When me becomes we, relationships work. Relationships often have bumpy stretches. Bumpy stretches are to be expected because there are two human beings choosing to be connected at a deep level. This requires each party to the relationship to yield part of themselves to the relationship. When we picture two overlapping circles it’s the area that overlaps that defines the relationship. The smaller that area, the less stable the relationship. The greater that area, the more stable the relationship. The size of that area is made up of what each party contributes to it. When both parties contribute equally there is an organic, life-like quality to it. If you’re in a relationship it might be a good time for a cheap date (head to a coffee shop) to talk about how your partner and you can grow that area that defines your relationship. Remember, the less me brings about the more we. Always check the balance issue. When only party contributes or contributes significantly resentment quickly builds. The same understanding also works in professional and friendship relationships.
Month: January 2025
Anagram Challenge
Daily anagram challenge! Sharpen your brain with today’s anagram puzzle. Unscramble the letters to reveal the hidden word or phrase, and submit your answer to see if you’re correct. Happy puzzling!
Today’s Anagram:
Love is All
“The measure of love is to love without measure.” ~ St. Augustine of Hippo
You Choose
You chose to react.
You chose to feel insecure.
You chose to feel anger.
You chose to fight back.
You chose to have hope.
Shannon L Alder
Song ~ A Poem by Allen Ginsberg
Song
Allen Ginsberg
The weight of the world
is love.
Under the burden
of solitude,
under the burden
of dissatisfaction
the weight,
the weight we carry
is love.
Who can deny?
In dreams
it touches
the body,
in thought
constructs
a miracle,
in imagination
anguishes
till born
in human—
looks out of the heart
burning with purity—
for the burden of life
is love,
but we carry the weight
wearily,
and so must rest
in the arms of love
at last,
must rest in the arms
of love.
No rest
without love,
no sleep
without dreams
of love—
be mad or chill
obsessed with angels
or machines,
the final wish
is love
—cannot be bitter,
cannot deny,
cannot withhold
if denied:
the weight is too heavy
—must give
for no return
as thought
is given
in solitude
in all the excellence
of its excess.
The warm bodies
shine together
in the darkness,
the hand moves
to the center
of the flesh,
the skin trembles
in happiness
and the soul comes
joyful to the eye—
yes, yes,
that’s what
I wanted,
I always wanted,
I always wanted,
to return
to the body
where I was born.
Healthy Foods & Recipes: Eggplant
4 Healthy Reasons to Include Eggplant in Your Diet
Eggplant is a nutrient-dense vegetable with multiple health benefits. Here are four great reasons to add it to your diet:
- Rich in Antioxidants – Eggplant contains powerful antioxidants like nasunin, which protects brain cells from damage, and anthocyanins, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
- Supports Heart Health – The fiber, potassium, and polyphenols in eggplant can help lower cholesterol, improve blood circulation, and reduce blood pressure, promoting overall cardiovascular health.
- Aids in Digestion & Weight Management – Eggplant is low in calories and high in fiber, which promotes gut health, aids digestion, and helps keep you full longer, making it great for weight management.
- Helps Regulate Blood Sugar – The fiber and polyphenols in eggplant slow down sugar absorption, making it a great food choice for managing blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Ingredients (Low-Carb Version):
- 1 large eggplant, sliced lengthwise into ¼-inch strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¾ cup whole-milk ricotta cheese (or sub with full-fat cottage cheese for more protein)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (full-fat)
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 cup low-carb marinara sauce (look for one with no added sugar, like Rao’s or homemade with crushed tomatoes & Italian spices)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Eggplant: Brush both sides of eggplant slices with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 15 minutes, flipping halfway until tender. Let cool.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta (or cottage cheese), Parmesan, egg, garlic, basil, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Assemble the Rollatini: Spread ½ cup low-carb marinara in a baking dish. Place 1-2 tbsp of the cheese mixture on the wider end of each eggplant slice, then roll it up and place seam-side down in the dish.
- Top & Bake: Pour the remaining low-carb marinara over the rolls, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with more fresh basil and serve with a side of sautéed zucchini noodles or roasted asparagus for a complete low-carb Italian meal!
Why This Version Is Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly:
✅ Eggplant replaces pasta, making it naturally low in carbs
✅ Ricotta & cottage cheese add protein without excess carbs
✅ Low-carb marinara sauce avoids hidden sugars
✅ Healthy fats from olive oil and cheese keep you full and satisfied
Healthy Tips: Get Vaccinated
Get vaccinated: Vaccines are safe and effective way to protect yourself from many diseases.
I have a mantra I say to myself at times, “What would an intelligent person do?” An intelligent person takes steps to protect him/herself from illness and disease. They take steps to protect their family. There are a lot of charlatans spreading misinformation as if it were true. Want to get to the heart of a health matter? Write the following prompt in ChatGPT and you’ll get sufficient information to make a decision. In this example I’ll use the measles vaccine. Here is the prompt I’ll put in ChatGPT. “What does current research say about the safety of the measles vaccine for children? I’ve read conflicting information online—can you summarize the scientific evidence on its safety and effectiveness?” Try using this prompt to ask ChatGPT about the safety of the measles vaccine. You can substitute any health related issue for the words “safety of the measles vaccine for children. Be informed. Act intelligently.
Healthy Foods & Recipes:
4 Healthy Reasons to Include Eggs in Your Diet
Eggs are a powerhouse of nutrition, and here are four healthy reasons to include them in your diet:
- High-Quality Protein – Eggs provide all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein source. They help with muscle repair and growth, making them great for active individuals.
- Rich in Nutrients – They contain essential vitamins and minerals, including B12, B6, folate, choline (important for brain health), and vitamin D (important for bone health and immune function).
- Good for Eye Health – Eggs are high in lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that protect the eyes from age-related degeneration.
- Supports Heart Health – While eggs contain cholesterol, research shows they do not negatively impact heart health for most people. The healthy fats in eggs, particularly omega-3-enriched eggs, may even help reduce inflammation.
Any Concerns?
Some people may need to moderate egg intake if they have specific cholesterol concerns. However, for most, eating eggs in moderation (especially alongside fiber-rich foods like vegetables) can be part of a heart-healthy diet.High-Protein South Texas Kick: Spicy Tex-Mex Egg Scramble
Ingredients (High-Protein Version)
- 4 large eggs
- 4 egg whites (boosts protein without extra fat)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 tbsp avocado oil (heart-healthy fat)
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (mix of red and green)
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (fiber + plant protein)
- 1/2 cup lean ground turkey (99% lean) or crumbled tofu (adds extra 15-20g protein)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 1 small avocado, sliced
- Warm corn tortillas (for serving)
Instructions (High-Protein Version)
- Sauté the Protein & Vegetables – Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground turkey (or tofu) and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, add onions, bell peppers, and jalapeño. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Black Beans & Spices – Stir in black beans, smoked paprika, cumin, and the chopped chipotle pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Scramble the Eggs – In a bowl, whisk 4 whole eggs and 4 egg whites with almond milk. Pour into the skillet and gently scramble until just set.
- Top & Serve – Remove from heat and sprinkle with queso fresco and cilantro. Serve with avocado slices and warm corn tortillas for a protein-packed, South Texas-style meal!
Macronutrient Boost (Estimated per Serving)
✅ Protein: ~50g
✅ Healthy Fats: From avocado, eggs, and queso fresco
✅ Fiber: High from black beans and veggies
✅ Low Saturated Fat: Lean turkey keeps it heart-friendly
🔥 Pro Tip: Want even more protein? Serve with a side of refried black beans or an extra slice of grilled turkey breast.
Would you like a meal-prep version of this? 🌮
Healthy Tips: Morning Rituals
Create a morning ritual to start the day calmly.
What is your morning ritual? Do you have a ritual that will get you centered and focused on the day ahead? I’ve developed a routine that works for me. When I wake up I begin by thanking God for a new day, the gift of health, the gifts of my daughters, neighbors, and friends. I then pray traditional prayers that have been part of my life since childhood. I pray for my daughters, those I’ll meet today, for my country and church, for peace, and for the souls of my wife, parents, and those who have touched my life. I get out of bed announcing, “I’m going to have a great day.” I do a series of yoga stretches, the plank, and pushups. I turn the coffee on so it will be ready when I finishes showering and dressing. I drink a warm tall glass of lemon water and it’s off to the shower. By the time I am sitting down with my coffee, oatmeal, and blueberries, I am fired up and ready to take on the day. Impossible to miss having a great day.
