Movie night!

Every time I go to the movies it’s like the first time. Little else rivals watching your favourite actors on the big screen with all the effects and cinematography involved in putting together a good movie with a great plot. You feel like a little kid again with all the ohhs and ahhs you fight to keep from blurting out in public. I recently saw X-Men First Class last Friday night and it was just magnificent. It was definitely worth the wait. While everyone waited in extreme long lines to see Transformers, we coolly made our way to screen 9 which surprisingly had its fill of people. The effects were just amazing as it creates a euphoric feeling as if you’re actually in your own fictional world. It gets your adrenaline pumping and takes you to another dimension where it’s just you, your thoughts/emotions and the characters.

You can’t help but take a look at your life in the whole scheme of things. Although it’s not fair to make comparisons it makes us wonder if we are indeed living the life that we envisioned. This holds true for a couple movies I saw over the past few months which included “Jumping the Broom” and Tyler Perry’s “Madea’s Big Happy Family.” The different characters all remind us of some aspect of ourselves or someone we know as the plot is a microcosm of real life. It arouses deep emotions and even brings a tear to the eye for those of us who are in touch with our softer side as we empathize with the characters’ journey and tribulations. Indeed these writers and directors are talented beyond words to have the vision to bring all the different aspects of a movie together into one magical masterpiece to be enjoyed by many. The power to instil and impart valuable messages to the masses and make a difference in another’s life is a great gift that should never be taken for granted. Some movies may just serve as entertainment and while it is important to discern which messages you absorb –sometimes you need a good escape from reality if only for a few hours at a time so that you can return to real life with a fresh perspective and energy. So next time you go to the movies ---think of all of the effort, thought and resources not to mention time it took to create what you see on the screen. ©

Hats off to all the artists out there!

  what are some of your favourite movies?? would love to hear from you!

Welcome!

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A special hello and welcome to all the international visitors to my blog. I extend sincere thanks for stopping by and being a part of my world & allowing me to share with you for a few minutes of your day. Please feel free to post your comments and ratings to the site and let me know what are your thoughts on the content....if you can relate, your own experiences or even ideas for new posts/topics. It's good to learn about new countries and cultures and get new perspectives on life. I wish to traverse the globe myself someday and share with you my experiences & of course take lotsa pictures!!!

I welcome and look forward to hearing from all of you!

To become a "follower" of my blog you can click on the icon at the right hand side of your screen ---------------->

Peace & Love

Tribute to Dads

This post is a little late but there's no special day to salute Dads. I was a bit busy on Father's Day with all the preparations, but of course I could never forget my dear Dad and all those dads in cyber world! Belated Father's Day greetings to all the daddies around the world.

 

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He...



Taught you how to ride a bike and to drive,

 the value of a dollar and an honest day's work,

and even what you know about cars,

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For the guys, he taught you about the birds and the bees

And for the girls, how to spot a winner (you know what I mean)

You would never forget his jokes and games as a child...

Now as an adult you might even tell it to your kids today...

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 Dad...we salute you! Hats off to all those Dads that are living up to the name. Hope you had a great Father's Day:D
xoxo

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                      Tell us what makes your dad special...would love to hear from you!



Title for book

Hi All,

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If you're reading this post then maybe you can help me out while I brainstorm for ideas! I'm trying to come up with a name for my new book --which is a collection of my articles over the years. Having read my blog, can you think of any appropriate names? I would love to hear from you....the excitement is building!!

Peace & Love,

C.K.C.

Are you ready for Change?!

This post is quite different from my other articles but since I am about to embark on the publication of my first book (which is a collection of my articles), I thought my regular online readers would like to get a sort of “up close and personal” sneak preview of the real me. A couple of my family members often comment on the fact that I don’t write in the first person, however although I prefer not to include personal accounts in inspirational work, there is an occasion for every season.

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People often ask me where do I get the inspiration from to write. And to this I reply that it is a gift that comes quite naturally without trying too hard, and for this I am eternally grateful. Most times I get ideas from the world around me or what I am feeling at any given moment…. hence the name of the blog Moment to Moment. Right now, I have no idea where this article is going to lead but due to a recent series of events, I felt the need to vent. I have been told that my writing is cathartic and uplifting but who’s to say that the writer does not need a catharsis themselves? Lol. I often use this word “catharsis” and why I love it so is because it is a term I learnt in drama class many years ago. The Greek term first coined by Aristotle, simply put means a “purge” of emotions or a cleansing of what is inside so as to achieve a release or freedom from the negative. While I am happy with most aspects of my life, I am yearning for change in one particular area. The old saying: “the more things change is the more they stay the same” aptly describes the crossroads I have reached in this regard. To those who know me well, know of what I speak (or write!). Once again I remain guarded --habitually!



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I believe that in life, there is a reason for everything that happens. We are not merely randomly going through the motions although it may seem that way at times. Some of our experiences are as a direct result of decisions we have made at an earlier time, but for the most part there is a map and plan for each of our lives. Sometimes we have to clear away the emotional clutter and deal with the past and present in order to move positively forward into the future. If you find that you are not moving fast enough, there is a possibility that God is trying to tell you that you have not moved past all of your clutter as yet. And if we do move on at this time we would probably make the same old mistakes again. Could it be that this is the case with this author!? ha! Many persons within my environment often comment about aspects of their lives in this manner, yet there are pre-conceived notions that go along with their litany. I often pre-judge and think to myself that they are not trying hard enough –but somehow the shoe is now on the other foot. Ah! Such is life. I know I am still not divulging the full details of the source of my tirade but at least I am experiencing my much-needed emotional detox -- hence why I love writing so! When I first started writing in this regard, I did not know that so many different people would be able to relate to what I was saying and I wasn’t even going to continue, but due to the encouragement of my co-workers, friends and international visitors to my blog I am glad that I persisted. I light up every time I get a new “hit” from a different country! Of course I cannot forget my sister who is my greatest fan and supporter and who I have to thank for pursuing publication along with a couple others.

I am going to end by saying that sometimes situations get us upset and we often take it out on others, diverting the cause of our frustrations. It’s best at times to take a time-out before we react. If we feel we don’t have the appropriate composure to deal with a situation at any given moment, we can simply change our position physically, walk away and get some fresh air or have a refreshing beverage before we deal with it. It often helps to turn on some relaxing music until you find your center. Our day consists of so many different situations that test our faith, that if we let everything get us upset we will begin to suffer from all sorts of ailments and live an abbreviated and unhappy life. So, starting today, I am going to take my own advice: I am not going to get stressed! I am not going to worry about the future and I am not going to let the actions of others have power over me; I am going to accept things [people] for what [who] they are and make each moment count! I am going to breathe, release and experience my catharsis! For I am too blessed to be stressed! So are you. Thank God for each moment and for each person that crosses your path because they make you who you are! Years from now you would appreciate it all and smile upon reflection of how far you’ve come. ©



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What does the good life mean to you?

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The “good life” is a relative concept and is open to interpretation, as it may mean different things to different people. But some things are just universal I think. Everyone wants to be loved…then there are different kinds of love…which is a whole different story which we’ll save for another time;) Everyone would like all their needs fulfilled – a comfortable place to live, food, clothes, reliable transportation, the ability to earn an honest living and such. Of course, what we consider comfortable may not be another person’s cup of tea and vice versa...the same goes for food and clothing. Therein lies the perception of needs and wants.

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What you would like to have in order to enjoy a good life might be different from what you need, or in some cases what you settle for. Some people prefer simplicity and to them luxuries do not matter. This may be due to a number of reasons such as upbringing, socialization, peer pressure, religion, personality, means/affordability, size of family –the list goes on. To many of us, a good life may consist of having family and friends to share and spend happy times with, sharing a warm drink on a rainy day, playing hide and seek with your kids or living your passion. It may mean having an active social life or having lots of peace and quiet, traveling the world, giving back to charity, using your hands in creative endeavours, having the freedom of owning your business, being debt free. Those in hot climates would like some cold weather every now and then and others in temperate regions would like some sunshine. The good life may mean having enough to provide the best education, health and other amenities for your family. It may simply mean being able to live in a free country, being healthy, being able to enjoy nature, having a relationship with a Higher Being, being free from anxiety or worry, living carefree, stress-free, happy, content, self confident, independent, bold, adventurous or being able to see/hear/walk/talk/run/sing/dance!

It’s important that we can separate the needs from the wants, the material and worldly from the free God given gifts of nature/life and talent. We cannot take anything for granted since many others are not as fortunate.

Give thanks for life! If you can read this message –you are blessed with many gifts such as sight, freedom and many abilities and luxuries that have become part of our day-to-day life. If you give careful consideration to your own life –there may be many things that you ought to be grateful for, and you may realize that you are indeed –Living the GOOD LIFE!!! Make it count! ©

photo credit - nrgcoaching.net

“Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance.” -Eckhart Tolle

what are you thankful for? would love to hear from you!

Where would we be without technology?

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The world has definitely come a long way. Gone are the days of penning letters and going to the post office to buy stamps. With the invention of the Internet, we can transmit information including photos, audio and video messages in real time. We can transact business or keep in touch with family and friends who may be in another part of the world in a different time zone. Quite recently I was chatting on google with one of my long time school friends who I’ve been reunited with via a social networking site. In a few minutes I was able to post to my blog about the very same issue we were conversing on and send the post to her…she commented on the speed in which it was done and we both marveled at how fabulous technology and the Internet has evolved. Incidentally when it’s nighttime in my part of the world, it’s morning in hers and vice versa as she now lives in Hong Kong.

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For those of us so inclined, we can do podcasts, voicenotes, conference calls and chats via the ever popular BlackBerry messenger (bbm) or email. We can record our children’s first steps and words; our parents 70th birthday or 50th anniversary; a fun time at the beach with pets/friends or simply “Living La Vida Loca!” All this made memorable through technology: mobile phones, computers, video recorders and several other digital gadgets. Television, dvds, wifi, wireless Internet, routers, cable, satellite, facsimile, digital cameras, scanners, cordless phones, projectors, kindles, iPads, iPods, iPhones,  mp3 players and ALL computer applications evolving daily! Isn’t it marvelous! When we are old and gray we can look back on our youth with a smile. When our loved ones are no longer around we can preserve their memory in tangible form to be relived sporadically whenever we feel like it. Through digitization we can enjoy music, movies and take it with us anywhere we go. Commercials, music and movies from yesteryear are my personal fav as I love the 80s!

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The wonders of technology do not end there. It goes beyond communication and entertainment. We can be transported almost anywhere in the world via aviation and through the transmission of air traffic signals, so we can visit loved ones and travel to new and exciting places recording our memories. Man has even walked on the moon! Travel by sea  and shipping is also an option for us in today's world. Technology also affords us the opportunity to use our purchasing power without carrying along cash everywhere we go as a modern safety precaution or credit facility. This ease of accessibility allows us to shop or pay bills online, pay via debit or credit card at merchants or access cash at any ATM worldwide. It has also allowed for the transfer of money for personal or business purposes via wire transfers etc. Technology has also permitted breakthroughs in medicine for once incurable illnesses.

These are just some things that make life easier and more comfortable. Of course we must give credit for the Divine inspiration that allowed the manmade invention to occur in the first place. Life is beautiful. We have evolved by leaps and bounds. We are able to witness things that our parents and grandparents were not able to, for that we should be grateful. We are now part of history. Give thanks for life! ©

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Can you think of any other gadgets or ways technology has made our lives easier?? Feel free to post your comments right here onto the site!!

Get Your Wow! Factor

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Sometimes we all need to get away from the day-to-day routine to clear our heads or change our inner dynamic. Whether it is a vacation or a road trip with friends, it’s good to get away from the hectic and sometimes monotonous routine of life. I’ve realized that life is too short and unpredictable to deprive yourself of certain things while thinking that there is always time. The reality is that life is volatile and in today’s world – the life that you now enjoy can all disappear before your eyes in a flash without a moment’s notice. Sometimes it’s due to health, or fortune, circumstance, added and/or unexpected responsibility or maybe some untimely incident—you just never know. That’s why it’s important to live in the moment completely and without regret. I made the decision to explore my world and visit a new destination every year once I can afford it…even if it’s right on my doorstep (figuratively speaking) because this world is just too great not to be marveled at and enjoyed.

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You can do small things to pamper yourself if you are unable to take an official vacation. Such things include a trip to the spa/sauna; a special candlelight dinner, luncheon or picnic with the family, friends or special someone; a trip to the beach, pool or nature resort; a long drive to some far off destination; a weekend get away at a hotel or guest house; a boat ride or cruise, a shopping spree (even if it’s just one item) or a fashion make-over…new hairstyle/makeup or just a new look. These are just a few ideas to add some wow! to your world because you deserve it! Whenever you think you need to escape…take a time-out and you would return to your life refreshed and revived with a different perspective on things. Maybe it’s exactly what you need…but don’t take my word for it…try it yourself!©

 So if you feel like this  --->

And you want to do this --->

                                                              It's time for this

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                                                 Then you'd feel like this!!!!

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Wow!

Have you arrived at your Turning Point?



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Sometimes things happen in our lives to create an awareness and provide an impetus for change. Change is good and sometimes we are fearful or become laidback when things are comfortable. Many times we settle for just “getting by.” I have been reading the book “Rich Woman” by Kim Kiyosaki recently and this was just one of the things this week that led to my “moment of truth” as they say. There was a line in the introduction  which stated that many of us depend on others and stay in certain situations, often settling for just “ok” in life when what we really want is  “Great.” I am by no means content with just getting by, however sometimes hurdles in life prevent us from accelerating at a greater pace. I am quite pleased and proud of my achievements thus far but I believe that there is always room for more growth. It’s natural for some of us to keep wanting and striving for more until we attain that level of fulfillment.

Life is full of possibilities but those that win the race are the ones that are persistent and steadfast in their commitment to their dreams. Some may be allowed a head start due to a number of reasons, which are either hereditary, or due to luck or perhaps being in the right place at the right time –then there are others who progress through unjust means. Life is sometimes unfair but in the end it all goes according to plan. There is an old folks saying: “time is longer than twine” which simply means that time eventually catches up to all of us, regardless of what --so it’s wise to follow the rules and try to do the right thing. Life is such that you never know who is looking on and when you least expect it – the foibles that exist may be discovered and brought to light. The reverse is also true as those deserving may be rewarded based on merit, ability and hard work. We may witness certain negative practices in our work environment that we have grown accustomed to, but due to the comfort level that may exist –it goes unnoticed. However what we don’t realize is that it may be difficult to break out of those habits when the need arises and it may not auger well in other environments where propriety is enforced. It’s good to allow ourselves the opportunity to expand our horizons, so that we can have a greater appreciation for what is accepted in different environments or cultures.

Our future is dependent on our outlook and the choices we make. All of our experiences mould and shape us into stronger and more equipped individuals ready to face anything that comes our way. They have enabled us to rise above our circumstance or any setbacks we encounter. If we have reached that turning point in any aspect of our life (whether it be relationships/family, health, career, sports/hobby or business) we need to set the balls in motion for that change we desire. If we believe in something and we want it badly enough in our mind, in time it will start to take shape and materialize in our life. To those of us that are intent on reaching for the stars: there is hope yet --have faith and be persistent and diligent in your efforts and one day you will join the others who are liberated because they have believed in the dream. ©



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"There are no shortcuts to any place worth going." Beverley Sills