Thursday, February 28, 2008
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
DISCOVERING THE WAY
I am proud to share with you an essay by my friend Dennis that I think can make a difference in this world and support adults, both younger and older.
Discovering The Way
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2008
I write this essay to share my visions for Discovering the Way. The motivation is not only to express what the project can be, but also what it can do. My hope for this adventure is to bring young people together and promote greater connection. I wish I could be with every person who reads this essay, whether I know you or not, and share my thoughts directly. Unfortunately, all I have is this essay. Hopefully, it will be read aloud, experienced and felt. In doing this, I hope the words will speak not only to your minds, but your hearts as well.
Adults frequently ask for my opinions and reflections as a young person; “what do you believe is going on in the world?” “how do you feel?” “what would you do?”. I am never quite sure how to respond. They are important questions for which I know I am without all the answers. What I am certain of, however, is my passion for the subject; I believe in the power and promise of young people, and the hope for humanity.
Recently, I was inspired to begin a project that captures, explores and nurtures the voices of young adults in the world today. I envision this as a collective inquiry into the identity of our generation. Who are we, how did we get here, in what direction are we headed, and how does this reflect and impact society today? I want to bring together a book of essays by people in their 20’s that explores these questions. Our individual experiences, observations, beliefs and feelings offer rich material from which to learn. This essay is my entry into the initiative, which I am calling Discovering the Way. My visions and hopes for this project are my initial offering. Now I am asking for yours.
Our generation is filled with powerful leaders. We are young, talented, thoughtful and passionate: about life, each other and ourselves. The strengths I see in my fellow brothers and sisters are inspiring. I get excited thinking about the world we can, will and must create. The planet needs more love, peace, compassion, equality and justice. I think now is the perfect time for us to step up and leave our mark, to “be the change we wish to see in the world”.
Suffering is all around me. If I choose, I can easily distract myself with all the negatives in life: global warming, poverty, war, etc. The list goes on, and, at times, is overwhelming. Profound changes in our world are necessary. Humanity cannot keep living as it is; our trajectory is destined for disappointment. However, despite the anger, fear and sadness, there are still countless reasons for hope and joy. Every day something touches my heart. Beauty and happiness are everywhere, if only I take the time to see them. Knowing this, I am committed to focus on the positive and use my life to promote change. I believe others share these values, and I want this book to harness constructively that force.
This project is an opportunity to create conversation. Communication fosters respect and awareness, from which all else follows. Changes become possible when we listen and accept others diverse experiences, thoughts, feelings and ambitions. A society flourishes and real development occurs when we can love and respect our fellow neighbors, even if they disagree with us. To do this, everyone must be willing to enter into relation with one another. Instead of turning back at the first sign of difference, we must commit to continue moving forward by keeping our shared goals and values in sight. This requires a willingness to sacrifice and compromise, listen and contribute. We must dedicate ourselves to seeing the best in each other, knowing each of us is bound by the human condition and share similar aspirations.
For all the different views people hold, deep down I believe we all want the same things; peace, health, happiness, clean air and water, comfort, loving relationships, etc. The details of how these ambitions will look and how best to realize them are different for everyone. These differences are actually what create conflict, but we should recognize that the larger goals are still the same. If we join hands under the umbrella of these shared visions, then there is hope. Then we begin to Discover The Way.
Before we worry about what lies ahead, we must recognize where we are now. Here is where our project can make a difference. Awareness is the tree from which knowledge and wisdom can blossom. Without understanding, we act passively and unconsciously in the world. The world acts on us. Being conscious of the present, however, we can mindfully choose our next steps. When we act thoughtfully and deliberately, positive change is a natural result.
Discovering the Way is a journey into who we are as individuals, a generation and a culture; it is a purposeful and collective step forward in the direction of learning and understanding. With this project there is no judgment, right or wrong, good or bad, ‘us’ versus ‘them’. We must put this way of thinking behind us. There is no ‘them’; it is all ‘us’. We are all in this world together, united by our planet and shared humanity. Any hope for change necessitates placing differences aside and uniting. We must all come together now with our different backgrounds and identities, ideas and visions, shapes and colors, onto the canvas of this world and create our masterpiece. We will not all agree, nor should we, but we can work together and learn from each other. Uniting does not imply losing our individuality. There is no need for conformity on thought, word or deed. Instead, we are asking for humility, openness and support.
I hope this project awakens people: awakens awareness and understanding, curiosity and interest, compassion and inspiration. This book can be a messenger; a calling from the voices of my fellow brothers and sisters, speaking to a world awaiting our voice, wondering what our contributions will be. This project is a way to stand up and express who we are, what we believe in, and what gives our life purpose, value and fulfillment.
There are no bounds or restrictions about what to write. All is welcome, encouraged and necessary. I want you to share what your experiences have taught you about life, others and yourself. Feel free to discuss topics such as politics, media, religion, gender, spirituality, technology, environment, popular culture, race, sexuality, activism, war, work, music, parenting, travel, relationships, etc. In other words, whatever you want J. We, as a generation of individuals, do not fit in a box. Do not feel that your essays have to either. Anything that captures your voice is meaningful. There is no judgment in being ourselves: no greater power or influence exists than stepping into our authenticity. This is real leadership.
Many young people seek to be influential leaders. I believe our influence originates as much from who we are as what we do. It is how we live our lives that impacts other people the most. To become strong and effective leaders we must align our thoughts, words and actions. If we can integrate our bodies, minds and hearts, then we are powerful. Then we inspire others and become agents for change. The relationship between our individual development and our awareness of the world around us is interconnected. Without the commitment to our own transformation, we cannot nurture change in the world around us. Conversely, to facilitate our personal growth we must develop our understanding of other people and cultures. When we know and understand others, we better understand ourselves. Nurturing our relationship with people and the environment around us, we simultaneously cultivate our own self-understanding.
Discovering The Way is an opportunity to communicate and share, open up and listen; it is a lending of our voices, ears and hearts. Hopefully, our essays will cultivate greater support for and connection with each other, as we come to accept that what is true for one may not be so for another. Once there is respect and acceptance, the seeds of the garden are sown. We cannot go wrong. The fruits will bear peace and compassion, harmony and tolerance, agreements and resolutions. When the vision is to heighten our own awareness and understanding, then we cannot help but succeed. If listening to and learning from each other are the goals, excellence is possible. Working together like this, a global community becomes a reality.
I believe the possibilities are endless for what our generation can accomplish. Life will unfold from what we chose to do and create. With this chance to impact change comes individual and collective responsibility. I know I have a role to play. We all do. Action is required. There is no such thing as choosing not to act: everything is an action. The question is: will your action be helpful, constructive and transformative? Will it bring more love and healing to the world? The interconnectedness of life and the common future we share unites us all. Nobody is exempt. Nobody is unaffected. Everybody should care. What difference will you make?
I hope you will use and share your voice with me for this project. It should go without saying that your contributions and input are not just sought, they are needed and necessary. We all come with different gifts; no offering is better than another. Whatever you feel inspired to share is perfect. Anyone in their 20’s is welcome to participate. I want our passion and vision to be contagious, to spread one heart at a time.
In this project, hatred and anger are discouraged. I do not want this undertaking to be ‘anti’ anything or anyone. Optimism and positive thinking are preferred. Let us talk about what is as opposed to not what is not. Share what your experience was and not what it was lacking. Focus on your thoughts, feelings and beliefs.. I want to read about what we can do, and not who we need to blame. Your observations, solutions and reasons for hope are most helpful. Accusations are judgment are not effective. Selflessness and service are more important than fear, doubt and criticism.
I have created an email account (discoveringtheway@gmail.com) through which you can submit essays. There is also a blog (http://discoveringtheway.blogspot.com/), My Space page and Zaadz account (for convenience, both under my name, Dennis Kiley). A website may be forthcoming. If you have questions or comments please let me know. I want to create and bring together a book that belongs to all of us. That captures everyone’s voice. Any essays you want to share are appreciated. The parameters for these essays are loose; discuss any of the topics already mentioned, respond to thoughts and ideas I brought up, or come up with your own ideas. As someone in your 20’s what do you have to say; what captures your voice? I ask that you keep each submission under 1,500 words. This is a project for everyone, but for simplicity, I ask that all submissions are by people in their 20’s. Please include a small paragraph describing yourself and a way to contact you. Through this and other conversation tools, I, like you, will begin Discovering The Way!
Discovering The Way
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2008
I write this essay to share my visions for Discovering the Way. The motivation is not only to express what the project can be, but also what it can do. My hope for this adventure is to bring young people together and promote greater connection. I wish I could be with every person who reads this essay, whether I know you or not, and share my thoughts directly. Unfortunately, all I have is this essay. Hopefully, it will be read aloud, experienced and felt. In doing this, I hope the words will speak not only to your minds, but your hearts as well.
Adults frequently ask for my opinions and reflections as a young person; “what do you believe is going on in the world?” “how do you feel?” “what would you do?”. I am never quite sure how to respond. They are important questions for which I know I am without all the answers. What I am certain of, however, is my passion for the subject; I believe in the power and promise of young people, and the hope for humanity.
Recently, I was inspired to begin a project that captures, explores and nurtures the voices of young adults in the world today. I envision this as a collective inquiry into the identity of our generation. Who are we, how did we get here, in what direction are we headed, and how does this reflect and impact society today? I want to bring together a book of essays by people in their 20’s that explores these questions. Our individual experiences, observations, beliefs and feelings offer rich material from which to learn. This essay is my entry into the initiative, which I am calling Discovering the Way. My visions and hopes for this project are my initial offering. Now I am asking for yours.
Our generation is filled with powerful leaders. We are young, talented, thoughtful and passionate: about life, each other and ourselves. The strengths I see in my fellow brothers and sisters are inspiring. I get excited thinking about the world we can, will and must create. The planet needs more love, peace, compassion, equality and justice. I think now is the perfect time for us to step up and leave our mark, to “be the change we wish to see in the world”.
Suffering is all around me. If I choose, I can easily distract myself with all the negatives in life: global warming, poverty, war, etc. The list goes on, and, at times, is overwhelming. Profound changes in our world are necessary. Humanity cannot keep living as it is; our trajectory is destined for disappointment. However, despite the anger, fear and sadness, there are still countless reasons for hope and joy. Every day something touches my heart. Beauty and happiness are everywhere, if only I take the time to see them. Knowing this, I am committed to focus on the positive and use my life to promote change. I believe others share these values, and I want this book to harness constructively that force.
This project is an opportunity to create conversation. Communication fosters respect and awareness, from which all else follows. Changes become possible when we listen and accept others diverse experiences, thoughts, feelings and ambitions. A society flourishes and real development occurs when we can love and respect our fellow neighbors, even if they disagree with us. To do this, everyone must be willing to enter into relation with one another. Instead of turning back at the first sign of difference, we must commit to continue moving forward by keeping our shared goals and values in sight. This requires a willingness to sacrifice and compromise, listen and contribute. We must dedicate ourselves to seeing the best in each other, knowing each of us is bound by the human condition and share similar aspirations.
For all the different views people hold, deep down I believe we all want the same things; peace, health, happiness, clean air and water, comfort, loving relationships, etc. The details of how these ambitions will look and how best to realize them are different for everyone. These differences are actually what create conflict, but we should recognize that the larger goals are still the same. If we join hands under the umbrella of these shared visions, then there is hope. Then we begin to Discover The Way.
Before we worry about what lies ahead, we must recognize where we are now. Here is where our project can make a difference. Awareness is the tree from which knowledge and wisdom can blossom. Without understanding, we act passively and unconsciously in the world. The world acts on us. Being conscious of the present, however, we can mindfully choose our next steps. When we act thoughtfully and deliberately, positive change is a natural result.
Discovering the Way is a journey into who we are as individuals, a generation and a culture; it is a purposeful and collective step forward in the direction of learning and understanding. With this project there is no judgment, right or wrong, good or bad, ‘us’ versus ‘them’. We must put this way of thinking behind us. There is no ‘them’; it is all ‘us’. We are all in this world together, united by our planet and shared humanity. Any hope for change necessitates placing differences aside and uniting. We must all come together now with our different backgrounds and identities, ideas and visions, shapes and colors, onto the canvas of this world and create our masterpiece. We will not all agree, nor should we, but we can work together and learn from each other. Uniting does not imply losing our individuality. There is no need for conformity on thought, word or deed. Instead, we are asking for humility, openness and support.
I hope this project awakens people: awakens awareness and understanding, curiosity and interest, compassion and inspiration. This book can be a messenger; a calling from the voices of my fellow brothers and sisters, speaking to a world awaiting our voice, wondering what our contributions will be. This project is a way to stand up and express who we are, what we believe in, and what gives our life purpose, value and fulfillment.
There are no bounds or restrictions about what to write. All is welcome, encouraged and necessary. I want you to share what your experiences have taught you about life, others and yourself. Feel free to discuss topics such as politics, media, religion, gender, spirituality, technology, environment, popular culture, race, sexuality, activism, war, work, music, parenting, travel, relationships, etc. In other words, whatever you want J. We, as a generation of individuals, do not fit in a box. Do not feel that your essays have to either. Anything that captures your voice is meaningful. There is no judgment in being ourselves: no greater power or influence exists than stepping into our authenticity. This is real leadership.
Many young people seek to be influential leaders. I believe our influence originates as much from who we are as what we do. It is how we live our lives that impacts other people the most. To become strong and effective leaders we must align our thoughts, words and actions. If we can integrate our bodies, minds and hearts, then we are powerful. Then we inspire others and become agents for change. The relationship between our individual development and our awareness of the world around us is interconnected. Without the commitment to our own transformation, we cannot nurture change in the world around us. Conversely, to facilitate our personal growth we must develop our understanding of other people and cultures. When we know and understand others, we better understand ourselves. Nurturing our relationship with people and the environment around us, we simultaneously cultivate our own self-understanding.
Discovering The Way is an opportunity to communicate and share, open up and listen; it is a lending of our voices, ears and hearts. Hopefully, our essays will cultivate greater support for and connection with each other, as we come to accept that what is true for one may not be so for another. Once there is respect and acceptance, the seeds of the garden are sown. We cannot go wrong. The fruits will bear peace and compassion, harmony and tolerance, agreements and resolutions. When the vision is to heighten our own awareness and understanding, then we cannot help but succeed. If listening to and learning from each other are the goals, excellence is possible. Working together like this, a global community becomes a reality.
I believe the possibilities are endless for what our generation can accomplish. Life will unfold from what we chose to do and create. With this chance to impact change comes individual and collective responsibility. I know I have a role to play. We all do. Action is required. There is no such thing as choosing not to act: everything is an action. The question is: will your action be helpful, constructive and transformative? Will it bring more love and healing to the world? The interconnectedness of life and the common future we share unites us all. Nobody is exempt. Nobody is unaffected. Everybody should care. What difference will you make?
I hope you will use and share your voice with me for this project. It should go without saying that your contributions and input are not just sought, they are needed and necessary. We all come with different gifts; no offering is better than another. Whatever you feel inspired to share is perfect. Anyone in their 20’s is welcome to participate. I want our passion and vision to be contagious, to spread one heart at a time.
In this project, hatred and anger are discouraged. I do not want this undertaking to be ‘anti’ anything or anyone. Optimism and positive thinking are preferred. Let us talk about what is as opposed to not what is not. Share what your experience was and not what it was lacking. Focus on your thoughts, feelings and beliefs.. I want to read about what we can do, and not who we need to blame. Your observations, solutions and reasons for hope are most helpful. Accusations are judgment are not effective. Selflessness and service are more important than fear, doubt and criticism.
I have created an email account (discoveringtheway@gmail.com) through which you can submit essays. There is also a blog (http://discoveringtheway.blogspot.com/), My Space page and Zaadz account (for convenience, both under my name, Dennis Kiley). A website may be forthcoming. If you have questions or comments please let me know. I want to create and bring together a book that belongs to all of us. That captures everyone’s voice. Any essays you want to share are appreciated. The parameters for these essays are loose; discuss any of the topics already mentioned, respond to thoughts and ideas I brought up, or come up with your own ideas. As someone in your 20’s what do you have to say; what captures your voice? I ask that you keep each submission under 1,500 words. This is a project for everyone, but for simplicity, I ask that all submissions are by people in their 20’s. Please include a small paragraph describing yourself and a way to contact you. Through this and other conversation tools, I, like you, will begin Discovering The Way!
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Heath Ledger - 1979 - 2008
Be sure to live life fully TODAY. We live as if tomorrow is promised. The next moment is not promised! Breath in and fully experience this moment. Buy the card now. Say "I love you" now. Send the email and express your appreciation now. Buy the gift now, don't wait for the calendar to say its Christmas or their birthday. DO IT NOW. LIVE LIFE FULLY NOW. BREATH IN and EXHALE fully now, relaxing in the space between the breaths.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Vitamin D3 May Play Role in Longevity
A new study has found that vitamin D3 may slow aging by increasing the length of telomeres, the section of a chromosome that shortens as we age and when the body is subjected to increased inflammation.
The scientists studied the effects of vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) on leukocyte telomere length (LTL) in 2,160 women aged 18 to 79 years. LTL, a predictor of aging-related disease, decreases with each cell cycle we undergo in our lifetimes and also during increased inflammation. Because vitamin D3 is a potent inhibitor of the proinflammatory response, it diminishes turnover of leukocytes. Consequently, the researchers hypothesized that vitamin D3 may have an effect on leukocyte telomere length in the subjects.
The study authors established a strong link between vitamin D3 levels and telomere length. They found that after taking into account the age of the subjects, women with higher vitamin D3 levels were more likely to have longer telomeres.
The results indicated that subjects with the highest levels of vitamin D3 had 107 more base pairs in their telomeres than subjects with the lowest levels of vitamin D3. This meant that the telomeres in the subjects with high vitamin D3 levels were five years younger than the telomeres in the subjects with low vitamin D3 levels. This difference was further accentuated by increased concentrations of C-reactive protein, a measure of systemic inflammation, in subjects with low vitamin D3 levels.
The researchers believe that the results demonstrate for the first time that people who have higher levels of vitamin D3 may age more slowly than people with lower levels of vitamin D3.
According to the study authors, “Our findings suggest that higher vitamin D concentrations, which are easily modifiable through nutritional supplementation, are associated with longer LTL,” which may explain the potentially beneficial effects of this vitamin on aging and age-related diseases.
Reference:
Richards JB, Valdes AM, Gardner JP, Paximadas D, Kimura M, Nessa A, Lu X, Surdulescu GL, Swaminathan R, Spector TD, Aviv A. Higher serum vitamin D concentrations are associated with longer leukocyte telomere length in women. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Nov;86(5):1420-1425.
The scientists studied the effects of vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) on leukocyte telomere length (LTL) in 2,160 women aged 18 to 79 years. LTL, a predictor of aging-related disease, decreases with each cell cycle we undergo in our lifetimes and also during increased inflammation. Because vitamin D3 is a potent inhibitor of the proinflammatory response, it diminishes turnover of leukocytes. Consequently, the researchers hypothesized that vitamin D3 may have an effect on leukocyte telomere length in the subjects.
The study authors established a strong link between vitamin D3 levels and telomere length. They found that after taking into account the age of the subjects, women with higher vitamin D3 levels were more likely to have longer telomeres.
The results indicated that subjects with the highest levels of vitamin D3 had 107 more base pairs in their telomeres than subjects with the lowest levels of vitamin D3. This meant that the telomeres in the subjects with high vitamin D3 levels were five years younger than the telomeres in the subjects with low vitamin D3 levels. This difference was further accentuated by increased concentrations of C-reactive protein, a measure of systemic inflammation, in subjects with low vitamin D3 levels.
The researchers believe that the results demonstrate for the first time that people who have higher levels of vitamin D3 may age more slowly than people with lower levels of vitamin D3.
According to the study authors, “Our findings suggest that higher vitamin D concentrations, which are easily modifiable through nutritional supplementation, are associated with longer LTL,” which may explain the potentially beneficial effects of this vitamin on aging and age-related diseases.
Reference:
Richards JB, Valdes AM, Gardner JP, Paximadas D, Kimura M, Nessa A, Lu X, Surdulescu GL, Swaminathan R, Spector TD, Aviv A. Higher serum vitamin D concentrations are associated with longer leukocyte telomere length in women. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Nov;86(5):1420-1425.
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