking-around-the-house-on-his-hands father who additionally worked in the public service, David admits that the roots of the public service run deep within him. His father taught him that the purpose of having a dream is not to achieve it, but rather to inspire him to be the kind of person that it takes to achieve it. “This was the greatest success of all.”

His presentation illustrated the importance of life force (the trilogy of energy, passion and focus) to being an effective leader. He often set time aside for audience members to discuss thoughts and reflect on experiences with those around them. David memorably pointed out a quote that he had observed while visiting the site of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing’s Survivor Tree, an eighty-year-old elm that had miraculously survived the blast, which stated: “You can kill people, but you cannot kill the life force.”

David challenged the audience to reflect on what it takes to be a good leader. He contrasted a transactional boss who manages, enforces and dictates with the transformational leader who mentors, coaches and influences. The leader inspires through love and a strong vision. He noted that while bosses are focused on knowing, producing and controlling, leaders should be concerned with growing, learning, and unleashing potential in others. If one is committed to the practise of leadership, David advised seeking out role models and studying them. His personal role models included Washington, Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Ernie Coombs, Terry Fox, his parents and Norris, his family’s farmhand who taught him that “happiness is a method of travel, not a destination.”

A master storyteller and teacher, David took the audience in search of the authentic journey, encouraging everyone to look inside themselves for what brings their personal “sweet satisfaction”. David noted that in order to get to the heart of the public service renewal, there needs to be an alignment with our authentic culture, however, it should be an easier task for us as “Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have a different response to authenticity; there is something special here.”

A prominent message to end an enlightening presentation, David quoted Gary Zukav’s widely acclaimed bestseller Seat of the Soul saying: “When the deepest part of you becomes engaged in what you are doing…when what you do serves both yourself and others, when you do not tire on the inside…but seek the sweet satisfaction of your life and your work. What then? Then you know you are doing what you are meant to be doing.” Words of wisdom, indeed.
]]> Mon, 02 Mar 2009 14:06:00 EST http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/604213 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/602657
Empowering youth to take responsibility and make a positive change in their lives is what Choices for Youth is all about. It is a dynamic, progressive organization that works with youth who have experienced, and continue to experience, substantial barriers and trauma in their lives. As a non-profit charitable, community-based agency, Choices has a 17-year history of providing housing and lifestyle development supports to youth in the St. John’s metropolitan area. The organization has several core programs which focus on addressing the youth’s emergency and long-term housing needs, as well as their social, educational and economic needs.

With the aid of 1.69 million in capital funding from the National Homelessness Initiative (NHI), Choices opened the doors of a brand new Youth Services Centre located on Carter’s Hill Place in the heart of downtown St. John’s back in 2003. They currently offer several homelessness service programs including a Supportive Housing Program, a Shelter for Young Men and an Outreach and Youth engagement Program. As a one-stop service centre for youth in crisis, the Youth Services Centre is additionally home to The Community Youth Network, the Day Break Parent / Child Centre and Youth and Family Services. Building on its success, Choices has a new and exciting project in the works which will further assist at-risk youth.

Service Canada’s Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS) is a program aimed at preventing and reducing homelessness in Canada by providing funding and direct support to more than 60 communities across Canada. With the help of $550,000 in HPS funding, Choices has purchased and is in the process of renovating the former A. Lilly and Co. Building on Bond Street in downtown St. John’s to create affordable housing for youth. When operational, the building will be home to 14 youth in one- and two-bedroom apartments. It will also provide on-site support including a pre-employment program and Youth at Promise, a basic math and literacy skills program.

In completing the project, Choices has taken a dynamic and empowering approach. With the introduction of the Train for Trades Program, ten local youth referred to Choices by various programs throughout the city, are working alongside contractors and trades people to build the home. This program was accessed through the St. John’s SCC’s Skills Link program which assists youth facing barriers to employment. The goal is to give youth who are homeless or at risk of homelessness a valuable opportunity to develop skills necessary for a successful transition to employment-focused training and educational pursuits. “Through this new skilled-trades employment project we are endeavouring to meet the needs of an extremely vulnerable population of youth who require support and opportunities to make sustainable long-term changes in their lives” says Sheldon Pollett, Executive Director of Choices for Youth Inc.

This proactive program is well underway with the help of $98,000 of additional HPS funding through its Horizontal Pilot Project program, which provides funds to prevent and reduce homelessness. After receiving safety and basic construction training, the youth have been put to work on the site. They are receiving valuable hands-on training as well as basic literary and math skills. Homelessness File Consultant Robert Abbott said it was a great pleasure to see these young people succeed. “Everyone has potential and everyone has a dream and the youth involved with this program have certainly proven that to be true. Choices for Youth and their staff deserve a round of applause for providing these young people a home that will enable them to begin the process of rebuilding their lives.”

It can be said that employment and educational opportunities are vital to escaping cycles of homelessness, and youth are a target population. Through the Train for Trades program, youth are empowered to take responsibility for their lives and meet their individual goals. By combining safe, affordable housing with educational and employment training, Choices will provide a continuum of supports for 14 youth who have struggled to maintain healthy, independent living. With the help of this project, slated to be finished in the near future, youth have been given a chance to make a difference while making a positive change in their lives. As the project is near completion it is safe to say, a little empowerment goes a long way.

To find out more visit: http://www.choicesforyouth.ca/TFT/index.php

]]> Sat, 28 Feb 2009 10:59:00 EST http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/602657 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/597933 Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:31:00 EST http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/597933 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/597901
I think no matter how esteemed one believes they are, there are always those greater. Keeping level-headed is the name of the game. I think the most important advice that I've been given as of late is to seek out mentors: those leaders that will inspire you. Of course everyone has potential and it's all in your mind to decide what you can achieve.

I think it begins with small steps and most importantly, surrounding oneself with good people. For instance, while I'd like to think I'm a healthy person, I recently met someone who challenged me to become even more physically fit and eat even better. Before meeting them, I really wasn't aware of the reality that I ate an abnormally high amount of sugar. I've decided to test it out and cut out sugar for a week to see where it takes me. It's all about making small steps towards improvement.

I think the key lies in first, finding your passion and secondly, knowing that you are doing all you can to be the best person you can be. Many people have told me they are drawn to my confidence, of this I aim not to boast. I've said many times that it's all in the mindset and confidence really comes from having that in order. You can't find confidence in other people, you have to find it in yourself, because of course it's there. As Michaelangelo said, "I didn't do anything. God put Pieta and David and Pieta in the marble. They were already there. I only had to carve away the parts that kept you from seeing them:" such is confidence, it's already there, it's just a matter of how you view the world.

One of the biggest ways to learn about and love oneself is to help others, therefore; I advocate volunteering. People sometimes wonder why they should invest their time to help others, in my opinion, volunteering helps them more than they know. I would say that investing time in others is the only way to truly live. I am a firm beliver that a person chooses how others treat and act towards them via their own actions; demand respect and you will recieve in return, no major dogma here. No matter what though, humilty is the prize and one can go virtually nowhere without it. That's my opinion. End of rant :) ]]> Mon, 23 Feb 2009 13:08:00 EST http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/597901 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/594641 Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/594641 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/594307
All major religious traditions carry basically the same message, that is love, compassion and forgiveness. The important thing is they should be part of our daily lives.

Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.

Old friends pass away, new friends appear. It is just like the days. An old day passes, a new day arrives. The important thing is to make it meaningful: a meaningful friend - or a meaningful day.

There is no need for temples, no need for complicated philosophies. My brain and my heart are my temples; my philosophy is kindness.

With realization of one's own potential and self-confidence in one's ability, one can build a better world.

I believe that the very purpose of life is to be happy. From the very core of our being, we desire contentment. In my own limited experience I have found that the more we care for the happiness of others, the greater is our own sense of well-being. Cultivating a close, warmhearted feeling for others automatically puts the mind at ease. It helps remove whatever fears or insecurities we may have and gives us the strength to cope with any obstacles we encounter. It is the principal source of success in life. Since we are not solely material creatures, it is a mistake to place all our hopes for happiness on external development alone. The key is to develop inner peace.

If the love within your mind is lost and you see other beings as enemies, then no matter how much knowledge or education or material comfort you have, only suffering and confusion will ensue.

I have found that the greatest degree of inner tranquility comes from the development of love and compassion. The more we care for the happiness of others, the greater is our own sense of well-being. Cultivating a close, warm-hearted feeling for others automatically puts the mind at ease. It is the ultimate source of success in life.

My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness.

When you think everything is someone else´s fault, you will suffer a lot. When you realize that everything springs only from yourself, you will learn both peace and joy. Pride leads to violence and evil. The truly good gaze upon everything with love and understanding.

One who is caught in thought loses one´s original nature. All he knows are words and descriptions, when he sees the actual thing, he fails to perceive it.

First one must change.
I first watch myself, check myself, then expect changes from others.

Our beautiful world is facing many crises.... It is not a time to pretend everything´s good.

We are all here on this planet, as it were, as tourists. None of us can live here forever. The longest we might live is a hundred years. So while we are here we should try to have a good heart and to make something positive and useful of our lives. Whether we live just a few years or a whole century, it would be truly regrettable and sad if we were to spend that time aggravating the problems that afflict other people, animals, and the environment. The most important thing is to be a good human being.

Our prime purpose in this life is to help others. And if you can't help them, at least don't hurt them.

In our struggle for freedom, truth is the only weapon we possess.

...I could never say it better. ]]> Tue, 17 Feb 2009 08:06:00 EST http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/594307 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667 http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/568559 keep reading and writing my loves,
you inspire. ]]> Tue, 13 Jan 2009 19:27:00 EST http://ChristyCavell.tigblog.org/post/568559 47.55 -52.666666747.55-52.6666667