[MOVIE REVIEW] The Conversation

When I was introduced to THE CONVERSATION it had my attention from the very beginning. It's a simple yet powerful message about how two people (played by Ashley A.Williams and Michael Cory Davis) can have two different perspectives of one event---and the importance of understanding the other person's perspective.

To be honest when I watched it the first time I could see parts of both sides, how one might get the wrong impression. But the overall message is clear: listen to what others are saying. Don't go by what you think. Go by what is being said and expressed.

The film itself is less than 20 minutes long, but it is packed with so much to digest that it will have you talking about it long after the credits roll. The overall message is clear: If we are open to understanding the perspective of others and not making everything about ourselves then we will definitely avoid problems and misunderstandings that can lead to disaster.

Watch THE CONVERSATION today on Amazon.

[MOVIE REVIEW] Street Survivors: The True Story Of The Lynyrd Skynyrd Plane Crash

by Cyrus Webb

Raised in the South I have known of the group Lynyrd Skynyrd for some time, as well as the tragedy that befell the group in 1977. What I didn't know is what life was like for the group, their music and what happened after the crash to the members left behind. THAT is the story that STREET SURVIVORS tells.

Through the voice of band member Artimus Pyle we see his passion for music, what it was like for him to join the talented group and the antics that were a part of life on the road. We also see the passion for the fans and performing, and the connection the group shared through music.

The film gives us a look at the tragic crash and life afterwards for Pyle, but it really shows the heart of someone who was part of something that seems almost bigger than life.

STREET SURVIVORS is the Lynyrd Skynyrd story that we have been wanting, and is sure to give us a new layer of understanding why the group's music continues to live on.

Rent or buy STREET SURVIVORS on Amazon.

Jared Cohn: Pursuing His Passion While Telling Stories that Matter (2020)

by Cyrus Webb

There are few people I have been introduced to that are as passionate about creating as Jared Cohn. He is a Writer, Producer, Director and Actor that has made a name for himself and doing the work (and telling the stories) that he is passionate about.

We were first introduced to each other back in 2016. During the time he was promoting his film that he wrote, produced and starred in called Wishing For A Dream. It tells the story that so many creative individuals can relate to: having a dream and what it takes to see that dream realized, both the good and the bad.

We reconnected in 2020 as he was celebrating the release of his powerful film STREET SURVIVORS: The True Story of the Lynyrd Skynyrd Plane Crash and gearing up for the debut of his Lifetime movie HER DEADLY GROOM.

Our chat was inspiring and shows why Cohn is such a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

JARED ON WISHING FOR A DREAM:
"It's still like an ongoing struggle.  I'm still in character. It's very real... Making the film was kind of like a documentary---but not a documentary. When I write a script I try to invoke something that makes the viewer think. I wanted to make something personal, hopefully that would resonate with some people."

JARED ON THE BUSINESS:
"If you go on the internet and you're looking for feedback, you have to have thick skin. I'm so grateful that there are people who are supportive. It's a tough business. It helps to know some of your work is received well."

"It's like a roller coaster: Some days you feel unstoppable, and other times you're like why am I doing this? It comes in moments. It's a crazy town...it's a crazy industry, but I can't do anything else. I selected this path, because I am a fan of entertainment. That's what I wanted to make my life about."

JARED ON WHAT KEEPS HIM GOING:
"You have to have that sense of this is possible and believe in that. If you don't believe in yourself no one else is going to believe in you. You have to keep going."

"It's always about the next thing. If you're just focusing on what you're doing right now when it's done you're going to be idle. I like to have multiple things going on. I'm constantly writing, looking at other projects. I'm a creator. It's all about content. At the end of the day that's all that matters."

Stay connected with Jared and Trap Light Media on Twitter at www.twitter.com/traplightmedia and Instagram at www.instagram.com/jaredcohn1.

Actor/Producer Jamison Jones: Acting on Faith While Paying It Forward (2020)

by Cyrus Webb

Jamison Jones* has been able to do work that he loves on stage, television and film as well as expanded his brand as a writer, producer and acting coach. While many movies were being shuttered in 2020 due to the pandemic he also starred in the film THE WRETCHED which has gone on to be a #1 film at drive-in theaters. 

During his first visit on Conversations LIVE radio show we discussed his success and the movie. "With THE WRETCHED it's been a very strange blessing in disguise," he told me. "It's been such a joy to see people's response to the movie." (THE WRETCHED is currently available on your favorite streaming platform.)

When I asked him about the 'strange blessings' of his career and what led to where he is today Jamison offered this insight to his success. "As an actor it's always challenging to know which is the right project. You have this team around you encouraging you to do certain things or not do certain things. At the end of the day you have to follow your heart." 

Following his heart and his listening to his gut is what led Jamison to THE WRETCHED. "I loved this script when I read it," he explained. "For me it was a story about a father and a son trying to reconnect after a difficult time. It was great for me to play a character like this."

In discussing what led him to want to be involved behind the camera, Jamison says it was something he was missing from his time in the theater. "In theater you're a part of the entire creative process," he says. "I really do enjoy being a collaborator in the creative process."

Outside of pursuing his own career Jamison started the Jamison Jones Acting Studio as a way of paying it forward to the next generation. "It took me 15 years to really work and find a way to stay connected to people," he says. "It was important to me looking back at that time to help other actors coming up." Speaking of having the opportunities he told me: "It's all about the creative aspect of it. Being an actor without opportunities is like being an artist without paint. There's nothing you can do if someone doesn't give you the opportunity to do it." He does see the independent projects as a plus, with more creatives taking their career into their own hands.

Whether pursuing his own projects or helping others do the same, Jamison Jones is a perfect example of how acting on faith can lead to some amazing opportunities. 

Stay connected with Jamison on Instagram at www.instagram.com/realjamisonjones.

* Photo by Joanna DeGeneres

Acting On Faith: Christina DeRosa, Actress/Producer /Content Creator

by Cyrus Webb

Actress Christina DeRosa* made her first appearance on Conversations LIVE the radio show this year. The two of us discussed not just the exciting way she brought in 2020 with the movie INHERITANCE, but her career in front of the camera and supporting projects that she believes in. If you follow her online you know she is also a fan of social media and expressing her creativity that way, too.

In this conversation you’ll read about Christina’s career, her passion and what keeps her moving forward even through the challenges we’re all facing.

I love the fact, especially on Instagram, you know, you don't take yourself too seriously. You're still able to have fun. What has it been like for you to see the way that you've been able to do work that you love and then have people love that work as well?

I always say, one of the things I always preach is gratitude is the best attitude. And I start my day and I end my day and every moment of my day is filled with gratitude. And I never stop being grateful. In fact, I think it's a practice. It's an ongoing practice. I write down what I'm grateful for and I never stopped being grateful for all the people in my life, all the opportunities in my life. And I believe the more you express gratitude, the more you have to be grateful for, the more the universe gives you to be grateful for.

And when it comes to acting, Christina, did that just seem like a natural thing for you? Was it something you always wanted to do?

Oh yeah. It all started back in Long Island, New York as a munchkin alongside Natalie Portman in the Wizard of Oz. I started singing and dancing at a young age, and that eventually led me to my musical theater career at the Boston Conservatory. I studied there and then I took the expression while at the Boston Conservatory “break a leg” literally. I fell and broke my leg on stage.  After that I just focused on acting, and that's when I moved to LA, graduated from UCLA and been here ever since.

Do you think that's kind of part of the balance for you that you've been able to find success, but also realize where real happiness comes from?

Absolutely. I think especially as an actress in this entertainment industry, it's very easy to get caught up in me, me, me. It's a very ego-driven industry. It's nice to have other outlets to focus on. It's nice to be able to give back. It's nice to be able to serve. For me, that is so important and focusing on not just my career, but all the other aspects of who I am: a daughter, a sister, you know, anything that I am. All the titles that I wear, not just my career. I always say my career can't dictate my happiness. It's gotta be coming from all over.

And along the way, Christina, not only have you been able to find success and appreciate gratitude, you have fans literally around the world that have been able to enjoy your work as well. What has that been like for you to wrap your mind around?

Oh, it's such a blessing. I think that we keep on going because of the fans, and in a time like now where social media is everything…it's the main way we network. We use it to continue to stay connected and to appreciate our fans. It could be the fans that post something that actually gets you your next job. You just never know.

The last thing I want to talk to you about is your work as a producer.  I have heard it said before and I totally agree, Christina, that creators just create. You mentioned how young you started when it came to acting and how that blossomed. What about working behind the camera as a producer? What has that experience been like for you?

There's a creative fire inside of me for storytelling, and I've seen so many projects that with just a little bit more effort on everybody's part could have been exponentially better. So my strengths as a producer are putting the artistic team together, finding great writers, finding great directors and I just love everything about it. I've really embraced it. Especially during this time now it's where it's at, and to be able to still feel like I'm creating as a producer right now when I'm not currently on set during the stay at home time, it's been powerful. I teamed up with some amazing partners, and we have a production company. We are currently working as producers on a feature film trilogy, and as soon as things are able to be shooting, we will be shooting that movie in Savannah, Georgia.  It's amazing that during these troubled times I was able to shift my creativity from being in front of the camera to being in the back of the camera and still feel amazing about it.

Yeah. And I think too, and I've had conversations with others on this program, Christina, especially over the past couple of months about the importance of embracing one's power. And I think this is a great opportunity for a lot of people to be able to do that. I mean, you are not only I think a living example of what is possible, but I think just by what you just said, you really show about the importance of taking advantage of an opportunity and not just sitting back and waiting, but being able to do your own thing. Is that kind of your advice for others out there when it comes to this period of weight that a lot of people find themselves in or even uncertainty that just to go for what they want to do?

Absolutely. And I feel nowadays, especially with social media, you as an actor out there don't want to just be an actor anymore. And in all honesty, you're not. You're actually becoming an actor, a writer, a director and an editor. If you're making your own TikTok videos, you're in there actually editing your own video, directing yourself, setting up the lighting and more. You're experiencing all aspects of the creative process, which is beautiful. It's way more fun when you get to do it with more people, but it really gives you a sense of appreciation when you're able to do it all yourself too.

Stay connected with Christina at www.christinaderosa.com. She can be found on Instagram at www.instagram.com/actresschristinaderosa. 

* Photo by Alisa Banks

[Ask Mary Ellen] Allowing Love to Transform and Detoxify your Soul

Holding in anger or any negative emotion can allow toxins to enter at the very level of your soul changing your energy patterns and throwing you into disharmony.

First, you must look at how you allow these toxins to become part of your existence. Do you hold onto past hurts? Are you unforgiving of yourself and/or others? Do you have judgments about yourself, others or our society as a whole? Do you let go and allow the Universe – your world to flow freely? Do you take care physically and mentally of this temple for your Holy Spirit or do you feed it with junk food and fill your mind with the “negative” news talk?

Spiritual teachers have always pointed to the soul/ heart as the seat of consciousness. Anyone who has taken the time to explore the soul, and more importantly the connection to the heart, knows the connection between these two and a consciousness greater than the ego. Approaching life with an open heart means you have opened the door to the greater consciousness at the soul level.

 Become aware of how you can create positive change by choosing the language you use and the perception of how you see your world. You may already have ideas about phrases you would like to transition out of your vocabulary. It is challenging to examine how you see your world. You do not need to actively try to change either of these patterns just become more conscious of yourself. Treat and speak to others the way you would like to be treated and spoken to by them!

When you affirm you are fulfilled, instead of articulating deficiencies, you are committing to your natural essence of human existence. Choose to focus on satisfaction instead of dissatisfaction. At your very soul level understand the energy of your thoughts determines the response you receive from the Universe/God. When you work with all of this creative power within you, it will empower you to achieve the peaceful life you want to live.

The secret for any detoxification process is to become grateful. Allow the power of God’s love to transform you. God and His love transforms ordinary humans into compassionate beings to vibrate at a level of love and kindness. You can raise your vibrational level through gratitude. Feel gratitude for all you have and all the goodness God has bestowed upon you.

Feel gratitude for everything! There is always a reason to be grateful even if you are simply grateful that something good has happened to someone else!

To detoxify your soul, you must
1. Let go of past hurts
2. Forgive unconditionally – especially yourself.
3. Stop judging yourself and others.
4. Allow all emotions/toxins that come into contact with your soul to be felt in entirety and let go without judgment.

To have a peaceful full life you must detoxify, especially at this very basic level of the soul. 

Regularly release these toxins through writing – such as journaling or crying as your tears will flush out your toxins. When you feel a toxin (sadness or yucky feeling) FEEL it let it. Let it come out (as tears or another positive way such as boxing or exercise) and do not judge it. You can sing or make any kind of sound to free up your soul. Music is very Healing!

 Become aware and elevate your soul. By opening your soul to free up the toxins (sadness, judgements or other yucky feelings) that have been binding you will make you feel tender and vulnerable. That is okay. Again, do not judge it! This process takes practice, patience, compassion and unconditional love.

Sincerely with love,
Mary Ellen Ciganovich
Author of "Healing Words, Life Lessons to Inspire” and "T.R.U.T.H- Taking Responsibility Unleashes True Healing"
www.askmaryellen.com  askmaryellen@aol.com  423-653-6446

Model Rasheed Bey: Walking by Faith, Preparing for the Future

by Cyrus Webb

Model Rasheed Bey* and I first connected in 2017 when he appeared as a guest on Conversations LIVE radio show. Since then we have stayed connected on Instagram, and it's been great watching his journey.

Month after month, year after year, the Pittsburgh, PA native has pushed forward and been able to build his audience and brand along the way. This year we are able to profile his path in our publication. 


Rasheed, it’s been great seeing you grow on Instagram with your journey. When did you first realize that you were interested in modeling?
Thank you for the opportunity. I was probably in my mid-twenties. I kept hearing people's comments or asking if I model. When I told them I didn't they would say I should pursue it. After a while I thought I'd give it a shot. Now here we are.

Confidence is huge in your industry. Is that something you’ve always had or is it something you’ve developed over time?
Confidence is something I have, but if I'm being honest with you I still struggle with it here and there. I'm human like everyone else, and it's something I have to deal with from time to time.

How did you decide on Instagram as the platform you were going to use to grow your audience?
Instagram was a app that was fun before anything and easy to use. As social media outlets grew Instagram always seemed to stay ahead of the pack, and others like it came and went. To me it was also an app I personally enjoyed using the most, so I stuck with it.

Rasheed, we’re navigating uncertain times right now. What keeps you motivated?
I would say always wanting more. I feel like I haven't even scratched the surface of my potential, and I feel like things are starting to come my way. That in itself is very exciting and keeps me motivated to keep working.

As far as goals go what are you looking forward to when it comes to your modeling career?
To hopefully be able to make a good living doing something I truly love and enjoy. I also want to be able to work with brands and like-minded people who enjoy what I do and hopefully motivate others.

We’re glad to have you in our Acting on Faith issue. How has your faith kept you going?
Faith is always key, and I try to always keep that in mind no matter what. Even if this wasn't going on with the pandemic myself and others would still have hard times. At the end of the day you still need faith to help you get through any day, good or bad.

Speaking of acting, is that something you would also like to explore?
I'd love to do some acting if it came my way. I've always been a huge movie buff and think it's one of the best jobs out there to be able to entertain others. It would also be cool to be someone else for fun and get paid doing it.

Any advice for anyone out there who is interested in pursuing modeling?
I would say know your strengths and always have faith in yourself. Also use yourself to promote yourself, because no one will believe in you more then yourself .

Thanks again for the time, Rasheed. How can our audience stay connected with you? 
The easiest way, of course, is my instagram @sonofprime412. Thank you for the opportunity.

*     Photographed by Devin Robinson

Chris Connell: Fulfilling 'The Promise' of His Gifts

 

by Cyrus Webb

A mutual friend introduced me to Chris Connell this year, and I can honestly say it was a powerful connection. Chris Connell is the kind of guy you want around: he's driven, focused and passionate about his work. Whether we're talking about in front of the camera as a model or actor or now with his production company helping to bring stories to life, you will be hard-pressed to find someone who is willing to give his all to what he does. 

We had a great chat on Conversations LIVE the radio show first, but with us discussing the issue of Faith in this issue of the magazine I knew he would be a great addition here, too. Enjoy the conversation. 

Chris, first of all congratulations on the amazing career you have been able to have. What has it been like for you to reflect on all you have achieved in the entertainment industry?
It’s been exceptionally rewarding when people give acknowledgment to my achievements. Truthfully, I always have my eyes set on new heights, often overlooking these accolades, rarely giving attention to the past. I’m grateful, however, to everyone who continues to support me!

Have you always known that acting or performing was something you wanted to do?
Yes, absolutely; Well, I should say since high school. I’ve been asked for a long time what inspired me. My response: “I have no idea.” I’ve always appreciated strong communication and the opportunity to share the human condition, even under imaginary circumstances. Movies just seemed like the right fit.

This issue of Conversations Magazine is all about acting on faith when it comes to pursuing your goals. What gave you the courage to go for what you wanted in your career.
I could argue that my mother instilled a belief in me that anything I wanted to achieve was possible. Simply put, I will not accept anything less than the very best of myself. When I set a goal, I hit it. When you want something bad enough, you will walk through walls for it. I guess that says that I really want to live different, and I’m confident enough to reach for it. 

I’ve noticed from following you on social media that you’ve been able to engage a lot with your followers. What has it been like for you to pick up new fans from project to project?
It’s been such a blessing. I’m confident in who I am and don’t base my worth over how many likes I get, but just like anyone, It’s nice to know you’re appreciated.

Outside of being a creative yourself and acting on stage, television and film you also have your own production company. How did you get the courage to take that step to bring stories to life through your own platform?
The career of an actor is a challenging one. You’re often at the mercy of other industry professionals when it comes to bringing you on to their opportunity. I chose to give myself the power to create my own opportunities and with a little time and experience Chris Connell Productions was born.

I found out about you, Chris, through a mutual friend . That says a lot about the relationships you have formed in your career. How important has that been for you to have people in your corner who believe in you and your abilities?
It’s critical, and to be honest, I didn’t place enough value in it early in my career. I assumed talent was enough. When you connect with like-minded people who share a similar purpose, you now have a reach positioning you for exponential growth. Social media give us a unique opportunity to make those connections and those who are wise will take advantage of this platform.

The Promise is one of the projects you’re able to promote this year. Tell our readers about it and what it’s like to have your production company bring it to life. 
It’s been truly special to watch this vision develop into a reality, this only possible by the talent and dedication of the team I’m working with. “The Promise” follows an American WWII fighter pilot who’s shot down over the South Pacific. Fighting for his life, he forges an unlikely friendship to help him uphold a promise he made to the love of his life. Making this has been purely incredible, and I appreciate the way it’s challenged me as a filmmaker.

This year has brought challenges to us all, but the entertainment industry has been hit especially hard. How have you been able to use this time to stay active and productive?
I’ve actually leveraged the opportunity. With so many other projects on hold, my team was available more than ever, and I know we all welcomed the chance to build something we’re proud of. I made the decision to never take my foot off the gas, and work within these unique circumstances.

Any advice for anyone that is interested in pursuing a career in the arts, either in front of or behind the camera?
I can respond in so many ways to this question.  If you seek this professionally, you MUST give everything to it. There’s nothing casual about this. For something so engaging, so exhilarating, it’s going to be competitive. Those who rise to its demands will give all of themselves for it and unless you feel the same it’s going to be a tough road. If it’s in you, follow the calling and be bold in your actions.

Thanks for the time, Chris. Glad we had a chance to connect. How can our audience stay connected with you and what’s to come?  
www.chriswconnell.com
Instagram: chriswconnell
Facebook: chriswconnell
chriswconnell@gmail.com

Chris Connell photo:  Dylan Patrick

The Promise post: Chris Connell Productions 

[FITNESS] Five Tips for Getting Fit by Branden Nicholson

 by Branden Nicholson

Starting a fitness journey is always a challenge, but it may feel even more daunting when you’re carrying a few extra pounds.

If it’s been awhile since the last time you laced up your sneakers, you may not be 100 percent sure what you’re still capable of — which can make it a little intimidating to hit the gym alongside people who look like chiseled bodybuilders and aspiring fitness models.

But “fit” comes in many shapes and sizes — and you can always nail fitness goals in your own living room if the gym isn’t exactly your happy place.

Here are a few tips for getting in shape, no matter what your shape.

1. No workout is off limits
Have you ever seen a workout that looked intriguing, but you were concerned you didn’t have the “right” body type for it yet?

Maybe you want to try martial arts, but you’re worried that you lack the mobility, coordination, or power to execute a jab/cross/snap kick combo like a Muay Thai fighter. Or you want to try yoga, but you can barely hold a pose.

Put those worries aside. If a workout program looks fun don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try it — because you’re more likely to stick with a workout program you actually enjoy. You can always modify exercises to make them less strenuous until you build the strength and mobility needed to execute them fully.

2. Don’t underestimate your fitness abilities
Your weight or BMI (body mass index) can help you determine your starting point, but they’re not the only (or even the best) way to measure fitness.

Instead, gauge your progress by how strong and energetic you feel, and when you notice your workouts getting easier, go harder. If you begin to notice that the modifiers aren’t leaving you out of breath and drenched in sweat by the end of a workout, it’s time to move on to the main moves.

3. Get the right workout gear
Splurging on workout gear might feel kind of vain, but it isn’t just about taking awesome sweaty selfies. The right gear can keep you comfortable and even help prevent discomfort and injury.

For women a supportive sports bra can keep everything in place during plyometric (jumping) exercises, for example. Working out with the right shoes is vital for many reasons. Unless you’re running, stop wearing running shoes when you exercise. Consider purchasing training shoes instead. Everyone’s feet are different, so it’s not one-size-fits-all. But for anyone — especially anyone who’s plus-sized — make sure you have a shoe that supports the workout you are doing.

4. Pay attention to your technique
Proper form is always important. Not only does it help you get the most out of the exercise, but it can also help you reduce your risk of injury. It’s really important to make sure your technique is there — especially if you’re carrying around more weight because you need to protect your joints.

Work on proper alignment and proper technique so you’re avoiding injury — and getting better results, as well.It can be tempting to go full-throttle from the get-go, but that can backfire — if you get hurt, you won’t be able to work out for awhile.

5. Set non-scale goals
Don’t let the scale be your only barometer of success — look for other signs that you’re getting stronger and slimmer. Have you lost an inch off your waist? Are you using heavier weights than you were last month? Can you hold a 10 seconds plank longer? Do you see a thinner profile when you look in the mirror?

Focus on non-scale victories, like how you’re feeling during the workouts and if you have more energy during the day. That includes emotional victories, too, such as feelings of pride and confidence following a tough workout. The keys to meeting fitness goals are to stay positive and not get discouraged. Stay consistent and be patient — results will come.

After a tough workout a lot of people feel like a new and improved version of themselves, regardless of how much weight they have lost. Results vary depending on starting point and effort. Exercise and proper diet are necessary to achieve and maintain weight loss and muscle definition.

Always consult your physician and follow all safety instructions before beginning any exercise program or using any supplement or meal replacement product, especially if you have any unique medical conditions or needs.

For more information on ways to get fit with Branden Nicholson visit www.bnickfitness.com.

[The J Spot with Shari Alyse] Always Allow Love to Offer Wisdom

Quite a few years ago, when that Tom guy was running that hugely popular social networking site (yeah, you loved it too), I received a random email from a 15 year old boy that said, “You are an old b*#ch and should stop trying to look so hot and stop acting like a whore.”

Wow. 

That was a bit unexpected (to say the least) and quite a message to wake up to that day. I didn’t know the boy. I didn’t know why I received it. All I did know was that my first thoughts were how immature he was. And then the anger and defensiveness came over me and I started going over in my head how he’d be lucky to have a woman like me, how I felt sorry for his parents, that he must not have any friends, and on and on and on. Suddenly, I had the realization that as I was going off in my head about this boy, I was acting in the same manner he was. I was lashing out at him because of some hurt I was feeling. I stopped dead in my tracks, took a breath and did something I had never done before up to that point.

I decided to act with LOVE.

I decided right then and there that this boy needed love. I wasn’t sure why that thought came to me, but I knew it was something that had to be done. It didn’t need to be a novel or lecture telling him how childish and rude he was and how he would learn one day or anything like that. It only needed to be love. I opened up his message and simply wrote, “Love and peace to you” and signed my name. That was it. I went on with the rest of my day.

The next morning, I saw in my inbox that I had a new message and the sender was this boy. My heart sunk a bit not sure what rudeness I was going to read now. What came next almost knocked me over. It read, “I’m sorry for what I wrote yesterday. I’m just a young, immature kid and I hope you can forgive me.” I must have re-read that email about 10 times in that moment and had the biggest smile on my face.

It was right there that I knew for sure that love and kindness are always the way to go in any situation. 

I learned right then that if I had reacted in the same manner as him, then any lesson he could’ve learned would have been lost through the nasty things I would’ve said. By me acting from a place of love and kindness, he was then able to see his behavior clearly. I see it happen every day. I see people go back and forth in fighting and never see how they play a major part in what is happening.

The woman who was blocking a door at the grocery store while on her phone will never see how she was being self-absorbed and selfish because all she will talk about and remember is the “crazy” woman who went off on her at the grocery store. The guy who was being rude and not letting the other driver in on the freeway, won’t see that he was not being kind, he will only remember the “animal” on the road who flipped him off and blared his horn. The woman at Starbucks who forgot her manners by not holding the door open for someone, will not see her behavior, but will instead only see the angry woman who mumbled under her breath calling a few choice swear words. All of those people now go about their day, being upset, unhappy, pissed off and then sharing that negative energy with all the people they come across. Do you see how this cycle works?

I, alone, cannot bring about world peace, but I can bring inner peace to myself and to my immediate surroundings by being guided by kindness, love, and compassion with all those whom I come across every day. We, individually are responsible for the energy that we bring into a room and into the world each day. I invite you to begin thinking about what you want to leave behind when you walk out of a room. Do you want to be that person that brings joy into it and leaves others with a smile or do you want to be that person that brings everyone down when you are around and then can’t wait for you to leave? We have choices in every single moment, and even when it might seem hard to take the higher road, it is possible and it will bring forth a gentler and kinder world for others, but most importantly, for yourself.

When faced with challenging situations, always remember to A.L.L.O.W. (Always Let Love Offer Wisdom) love and kindness to guide you in all that you do.

We never know what the other person is going through on that particular day and we would only hope that we would receive the same forgiveness when we act in ways that might not always be in our higher, better self. None of us are perfect, and if we can remember as much as possible that most people just want to be loved and felt appreciated, we can begin to act from this place of LOVE and witness as everyone and everything in our lives begins to change. I will admit that it’s not always easy, but as they say, it is always worth it.

By the way, I wrote back to that boy, “Of course I forgive you. I was immature once, too. Still am sometimes.” He simply responded with a smile. A special thank you goes out to that young man for his apology and for allowing me now to be led by a life of compassion, kindness, love and forgiveness.

“Treat everyone with politeness, even those who are rude to you – not because they are nice, but because you are.” − Unknown

Shari Alyse is the best selling author of the book, Love Yourself Happy. She is also a motivational speaker and self-love coach. If you’d like to work with Shari, you can find out more about her at www.ShariAlyse.com.