Integrity . . . Do you possess "It"?

in·teg·ri·ty

in-teɡrədē/

noun

noun: integrity

1. 1.the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness."she/he is known to be a (wo)man of integrity"synonyms: honesty, probity, rectitude, honor, good character, principle(s), ethics, morals, righteousness, morality, virtue, decency, fairness, scrupulousness, sincerity, truthfulness, trustworthiness. "I never doubted his/her integrity"
   antonyms: dishonesty

With certainty, a lot has been written, stated, quoted and lived out citing the word "integrity" - - even as far back in the ole days when King Solomon reigned. In Proverbs 10:9 we read.

"Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out." (NIV)

A few mornings ago, the word integrity entered my mind as soon as I opened my eyes from a restful slumber.  [Humans], at least the majority of us - I hope, work diligently to adhere to our word and actions. If we say we are going to do something we try our best to do so. However, in pop culture, people increasingly take a pass from following through on their commitments using statements such as, "life just gets in the way" or the more popular statement we all say, "I am so busy.
Extraordinary circumstances such as an unexpected illness, the lack of financial or insufficient resources, the new puppy ate the document, the debilitating economy and not being able to secure a stable employment, and other reasons are hindering progress.  Promise, a word that gives "reason to expect that something will happen in the future".  Think for a moment, when was the last time you promised someone something and you actually delivered the goods? Initially, our reasons for wanting to accomplish a goal is very admirable and the intentions are always welcome, embraced and appreciated. So, what is the point?

Many people follow that ancient tradition of making resolutions around January to evaluate and reflect on the past year and "promise" to make changes. I elect not to wait until January 1 to address my issues and concerns  . . . I deal with them everyday. I used to be one of those millions who spend time recalling the past 365 days in the course of 24 hours. Do we ever make adjustments? Do we actually have the time? Remember, we are so busy. Before we blink an eye, the new year is rollin' along and we never deal with the past issues. Instead, I have discovered that we should live in the moment, dealing with life everyday as life and those nagging issues arise. I cherish each moment in time and try not to follow the pop culture trends. . . "Life is short." Really?  It is if you believe it is. 

Did you know? A New Year's resolution is a tradition, most common in the West but found around the world, in which a person makes a promise on New Year’s Eve to make certain changes or self-improvements in the year ahead. It is believed that the Babylonians were the first to make New Year's resolutions around 4,000 years ago, and people all over the world have been breaking them ever since! Read more: http://www.ancient-origins.net/myths-legends-news-general/ancient-history-new-year-s-resolutions-001185#ixzz3qvR857nM

Interesting! Let's return to that word . . . Integrity.

At the start of the year, a colleague of mine and I made a commitment to publish a magazine with the intention of featuring micro small business owners who self produce a variety of products. The magazine, OrganicMind, was created to highlight renowned visual artists, book authors, clothiers, jewelry designers, ceramists, sculptors and other designers. The publication would also offer helpful information and advice about healthy foods, methods of caring for the body and more. Well, as I suggested above, things happen in life. However, I am a woman of integrity and I do follow through on my commitments -- sooner or later. Life may toss me a boulder from time to time, but I will circle back and honor my commitment. If I do not, no one would believe or maintain their trust in me. So, in lieu of presenting the magazine in a traditional format (paper), I will honor the individuals who spent their valuable time preparing articles for the magazine and share them via blog. So, stay tuned! There is more to come!

Meanwhile, please indulge me as I will use this time to reflect on the past seven (7) years; placing a microscope on the past 2 years.  Whew! And what a journey! Valuable lessons have been learned, specifically about humans, a.k.a. people. First and foremost, I am deeply committed to God, self and community (family being a huge part of my community) . . . I try to be ethical, faithful, steadfast, endure long suffering and live my life as revealed in Luke 16:10. Most people are not aware that this verse pertains to money. Believe me, the past several years have been a true test of how I have had to manage funds. I thought I was great at  managing money, but the true test is managing a little bit of money. Thank goodness, I know within my heart that God's love and grace have sustained me through the valley and deep waters.

As a  self professed "multi-dimensional vessel," folks who hang around me long enough discover a plethora of experiences, talents, gifts, dreams and desires.  Living in my mind is not an easy task; sometimes I have to convince me to slow down from time to time! Possessing a deep commitment to other people, I work hard to remain faithful. I suppose it is due to my belief that God will see me through the best and the worst of times -- did I mention, my journey has been very rocky! 

And speaking of the tension between the best and worst of times . . .  Out of the blue while sitting in Starbucks working, I had the pleasure of meeting Rev. Niki Tshibaka who took the time to share and listen to my concerns . . . Discerning my troubled spirit he took the time to pray for me. As I listened, I felt God's presence embrace and surround me. Rev. Tshibaka stated that my story fit right in the book of Judges, Chapter 6 verses1-12. And so it does.

Most people are not aware that my personal and professional circumstances have been affected adversely because of the decisions people made and did not consider their decisions had impacted my life and subsequently onto others. However, aligning my footsteps to those of God's word, I am convinced my life has mirrored the life of Job. When you read Job's story, you will discover that Job lost a lot; but he remained faithful to God. It is important that we remind ourselves, if we are not aware, that we should not use "popular" cliches and snatch quotes because they are convenient and may define a hardship. Instead, let us remove the blinders from our eyes to reveal the realities that we need to embrace self, our loved ones and society with honesty, compassion and love. If a person has suffered a loss it does not mean another person's suffering is the same. Kick that "been there, done that" cliche to the curb! It does not help anyone. At most, it is very insensitive!

  

 "Comparison is the thief of joy." Theodore Roosevelt

As I prepared this blog I listened to Jim Daly, radio program host on Focus on the Family. Mr. Daly's guest cautioned people about comparison. In other words, how society has fallen deeply into the "trending" trap. “Our materialistic, competitive culture feeds into this problem, constantly barraging us with urgent opportunities to spend more on this, upgrade to that, and to be the first to get the “latest thing.”  There’s even a new psychological condition referred to as “Facebook depression.” It describes people who are happy before their exposure to some form of social media, but unhappy or discontent after they log off. It’s comparison-driven. You see pictures of your friend with their feet in the ocean or sitting in their new car, and you feel unhappy because your feet aren’t in the ocean, or you’re not the one with a new car,” observes Kay Wyma, blogger and author.

Fortunately, I have learned that some times all of life's instances must not be taken too seriously; but we must be thoughtful enough to understand that God prepares and equips us with sufficient experiences to help us navigate various paths. Without a doubt, God also places the right people in our lives at the right time. We recognize their value and appropriateness in our lives when those individuals possess the tools and resources to help guide us through the tough times. 

Remember: God is sovereign and always in control. Look up at the sky and admire! 

As we witness the days, months and decades pass by, changes in the fabric of life cause us to manage things differently, especially with the quick advancements in technology. The tech age definitely encourages humans to approach life in ways that are new and exciting! If used properly.

Crowdfunding! 

A new spin on fund raising is on the rise! 

Got a Cause? Did you know! According to Marketing Moxie Biz, as of 2012, over 530 crowdfunding platforms are on the Internet! http://marketingmoxie.biz/the-big-list-of-crowdfunding-sites/

Well, DID YOU KNOW, I too have a few viable causes . . . DestinationCubaPPLLC!, "A Voice: The Color of Mental Illness", Cyber Security in the Church, Health, Wellness and Wholeness and a few others! As I've mentioned above, there is not a lack of desires or dreams and all of my causes are attainable with your help and support! Here's the backstory . . .

One month ago, a few folks were thinking of ways to help place my life and business upright. Loved ones, friends and colleagues encouraged me to launch a GoFundMe Campaign. Although my goal may seem lofty to some, it's truly small compared to some of the campaigns I read. Man! Millions of dollars have been raised for all types of causes. 

Without a doubt, I am deeply appreciative to the friends and colleagues who have contributed to the cause thus far! So, if you are reading this blog and are considering/planning to make a donation I welcome you to take a moment to explore the initiative . . .  DestinationCubaPPLLC! And I don't have a problem if you share widely and deeply! The cause(s) are worthy! Take a moment, cut and past the link below . . .

https://www.gofundme.com/x34e3twk

Feel free to send a note, make a comment and of course, make your contribution today. It is tax deductible . . . The funds are donated to my ministry, Hannah's Grace, Inc. 501(c)3.

Thank you for your thoughtfulness and remember, keep your eyes open for the upcoming news!

Rev. Phyllicia
Founder and President
301-910-8076 Mobile
DestinationCubaPPLLC@gmail.com
(Photos and images on Google and by yours truly!)

Living in the Worst of Times . . . But the Best of Times

GMO  Probiotics Wellness Green/Clean Eating Organic Saturated fats Chia Spirulina Trans fats Unsaturated Chlorella LDL, HDL, ALA, EPA DHA BPA Gluten Vegan CSA Vegetarian Detox Prebiotics Moringa Candida Fitness Local Conventional Health Flora L-Carnitine ATP Cruciferous Vegetables kelp kohlrabi Omega-3 vs. Omega-6 Monsanto chemicals

My word! Are those real words?
What are the definitions, what do they mean? Sounds like the government . . . Acronyms galore! And a foreign language! And look at those dandelion leaves on my cutting board! Ummm, delicious and healthy! Dandelion leaves are low in Saturated Fat, and very low in Cholesterol. It is also a good source of Folate, Magnesium, Phosphorus and Copper, and a very good source of Dietary Fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E (Alpha Tocopherol), Vitamin K, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Vitamin B6, Calcium, Iron, Potassium and Manganese. (Nutritiondata.self.com)

No wonder folks opt out of trying to become healthy . . . It's A LOT of work! Exercising: walking, jogging, lifting weights, yoga . . . Hummm, is that exercising? I thought it was stretching? So much to learn . . . Which foods have optimum nutrients, vitamins, which fats are good, bad? What about supplements . . . Are they all good for you? What should I take? How do I know what is best for my system? Why should we care about a carbon footprint, preventing heart disease, diabetes, cancer, cognitive decline . . . 
Why, why, why!  
There's one thing for certain, before starting any health related program, check with your doctor . . . What may work for some may not necessarily agree with your mind and body.  And if you enjoy taking short tests, pause for a moment and review the health questions at the end of the blog . . . You may learn somethings.
Now, let's get moving! Health, wellness, life balance, family, friends, saving the earth . . . Other than wars, disasters, crimes, violence, economy, what else is there to share! Oh! I forgot, the weather!

For many years, I've wondered why in the world my professors at Howard University School of Human Ecology required the students to embrace a curricula that included classes focused on nutrition, the environment, physics, chemistry, and psychology when design and art were preponderant. As life unfolded, I have since discovered that there is indeed a reason and a season for everything life presents. And boy, we (some people) have made a mess of our world, our bodies and souls! If you are like me, spending an inordinate amount of time reading and absorbing tons of information about food, health, spirituality, and discerning myriad ways of caring for your body, inside and out, then perhaps, you have probably recognized some of the terms and acronyms listed above.

Somethings you should know . . . "Eight million tonnes of plastic are going into the ocean each year". The Conversation. Hardesty, Britta Denise and Chris Wilcox (13 February 2015).  Plastics in all forms (see the tons of bales over there -->), manufactured and processed foods . . . preservatives, pesticides, fertilizers, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, tin, stress, uncontrolled bad habits  are killing the earth, creatures and humans. 

And if you are one of those folks who enjoys wearing make up and using mass produced personal care products found on the market, think again about what you are putting on your skin, hair. If you spin the package around and notice any of the following syllables, consider making a change . . . Look for butyl, cetyl, ethy, or propyl. These ingredients contain harmful compounds and include a trail of other alphabets which have been identified to increase the risk of cancer. 

And for the technology enthusiast who find it an absolute MUST to purchase the latest Apple product or other technology coming onto the market, unless you are recycling that new product you purchased only a year ago, try holding onto the equipment until the bitter end, that includes your vehicle too. If you are trying to determine what do with your used and worn jeans, find a nearby store like MOMs Organic Market and give them your old tattered pants . . . The store ships them to a company to transform them into insulation used in walls and ceilings! Fancy that!

Do I really need to remind folks that society has become accustomed  . . . Wait, back up, rather, addicted to convenience. We want everything right now, faster than you can think about it! We attempt to move at the speed of light and believe it or not, we are still moving at the same pace, with one exception . . . Aging.  Ha! Fancy that! 

Folks spend money quicker than they earn it -- nothing new. But, for the life of me I do not understand why people prefer to release money so quickly to pay bills, make purchases and oh so conveniently via the Internet . . . I bet those hackers are glad people do too . . . Hummm, something else to consider.

Quick . . . Fast and in a Hurry!  Going absolutely no where. When folks speed by me on the road, I suddenly pull up next to them; at the red light . . . Oh, did I mention, I obey the posted speed limit. Funny, they turn their faces away from me so I cannot stare at them . . .  Don't forget vehicles pollute the atmosphere . . . And cars which have been demolished pile up in a landfill . . . SLOW DOWN PEOPLE!

And talk about food . . . Folks look at me sideways when I tell them that I do not own and never have owned a microwave . . . Why, when I have an oven! Society is enamoured with fast food, quick service, hurry up, I am so busy, I have to be here, there and going no where! Besides, there are a ton of folks who do not know how to cook, not to mention, bake. FACT: Did you know there's sodium in pre-packaged greens . . . Why do people purchase packed in plastic when there's an abundance of fresh greens available at their fingertips?

Thank goodness for farmers and value added food preparers! (You know those folks that bake goodies, make smoothies, grill foods!)  FACT: According to U.S. Department of Agriculture, in the last five years, the number of farmers markets across the country has nearly doubled, from 4,685 in 2008 to 8,144 in 2013, according to the Agriculture Department. In 1994, there were only about 1,755 farmers markets in the United States. (NationalJournal.com)
 
Joining the list of markets in the DC region is Roots & Stems Community Farmers Market. Depending on the location, several markets are thriving . . . Except for the new start up markets. Originally, I was planning to focus this blog post primarily about the "Evolution of a Farmers Market." As you can see, my thoughts began to run hither and yon. Nonetheless, those of us who spend time establishing and managing farmers markets working diligently to sustain them. We understand the commitment and energy as we serve as stewards to help fill the gap in food deserts. As a small business owner, I have discovered that farmers markets are similar to forming a micro small business and sustaining a farmers market is no easy feat, especially if there are no available funds or patient farmers . . . Now if that isn't an oxymoron! Patient farmers. Who would have thought that "farmers" were not willing to wait . . . This season has been a bit of a challenge trying to find a committed farmer. And just this year, I am thrilled to receive approval from USDA to accept SNAP benefits from citizens in the Fort Washington/Oxon Hill, MD community.  

So, I ask, what is propelling me to operate a farmers market? There's very, very, very little money to earn, you sit in the sun for several hours, there is always that possibility it may rain, the community may not come out to support the vendors, or simply, the farmers may not have enough labor to show up, or they may decide that it is just not worth their valuable time to close the gap of disparity on behalf of the disenfranchised. 

For many farmers, selling at local farmers markets is about economics or on the other hand, perhaps they show up for environmental reasons. One day, while searching for information I stumbled upon a site that listed the "most popular farmers markets in the DC area." Hummm, why on earth should farmers markets be "The Best" in a community?  Perhaps I may be approaching this farmers market concept backwards? Six years of managing farmers markets, shopping at farmers markets most of my life, and going to farms picking my own vegetables, I have determined that there is a fine line to consider in this vast business sector: to generate money or to offer the community local, healthy foods with the intention of improving the health of citizens, especially the folks who depend on SNAP, WIC and Sr. vouchers. 

In some instances, professionals involved in the farmers market industry, in one way of the other, believe that "there may be too many [farmers] markets in the community which are diluting the profitability of [established] markets, and therefore, farmers have become more selective about where they sell." 
Really . . .  

What will become of the people who live in communities where farmers markets are not accessible? Are citizens, women and youth undeserved? Are senior citizens out of luck who do not have dependable transportation, or have to walk or drive a short distance to get to a community farmers market? I ponder the answers to these complex questions. Gleaning is one solution, establishing a CSA, a mobile farm truck is another . . . I have considered the options, and once again, they involve a committed and patient farmer and money . . . And before you utter those words, not every good cause is deserving of receiving a grant . . .  Yes, there are ways to overcome obstacles and believe me, I am not one to throw up my hands and give up . . . I am way too stubborn. And by golly, I certainly have enduring faith that God will open a path for me in which I may be able to help citizens prevent diseases and other health challenges. My devotion to self by eating well, caring for my beloved parents who fought mightily to overcome diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, was certainly cause enough for me to realize that I can do more to help others avoid debilitating health challenges. 

On a good note, my other Roots & Stems market located at WSSC is coming along . . . Two months into the season and folks have embraced the fact that it is necessary to pay attention to our health in the workplace. Come out and enjoy Jenny's Produce, Zoe's Vegan Delights and Smoothies, The Baker's Table, and next week, Pong's Orchard will begin picking yellow and white peaches!  Finally . . .

Get ready, get ready, get ready!  

 Maryland Buy Local Week is just around the corner!

July 18 to July 26th! and beyond!

Support local farmers, valued added food 
producers, and Micro Small Businesses!

There's more on the horizon as the harvest is plentiful . . . Contact us to learn how you may help support micro small businesses thrive and grow or if you'd would like to become a vendor, connect with us!

Signing off . . . For now!

Phyllicia
Rev. Phyllicia M. Hatton, M.Div.
Market Manager
Roots & Stems Community Farmers Market
301-910-8076 Mobile
www.phenomenalproductions.com
www.hannahsgrace.org 
Healthy foods quiz . . . A brief challenge to determine how well you know which foods or nutrients can prevent or promote diseases. 

Bonnie Liebman • July 3, 2015, Posted in Heart and Disease, Nutrition Action

The Healthy Food Quiz: Questions and Answers (below)

1. Which is least likely to lower your blood pressure?

a. low-fat yogurt

b. cantaloupe

c. whole-grain bread

d. spinach

e. broccoli

2. Vitamin D may reduce the risk of all but one of these. Which one?

a. bone loss

b. colon cancer

c. gum disease

d. irritable bowel syndrome

e. multiple sclerosis

3. Which is least likely to reduce your risk of diabetes?

a. whole-grain cereal

b. nuts

c. salad dressing

d. alcoholic beverages

e. orange juice

4. Which is least likely to lower your risk of colon cancer?

a. lean meat

b. whole-grain bread

c. low-fat milk

d. a multivitamin

e. exercise

5. Which is least likely to lower your risk of brittle bones (osteoporosis)?

a. low-fat yogurt

b. collard greens

c. olive oil

d. a multivitamin e. suns

e. sunshine

6. Which is least likely to cause food poisoning?

a. raw sprouts

b. chicken

c. salad

d. mayonnaise

e. beef

7. Meat eaters have a higher risk of all but one of these diseases. Which one?

a. osteoarthritis

b. diabetes

c. gout

d. non-Hodgkins lymphoma

e. colon cancer

Answers

1. c (whole-grain bread). The DASH study (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) showed that a lower-fat diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy foods can lower blood pressure. Researchers aren’t sure whether the potassium, magnesium, calcium, protein, fiber, or other nutrients made the difference.

2. d (irritable bowel syndrome). Studies suggest that vitamin D may reduce the risk of bone loss, gum disease, multiple sclerosis, and colon cancer. Shoot for 400 IU a day (600 IU if you’re over 70). Good sources include multivitamins, calcium+D supplements, milk, and some yogurts, breads, breakfast cereals, margarines, and orange juices. Sunlight is also a good source, but not in the winter north of the line that connects Los Angeles and Atlanta.

3. e (orange juice). To dodge diabetes, stay lean and exercise. Studies also find a lower risk in people who drink alcoholic beverages in modest amounts (1 or 2 drinks a day for men; half a drink for women), as well as those who eat nuts, whole grains, and unsaturated fats (like the oils in salad dressing). Processed red meats (like bacon, hot dogs, and sausage), trans-fat-laden foods (like French fries, fried chicken, and pie crust), and sweets may raise diabetes risk.

4. a (lean meat). Meat eaters seem to have a higher risk of colon cancer, even if the meat is lean. Foods that are high in magnesium (like beans, whole grains, and leafy greens) or calcium (like milk, yogurt, and cheese) seem to protect the colon. So do multivitamins, perhaps because vitamins contain the B-vitamin folic acid, and exercise.

5. c (olive oil). Foods high in calcium (like milk, cheese, and yogurt), vitamin K (like collards, spinach, and broccoli), potassium (like fruits and vegetables), and vitamin D help strengthen your bones. The best sources of vitamin D are sunshine, a multivitamin, or a calcium+D supplement (see answer #2). Weight-bearing exercise (almost any activity but swimming) also protects bones and may help prevent falls by boosting balance, coordination, and strength.

6. d (mayonnaise). Fruits and vegetables (like berries, lettuce, and sprouts) can be contaminated in the fields by tainted water or manure. Contaminated poultry, beef, and eggs may cause infections when they’re undercooked. Commercial mayonnaise is pasteurized, so it’s relatively safe. (Homemade mayo is another story.)

7. a (osteoarthritis). Meat appears to increase the risk of gout because it’s rich in a compound called purine. It’s not clear why people who eat more red meat have a higher risk of non- Hodgkins lymphoma, diabetes, and colon cancer. People who eat more red meat (and less poultry, fish, fruits, vegetables, etc.) also have a higher risk of heart disease.