Standing Up to Bullies

 

Standing in your truth is key when dealing with a bully.  One thing I struggled with when I was younger was that I wouldn’t think of a comeback until after the incident had happened.  I would freeze in shock.  Now that I am older, I have learned to react immediately. 

Quite often bullies are insecure.  They usually see something in you that they will never ever have.  Many of them lie.    They may be envious of your gifts and want to tear you down and make a scene.  The thing is, individuals who are accomplished and successful have usually worked very hard to get to where they are.  Discipline, integrity, and results are connected.

I give immediate consequences to bullies.  I do not give them my energy or time.  They will have to look elsewhere to get power.  I report their behavior and describe it exactly.   Bullies are often insecure and in denial about their own problems.  They could be addicts or alcoholics.  Some are living a lie, afraid of admitting their true sexual preferences, or experiencing stressful financial problems.  Their attacks on others, who are usually conscientious rule followers, give them a quick shot of adrenaline.  POW!

Have you dealt with a bully in your life?  What happened?

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Avoiding Scams as a Senior

 

More seniors than ever are reporting being tricked and robbed by predators, relatives, and “friends.”  As my father became elderly, I was upset to find out how many people close to him had taken advantage of his kindness, prosperity, and trust.  He became naive, and trusted people who my mother would have vetted when she was alive.  If I pointed out to him that someone was stealing from him, he could become like a little boy and cry, “No!”

Because seniors often have money set aside in a retirement account, certain people may try to gain access to it.  When I was a customer at our local credit union, a few people who worked in card services tried to swindle me out of money through a website overcharging for hotel rooms. Fortunately, I provided screenshots of the advertised rate and the hotels one site’s jacked up rate as proof.  The credit union had to refund my money.

The woman on the phone tried to intimidate me by yelling and through intimidation.  “This is a scam” I replied, hanging up the phone.  I reported it to a government agency, and they  investigated.  My money was returned.  After another episode that happened on a cruise, I closed all my accounts.  An elderly woman standing in line in front of me was also closing hers.   Sometimes the best thing we can do is to walk away from manipulators.

Have you experienced any scams as a senior?  How did you handle it?

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Using Your Talents

 

One of the most grounding and satisfying things we can do in life is to use our talents.  We are not meant to sit on them!  Frank Sinatra said in an interview that he vocalized two hours a day, whether he was performing or not.  It showed.  That gave him the confidence to always be able to perform.

Our specific abilities lie latent within us and need to be developed.  If they are not, they stay dormant, like a piece of unsculpted clay.  Through training, practice, and study, we will improve and reach our potential. 

Even as we age, certain talents can still be developed.  Although I can no longer take ballet classes, I find rehearsing my music, playing table tennis, and knitting clothes to be very rewarding.  My father played bridge every day, until he was eight-eight, and he loved it.  He taught the beginners, mostly women,  and confided in me that they never improved, which annoyed him.  I thought it was funny.  I think they were there for social reason, and possibly in hopes of meeting a rich man.

What are your gifts?  How do you express them?

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A Simple Solo Week in Enchanting Anacapri, Italy

 

I recently returned from an inspiring and incredible journey to Anacapri.  I spent a week at a charming bed and breakfast, in a simple room that was only 750 Euros for the week.  That included a hearty breakfast!  What a deal.  Each morning I had a frothy cappuccino, salami and cheese sandwich, kiwis and oranges from their garden, and a delicious glass of juice.  I think it was papaya…something orange, sweet, and delicious!

I flew business class into Naples, Napoli.  From there, I hopped on the Ali bus, (for five Euros,) to the port, and purchased a ferry ticket to Capri, a stunningly beautiful island.  I had arranged with Claudio, the owner of the bed and breakfast, to pick me up at the port.  He and his little dog arrived and transported me up the steep and narrow street to his lovely home.  staying  in a neighborhood was so special…It felt like living like a local.  I absolutely loved it.  

We were a twenty-five minute scenic walk from the beach.  I decided to avoid crowds, touristy sites, and rushing, and instead knit on the patio and went to the beach every day.  It was so relaxing and peaceful.

The nature was so powerful.  My body was filled with spiritual light and energy from the healing water I felt a strong and grounding effect on my aura from the huge rocks and embankment.

Thank you for your comments.  They add so much talent and energy to the blog.  Please reply in English.  I’m sorry, but those with links will not be published.  If you enjoy the posts here, please share them.  Comments may take a few days to appear; they are moderated.

A Relaxed Schedule

 

A relaxed schedule can be a huge stress reducer.  Whether at home or on vacation, I find it is much healthier not to have a jam packed day filled with pressure.  It’s a relief to have free time.  Focusing on what’s most important, and letting go of extra activities can lead to better sleep, a calm mind, and a happier existence.

Having the space to enjoy your meals, spend time in nature, and do what matters will prevent exhaustion and burnout. For me, that means taking a swim, knitting outside in the garden, and savoring meals and coffee al fresco.  How about you?  Do you have a relaxed schedule?