The Ladybug

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  • Laws Off My Body!

    Today on The Ladybug, I want to talk about another controversial topic: Sex and birth control.  As a 38-year-old woman, I have decided not to have children.  I feel confident, happy, and secure in my resolve to not be a mother.  My life is about many joys and goals, but being a parent is not one of them.  This decision was not made because I hate children, but instead, simply because I know myself well, and I know that motherhood is not for me.  Being a mother is an important and glorious role, but one that I have never aspired to achieve.  With that said, I deeply respect my friends who are mothers, and I have a loving and wonderful relationship with my own Mom.  Being child-free is a personal decision, and I am convinced that it is the most appropriate path for my life. 

                Now, the big question: Can I have sex just for the enjoyment if my intention is never to have a child?  For those of you who are not religious, this may seem like a silly question.  However, I bring this topic up for discussion because of the rise in the USA in popularity and political power of conservative Christians.  You may also know them as Christian Nationalists.  Many conservative Christians are of the belief that sex should only be for the creation of children.  Therefore, following their logic, any form of birth control should be outlawed.  Women should not have the power over their own bodies to say, “Yes, I want sex.  And, no, I do not want kids.”  Am I out of line in assuming that this is the belief that is threatening me?  I think not.  Birth control pills are called, “abortion pills,” by some conservative believers.  The problem develops when Christians become powerful in the government, and begin to make their religious preferences law. 

                If you believe that I am over-reacting, then may I remind you that Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022, and that abortions are now no longer protected by the Constitution.  In many states where Christian Nationalists have gained positions in government, abortion is becoming illegal again.  Birth control is the next target.  I am here to say, “Laws off my body!  This is my decision!”  Let me be very clear: I believe that every woman has the right to decide how to express her own sexuality and for what purpose.  If I want to have an active sex life, while not having children, then that is my call.  Stay away from my birth control options.  This includes the full spectrum of birth control, such as IUD’s, the pill, the shot, and, yes, abortion.  The right is mine.  The decision should not be taken away from me because a conservative Christian in congress wants his wife, “barefoot and pregnant.”  If you think this is not happening, then you would be wrong.  For example, Elon Musk has a large brood of children with many different women.  His belief is that women are for baby making, and re-populating the white race, which supports his wrong white-supremacist thinking. 

                I am currently reading Margaret Atwood’s controversial novel The Handmaid’s Tale.  I believe that if women do not raise their voices and take a stand, we will soon find ourselves strictly controlled by the patriarchy.  In the novel, handmaids are for one purpose: to have children.  In addition, bearing children is seen as the only reason for women’s existence.  While reading, I feel suffocated and suppressed, just like the women in the book.  They have no voice and no choices.  Let me be clear that in 2025, women still have choices.  But those choices are fading quickly while we watch our reproductive rights disappear.  Let our voices not be silent now.  There are organizations such as The Women’s March and Planned Parenthood Action which take a stand and fight for the rights of all females in this country.  It is time to take to the streets in protest.  Do not let what you can do with your body be dictated by a man.  I saw a great meme online about The Handmaid’s Tale, and it said that the book is meant to be fiction, not an instruction manual for men to suppress women.  I could not agree more! 

                I do not want to see a dystopian future for women in the USA.  We need freedom and equality.  We need to speak now!  Do not let men in power, such as Trump or Musk, dictate our lives.  I am legitimately terrified that bans on abortion and birth control are just the beginning.  And this woman, will not conform.  Instead, I will resist.  I am inspired by many greats that have gone before me, such as the notorious RBG.  Let us not forget her legacy of dissent.  Let us make her proud!  My body, my choice.  I encourage every woman reading this to evaluate the meaning of choice to you, and to decide that it is worth fighting for. 

                With Resistance, G.

    PS I have linked The Women’s March and Planned Parenthood Action Below.  Check them out!  In addition, feel free to share resources of your own in the comments.  Thank you!

    Women’s March – Our Feminist Future – Women’s March

    Planned Parenthood Action Fund

  • Can I Comment on Your Body?

    In the American media, how many times have you read comments about the bodies of celebrities?  She is too fat, he is jacked, she needs Ozempic, and the classic, she looks sick!  Reporters, influencers, and everyday people all seem to feel entitled to make judgments about the body shape and size of anyone who dares to step in front of a camera’s flashbulb.  In addition, this attitude of criticizing bodies translates to personal examples in the lives of ordinary people.  I, personally, have been told both that I was obese, and how great I looked when I lost a substantial amount of weight.  My question is: why is my body any of your business?  How dare anyone busy themselves with considering my shape and appearance.  How dare they torture famous women and men with harassing comments only meant to criticize.  So, as my own protest to these actions, let us consider here in The Ladybug a little education on body image.

                First, I would like to state the obvious: bodies come in all forms and sizes.  There is no one body that is better than any other.  The term, “fat,” should not be considered an insult.  The look of thinness should not be considered an ideal.  Why should we let society dictate how we feel about our own bodies?  The only thing that matters is the health of our bodies.  This should not be determined by the BMI (Body Mass Index), but by measures such as blood pressure and lab tests.  If your body is healthy and functioning correctly, your weight and shape should be accepted as beautiful no matter the number on the scale.  The diversity in bodies is something to celebrate!  It would be terribly boring if we all looked the same.  So, why do we try to force our poor bodies to conform to an image that is expected of us.  Women, specifically, are taught to shrink themselves into America’s vision of beauty.  I say, let your body find its happy set point, the size where it wants to maintain itself naturally, and enjoy.  Your unique body is a gift, embrace it!

                Second, you may be asking yourself how I can speak so freely about the diversity in bodies.  Perhaps, you might wonder if I do not feel the pressure to look acceptable.  However, let me assure you that I have come to this rebellious standpoint on body image through my own struggles.  I was diagnosed with anorexia nervosa when I was 20 years old, after I fell into the behaviors of a serious eating disorder at age 18.  I am still not fully recovered from my eating disorder 20 years later, but I am committed to the fight.  For years, I cycled through hospital hallways and the offices of dieticians.  Sometimes, it felt like I would never make peace with food, and there seemed to be no escape.  One must eat every day to stay alive, and, so, I confronted my eating disorder at mealtimes and felt its cruel thoughts that rocked my mind.  But, little by little, the therapies I was receiving and the supports of family and friends began to make a difference in my healing.  In addition, as my faith in God deepened, I realized that I was not alone in my battles with food and body image.  I have come a long way, and today I have drawn a truce with my body.  I seek to love my body and give her what she needs.  Specifically, I ask her daily what she desires, and I approach eating with an intuitive mind.  Do I love my weight?  No.  But I actively choose to not focus my energies anymore on the number I see on a scale.  It means nothing about my worth as a person, and I firmly believe that statement. 

                Third, let me give some advice.  Do NOT make comments about other people’s bodies.  Obey this rule NO Matter What!  If you want to know why someone put on weight or lost it, then say Nothing, because it is not your concern.  There are so many reasons why bodies change.  Reasons for shape changes can be aging, health concerns, eating disorders, medication side effects, etc.  The only reason to discuss someone’s weight with them is if they bring it up themselves.  Also, commenting on the weight of a pregnant woman is a no-go, they are growing a human!  Suggesting that a man or woman, “hit the gym,” is also completely unacceptable.  There are many forms of movement and exercise, and one should choose movement that is joyful and provides happiness.  I, myself, need to rest a lot due to my chronic health problems, and I am not physically able to maintain a strict exercise regime.  Society would like me to feel guilty about this fact, however, I refuse to force my body to do something she is not capable of just so that I may fit in.  When it comes to health advice, leave it to a trained medical professional.  Commenting on body image, exercise, and weight loss/gain is never a smart idea.

                In conclusion, I would like to reach out to my sisters and brothers who are struggling with eating disorders.  It is a difficult road, and treatment is not always affordable.  Many suffer in silence.  Please, if you are experiencing trouble with eating or negative body image, reach out for help through any means available.  Eating disorders are serious and deadly.  However, breaking the stigma and ending the silent suffering of those who experience any type of disordered eating is crucial.  If you are a family member or friend of someone with an eating disorder, my advice is to love them and stand by them.  They need your support and healing presence.  I have linked below The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) and The Multi-Service Eating Disorders Association, INC (MEDA).  I have personally received assistance from both organizations, and I can recommend their support services. 

    Finally, do not succumb to the pressures of American culture, which supports a twisted concept of body image and weight.  Instead, be a rebel, and embrace your own beautiful, wonderful, unique body with all your heart and mind.  You are already perfect, so go be authentically you!

    With Acceptance, G.

    P.S. I have displayed below a photo of myself at the 2019 NEDA Walk in Boston, MA.

    Home – National Eating Disorders Association

    MEDA Inc. | Multi-Service Eating Disorders Association

  • Faith: A Power Higher Than Trump

    Recently, I posted a blog on The Ladybug discussing my blessings during the reign of Trump.  Today, I would like to further expand upon the idea that blessings exist during difficult times, by sharing my personal faith.  The news in the USA has only been getting scarier and scarier.  How do we cope with our fears?  How do we manage the harsh realities that are flooding our lives from the new Trump administration?  I am a person who relies on government agencies and policies that have long been in place.  Now, I feel that I am a sitting duck with a gun pointed at my head, as the democratic government I hold dear tumbles down.  Is there anything I can do?  Of course I can take political action by calling my representatives.  And, I can resist and protest in the streets.  But, what about internal action?  How do I protect my peace?

                The answer for me is: by digging into my faith in God.  I identify as a progressive Christian, and my faith in the love and protection of Jesus has seen me through many dark days in my life.  God is always faithful to me, and my peace of mind is guaranteed when I am faithful to him in return.  In the Bible, Jesus says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world.” This quote is from the Gospel of John 16:33.  Many believe that being a Christian should mean an easy walk through life.  However, God does not promise that we never see troubles, simply that He is with us during every moment of our troubles.  He sees us through the storm.  We live in a fallen world, where heartache and death are realities.  But do not forget, Jesus conquered death by rising on the third day following His crucifixion.  He can help you and I overcome anything! 

                I would like to share a personal story about my life as an example of the healing powers of faith.  I have struggled with alcoholism since I was 20 years old.  I did not get serious about sobriety until I was 31 years old.  I now have 6 and ½ years sober from alcohol.  This journey through my addiction has been marked by tears, danger, and denial.  There were many people in my life that wanted me to stop drinking before I decided to try to sober up.  I hurt those closest to me.  I never would have achieved a sober day without the grace of God.  It takes a village to support the recovery of an addict, and that village must be guided by a higher power.  I decided to get sober after I lived through a near-death experience.  I realized that if I had died, I would have left my life a mess.  I thanked God that I survived, and dedicated myself to sobriety.  The journey has not been easy, and I still take only one day at a time.  I struggle with my addiction every day, and every day God is Good and keeps me sober.  I could have died, but here I am, living still and living clean!

                My hope in sharing my personal story of how faith saved me from alcoholism, is to inspire you to reach out to God no matter what mountain you are facing.  He alone can aid you. His love will comfort you through the rough days of your own journey.  Perhaps you are stressed and frightened by the current political climate.  Perhaps you are financially tapped out.  Maybe, you just lost a loved one and are grieving.  Whatever the circumstance, do not rely on your own strength, but reach towards God and His strength.  We are never alone in our struggles.  You never have to feel alone.  I may be scared by what is coming in the next days and months of the Trump administration, but I know that I will be okay in the end.  If it is not okay, then it is not the end.  How do I know?  Because, I believe in a loving and powerful God who wants to help me and is by my side through thick and thin.  All you need do is ask.  A simple prayer.  “God, help me.”  He will hear you, and He is faithful.  Dig into what is beyond Trump or any of his leaders, the higher power, and rely on God to bring you to better days.

                In Love and Peace, G.

  • Permission to Rest

    I am currently typing this while curled up in bed with a warm, electric blanket, and a hot mug of coffee.  There was a major snow storm last night, and the weather has now decided to spit ice and rain.  My car is completely snowed in, and I am not going anywhere.  Therefore, I have made an executive decision that today is a rest day.  My week has been long and filled with appointments and schoolwork.  I deserve rest.  However, do I really need to earn my rest?  Or does my mind and body simply deserve rest because they exist.  Is it okay to take a rest day because I am tired, or even two rest days?  Or even a rest week?  Let us look at this idea a little more closely.

                In America, the rules of society dictate that we all work and hustle, as much as possible.  In addition, if one has a disability or health condition that requires taking life a little less intensely, then you are looked down upon by other people.  Grind, grind, grind!  That is the motto for the USA.  Whether this attitude be at your job, in your relationship, or at the gym, you are expected to always be moving forward.  Life is a proverbial rat race.  But why?  What is so wrong about slowing down?

                Let me share a little about my personal experience.  When I meet a new person, they always ask me what I do for work.  My reply is that I do not work, currently, that I am in school part-time.  This answer usually always elicits a confused look from the other person, and then the inevitable question, “Well, what do you do with your time?  Aren’t you bored?”  I find this arrogant assumption that because I do not meet with society’s standard of full-time work or full-time school, that I somehow must have no life.  The assumption is that I must be lazy, and sitting around eating chocolates all day.  My life is full of responsibilities and I often feel overwhelmed by how busy my days are, and how little time I have for rest.  My life just looks different from the norm.  I balance family obligations with health appointments and school and exercise and activities that contribute to my values system, just like anybody else. 

                So, why am I shamed for not fitting the business rules of American society?  And, if I need rest days to help my body and mind rejuvenate so that I may keep going in my life, why is that wrong?  I feel that in the USA, we have our values all wrong.  With all the emphasis on grinding and hustling, exhaustion and burn-out are inevitably to be expected.  In fact, many people are dissatisfied in their lives because they do not take time to rest.  However, I understand that rest time can be seen as an unattainable luxury to some people.  Perhaps you are a busy Mom, or a person working three jobs to make ends meet, and rest time sounds impossible.  I understand, and I do not want to discount these persons and situations.  My point is, that instead of striving to never stop moving, we should be striving to carve out little pockets of rest in our daily lives.  For example, take a longer than usual coffee break, or go for a walk on your lunch hour, or dedicate one day a week to sleeping-in by a half hour extra.  There are possibilities for adding rest, if one is creative.  Rest time is crucial to mental and physical well-being, and it is a luxury that we should be striving to make a weekly practice.

                My challenge to you is to find your happy place.  Stop and think.  Just breathe for a moment.  What small activity, or lack of activity, makes your little heart soar?  For me, I enjoy eating canned soup while curled in bed watching a favorite Netflix show, and I like to take time to do this when I feel my body telling me she is tired.  There are hundreds of possibilities for what a rest day, hour, or moment may look like for you, but make sure to carve out the time to indulge.  Your body will thank you with improved overall health.  Your mind will thank you for letting it de-stress, even for twenty minutes.  Do not run the rat race and feel you are stuck.  Instead, embrace rest time, and view it as a form of self-respect, just as important as leg-day at the gym.  My message to all my Ladybug readers: Permission to rest-GRANTED!!!

                Be Relaxed, G.

  • 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.    

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