Bullying and Pink Shirt Day

Wednesday February 26 is Pink Shirt Day. A day to stand up to bullying - and a day that was instigated by two teenage boys to support a new kid against bullies. There are many different facets of bullying, for both the bully and the victim. It comes in many forms and impacts us all.

While this is an integral part of school's curriculum, it's important the we stress the importance of spreading the word and talking the talk. The Advanced Black Dragons took part in a mini discussion this past week and we had a few points that I am going to post here. As well, we are participating in Pink Shirt Day and we are wearing pink shirts to class on Wednesday. I hope to see many more pink shirts that day.

1. Stay in a group. Bullies are more likely to pick someone out if they are alone.
2. Don't hide in corners. Stay in plain sight where you are close to other people.
3. Always tell a trusted adult. Noone should face a bully alone, and it is never ok!
4. Stand up to a bully. Don't just watch someone get picked on. If we take a stand for each other, we are helping to stop it.
5. Bullies want power. Look confident - hold your head up and look like you know what you are all about, even if you don't feel that way.

A few other points as parents/ teachers etc.
1. We need to offer specific tips. We need to enable our kids with the tools necessary. They need a plan and our support.
2. Stay calm and don't react. Bullies will not stop if they see you react to them.
3. Teach a firm voice - say "stop!" loudly. It gets attention from those around you and will discourage the bully.

Together we can stop bullying. It is something we need to talk about often, and it's our job to keep each other safe.

More can be found at http://www.pinkshirtday.ca

It's a double!

Two trains of thought today. Funny as some weeks, I struggle to formulate anything to write about.

First up. I stepped way out of my comfort zone this week and I survived. I mean, of course I did. How silly of me! I am not fond of situations where I don't know anyone, let alone have to interact with strangers. I took a 3 day course in the hopes of further defining my current position at work. Not only was the course content not what I expected, we had role plays and group brainstorming sessions. It was a challenge for me, but thankfully most of the other people there were able to make me feel more comfortable. I am glad it's over though.

And second, I was the recipient of 2 acts of kindness yesterday. Usually, we focus on the things we do for others, so it's a very humbling experience to receive an act of kindness. One of my Lil Leopards made valentines day cookies, and it touched me to have one given to me. And I have to thank his mom, Mrs. Werbicki for the beautiful tulips she gave me. She read my blog last week, and wanted to give me these. It was hard not to cry, as that's the power of these acts. Please accept my heartfelt thanks!

 

My thought for the day - give someone a hug. It's free,and the feelings are priceless.

 

Posted with Blogsy

Warm and cozy

 

I started crocheting a blanket a few years ago, and I finished it today. I had forgotten how little I had left, and was a bit disappointed that I finished it so soon. I pulled it out for a sick day project, but instead I go to snuggle in it which isn't so bad.

 

I put it away in the spring of 2012, and then didn't touch it at all last year. My mom helped me to get it started and inspired me as to the second colour on it. But after she passed away, I couldn't bring myself to work on it. In a way, I was sad today, as it brought back a lot memories, but it just has that much more meaning to me, and I doubt I could ever give it away.

 

I find myself really missing her today, and I had thought that writing about the blanket would help. My moms innate kindness and warmth are qualities that I admire, and strive for. She touched every person she met, and I hope that I can one day be as truly wonderful as her.

 

 

Posted with Blogsy

Can't think of a title..

Last night's Chinese New Year Banquet was again amazing. It came with some challenges, but I think that even though it was a new venue, it turned out great. All of the demos were truly fantastic to watch, and I love being a part of the Lion/ Dragon dance. A bit congrats to the two new black belts, and to the Sifu's who earned their next degree. It was inspiring to watch you all!

Compassion and Empathy

Over the last few months, I feel that my compassion and empathy have been tested. It's easy to lose that when you are frustrated and feeling a bit overwhelmed, but it is really important that we take a step back and try to look at it from a different angle so that we are not jumping to conclusions and judging others when perhaps all they really need is our understanding and empathy.

I have to deal with people who pass the buck like a hot potato daily, and I find it incredibly frustrating to try to get things done. I find this situation really hard to have any empathy and compassion, but I am trying. I have really felt this over the last few months, and I hope that things change soon because it's exhausting. I value people that refuse to say "that's not my job" and they find a way to get it done. Stepping up to fill in holes can be challenging, but I have yet to be unrewarded. Empathy and compassion are important tools in every aspect of our lives.

Oops

I meant to blog on Sunday, and now I am finding that it's Wednesday and I haven't blogged yet. Funny how the days can get away from you and how easy it can be to fall out of your routine. But getting back into it is the key to success.

The Advanced Black Dragons' demo for the Chinese New Year banquet is coming along. I love how creative these kids are, and they seem to be having a lot of fun with it this year. I think they have more of a personal interest this year, and it's cool to see how they create. It's funny though, I was finding it a bit stressful (like I do every year) right after we got back after Christmas break, but last week, things totally felt like they were coming together.

I can't wait so see how they do on performance night. (and of course, I can't wait for all of the other performances!!!)

Not So Happy Feet

Yesterday we practiced the lion/ dragon dance in a school gym and it was awesome to practice with the extra space. However, by the end of our practice, I felt some significant discomfort in both my feet, and my bad ankle. It is probably due to running/ skipping in bare feet, so it's my own fault.

#1 - I hate doing Kung Fu in shoes. It doesn't feel good at all.

#2 - I hate wearing socks (possibly more than wearing shoes for Kung Fu. If I have to wear socks, they better be fun socks at the very least)

So this brings me to the question of what to do for my feet for the Chinese New Year banquet. We will be running on concrete, so it will be worse than yesterday. (Although it will be for a shorter length of time.). I am thinking I will have to wear my Vibrams, which is almost like wearing nothing, and that will have to do. (Short of hiring a Swedish Massuese named Olga)

 

 

 

Posted with Blogsy