Author: aharris47
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Thriving Where You Are: Lessons from “The Goat Eats Where It Is Tied”
The Proverb: “The Goat Eats Where It Is Tied” This powerful proverb from Ghana—”The goat eats where it is tied”—serves as a profound reminder that we have the capacity to thrive and grow in our current circumstances. It challenges the mindset that change or success must always be deferred to a future time or a… Read more
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Reflecting on the Legacy of Jimmy Carter: The Most Successful Ex-President
A Humble Beginning and a Challenging Presidency Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States and a peanut farmer from Georgia, leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond his tenure in the Oval Office. While his presidency faced significant challenges, including economic crises, the Iranian hostage situation, and energy shortages for which he… Read more
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Easing Your Way Out: Lessons from the Lion’s Mouth
The Wisdom of the Lion’s Mouth A powerful metaphor shared by a grandmother encapsulates a profound lesson: “When you’ve got your head in the lion’s mouth, you’ve got to ease your way out.” This adage reflects the necessity of strategic thinking and awareness when faced with challenging or perilous situations. The wisdom in this statement… Read more
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Anticipating the Second Trump Term: Dysfunction and Fallout
A Presidency Marked by Dysfunction If Donald Trump secures a second term, it is likely to be marked by chaos and internal division within his administration and the broader MAGA movement. While concerns about Trump’s authoritarian ambitions and extremist policies are valid, his ability to enact significant changes may be hampered by the inherent dysfunction… Read more
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The Power of Listening Over Giving Advice
The Philosophy of Helping Others The best way to help someone is not to offer advice but to listen. While advice often comes from a place of care and experience, it carries inherent risks that can undermine the autonomy and growth of the person seeking help. True support lies in empowering individuals to navigate their… Read more
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Breaking the Cycle: A Reflection on Systemic Challenges and Community Responsibility
Understanding the “Cold Design” The challenges faced by Black communities, particularly Black men, are deeply entrenched in systemic and historical structures. These structures often appear as an invisible “design” aimed at destabilizing families, creating dependencies, and perpetuating cycles of poverty and incarceration. Recognizing this design is a critical first step toward breaking free from its… Read more
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The Foundations of Readiness: Financial and Personal Stability in Dating
The Premise: Stability Before Relationships Dating, as a recreational activity, often carries the potential to evolve into serious commitments like relationships or marriage. However, engaging in the dating world without personal stability—financial, emotional, or otherwise—can lead to unnecessary strain on both individuals involved. The argument here is simple yet crucial: before considering dating, one must… Read more
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The Lemon Problem: A Lesson in Effective Communication and Conflict Resolution
The Secret to Resolving Disputes Relationships, particularly with spouses or partners, often involve conflicts that seem insurmountable. One enduring truth, however, is that you will never truly “win” an argument with your spouse. This insight stems from a broader principle of effective negotiation and conflict resolution, illustrated by the classic “problem of the lemon.” The… Read more
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The Importance of Self-Focus: A Reflection on Priorities and Perception
The Context of Focus and Thought In discussions about race, society, and personal priorities, it is often highlighted that individuals and communities tend to focus primarily on their own needs, families, and ambitions. A poignant observation from a white friend encapsulates this reality: “You spend all your time thinking about us, and we don’t spend… Read more
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The Resilience of Love: A Reflection on True Strength
The Power of Choosing Love Despite Adversity There exists a profound beauty in the strength of a person who has rarely been treated with the gentleness, respect, kindness, or care they deserve. Despite enduring neglect, mistreatment, or disregard, such individuals often make the courageous choice to keep their hearts open and their spirits loving. This… Read more