The Ladybug

Author: Gaelle McLoud

  • Blessings During the Reign of Trump?

    The news today is scary.  Every day there is some new report of how President Trump is taking apart our country’s democracy.  I am afraid that everything I thought I knew for certain about America will soon change.  What is there to feel good about?  Prices and inflation are rising, not lowering.  Immigrants and people of color are in danger.  The LGBTQ+ community may lose the rights they fought so hard to gain.  The DOGE committee, fronted by Elon Musk, is systematically attacking government agencies, and being granted access to American’s most private information.  My status as a woman, alone, now puts me at risk for attacks from Trump.  The list of scary news goes on and on, and I can not cover all the topics in one paragraph.  However, suffice to say, that the reign of Trump is ushering in dark times for the USA. 

                So, what can I do to not feel overwhelmed and hopeless?!  I was praying on this subject, and what came to me were the simple words, “Stay in the present moment.”  There are blessings in my life that have not yet disappeared, and are worth celebrating.  I do not know how my life will be altered in the future by the new administration.  Therefore, it is more crucial than ever to be present and feel each blessing fully.  In honor of this philosophy, I have decided to write a Ladybug post today listing 10 blessings in my present life.  I will appreciate these blessings with every fiber of my being, for as long as they are mine to hold.  I suggest that if you are feeling equally hopeless at the state of our country, take out a paper and pen, and make your own list of blessings.  Celebrate the gifts God gives us, no matter how small.  Without further explanation, here are 10 Blessings that I cherish in my daily life:

    • My parents are alive and I can help them frequently.  This past summer, I moved closer to my parent’s home, and it is now a short drive to their house.  I can spend much more time with them, and offer any help they may need.  It is a huge blessing in my life to give back to my wonderful and amazing parents, who have always been there for me through thick and thin.  We have a relationship that I cherish.
      • My morning cup of coffee.  I love to wake up and go through the routine of making a pot of coffee.  The first bitter, hot sip is heaven!  Coffee is a luxury, and I enjoy every minute of drinking a good cup! 
      • Books!  I love to read.  I enjoy a wide variety of genres of books, and I always have 10 books that I am reading at the same time.  Everything from political non-fiction, to books on racism and women’s rights, to romances with handsome heroes, to fantasy novels that take me to other worlds, I love all books!  I especially enjoy reading banned books, and am currently reading The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood.  I learn something new with every book I read, and the books become a part of me.
      • Walks in nature.  I love to be in the woods, walking among the wise trees, and hearing the birds sing.  Somehow, everything that was wrong in my life feels right again.  Nature is incredibly healing.  Feeling fresh air on my face is exactly what I need to cure any stressful situation.  Thank you, God, for creating this beautiful planet, and giving me the ability to enjoy your fabulous works!
      • Sobriety.  This is a serious blessing.  I do not rely on any substances to escape reality and get high anymore.  No alcohol, no cigarettes, no pills.  I never tried marijuana, and I never will.  I cherish and carefully guard my sobriety, because it is the most important gift that I can give myself.  I want to experience reality, and cope with stress, in healthy and safe ways.  The ultimate clean living.  The best decision I have made.
      • Yummy and nourishing food.  I have enough food to eat, and I am blessed to enjoy many delicious and tasty meals.  I have never gone hungry.  This has not always seemed like a blessing to me, as I have struggled with Anorexia Nervosa my whole adult life.  However, I have healed enough from my eating disorder to realize that food security is indeed an amazing blessing, and a privilege of living in the developed world.  In addition, there is so much pleasure in a good meal!
      • Health.  My health is a constant struggle for me, both mentally and physically.  However, I have wonderful health insurance that has allowed me access to top doctors and healing medications.  I could be much worse off if I did not live in a state that offers great healthcare.  In addition, I have the gift of great insight into my mind and body, which allows me to make good decisions about my care.  I lead a high-quality life, and I am grateful.
      • School.  I attend Westfield State University online, and it is an honor to have education access.  Many women around the world, and in our country, are denied education.  Currently, I am working to complete my BA in Psychology.  The courses are not always easy, and at times I want to give up.  Then, I remind myself that school is an incredible blessing, and I persevere.  I will finish my degree, in the hopes for better opportunities going forward.
      • Church.  Having a church family is everything to me.  The support of fellow Christians is crucial in my spiritual journey.  I have been blessed to be quite active in the different churches I have attended.  Mission work is a passion of mine, and helping others with the company of my fellow church members is a wonderful experience.  Churches and organized religions are certainly not perfect, but the gift of sharing faith with other believers is something I will value for my whole life.
      • My apartment.  I am not homeless.  There are so many people in the USA, and all over the world, who do not have stable housing.  I have a warm, cozy, comfy, and safe place to call my own.  My apartment is my sanctuary.  It is where I recover from the roughness of the world, and rediscover my spark.  When life is overwhelming, I spend a few days hunkered down in my apartment, and I feel renewed.  My space is where I go to rest, so that I may do battle in the outside world again.  This is a true luxury, and I do not take it for granted.  My home is my restorative blessing.

        The list of my blessings could continue, and it could certainly be much longer.  However, I felt it was important to take a moment to look at the most basic and simple blessings that make my life wonderful.  The daily life I lead is truly one that I feel immense gratitude for, and I do not take one single blessing for granted.  I will live in the moment, and return to look at my list, every time I begin to doubt whether I can face our scary world.  God is Good.  His Love endures forever. 

        Be Blessed, G.

      1. Challenges and Gentle Self-Care

                                                        Updates and Lifestyle Hacks

        First, I would like to update you, readers of The Ladybug, on my progress towards The American Cancer Society 31-miles Walking Challenge for January, which was the subject of my first blog post, Walking for a Cause.  I have successfully completed the challenge, by walking a total of 42.56 miles in the month of January 2025.  The goal of the challenge was to walk 31 miles total, and so I was quite pleased with the result of my efforts.  In addition, I was able to raise 151.00 dollars for The American Cancer Society from donations of generous friends and family members who sponsored my walking.  Completing a goal is always rewarding, whether the goal was large or small, and walking for charities is one of my most important values.

        As I have mentioned previously, I struggle with chronic physical illnesses, which can make exercise difficult on any given day.  Two of my diagnoses are: hEDS (Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, hypermobility subtype) and POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome).  These two illnesses do not have cures, and are managed through lifestyle changes.  Exercise is highly suggested for both conditions, and can help the body stay stronger.  Beyond physical health, the benefits of walking for mental health cannot be overstated.  When I am in nature, I feel calm, serene, and connected to God.  Nature reminds me that the problems of the world that seem huge, can just melt away with some sunshine and the songs of birds.

        I feel that when I ask my body to walk, even if she is tired or the weather is difficult to endure, I need to find a way to reward my hard-working body.  One of the ways that I do this is by drinking homemade matcha green tea lattes.  Matcha is an ancient green tea that was drunk by Buddhist monks in a special ceremony.  There are multiple benefits to matcha, including its antioxidants and natural caffeine.  Personally, I find the little ritual of making my matcha lattes to be rewarding.  First, I heat water, but not to boiling.  Then, I whisk the matcha powder with the water.  Finally, I add cold oat milk, and whisk everything together.  The drink is then poured in a glass and finished with a couple ice cubes.  It tastes earthy, rich, and sublime.  This is my personal thank-you to my body after getting me through another work-out. 

        I recommend that everyone be on loving terms with their bodies and find a special way to engage in some self-care.  Self-Care is unique to what each person enjoys. I would simply define it as: being gentle with the wonderful bodies and minds that God has given us.  Whatever challenges you may be facing, or difficult goals you may be pursuing, take some time and be gentle.  Read a book in your favorite genera, wear fuzzy slippers after a pedicure, play an instrument, paint a picture, soak in a bath, or make a list of the blessings in your life.  It is the little moments of joy that heal us and keep us going.  Take on your challenges armed with self-care!  Until the next quest…keep healing, G.

        P.S. Below are two pictures from my walking adventures in New England, and two pictures from my matcha making ritual at home.  Not sponsored!  Enjoy!!

      2. Love Thy Neighbors: Immigrants

        I have a question to ask: Why must we all be white?  The core of white supremacy seems to me to be a belief that white people should dominate and control.  A belief that only people of European dissent with pale skin tones should be valued and respected.  I am certain that this belief is wrong.  There is a feeling in my core that white supremacy is evil and dangerous.  In addition, white supremacy in the USA is incredibly hypocritical.  Native Americans were the original founders of the country, and the Puritans from England were the immigrants.  So, why is it that white people in America have turned on immigrants?!  Is our collective memory so short-sited?  Have we all forgotten what we learned in history class in school?

                    The Trump administration which has taken over the country again has rolled out decisive action against immigrants, which I find sickening.  President Trump himself is a white supremacist.  He does not seem to be able to tolerate anyone different from himself.  The way that America is currently treating immigrants is a crime against humanity.  We are all beloved children of God.  We all matter and should be valued, regardless of our skin tone or ethnic background.  Separating families and tearing children away from their caregivers, simply because they are trying to find a better life on our soil, is inhumane.  We have a short memory, and seem to have forgotten all about the statue of liberty welcoming immigrants to our nation for decades past.  Why is there so much hate?

                    Immigrants in the USA also play an important role economically.  It is foolish to deport them.  Immigrants work long hours at jobs that white people hold up their noses at.  They pick watermelons in fields and work in factories.  They are tax paying contributors.  Besides the financial implications and work place roles that should be considered, immigrants also bring a richness to the diversity in our culture.  When I was in third grade, I learned about America being described as a melting pot.  The community was made stronger by having many different cultural traditions present.  Let us not forget the beauty of inclusion. 

                    The Bible also has many things to say about accepting our neighbors.  Since the conservative Republicans in Congress like to quote Leviticus for justifying their laws, I will quote Leviticus as well.  “When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them.  The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born.  Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt.  I am the Lord your God.”  Leviticus 19: 33-34.  The Lord is instructing His people as to how to care for foreigners, because they themselves had at one time suffered as outcasts in Egypt.  How quickly we forget.  This passage always reminds me that God’s law is one of acceptance and love. 

        But, why stop with the Biblical quotes there?  I would also like to include Jesus’ famous quote on loving our neighbors.  The story is from the Gospel of Matthew, when Jesus is asked which commandment is the most important.  Jesus replies, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.  And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”  Matthew 22: 37-40.  Clearly, the criminal treatment of immigrants is not an act of loving them as ourselves.  Separating families, and endangering children, and violently rounding up people, and destroying lives is not loving.  What would Jesus think of these actions, according to His instructions in the Bible?

                    America should be finding ways to streamline paths to legal immigration, and developing better avenues to welcome refugees into our countries.  We should not be building walls to keep anyone non-white and different out of our borders.  It is not only inhumane, as I stated earlier, but it goes against the Christian principles set out in the Bible.  White supremacy is inherently evil, and I am afraid of what it will ultimately lead to in this country.  I am determined to work to stop this spread of injustice.  Welcome the foreigner and love your neighbor, even if, and perhaps especially when, they are different from yourself.  Deporting honest immigrants and terrorizing refugees are terribly wrong actions, and they go against the history of our nation.  Take time today to consider your own principles in your heart, and decide which side of history you will be on.  I hope you choose love, compassion, justice, and inclusive action.

                                            In Resistance, G.

      3. Reading For Justice

        Book Review Series

        As the 2nd presidency of Donald Trump gets under way, I have felt horrified at his racist and prejudice actions.  I feel powerless to stop the upsetting news headlines I read daily about Trump’s policies on immigration, the environment, and democracy, to name only a few.  However, I have decided that knowledge is power.  I am therefore entering a period of reading for justice.  By that I mean, reading books that will educate me on the very subjects that Donald Trump is attacking.  Since 2020, I have been purposefully reading more books written by Black authors about the experiences of African Americans and the deep-rooted racism in our country.  I will continue this endeavor, while also adding other books to the mix, such as ones on women’s rights and homelessness.  I will be posting book reviews on The Ladybug of each book for justice that I read to stay accountable. I begin this series on The Ladybug with a book review that I did for The United Women of Faith of The Methodist Church that I wrote back in early 2023.  The chosen book for the review was The Hate U Give, By: Angie Thomas.  I have read this book twice, and plan to read it again, as it thoroughly rocked my world and provided me with a new perspective on Black lives in the USA.  I highly suggest that everybody read this book!!  I have included below an exact copy of the book review I presented in February 2023 to kick us off!  I encourage everyone to read for justice.  Remember, knowledge is power!!

        Gaelle McLoud

        United Methodist Women

        The Hate U Give

                    Hello, Good Evening.  Before I begin my review of The Hate U Give, I believe that it is important to note that this novel was written by an African American woman, Angie Thomas, about issues concerning race relations, and I hope that I do her amazing book justice.  I believe that issues of race and ethnicity are important for all of God’s people, regardless of your skin color or background, because we are all sharing this planet and need to help each other thrive and live in peace.  However, with that said, I believe that the experience of Black Americans is important for white people to study and understand, because they have suffered throughout history as a minority that is trampled on by others in power.  I have learned a lot about myself and my own personal biases through reading this novel and others by Black authors.  Please keep an open mind and heart as you hear about the life of 16-year-old Starr Carter.

        The Hate U Give is a coming of age story about a young African American 16-year-old adolescent girl named Starr.  Starr has grown up in a rough area known as Garden Heights, but attends school in the suburbs at a wealthy mostly-white private school.  Starr feels conflicted about who she is at home compared to who she is at school, including time spent with her white boyfriend, because she feels tourn in two pieces by the different worlds.  This feeling is put into overdrive when she witnesses one of her best childhood friends get murdered by a white cop on the way home from a Garden Heights party one night.

        The young Black adolescent’s name is Khalil, and he drives Starr home from a Garden Heights party one evening.  The car is stopped by a middle-aged white cop who notices that the car’s taillight is out.  The cop is aggressive with Khalil and begins to search him.  Khalil turns around to ask Starr if she is alright, and the cop shoots Khalil in the back, 3 times, killing him instantly.  Starr is horrified and this incident becomes a defining moment in her life.  Khalil was un-armed, not carrying drugs, and was not threatening the cop in any way.  His killing was a tragedy.

        This sad incident is the beginning scene of the novel.  The remainder of the book is about the inner struggle that Starr goes through as she tries to understand what happened and how she should react.  To quote the novel, as told through Starr’s voice, “I’ve seen it happen over and over again: a Black person gets killed just for being Black, and all hell breaks loose…I always said that if I saw it happen to somebody, I would have the loudest voice, making sure the world knew what went down.  Now I am that person, and I’m too afraid to speak” (34-35).

        Thankfully for Starr, she has a very supportive family.  Her father is a former drug dealer who got out of the business when Starr was a baby, and her mother is a nurse.  She has two brothers as well, one younger, one older.  Starr is not comfortable at first telling her friends about the truth of the evening, that she was the witness of the murder, when the story is first aired on the TV news.  As the novel progresses, Starr finds her voice, and testifies for the DA in a trial of the officer who shot Khalil.  However, the officer ends up being let off with no consequences.  Starr finds consequences in her personal life once the story becomes public, and looses one of her high school friends over the conflict.  Starr’s boyfriend, Chris, remains supportive. Starr finally says the truth to those who doubt her: The truth that her friend Kahlil was a good person who didn’t deserve to die, the truth that his life mattered.  Black Lives Matter.

        Finally, I want to address the title of the book.  It is taken from an old Tupac song (he’s a rapper), and is discussed in the novel by Starr and her father Maverick.  To quote the book again: “The Hate U Give Little Infants F**** Everybody (Thug Life).  Khalil said it’s about what society feeds us as youth and how it comes back and bites them later…I think it’s about more than youth though.  I think it’s about us period.  Black people, minorities, poor people.  Everybody at the bottom of society” (168).   

        The question that I asked myself after reading this book was “what is the hate that I give?”  Are there groups of people that I am prejudiced against?  What are my true feelings about Black people and all minority groups?  These are certainly uncomfortable questions, but important ones.  Jesus calls us to love our neighbors as ourselves.  Are we displaying that love to the world?  Are we giving hate or love?  I suggest this book to everybody as a deep read and as a very thought provoking read.  It helped me to enter a whole new world and examine myself closely.

        God Bless.

      4. Trump vs. King

        Thoughts on This Day in History

        Today is inauguration day, and Donald Trump has been sworn in as president of the United States for his second term.  To say that I have strong emotions on this occasion would be an understatement.  I voted for Harris to become president, and I still firmly believe that our country would be in much more capable hands had she been elected.  Why did I not vote for Trump?  Simply stated: I do not trust him.  He is a convicted criminal, a rapist, a consistent racist and homophobic speaker, not to mention a failed business man. In addition, I am convinced that Trump only acts in ways that benefit himself, not the American people.  When I voted for Clinton in the 2016 election, my belief was that our nation would be tarnished by a Trump presidency, and I currently believe that it will be again.  The argument used so frequently by my Trump supporting friends that grocery prices will drop once Trump takes office is not something that I can agree with.  I will be very surprised if prices end up miraculously dropping under the next Trump reign, in fact, I am expecting prices to rise further.  Life is going to become very chaotic.  I do not think that those who voted for Trump realize yet what they have gotten our country into.  Trump is a fascist.  The attacks on the Capitol on January 6th demonstrate that he does not support democracy.  Personally, I am terrified about how he will attempt to change our nation over the next 4 years.

                    Today is, also, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.  It seems a cruel joke that Trump gets sworn in on a holiday commemorating such an incredible person as Dr. King.  I do not have adequate words to express my admiration for Dr. King and his legacy.  My focus, therefore, has been on the importance of this holiday, and all that it means for peaceful resistance and civil rights.  I will peacefully resist the Trump presidency as best I can by writing my opinions on The Ladybug or by engaging in intelligent conversation with those willing to listen.  I must humbly follow Dr. King’s example as best I can. 

        In honor of this intent, I would like to share a piece of writing by: President Linda Thompson, DrPH, MPH, DNP (hc), RN, FAAN of Westfield State University, where I attend classes.  This excerpt is from a school email regarding Martin Luther King, Jr. Day:

                    “Dear Campus Community:

        On Monday, January 20, Westfield State University will be closed to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 

        Written on the Martin Luther King, Jr., memorial in Washington, D.C., are the following words from a speech he gave at the March for Integrated Schools in April 1959: “Make a career of humanity. Commit yourself to the noble struggle for equal rights. You will make a better person of yourself, a greater nation of your country, and a finer world to live in.” 

         These words are a timeless reminder that we all have a role to play in developing a compassionate, caring, and understanding society that respects, appreciates, and values all members. While we often spend time focusing on our cultural differences, on this day, and every day, we should take time to understand the similarities that make us human. Distancing ourselves from our own needs and acting to serve the needs of others represents the human spirit in its finest form.”

                    I am honored to attend a university with these core values.  On this difficult day in our great nation’s history, when Trump is made president again, let us instead focus on what we can control: our own actions for justice and peace. 

                    Keep Persevering, G.

      5. Diagnosed: Who Am I?

        Personal Post: Mental Health

        Is it helpful or hurtful to be diagnosed with an illness?  The answer may seem obvious, that a diagnosis can help in treatment and, hopefully, recovery.  However, does this reasoning apply to mental illnesses as well as physical ones?  I feel that I have a unique perspective on this question, because I have been diagnosed with both.  Unfortunately, I struggle with several chronic medical conditions that require treatment.  In addition, I have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, which has also led to prescription drug treatment and hospital stays.  Revealing these facts about my life used to feel shameful and embarrassing.  People are usually understanding and sympathetic when I say I have, “health problems.”  However, as soon as I mention mental health, their reactions turn from friendly to uncomfortable.  A few people are brazen enough to ask what meds I take, some people tell me about a weird relative they have with a similar diagnosis, and then there are those who look at me knowingly, and whisper under their breath, that they struggle too.

                    So, why is this topic as controversial as the others that I cover on The Ladybug, namely religion and politics?  Let’s dive in!  One observation that I have made throughout my journey is that mental health conditions scare people.  Behaviors seem threatening, and they can be dangerous.  Suicide is a leading cause of death in the USA.  Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy.  My own attempts were stopped by loving parents, and I was blessed to receive the treatment that I needed.  Others are less fortunate.  In addition, hospitals for the mentally ill are intimidating.  The experience of a locked ward is one that is unforgettable.  The staff are not always there for the right reasons.  Medications for mental illnesses have difficult side effects that can cause physical changes.  Personally, I struggle with a tremor that is obvious and makes everyone assume I am nervous.  These are some of the more obvious reasons why mental health is a difficult subject.

                    But, what is the consequence of the label, “Mentally Ill.” Or, “Bipolar.”  How does it feel to be a professional patient?  Isn’t that the consequence of receiving the diagnosis and being told one is disabled?  I have not been able to maintain employment due to my mental illness, therefore living on disability payments and scratching by financially.  How do you think that makes me feel?  We all know that the Republicans in congress do not look favorably on people like me, living on handouts and charity.  So, how can I respect myself?  See myself favorably?  Feel my own self-worth?  The answer is:  I know that I am so much more than my diagnosis.  My diagnosis is not who I am.  My name is Gaelle, my name is not bipolar.  I have something of value to offer this world simply by being me.  That’s it, nothing more.  I have worth.             

        Honestly, the realization that I am more than my diagnosis was something that took time.  I tried to keep my mental illness a secret.  I feared that people would not see me the way I wanted to be seen if only they knew the truth.  Now, I understand that valuable friends love me for me.  The people who judge me or shade me with stigma are not worth my tears.  I encourage anyone who is feeling ashamed of a diagnosis to step back.  See the information given to you as power in your hands to better understand yourself and aid with treatment and recovery.  There is always hope for a better ending.  We have the control to make positive decisions about our futures.  My personal motto is: Never Give Up!!!  The healing I have experienced over the years is amazing, and it is the reason I was inspired to write such an intimate post.  Mental illness is real, yes, and treatable, and recovery is possible.  Do not let the label define you.  Every human life holds value.  Thank you for reading a little of my story.  If you are someone struggling with mental illness and/or suicidality, please ask for help.  I have included the link below for The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.  Blessings, G.    

        Home | AFSP

      6. For the Love of Money

        Reflections on God and Possessions

        My needs have always been met.  I have never known hunger or cold.  There has always been a roof over my head.  Considering the recent wildfires in California, I have been thinking about what happens when a human’s most basic needs are not met.  In America, we have a capitalist society, where every man and woman are for themselves in a rat race to the corporate top ladder.  Money and possessions are highly valued.  Americans are taught to crave a bigger house, a fancier car, and the latest smart phone technology.  The focus is not only on having enough to survive, but on one-upping your neighbor.  But, what does Jesus say we need?  He emphasizes spiritual wholeness, and a closeness with the earth and our creator.  Jesus, himself, was poor, and advised His followers to give up their possessions and follow Him.  Jesus says that we cannot love God and money (Luke 16:13 and Matthew 6:24).  So, after seeing the devastation in California over the last few days, I asked myself, what would I grieve the loss of most, my “things” or my memories?  I am ashamed to say that I might be tempted to grieve the loss of the stuff I had collected the most.

                    Time for a little self-reflection.  I grew up middle-class in the USA, and with all the privileges of being white.  It was not until I was an adult that I first experienced having little money.  I have lived on disability and food stamps for most of my adult life, and have had to watch every penny closely.  Running out of food at the end of the month has become a reality, as well as swallowing my pride and occasionally asking for extra help.  However, as I said, God is Good, and I have always somehow made ends meet.  It has not been an easy task.  The surprising fact is, that I would not have it any other way.  Being poor keeps me honest in a way that I have never experienced before.  My empathy and respect for others has grown and my own faith journey has been richer.  Joy has been palpable in the simple pleasures, such as a walk in the woods, or a warm cup of tea.  Community with others in church or through friendships sparks my passion more than being by myself in a fancy apartment would accomplish.  However, with all that said, I still feel myself vulnerable to the temptations to enjoy collecting, “stuff,” in my case mostly books and music.  I crave the latest Taylor Swift CD, even though I cannot afford it, and feel sorry for myself that the extra funds are not there. 

                    It is time for a reality check.  My complaints are the needs of a first-world spoiled American.  I want fancier clothes, I want newer CD’s, I want higher quality chocolate.  Hello, wake-up call, I have all I need and more!!!  My sweet apartment is full of lovely times spent with family and friends, and I am warm, safe, and fed.  There are many in the world, and presently in our own country, who cannot say the same.  It is time to dig into scripture and recall the words of Jesus, “you cannot love God and money.”  I have been given free-will, what do I choose to love today?  Do I love my Father God, or the phone app that I want?  God gives us the option; it is time to consider the answer.  We as Christians are called to serve those less fortunate, let us decide to act now and help our neighbors.  To whom much is given, much is required.  I have been given much. 

                    If you would like to help the California rescue efforts, World Central Kitchen is serving hot meals:

        World Central Kitchen

      7. Bridgerton and Race

        This week’s controversial topic: Racism in Film

        The Netflix series Bridgerton, adapted from the novels by Julia Quinn, has garnered many fans and enthusiasts.  One of the topics that the TV series is praised for is being racially inclusive by casting people from a variety of ethnic backgrounds in the leading roles.  For example, who can forget Rege-Jean Page as the handsome duke in season 1, or Simone Ashley as the quick-witted future Lady Bridgerton in season 2?  Both actors were exceptional.  In addition, the society in the high-class ton of London is highly diverse.  The ballroom dance floors are full of interracial couples.  The Queen of England herself, Queen Charlotte, who presides over the picking of the season’s Diamond, is Black.  Is there a problem with this casting?

                    The question that came to me in recent discussion with white family and friends is: How realistic is this beautiful portrait of racial harmony that is portrayed on Bridgerton?  One member of my family has recently read the series of Bridgerton books, in which the characters are mainly white-skinned and blue-eyed.  She felt that the TV show was not historically accurate, because the Regency period high-society in London was dominated by white aristocrats.  Her argument was that Netflix should not cast so many differing ethnicities in the lead roles because that is not what the upper-classes looked like historically, and it is not aligned with the book series.  In addition, another white friend of my family member agreed with her, and felt that Netflix was making a serious misstep. 

                    So, I gave this topic some thought.  My response to my family member and her friend is this:  Donald Trump is spreading hate and white supremacy like a virus in our country, and I will support whole-heartedly any television show that offers more film representation to people of color.  If Bridgerton is unrealistic than we should be striving to make it more realistic.  I find it incredible that June 19, 1865 occurred 160 years ago this spring, and people of color are still held back in American society as if slavery never ended.  Why is it such a big deal when a Black, Asian, or Latinx actor wins an award such as an Oscar or an Emmy?  The answer is, because the BIPOC community is not given leading roles in film, and little boys and girls of color do not see themselves represented on screen.  All of this is to say, that I strongly disagree with criticizing a film, whether TV or movie, that allows the leading roles to be given to people from diverse backgrounds.  Instead, we should be embracing the changes and striving to make our messed-up American society more welcoming to the advancement of people of color. 

                    As a white person, myself, I strive to be keenly aware of my own racial prejudices.  For example, I originally did not understand the immense backlash when Emma Stone won the Oscar for Best Actress at the 2024 Academy Awards, and Lily Gladstone, who was nominated for her performance in Killers of the Flower Moon, did not win.  My first thought: What is the big deal?  Wow, can you say, “Out of touch with reality?!”  I remember an intense talk with my dad about this topic after the Oscars ceremony.  The problem is not that Emma Stone is a bad actress, the problem is that white women almost always win that award.  Lily Gladstone was the first Native American to be nominated in the Best Actress category.  Furthermore, two women, Halle Berry and Michelle Yeoh, are the only women of color to win a Best Actress Academy Award.  The Oscars have been around for 95 years, and have been dominated by white winners.  I realized that Lily Gladstone’s Oscar loss had much bigger implications about racism in film. 

        Movies and television have not escaped the white supremacy of American culture.  And that fact is wrong.  Terribly wrong.  After the 2nd Presidential election win of Donald Trump, I am fearing where our country is headed.  Trump is all about hatred of anyone different from himself.  I refuse to stand idly by and let him fill our nation with his violent racism.  If film is one place where we can make a difference for the BIPOC community and act against racist beliefs, then that is a place to start.  Go watch Bridgerton and support the way that society should be.  Let’s make it a reality. 

      8. Lifestyle: Walking for a Cause in 2025!!!

        Hello and welcome to 2025!!  I am starting this year with a lifestyle post about my love of charity walks.  As a person who struggles with more than one chronic illness, I find it invigorating and important to exercise by walking on a regular basis.  I can think of no better way to apply my love of walking than by raising funds for worthy organizations.  I first began participating in charity walks when I was quite young, around 10 years of age.  Over the years, the mileage that I can achieve has changed based on my health, but my determination to make a positive difference in the lives of others has not wavered.  In 2024, I participated in four charity walks.  I completed two 5K distances, one 2-mile distance, and one 10K distance, all of which I trained for carefully.  The walks supported the organizations: National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Open Sky Community Services, The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), and The Jimmy Fund. 

                    Fast-Forward to 2025, and I am taking on a new walking challenge!  I have registered for the American Cancer Society 31-miles in January Challenge, committing to walk at least 1 mile per day.  This cause is very close to my heart, as two of my grandparents struggled with cancer, and one of my close friends is currently fighting. Unfortunately, cancer seems to affect the lives of everyone, whether you know someone or battle with it yourself.    The fundraiser is on Facebook, and I include the link here:

        https://www.facebook.com/donate/1351351116309350/

        I appreciate your support!!

          In addition, this challenge also comes at a tough time for me physically, as I have been in a flare of my chronic illness. Walking daily is currently more difficult than usual.  However, I am determined to overcome my own health struggles, and aid others as well.  Comment below any ways that you use movement to make a difference.  What does it mean to you? 

        Let’s Go, New Year, Goal Set!!!!  

        My photo of my first 2025 walk:

      9. Welcome to The Ladybug!

        Religion, Politics, Lifestyle

        I am Gaelle, 38 years old female, Progressive Christian, Democrat, and college student pursuing my BA in Psychology.  This blog is dedicated to exploring the topics I find most interesting as a liberal Christian, living in a world where, unfortunately, saying you are a Christian has become risky thanks to the movement of Christian Nationalism sweeping the USA.  Racism and homophobia are now interwoven with identity as a Christian in mainstream media.  However, I consider myself a safe person for both the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities.  I constantly strive to better educate myself on the experiences of populations that are discriminated against.  In addition, my growth spiritually and my calling to a life of service to the poor and less fortunate through ministry are topics I wish to expand upon.  Mission work has become the passion of my life, and I invite you to learn with me about ways to improve our world by being the hands and feet of Jesus.  I will also be occasionally sharing some lighter lifestyle posts about my family and daily living in New England.  Please come join me as I express through writing and photography my journey in 2025!  Stay tuned, things could get a little controversial!