Weighing Title IX

I knew March was Women's History Month, but for some reason, I did not know International Women's Day also took place on the 8th of March.  I received this tidbit of information from an @Womens_eNews Tweet  about an upcoming event - International Women's Day: Women, Sports and Title IX. I thought this was right up my alley. I would have attended this event, because of topic alone, but I must say the panel was stocked with very influential women, which made me even more excited. Plus it was co-produced by the WNBA.

The Panel included, Kym Hampton, one of the very first WNBA Professional Athletes, Joanne Smith a collegiate athlete now Founder/Executive Director at Girls for Gender Equity (GGE), and Sue Hovey, ESPNW Vice President. These women shared their stories and offered a host of different perspectives of what Title IX means to them, past, present and future. So what is Title IX? Title IX is a portion of the Education Amendments, of 1972, and it states:        

"No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance."

Notice there is no mention of women's sports. However, it's direct impact on the subject is how many people have learned about it. Title IX was actually written to give women an even academic playing field, though it also paved a way for women to utilize their athletic ability to further their education and careers.

Title IX's Influence on the Panel

Kym Hampton was the first to touch upon, how her access to sports changed her life. Kym was meek and shy because she was always tall for her age. It was her career path in the sports industry, that allowed her to stand beautifully in front of a group of women and talk with confidence and ease.  I wouldn't use meek as an adjective to describe the Kym Hampton of today.  But how could she not develop, with the experiences she could realize through sports? For instance, she left her hometown to play for Arizona State.  She then traveled overseas to continue her career, only to return to America to break history, completing the very first jump ball with Lisa Leslie as a professional WNBA player. Now, she helps to organize a grass roots approach to spread the word about the WNBA, and The New York Liberty. Learn more about Kym at www.KymHampton.com.

Joanne Smith was also a College Athlete, for the division two Bowie State.  However, she talked about how she was a first generation Haitian immigrant who  received a basketball scholarship when her peers were not graduating. She has realized in hindsight, after moving to New York, that if she lived in New York, she would have been a "Stoop Girl," hanging on the corner and not thinking about furthering her education. She realizes this is reality for many residents in the community where she founded Girls for GenEquity (GGE), which promotes physical, psychological, social and economic well-being of girls, women and ultimately, the entire community. She also co-wrote the book, Hey Shorty! A Guide to Combating Sexual Harassment and Violence in  Schools and on the Streets.

Sue Hovey, did not play college basketball, but she did play in High School.  She talked about how Title IX has allowed foreign athletes to come to America to play sports. She also spoke about the new ESPNW channel, and how 2012 was the Year of the Women. She is happy with the direction ESPNW is taking with a very diverse staff, and a separate site dedicated to Title IX. ESPN has found a growth area in women, and now they are working on finding out how to capitalize on key moments and market the women's sports industry.

There is still a fight for Title IX

As I mentioned before, many people associate Title IX with sports, though there are ten areas in which it covers including: Access to Higher Education, Career Education, Education for Pregnant and Parenting Students, Employment, Learning Environment, Math and Science, Sexual Harassment, Standardized Testing and Technology.  As of today, thousands of schools are still not in compliance with this law. Here is a quick review of cases under Title IX.

Title IX has helped to change the lives of millions of women across the globe, and there is still a cry for more.  As Kym Hampton sung to the group of women celebrating International Women's Day, "We've only just begun...." Title IX and the enforcement of Title IX definitely Weighs a Ton, it's a Priority!

Weighing Title IX
Submitted by: Jamees Wright

Weight Total: 1 Ton Priority

Weighing Speaking Things into Fruition an Eli Manning Story...

If you are into football, you heard about it. A question was asked, and an answer was given. Eli Manning was asked, "Do you feel you are an elite quarterback, in the same class with Tom Brady?" He answered back with what I have always thought as the most acceptable answer, "“I consider myself in that class,” Manning said assuredly.

What other answer should we have expected from Eli? Should he have said that he doesn't quite match up, should he have said he wasn't elite? When you are asked your worth, do you shoot for the stars or do you aim for the trees? What if Eli Manning had said he wasn't elite, would he be a second time Super Bowl MVP today? I think his chances would have decreased significantly.  For how can you bring forth greatness if you don't believe it exists in you?

One of the aspects of believing in yourself, I was taught by my older brother Anthony, at a very young age in reference to basketball.  He told me, "Jamees if you practice hard, and know that you have practiced harder than anyone else, it is easy to believe you deserve to be on the court, that you deserve to take the last shot, that you deserve to say you are one of the best players."  What many people do not know about Eli is how hard working he is beyond practice, how he works with his receivers beyond the call of duty.  This is how he was able to win a second championship with a different set of receivers, and how he constantly helps to make a name for unknown receivers.  It is the practice and the hard work that allows you to believe and speak things into fruition. 

However practice is behind the scenes, and so many do not see this side of greatness.  So instead my younger brother Jerome and I scoped the backlash Eli received for answering this question honestly.  He received snickers from panelists, hands thrown up in disbelief, and angry comparisons spewing out of the mouths of nonbelievers. He was even discredited for the Super Bowl championship he already won. (In my opinion, there was no need for that.) But this type of feedback happens, especially when you believe in yourself when others are not quite convinced.  This happens when you dare to write history in advance when others can not see it. This happens when you speak things into fruition.

Eli Manning wrote history, he created a story and he became to everyone else what he already knew he was an Elite Quarterback.  Not only that, he did it in a way that proved that his first Championship was not a fluke. And while I mentioned the word fluke, let me clearly define it as an accidental advantage, stroke of good luck, a chance happening. All those who have won a Super Bowl, and have attempted to win any competitive game knows that a bit of luck is definitely involved underneath a skill set. However, in the NFL playoffs, when you are battling the best of the best in one of the most competitive games out there a fluke happening could only help so much.

A fluke could be defined as Baltimore missing a kick that would have sent them into overtime, allowing The Patriots to participate in this year's Super Bowl. However, a fluke is not a game winning drive when a touchdown is needed. No matter how you twist and turn that scenario, skills had to be involved. I say all that to say this, for those who thought it was a fluke before, they were able to see what a fluke could not produce which is a repeat winning drive for a touchdown to win the Super Bowl against the Patriots.

I love Brady, and his second lost to Eli Manning doesn't take away from his elite status.  But what it does, is confirm Eli Manning's place right beside him.  Many play on Eli's name, saying you can't spell Elite without Eli, but my favorite play on words is the fact you can't spell Believe without Eli. 

I learned a lot from Eli this year, I learned what it truly means to believe in yourself when others don't.  I learned to speak the truth about who I believe I am and perhaps it can come true. Thanks a lot Eli Manning and the NY Giants for a fantastic, fantasy year, that was in no way a fluke! And for helping me to learn that Speaking Things into Fruition is worth a ton, a serious priority for all.

Weighing Speaking Things into Fruition
Submitted by: Jamees Wright

Weight Total: 1 Ton Priority

Weighing REVEAL Volunteering

Last week I had the pleasure to volunteer at the REVEAL VALENTINE'S MAKEOVER EVENT!

REVEAL is a grassroots movement in New York City that aims to foster uplifting experiences for women healing from domestic violence. 

And that they did!  This group of volunteers, helped to pamper these women who were unfortunately, cruelly taken advantage of at least one time in their lives. 

These handpicked women were pampered with free jewelry, skin care, outfit(s), makeup, hair styling and more! It was one day for them to feel like a queen.  They were also given gift bags to be admired by the stars, filled with items from Revlon, Maybelline, Fructis, Avon and more!

As a host throughout the event, I transferred 4 women from station to station. Each woman was different, and dealing with their struggles in their own unique way.  However, they shared an appreciation for the event, an uplifted spirit within their journey and a smile that I will remember forever.

All that said, I believe what gave me the most joy, was watching the volunteers. These volunteers gave 100%, they worked as a team all for the benefit of others. This is what I admired the most and is the vision that I hope will encourage others to volunteer at a charity of their choice. Give 100% and make others happy, even if it's one day at a time!

 

Weighing REVEAL Volunteering
Submitted by: Jamees Wright

Weight Total: 600lbs Good Decision

Weighing Girl's Night Out

I just recently had a girl’s night out with some very old friends, new friends and friends to be, the one thing we all had in common was that we were all women. We weren’t the same age or nationality, but it was clear that we were all females. And we made the effort to get together. It made me question, “What is the value of a girl’s night out?”

Well first let me start at the very beginning. Who organized this event? It takes a special woman to organize a girl’s night out, someone with good intentions in mind, and who understands the value of a night with just the girls. And it’s not an easy feat. Point proven when it was asked during our dinner who would organize the next event, no one volunteered. So sometimes it’s the same person who organizes all the events, like I said she is a special woman with a clear understanding of the importance of getting together with her girls.

I perused the email blasts daily as the event was fine tuned, there was an excitement, a common interest, suggestions, jokes, references, we were communicating and getting together well before the dinner even took place. It was virtual fun, all done electronically. However, it’s actually showing up to the restaurant, seeing an array of beautiful smiling faces upon your arrival that can make a tough and trying week melt before your eyes.

It’s a wonderful thing to have a man’s eyes look upon you in interest or admiration, but to have a group of ladies smiling because you’re in their presence has its own unique charm. These women like you for you, and usually there is no hidden agenda, they enjoy your company, and you enjoy theirs and that is why the extra effort was made to get together. It’s even better when you’re not going boy shopping, which we weren’t it was all about the company of women who enjoy each other...how fun!

This specific occasion was only a dinner but in this short time, I learned so much. I learned about one newlywed and her plans on starting a family, another making a move to buy a place in Queens, another interviewed by Marie Claire Magazine because of her successful Ice Cream Shop. I also got some things off my chest, shared ideas, gained support and new energy towards my dreams and goals and hopefully the same was felt by others.

We also conducted a Secret Santa post dinner. As the women opened their gifts, you could see women who put real thought into their gifts. Women who thought like women and gave like women and who wanted to make another woman happy. It was said at the end of the dinner that the event was fun and successful. I thought about it on my journey home, and I had to agree this event was everything I had hoped it to be and more. I can’t wait to do it again.

In commemoration of this thought, I am volunteering to organize the next event. Why, you may ask because I truly feel that a girl’s night out weighs a ton, it’s a priority.

Weighing Girl's Night Out
Submitted by: Jamees Wright
Weight Total: 1 Ton Priority

Weighing Defensive Living

Lately, while driving, I've noticed repeatedly that if I lived life like I am supposed to drive, I would avoid many life errors.  I am learning that defensive driving techniques transferred over to life can help me to become more successful in this game of life.

Defensive Driving can equal Defensive Living?

According to the National Safety Council's Defensive Driving Course, to drive defensively is driving to save lives, time and money in spite of the conditions around you and the actions of others. What a great life goal! Everyday we begin our day on what many call the road of life.  Let me ask you, are you defensive living?

You are in the driver seat of your life. It is up to you to learn the techniques of defensive living.  Though other people may not understand how to live a happy helpful life, you must accept it.  And quite frankly,  defensive living is designed for that purpose. If done accurately, it will prepare you for situations when you must interact with those who aren't looking out for your best interest as well as when you find yourself in an atmosphere that can be considered difficult or maybe just a little out of the norm.

Accidents

Car accidents are easy to describe as detrimental, but do we ever view our words or actions towards other people in the same way? Sometimes we have social accidents. Life accidents where we have the option to do the right thing, perhaps save a life, save time and money in spite of our conditions. How about this, have you ever found yourself blaming another for bad moments in our life? How could you have prevented it?

Defensive Living, means preparing and understanding the people around you and appreciating the fact that most hiccups can be avoided if we take the necessary steps to avoid them. We must understand the dangers around us natural and unnatural so that we may prepare for them if they may ever occur.

Tickets

Tickets! Don't they just make you want to scream? We all hate penalties. We don't like when we hear, "You owe us." Especially when we are paying the price for something we don't even want...a parking ticket. Nevertheless, how do we avoid them? The easiest answer is to obey the rules. That is simple enough, and it's true, but there is more to it than that.  Most people want to obey the law, or follow the rules. However, there is an additional step to avoiding tickets, you have to be able to read the signs.

And in reality, the first step to reading signs is to look for them.  When you park you must look for the signs to read, when you are driving on the expressway, or even down the street you have to look for the signs to read so that you don't make a mistake that will reward you with a ticket.

So how does this apply to life? Very easy, look for the signs to read. When you are driving your eyes are supposed to be focused on the road, and when you are living you should also focus on the road of life.  After a while, you begin to recognize situations. For instance, when you get into a residential area, you begin to look for Stop Signs.  In life,  scenarios can begin to become familiar as well, and at that moment don't ignore it, look for the signs, and suddenly you will know what to do. Because what do signs do? They direct you.

In reality, I can probably go through a hundred plus scenarios that demonstrate how driving can reflect life.  I think the point is that when you are driving, for most of us, we get into a serious, focused mode.  We begin to think defensively. We want to be safe. We want to make the right decisions.  If we lived everyday with that mindset of a driver, I think we could be better prepared for life.  Living like you are defensive driving, also known as defensive living is weighed in at 800lbs, not a ton in consideration of those who do not drive...yet.

Weighing Defensive Living
Submitted by: Jamees Wright
Weight Total: 800lbs Important

Weighing Your Sassy Mark

What exactly does it mean to be sassy? Before I looked up the definition, I thought it was a more negative trait than positive. Why? Simply, because of this phrase that many of us have heard pointed at ourselves or others, "Don't be sassy!" I knew from a very early age that whatever it meant to be sassy it was clear that adults didn't want us to be that way, because there was a strong "don't" attached to it.

Recently, I looked further into the word's definition.  To be sassy means to be, impertinent, insolent, saucy, but I think that this might be the definition for those who don't know how to be sassy with class. The second-level definition states that being sassy is to be pert, boldly smart, saucy.  Put simply, to be sassy usually means you have done or said something daringly forward in speech or behavior.  

A lot of times when you speak out or dress differently people will look at you negatively, especially when you are younger or inexperienced.  However, what would we do without these forward thinkers? We can easily remain at the status quo.  But who likes the status quo?  I know I don't.   Maybe you can feel good for a moment but does that mean it can't get better.  Have we ever seen the absolute best?  I don't think so because then we might be forced to ask, what are we living for?

We are living to grow continuously, to keep getting better to find the next-best thing.  We need those who dare to be bold to find their sassy mark in history so that others can learn and make their progression. 

So speaking of mark, what does it really mean to make your mark? To mark something, is to make a visible impression or trace on something.  When you make your Sassy Mark you boldly make a forward-moving statement that leaves an impression.

The key is to make your Sassy Mark tastefully in a way that will not be received as insolent or impertinent. I won't lie, sometimes it will be hard to do this even if you try to introduce something new in a pleasant and inviting way. Many people just don't like change.  So what will they do? Put a negative spin on your differences to discourage any forward movement or variance of the status quo.  At that point, it is up to you to decide the worth of your ploy of change.  And be real with yourself, is it for the betterment or to be destructive or difficult?

When you've answered that question, and you know what you want to introduce is forward movement for an improvement.  You realize that in order to do so you must make your mark and be bold and maybe a bit sassy. I say go for it! Make your Sassy Mark!

In weighing Your Sassy Mark, I believe it to be a priority.  Feel free to make it a necessity, be bold with your forward movements, be fearless with your thoughts around change. If you don't do it, who will?

Weighing Your Sassy Mark
Submitted by: Jamees Wright
Weight Total: 1 Ton Priority

Weighing New Year Resolutions

This weekend was Independence Day weekend, the celebration of America's Independence. However, around this time I am always drawn to the realization that half the year is over. Half the year is over and what have I done with it? Each year is a staple in a person's life. It is defined as the time of which any planet makes a complete revolution around the sun. The year is also significant in aging and a signature of growth. It is no wonder every year millions of people make New Year Resolutions.

However, the most common result of New Year Resolutions is that they're not kept. Ask about New Year Resolutions on Independence Day and you'll find many shaking heads and replying, "Nope. I didn't keep it, maybe next year." Half the year has gone by, and for the most part, people have returned to their old habits. Whatever it was that was necessary to change is no longer apparent, until the next year.

A resolution is a formal expression of opinion, or intention made, a resolve or determination. It is an action word. Applying thought is imperative when making a resolution. This means that resolutions usually do not appear out of thin air. The resolution was a proclamation, something that was determined. So if determination, the act of coming to a decision or of fixing or settling a purpose was used when making a New Year Resolution, why do most not seem to stick?

I personally think it is the new in a New Year Resolution that is usually not fully comprehended. To be new is defined as, of recent origin, of a kind now existing or appearing for the first time. However, it is the additional definitions unfamiliar or strange, unaccustomed that I find the most telling. When something is new for the most part, you have to get used to it. With a New Year Resolution, you're changing a habit, you are adding a new regimen, something is being changed about you. You actively have to work at it. If you hit a bump in the road, it is definitely not a reason to stop. When someone asks you have you kept your New Year Resolution, why not reply I'm working on it.

When weighing New Year Resolutions, I definitely see the validity of making them. To inspire annually to be a better person can only be a positive aspiration, however the objective is to keep the resolution, remember it, instill it again if you stop for some reason. Setting a New Year Resolution is important, however, keeping it is the priority.

Weighing New Year Resolutions
Submitted by: Jamees Wright
Weight Total: 800lbs Important

Weighing Setting Precedence

Sometimes your hearts desire to help someone can turn into you shaking your head, distraught, used and abused, and wondering how did I get duped?  You may have set out to do the right thing, to help someone while the recipient has set out to take advantage. You thought you covered all the angles, but then you find yourself saying, if I could do it all over I would do things differently. You continuously shake your head in dismay and say how did I let this happen? 

This feeling is not about regret because your intentions were in the right place, and I don't believe you should ever regret trying to be helpful.  It is more about realizing you went about things the wrong way. Many times this may simply be because you didn't have a plan to start out with.   You never focused on the order of things. You didn't begin with Setting Precedence.

What does it mean to Set Precedence? I love the very first definition of Set in dictionary.com which is to put (something or someone) in a particular place. Furthermore, the initial definition of Precede to go before, as in place, order, rank, importance or time, which you must do when Setting Precedence. 

What does the collaboration of these words mean to me? It means that when you Set Precedence within your life you are acknowledging that you have the ability to set up your life. You create the order of importance. If you can Set the Precedence, then it is you who must own the first ranking. You are the primary and everything else is secondary. The best way to help someone is by maintaining your position to be able to help.

If we begin to think of ourselves first we will also realize what might not be in our best interest.  How will this affect me? If I don't like it, well then maybe it is time to make some adjustments. Another definition of Set  used mostly in the theater, is to arrange the scenery.  If we are the directors of our very own reality show then it is true that we can also control the scenery.  If something is out of place fix it, if something is causing your scenery to become unattractive eliminate it.

Clearly stating what you are offering is also helpful. You may offer someone your last hot dog off your plate, and the next thing you know they have your fries and your drink as well.  Guess what, now you don't have lunch.  It is okay to sacrifice sometimes, but remember you also have to eat. To avoid this, make sure to demonstrate your Set Precedence clearly, be it by voice, in an email whichever way you can communicate your plan.  To Precede has an additional meaning which is to introduce by something preliminary.  A simple statement like, "I can help and here's how I can do it..." state clearly what you are offering so there is no confusion at a later date. 

Many people may talk behind your back when you do this, they may say "He/She didn't really want to help. They named set stipulations before helping me." These are most likely the ones who have their own "goals" in mind.  A good example of this would be people who prefer to offer a homeless person food instead of money. I have personally witnessed a beggar stating they are hungry only to deny a fresh apple or sandwich, which can lead one to believe they were begging  for reasons other than hunger.

I am drawn to helping others. However, sadly I have experienced lending a helping hand which some how led to my arms, legs and neck as well. To avoid being eaten alive, I suggest Setting Precedence. It's Important.

Weighing Setting Precedence
Submitted by: Jamees Wright
Weight Total: 800 lbs Important

Weighing The Duchess

Last weekend I was at home on a Sunday night I was in the mood for a real movie, what I mean by that is one that I could stick my teeth in.  A story that would create great thought and intrigue and allow input in my assessments of life.  Sometimes when you look, you get exactly what you are looking for, I came across The Duchess.

The actors I recognized right away were Keira Knightley and Ralph Fiennes, so I immediately knew the movie would be well acted.  The paragraph describing the movie on Verizon Demand stated: A chronicle of the life of 18th century aristocrat Georgiana Duchess of Devonshire, who was reviled for her extravagant political and personal life.

Though the description implied that the story would be tragic, I proceeded to watch through the eyes of a person who has watched a million plus Hollywood movies where they were able to spin even biographies with tragic endings so that the life lived satisfied the end.

This was the wrong perception to have for this movie, because as the story unfolded and I viewed The Duchess being placed in the hands of man she didn't love and didn't love her, as I observed her effort to provide her husband with a male heir all the while her husband bedded various women he came across with the physique he truly desired, and as I solemnly took in her awakening of true love only to curve it whilst remaining in a loveless marriage for her children...the time ticked by and I began to realize there would be no redemption to this story.

However in hindsight I have come to realize there has been redemption and there can continue to be redemption for The Duchess and those who share a similar story.  When we as women take hold of our new found strength to maneuver, freedom of choice and voice to state what we want and need and place these yearnings into fruition and finally the option to not back ourselves into a life not wanted.  To keep the redemption going we can also raise beautiful women to do the same and encourage our friends and every other woman walking this earth to do the same.

Though this movie as a whole will always remain imprinted in my mind, there was one moment that stood out the most.  The Duchess was wearing one of her extravagant attires on the night of their wedding.  As he quietly undressed her without permission or warning, he commented, "For the life of  me, I can never understand why women's clothes need to be so damn complicated?" The Duchess responded though his comment might have been rhetorical, "Its our way of expressing ourselves I suppose."  Of course he did not understand this and asked, "Whatever do you mean?" She answered, "Well you have so many ways of expressing yourselves, whereas we have to make do with our hats and our dresses."

Well women of the world we still have our hats and our dresses but we have so much more available to us. This August marked the 90th anniversary of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. constitution which granted women the right to vote nationwide.  Progression was not so long ago, and it's up to us to continually use everything we have to make our marks and live our lives to the fullest.  Let us not forget where we came from because it helps to steer us in the direction of where we are going.

In weighing The Duchess, I give it 600lbs, though very depressing as I left out a lot which may cause you to repel. I still would say at least one view is most definitely a good decision and may help to serve as a constant reminder of how precious the liberties we have today would have been to a woman of the past.

Weighing The Duchess
Submitted by: Jamees Wright
Weight Total: 600 lbs Good Decision

Weighing Choices

In a world of change, discovery and extreme variety we as humans come across Choices on a daily basis. Simple choices like what to eat, what to wear or maybe what to watch on television on a given night. Life changing choices such as where to live, who to love, or the choice of occupation. Let me back up here because sometimes your choice on what to eat, wear or watch on television at night can become life changing depending on your given situation.

But this entry is more about the most common life changing choices that we come across. A Choice is defined in dictionary.com as an act or instance of choosing, the right, power, opportunity to choose; the option.  If you have ever felt down, perhaps helpless did you use your right, power or opportunity to choose a different scenario for yourself? Have you realized you have the option to do so?

A choice is also defined as an alternative, an abundance of variety from which to choose. Speaking from my own experiences I believe sometimes variety can be scary, sometimes the alternative is not as good as what you have been doing. But that is all fine and dandy as long as the status quo satisfies you, and if not well maybe its time to shop around.

A choice is also something that is preferred or preferable to others; the best part of something. If you're lucky to find your preference at your first job or living where you grew up; I say great for you. But if not, don't be afraid to find out if you have the preferred, the best for you, by moving to a new location, trying a new hobby,  or perhaps start with spaghetti with three cheeses instead of just the one.

I believe the most important definitions of Choice are; a carefully selected supply, worthy of being chosen, carefully selected. If I learned anything about choices, it is that each one you make there is always another side, a choice not chosen. When we dwell on the choices we didn't make it can often lead to regret. However if we make careful selections and make a point to remember the reasons for the chosen you may realize that you have made the right choice.

Choices have a weight of about 800 lbs because they are important but are not the priority. I believe enjoying the choices you make, learning from them, and preparing for the next choices are the priorities in life.

Weighing Choices
Submitted by: Jamees Wright
Weight Total: 800 lbs Important

Weighing Consideration

Lately I have been thinking about what makes a relationship work? There are all the ordinary answers love, respect, trust and the list goes on.  Of course these answers are all true, and are undeniable.  However, I always felt as though there might be one key answer, one answer that would link all the others.  For me that answer is Consideration.

Consideration defined in dictionary.com as careful thought; meditation; deliberation, something that is or is to be kept in mind in making a decision, thoughtful or sympathetic regard or respect; thoughtfulness for others, as well as a thought or reflection to name a few.

Imagine that, imagine how simple life would be if you considered your mate and your mate considered you.  Think about the arguments that could be avoided, the mistakes that could be sidetracked.  It is usually when I have skipped the necessary step which is to think about the next person that I create an error in judgement.

Have you really listened to your partner lately? In your last decision did you factor him/her in? Or are you on cruise control? I like that, because cruise control is a quick way to fall asleep and get into an accident.

Another quick definition of consideration is estimation; esteem.  Do you hold your partner in great esteem? That also goes a long way.  I notice that when someone is held in great esteem, people will tend to do a little extra for them.  A great example of this is when the President comes to town, the town will close their streets, create welcoming signs, prepare a speech.  What do you do for your significant other when they're around to show them their worth?

Consideration is also defined as a recompense or payment, as for work done; compensation.  A job well done should never be ignored in a relationship, whether it happens all the time or its a once in a blue occurrence.  Reward the good times, the good deeds and most likely they will continue.

I strongly encourage you to try consideration, even in the smallest of things, practice it daily with everyone you meet. I bet you will see life in a new light.  And hopefully maybe you can encourage others to do the same. Consideration is definitely weighed in as 1 Ton a complete priority.

Weighing Consideration 
Submitted by: Jamees Wright
Weight Total: 1 Ton Priority

Weighing the phrase “I’m trying to…”

When I was a kid, I would often hear, “I”m going to be…, I want to be…” As I grew into young adulthood, it changed to, “I’m in school for…, I”m working towards…, this is my first step to becoming a…”  Now as I begin to reach my third decade in life, the phrase “I’m trying to…” has reached an all time high. So of course I had to define the word Trying.

As I pulled up one of my favorite sites, dictionary.com and typed in the word Trying, the first definition that appeared was, “extremely annoying, difficult, or the like; straining one’s patience and goodwill to the limit: a trying day; a trying experience.

Its funny, because this definition of Trying somewhat describes my exact sentiments when certain people including myself have used the phrase “I’m trying to.." in the past.

However, the Trying definition that is probably most valid for this blog entry is, to attempt to do or accomplish.  Unfortunately I have found more often than not that when this term is used nowadays usually the exact opposite is happening.

How many times have you heard, “I”m trying to start my own business.”  “I’m trying to become a designer.” or  “I’m trying to save money.” How often have you said something similar about yourself?

The more I heard, “I”m trying to…”, the less I began to see the actual doings of these actions that people were trying to do.  That was when I looked up the word Do.  The definitions describing the word Do, were so much more vibrant and exciting, something to shout about such as, to perform, to execute, to accomplish, finish, complete, to put forth; exert: Do your best.

I began to think about the inquiry that usually begets the phrase, “I’m trying to…”  It is usually the question, “What are you doing? or maybe “How are you doing?” So why not answer with what you are actually doing, not what you are trying to do?

Stop trying and begin doing, and you will see your accomplishments begin to add up right before your eyes. In the end there are many things you have to try, and many people have given and received the E for Effort award.  But its what you Do that will put a stamp on who you are, and if you are in the act of trying to become somebody greater than you are today, then the most fitting question would be what are you doing today that signifies who you are trying to become tomorrow?

Here is a great example of someone becoming a lawyer, who may have said, “I’m trying to become a lawyer.” A more fitting answer of one’s journey to become a lawyer could very well be, “I”m studying for the Bar exam. I just passed the test and will start law school in the fall.  I’m searching for a law firm daily.  The list can go on and on as you continue to progress.

So when weighing the phrase, “I’m trying to…” I truly believe it to be a phrase that should remain a Blip on the Radar, because Doing is so much more fun and you get so much more accomplished.

Weighing the phrase “I’m trying to…”
Submitted by: Jamees Wright
Weight Total: 200 lbs

Weighing My Weight

Self assessment isn’t the easiest thing to do. However, the process can be very therapeutic, and is a necessary step when trying to grow progressively. When I look at Jamees Wright, who do I see?
Sigh! Over the years, I have grown to accept some of the harsh realities of the makeup of Jamees Wright. And they are as follows, Bubbly! It’s a very sad day when you wake up and find out people think of you as bubbly. But hey that’s me.

Corny, hmmm I still think that is debatable, but I can see it...sometimes, but I do believe this trait is mostly demonstrated in a refreshing way that can make you laugh. Naïve, is one that I’m working on, and I hoped to have sharpened my eye.

However, the Jamees traits that began the thoughts on this blog and the What Women Weigh website, is Jamees the analyzer, debater, the motivator and yes I can admit it, the dramatizer.

It all began with this quote, “Never ask a woman her weight.” It bugged me, and on further research, I found that if you Google that quote, you will find various entries advising to never ask a women her weight. I thought it preposterous!

Most of the times when I tell people what I weigh they are blown away, mostly because I have always weighed a lot more than I appeared to. This helped me to realize early on that my weight measured in pounds did not actually mean anything. Taking it a step further, I find it hard to believe that a measured pound can really define anybody inside and out, which is why I threw out the old bathroom scale along with the bland numerical answer of my weight.

The definition of weight from dictionary.com that this blog will focus on is the ability to evaluate in the mind and consider carefully arriving at an opinion, using importance, moment, consequence, or effective influence to form a weighted opinion. All women have the capacity to possess this, so why shy away from the question, “What do you weigh?”

I would simply, smile bubbly, front my naiveté, and tell them my opinion. Many may think that to be corny, but I am Jamees Wright, I am a woman, and my opinion weighs a ton.
Women of the world I encourage you to throw your weight around!

Weighing My Weight
Submitted by: Jamees Wright
Weight Total: 1 Ton

Weighing a Balanced Life

In elementary school, our teachers would extend a platform for a guess to periodically share their specialty with the class. Sometimes the sessions were interesting, and other times their best purpose was to break the monotony of the day.

However, there was one specific session that I remember clearly. It was the third grade, and a red headed woman would periodically come to our class to discuss poetry. I don’t remember any of the off beat poems that she would read to the class. What I do remember, other than her manic red hair and wardrobe my classmates would always talk about after her departure was a discussion she led about the stages of life.

She said in our youth, we are carefree and invincible but in our mid to late twenties we would begin to think about our deaths. I can't explain her need to share this with a third grade class or whether there was an absolute truth to her proclamation.

I do know because of her influence, I began to think about death in the third grade, and I was no longer invincible. Thoughts of death followed me for a couple of years. I even wrote a poem called 10 Seconds to My Death in the 8^th grade!

Though my thoughts on death have stayed with me, time has allowed me to flip its connotation.     Now when I think about death I also think about life. I believe death is a hard reality that is made more accepting when living life to the fullest and for me that includes striving to live a balanced life.

A balanced life for me includes five factors the first three include stimulating my heart, taking care of my body,and feeding my soul.

The heart is stimulated by spending time with my loved ones, delivering a kind act, and putting someone else before me. I have learned that I must actively work to sustain the relationships that I hold dear, and if I keep my heart pure I can embrace serenity. The heart is the home and the place where I may always find me.

Taking care of the body can be a tough one, but is well worth the effort. It includes exercise and nutrition. Exercise may not always be fun, but I usually find something that I like and stick with it. Whether it is dancing or walking, palates,or my favorite sports, I can find exercise in my weekly routine. I also enjoy the luxuries of a great tasting treat, it’s all about quantity. Not over doing it, just a taste and mix it with the nutrients needed. My body is my temple, and you only get one. And so I try my best to work to take care of it.

How does one feed their soul, and why is it important? Dictionary.com defines the soul as the principle of life. So seeking out the answers to the questions that will enlighten me of the way I should live my life serves as food for my soul. Questions like the following: What do I live for? Where do I draw my inspiration? What is my code of ethics? What do I believe in? I spend some time reflecting upon and learning the studies that will keep me grounded and structures my path in life.

The last two of the five factors is a balance between ambition and relaxation.

To live a balanced life ambition must be a part of it. Ambition encompasses creating life goals. Learning who I want to be, and taking the steps to get there. I ask the questions what is my contribution to society, what will be my life's work? What possessions do I wish to own? How do I plan to leave my mark? Ambition for me includes a passion to continually grow and the will power to do so.

Last but certainly not least is relaxation. There should always be time to unwind. Reading a good book, taking a stroll, shopping, everyone relaxes differently. It is my time to do as I please. One of my life goals is to continually make time to travel and to see the world while exploring various cultures. Relaxation also includes my leisure activities and hobbies. I believe if I fully extend myself with the other four factors of life, the treasured moments of relaxation are valued and well deserved.

Striving to live a balanced life is my goal. It is how I feel that I can become the best me. This blog will be centered on my quest and the quest of others to live a balanced life.

Weighing in on a balanced life, I give it a full Ton. It’s a priority.

Weighing a Balanced Life
Submitted by: Jamees Wright
Weight Total: 1 Ton