Enjoy,
Nani
This November 2003 issue presents Diversity in a multi faceted light
"In becoming FREE, safety is the first burden left" wisdom from I Ching.
Interesting quote isn't it? Please email me and tell me what you think it means.
Point of
Action: Ever think of the art of
being free and what it means for you?
Write what things, behavior, ideas, habits, people, feelings, wounds would you need to weed out to be free?
Next month we will print some of your responses and discuss the above quote. For now, my intent is to provoke your thought process.
Hint: When challenge/problems/disputes arise what is your
first instinct? Remember diversity is about perception and
attitude. YOURS!
Mine is always to turn and face the wind, meaning turn and face them head-on. We are exploring the realm of Leadership from a cross cultural perspective. Here is what you are to do: place yourself in the two scenario's I present. See with the intent to understand from the other point of view. Experience enlightenment, harvesting as many tidbits that you need. This journey called life is what you choose to make it. Hint: Think outside of the box.
First Some Glowing Comments From Nani Note Readers
"Aloha e Sis, The Nani Notes are "no ka oe" (the best!) I especially appreciated the section on the meaning of diversity. Makes us all think "out of the box" when we think on diversity. Diversity includes all people in every life circumstance imaginable! God truly does drive this bus! " Leilani Aki Kins, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Challenges As Learning
Tools
by Nani Aki Linder
Seeing through the eyes of those you work/live with is an important skill. This requires seeing, feeling and experiencing from their view. Adult or child, rich or poor, healthy or not. How do you accomplish this? By learning to see beyond the obvious through visualizing. Mastering this skill as an automatic way of life gives you incredible insight, no matter what your personal relationships, business or job is. Key: Attitude and perception.......Let's try it now.Visualize: Scenerio one deals with overweight and obese diversity issue. It is a sensitive subject and one that employers could focus some serious thought to, indeed all of us since new statistics indicate that many people in our country are fluffy (overweight) for various reasons. So, lets tackle this scenerio and see how you do. Ready?
1. See yourself as slightly or possibly
massively over weight. You don't want to be this heavy, indeed once
you were at normal weight. You have tried every diet in the book,
sometimes you lost weight, most of the time you regained and then
some. On this day, November 10, 2003 you are determined to
succeed. You have found your beginning keys to "lifting the
burden of safety so you might set yourself free". Your spirit is
renewed, you are letting go the cruel remarks, sneers, fat jokes,
embarrassment of not fitting in one airplane seat, your clothing is tight,
your tired body wants relief, indeed your whole being wants relief. Most
of all, you the "I being" of self within
where all personal power lives, is engaged and poised for "lifting the
burden of safety". You have invigorating hope. You feel
challenged. You are determined a little scared but you
know scared is normal. You meditate and in this state of
oneness you visualize____________________________. This is not about
the cruel remarks, sneers, unkind looks from your boss or co-workers
etc. This is about you accepting that
you matter and there isn't anything that's
going to happy to you today or on this journey that you and God together
can't handle.
Point of Action: Stop for a moment and reflect on how you felt, reacted or finished the scenerio sentence above. Right now, this moment think of the one fluffy (heavy) person in your family, classroom, colleague or youself, that you may have verbally hurt with cruel remarks or borish bad behavior. Ugly, ugly,ugly, ugly, ugly picture isn't it?
When you awaken the thinking side of self, you not only see through the eyes of others but you see your behavior. Civility and plain old common sense requires us to practice TACT COMMUNICATIONS. Talking after careful thought. As an employer it is imperative that you respect the whole person and not make judgements which may mare your ability to be fair particularly in evaluating the work product of your employee. As a parent, family member, spouse or if this senerio is about you, stop and seek positive directed definate assistance. If anyone mocks or redicules your problem, find someone else who will show you respect in your desire to be set free. You see my friends, diversity is about attitude and perception and is all inclusive. No one knows your situation better than you, no one has more at stake than you.
Point: NEVER EVER LET SOMEONE ELSE OR YOUR CIRCUMSTANCE DETERMINE WHO YOU ARE. You have the most to gain and lose. Point to ponder: Do not let anyone into your home who does not have your highest interest at heart. Their negative enegy does not belong in your home. Period!
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REFLECTIVE MOMENT: If you have food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof overhead and a place to sleep...you are richer than 75% of this world.
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Scenerio two, addresses discrimination, this is a sensitive subject. You are an average size mediumdark honey skinned person, you walk with the aid of a cane because you wear a long left leg 7 lb. metal KAFO (brace from hip to foot). Your knees are locked and falling is a potentially hip breaking concern. Visualize! Ready?
2. See yourself arrive at a popular grocery store. You drive up and park. As you get out of the car you see a sharp polished black pickup truck pull in, a young caucasian man about 28-30 gets out. You proceed inside, many people are shopping. You see a cute little girl shopping with people who you think are her grandparents, they are in the same aisles as you only behind you. There are many shoppers. You check your watch, gotta hurry its already 12:30 and you are headed after this to your spouses office to take some lunch. You reach up to get a can of peach halves from the shelf and you feel hard painful strike against your right arm and side/hip. You instinctively move and see the man from the pickup and as he strikes you again says, "move squaw" in a scratchy whispery sneering tone. You glimpse 'hate" in his eyes. Feel your elbow throbbing, see yourself reaching for your cart as the second blow throws you forward you know if you don't catch yourself (your knees are locked) you will hit the floor face first. It all happens so fast, feel your heart racing , your elbow hurting. Will he hurt you again? What the hell? Bastard! You are leaning on the cart, you see the black pick up strangers back as he saunters off. Your brain registers the little girl with her grandparents turning the other way, no one comes to help you. Feel vomit coming up, you are in survival mode. Feel your hands shaking. You are in your car now driving to your spouse. You check the rear view mirror often to make sure no black pickup is behind you. You get to your husbands office, he sees your throbbing swelling elbow and the beginnings of bruises on your right elbow and arm. He says," what happened to you?" You say, "someone just attacked me at the store he just said Move Squaw!" You are dazed because he walks away too, it seems. No, he comes back his voice shakes as he says, "what did you say?" You repeat it again. He is furious, you are scared. For the first time in your life you are scared. Now you go to the bathroom and throw up, your husband is with you, its safe now. You just saw the eyes of hate because your skin is brown. He thought you were an Indian woman and no one came to help you. You go from fear to rage to "is everybody nuts?" Now people who know ask, "what did you do to provoke the man? Well, just tell people you aren't Indian and are Hawaiian. One woman said, my boyfriend said to tell you don't go fishing by yourself, Idahoans all carry guns." You are in a living nightmare, racial prejudice is alive and well in that city......................the date is May 8, 1995
Point of Action: See through the eyes of the first American Indians on this land we call America. This is a true experience. The sad news is it continues to happen even today. Look into the eyes of the elders, see their tired concern and despair. What else do you see? How would you use this experience in a positive way to enhance the lives of others? Could you? Would you? Think before you respond and tell the truth!
Personal note from Nani: The above incident happened to Nani Linder on May 8, 1995. Others saw her swollen and very badly bruised right arm and elbow. The bruising on her right hip faded first, then the arm and finally the elbow. The scars of fear took a bit longer. The Lewiston Tribune carried the story. Instead of whining about the adverse incidents in her life, Nani choses to use the many hurtful and distructive incidents to uplift the lives of others particularly all Native American Indians who appear to be the one social group it is still okay to redicule, hurt, abuse. Nani's experiences pales in comparison to what Native American Indians have suffered. Yet, her true to life experiences as a non-Indian adds a voice of validation, to what Indians have been saying for years. Nani is Hawaiian by birth.
It is noteworthy that neither the media or others of prominance seem to come to the Native American Indians rescue.
Nani Linder through her University Of Life and Hope is
standing tall and firm for all Native American Indians and against
discrimination. She speaks out boldly and offers positive
strategies educating teachers, community leaders, administrators and
anyone else who will listen about these continuing racial attitudes and
perceptions that have been going on for over 200 years. Count them,
200 years! Nani has several published books that offer
solutions and cross cultural awareness. Nani's
father beseeched her to consider moving back to Hawaii after
this May 8 incident, "Nani, no one helped you what if he had held a
gun or a knife. I think you better come home now my dear
girl." Since quitting is never an option for Nani, she chose to
stay on the mainland and use her skills to assist in problem
solving with results oriented strategies. It is time for the
silent majority to stand up and be counted. Nani invites you to
join her vision quest by first standing tall and speaking
out. Second you can support and attend one of her seminars
conferences, retreats or invite her to come to your community to share her
true to life expereinces and results oriented workshops.
Call Nani at 509-467-7714 you may also email at nani@universityoflife.info or visit Nani's website www.universityoflife.info for
details.
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Could you find the positive in the negative? Would you try?
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Iris Allrunner is our guest writer this month.
Iris is a recognized Elder and respected Adjunct Professor of Native American Studies at Ft. Peck Community College in Montana. She is a strong advocate for her people, is bold, brilliant and works tirelessly to correct injustice. Most recently she brought national attention to the plight of ADD-ADHD at Wolf Point Reservation School. Please take time to visit www.star.com This is a dynamic website called students and teachers against racism. The stories on Wolf Point are there for you to read. Christine, who manages the website is ready to answer questions or point you in a positive direction. Iris graciously allowed me to print a lovely poem she wrote in my new childrens book "Look at me I'm a Star!" I am so proud to call her friend. As you read her words, see through her eyes and those of elder truths. Reflect quietly now.
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How Fortunate I am
By: Iris Red Elk Allrunner A Sioux Grandmother
How fortunate I am, as an Indian Woman, to be living in a time when an important page in the history of humanity is being written.
The page I am speaking of is the story of Indian people who for hundreds of years suffered the cruelest kind of oppresion any group of human beings could have suffered.
It was less than a hundred years ago that my parents, both attended Boarding Schools and suffered great harm at the hands of those who called themselves "Educators."
They were traumatized to their very souls-forever.
Their stories are just a grain of sand compared to the volumes of stories Indian people can tell of the experiences.
As their braids were cut and their tears fell from their eyes, they were punished for crying.
No one asked them what their hair meant to them. No one asked their permission to touch their hair.
But their response was dealth with-harshly, cruelly, and purposefully. And they were never the same.
Many times I have heard people say that these stories are the past and the past must be forgotten.
To them I say that we must put the past in proper perspective before we put it to rest. We must teach the people first and then the children the real story of Indian people.
We must give them ownership of theor actions in the same manner today's society calls for ownership of actions. Is not the greatest nation in the world built upon this principle?
No, I am not about "rubbing it in". That is not my place. I come from truth. In order for Indian people to heal-they must first know that the truth is being told and that those who own the horrendous treatment of Indian people are exposed and dealt with.
I know that sounds harsh. But that is only the beginning.
Books, stories and articles must be truthfully written about what happened to Indian people at the hands of non-Indians. Truthful words that will make everyone "Think".
Yes, think and ultimately decide that no two-legged of humanity will ever suffer this way again.
After these words are written-more words must follow; words that talk about the beauty of Indian people - as we know it.
The values we teach our children, the values we live by, the values by which we think, the values that consume our daily lives.
This is where healing begins!
The healing of a great, beautiful, spiritual nation of people with the right to move over this land in their own way; in their own greatness; in their own beauty; in their own spirituality - undisturbed and unchallenged because of their uniqueness.
If you think about it, isn't that what all people ask? I believe the answer for most is yes.
We call it "Harmony". A time and place where there is room for everyone and everything in Creator's universe to breathe, function, grow, multiply, develop, create, flourish, without judging, destroying, criticizing, killing, trampling what Creator has made.
Indian People hold the answers to the troubles this world experiences each day. We hold the answers in our teachings;in our prayers; in our daily living; in our silent words.
How fortunate I am, as an Indian Woman, to be living in a time when an important page in the history of humanity is being written. Iris Red Elk Allrunner Sioux Grandmother
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This issue presents a lot of food for thought and I invite you to write and share them. Tell me, for example how you handled the scenarios. If you have messages for Iris I will gladly forward them to her so feel free to write. Most of all, tell me what I can do for you. Simply email Nani Linder nani@universityoflife.info or visit my website at www.universityoflife.info. I answer all my emails personally.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Little Brown Penny Award: last month we told you about the little brown penny award. Here are the details. Every month we "catch someone doing something special for others." It could be a person, a group, an organization. It is the going beyond the self award and helping those who can do nothing for you in return and not wanting recognition. If you have read my book Trial By fire a True Story Of Hope, on page 26, I talk about why the brown penny and state" I might even press a penny into your hand as a reminder that you are important." Yes, it is an award of hope the greatest gift I believe one can give. So, every month we recognize someone. At the end of our U of Life and Hope Year we present the award. You can help us by sending us stories of people you know who have brought hope by helping someone or going above and beyond. Just email me, nani@universityoflife.info
October 2003 Recognition goes to Kupuna Hauole Heirs of Nanakuli, Oahu, Hawaii.
To Hawaiians she is Aunty Ole. Aunty Ole is well known for her volunteering to teach, participate and spearhead many different educational works. She is a happy ray of sunshine to all those who meet her. She loves to sing, plays the organ at church without fail unless she is not well and teaches adult sunday school. Aunty Ole is going through serious medical trauma as I write this yet she still goes to work with the children she enjoys teaching and faithfully comes and plays the organ at church. She is a spirit of giving and loving without expecting anything for herself. Aunty Ole is more than worthy to be recognized for her good works and volunteering. Congrats Aunty! Aunty Ole Heirs joins the others now eligible to win the "Little Brown Penny Award"
Holistic health tip for November 2003
These tips are for education and information and NOT medical advice, think safety first and consult your physician or naturpath.
Did you know? If you purchase tumeric (Olena to Hawaiians) which is a medicinal herb, in a health food store it must have 95% curcumin to be effective. This herb is said to be natures cortisone. Ask a holistic health guru for this and other information, also be sure your personal physician knows what you are taking. Safety in all things.
Goldenseal is said to be nature's antibiotic. You must watch where you get this herb as it has some nasty side effects. It is my best recollection that none of these should be taken beyond two weeks at a time. The best brand for this herb and White Willow bark (natures aspirin) is Sunrider. The processing they use is superior to others with no side effects. Since these are all medicinal herbs seek a naturpath or physicians advice.
If your child has ADD-ADHD there are science studies using the fruit/vegetable/ambrotose called phytobears. There are numerous studies to back this up and several schools who are using this rather than drugs like retalin. If you wish information on this please email me and I will point you in the right direction. These phytobears are being given FREE in Africa to children with HIV. These are called glyconutrients. According to Dr. Emil I Mondosa, "certain sugars are necessay for proper immune function. Some research indicates that they may be of equal value as vitamins, minerals, amino acids and essential fatty acids." These are exclusive to ambrotose which is what I take and took in my miracle story Trial by Fire. email me if you want this information. nani@universityoflife.info .
This information is for educational and information only and not medical advice. I caution you to think safety first. I am living and walking proof that one does not need modern medicine to stay healthy. I do not take any medication unless am having an allergic reaction and then it is under the supervision of my physician so I can stay alive. I assure you ANY information that I recommend has been researched, researched and then researched again. Be well!
Hawaiian words
of wisdom for November 2003
He manu ke aloha, 'a'ohe lala kau ole.
"Love is like a bird, there is no branch it does not perch upon."
Reflect: If you can read this message you are blessed more than over two billion people in the world that cannot read at all. (amazing when you put things in perspective isn't it!)
Check next month to see who our recognized November U of Life and Hope honored person. It could be you. Send us your recommendations to nani@universityoflife.info. Age, gender does not matter, it is the sharing spirit of hope we are looking for.
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New Challenge: Everyday without fail at 8 a.m. or 8 p.m. stop whatever you are doing and "cop an attitude of gratitude". Meaning, say thank you to creator god, universe, budda, Allah, whomever you thank for life, freedom, and everything you have. Bless those who do not have anything and if you happen to see a homeless person or pet, get them something to eat and drink. Better yet, offer them shelter. Send a prayer overseas for those who fight for us and the families who wait and those who grieve. Realize our soldiers fight there so as not to fight in your town, your city, your back yard. Every bully knows how to control people, scare them so they run. America cannot risk running from this fight. Why? 9/11 told us in stark living reality color what terrorists are like. Stealth, sneaky no mercy for woman ,children, old, poor. Pray as well for all families in the middle east and Africa who want to keep their freedom and for their innocent ones who have perished. It only takes a moment. Imagine if everyone in the world did this at 8 o clock everyday p.m. and a.m., Wow! Lovely vision isn't it! When the intent is to serve the greater good, all things are possible, even the seemingly impossible. Make sense!
Copyrights 2003 Nani Aki Linder University of Life Cross Cultural Institute Of Leadership Strategies. You may reprint as long as nothing is changed and authors name and address remain.
A Hui Hou, See you December 10, 2003
www.universityoflife.info
www.spiritofhope.us
509-467-7714