Hey, I am not going to turn this into a political blog – I have my opinions, but am not one to post them or debate about them (OH how the years have changed me!).  But I stumbled upon this blog and LOVE it!  Is it because I am an Obama supporter?  Maybe, maybe not.  Is it because it is entertaining?  Yep!  Is it because it is well written?  Absolutely!  So feel free to check it out here or use the link to the right.  (This same blogger has another blog about books that’s pretty good, too!)

Also, found an interesting blog from someone who lives in a little town in Alaska – here.  I have been fortunate to vacation in Alaska, which is a beautiful state, but it IS “small” in occupancy at least.  Interesting to see an insider’s view about the new VP running mate…..

I have this issue – of trusting people too much.  For believing their words, for acknowledging their promises and believing them.  For setting my hopes on things that really are feathers in the wind, moving much too fast for me to grab or control.  I need to learn that there should be a much smaller circle of people who have access to my feelings, to my heart, and that I need to guard my heart much more.  Because, even though my heart has great capacity to love, the odds of someone I have deemed trustworthy hurting me is very high.  And they won’t even acknowledge that HURT.  Maybe I am too low of a priority to even waste time on!

Sorry, another pitiful post by Gina.  Gina, who is tired of sucking it up as others walk through life pretending to care about me and well, don’t even look back as they shatter me……..

And while I am learning to share my hurt feelings (which I am miserable at), at least I am learning not to lash out at the ones who hurt me……..is that progress?

Gina OUT

Dare I even suggest ASSUMPTIONS?

We, as humans, are very complicated creatures.  People like me tend to read signs or communicate in indirect ways.  This leads to assumptions and that is OFTEN not a good thing!

Some examples I am learning from – if someone does something that upsets me, it is better to share that with the person because they may not even be TRYING to send a message, or might even be shocked to know their actions hurt me!  However, if they WERE sending a message, the issue can be addressed and maybe even resolved!  Otherwise, you end up being hurt, they are oblivious and/or the issue is not really addressed, and resentment builds.  Never good.

I have also learned in the last few days that people can send mixed messages rather easily.  Like they can share a portion of the truth, but their ACTIONS create a signal or tell you that they are moving toward something when they are NOT.  In moments like this, I have learned it is better to be direct, ask straight out, and then know what the truth is.  Try not to read their ACTIONS and put too much weight on them because you could be way off!  I always say actions speak louder than words, and at times that is very true, but sometimes people send the wrong signals through their actions……

Also, don’t assume moods or messages in MySpace or other forums are about YOU!  They might be, but what if they have NOTHING to do with you?  You could be feeling pressure, pain, or other negative emotions that are a waste of time……..

I can be very direct, but I DO have a problem sharing when my feelings are hurt or I think my truth will cause rejection or anger……so I am working on that.  And I hope me sharing my experiences with the above help at least one of you!

Hey Peeps,

I fixed all my categories – no more uncategorized posts.  So if ever you want to read specific topics (Travel, family) click the links to the side.

Enjoy!

Merriam-Webster defines loyalty as the quality or state or an instance of being loyal.

Loyal meaning unswerving in allegiance: as a: faithful in allegiance to one’s lawful sovereign or government b: faithful to a private person to whom fidelity is due c: faithful to a cause, ideal, custom, institution, or product.

Overall, I believe loyalty is commendable AND necessary. It is true in all relationships, whether they are romantic, platonic, related to your job, etc. And yet, I am finding out loyalty is either one sided or fickle. Maybe I am the same way too, I am not sure, but it sure irks me that loyalty is more of a theory than a common practice nowadays!

For example, it is true that my friends expect me to be loyal to them…..to honor them with honesty, keeping my word, etc. I don’t blame them. Yet, I have witnessed that when it comes to ME, excuses are often given to explain why commitments can’t be kept or why “the rules” don’t apply to them as well. But it’s not PERSONAL or anything, right? And I am realizing this “problem” is my fault too, because I let it happen and don’t stand up for myself. Something I am working on.

However, I would be remiss to not share that I have people in my life who are extremely loyal; two of whom are Martin and Kathleen. Even when I don’t remain loyal to them (I keep saying I will visit their church and then don’t!) they always check up on me, send me emails, pray for me……I can certainly learn a thing or two from their example! Thanks to both of you for being true, loyal friends. And Martin – two things; 1) I have “I’m A Man” on my iPod so that’s where I heard it, and 2) I agree with your comments regarding the Jesus pic I posted!

Challenge for the day – think about someone else today and try to act loyal, if just a little bit!

Gina OUT

Okay, I am not feeling very into creative writing right now, but didn’t want to hold off on the pics, either. No, I did NOT find the cable, but instead bought a cheap card reader!

I am also too tired to pick out one or two, upload them, format them, and get them in this post.  So instead, go here to see the pics!

Oh, and today on the way to the beach I got a speeding ticket.  22 Fwy near Euclid going 80 in a 65 zone!  Yes, I usually drive 80.  Yes, I know it was just a matter of time.  Too bad I got my car fixed….just think, if I couldn’t accelerate, I wouldn’t be in this position!  Doh!  Naw, I would find a way.  Dang it!

Gina Out!