Category: Positive Reinforcement

(Based On Personal Experiences)

I have been silent for a few days. I was thinking of recent & past situations. I have learned to calm my emotions, before responding.

“A clear & calm mind & heart produces clear actions.”

That being said…
We had this “Me Too” movement, that didn’t really help many, in everyday life. I find that sexual harassment is still running rampant. You can still find it everywhere & yes, it’s in the Poetry world as well, BIG-TIME. Things are just more subtle. Like the movements of a hungry snake. Keeping in mind, it occurs more from men towards women, but it happens across the board.

So what do we do about it? How many people really wish to address it? Not many. Because it’s EVERYWHERE and we know, it will take more than just a few old celebrities going to jail. It’s wa-a-a-ay deeper than that. This type of behavior is systematic & cultural. As women, we’re often forced to deal with it, like it or not. Men, often do not wish to discuss it, many feel uncomfortable because they’re guilty of it or just don’t know how to help. Is it fair? No.

So, one has to be aware in life. Don’t just trust people because you think you should; this can be friends, family, loved ones, co-workers, anyone, pay attention to those vibes/feelings you get that says something isn’t quite right, shut it down immediately, or as soon as you notice it – it may come at a sacrifice, but it’s worth it in the long run. Don’t feel guilty because you experienced it.

Instead?

Educate yourself and get wise, these people have perfected their game, and become masters of manipulation. Own any role you have in it, and correct yourself, be firm and clear where you stand.

See, people who sexually harass others, hope you go along or keep silent. It has much to do with power & control. They seek leverage with their authority, positions, & roles they may have in life. People who are charming & expressive by nature make great manipulators. Certain professions; law enforcement, judges, doctors, teachers, mentors, even people you know, love & care about. This also includes musicians, writers, and Poets. Be Careful! They can talk & woo you into a place, you may not want to be. It really includes anyone. Should you be paranoid & scared of everyone? No. Simply be mindful & pay attention.

Stand Up For Yourself!

It may be difficult, but only YOU can do so. Delete, block, & ignore. Let it be known that, that type of treatment, behavior,  and or innuendo is not acceptable nor will it be entertained, encouraged, or tolerated, and walk away from whatever they had on the table,

SHUT IT DOWN!

…even if it means losing out on certain opportunities – it could be a few in a group or 1 person, but you cross paths due to projects/ jobs.
It’s not easy to deal with, and for some, therapy is needed and even legal assistance. We lose out often. It’s time to put an end to this.

KNOW THAT YOU ARE DOING THE RIGHT THING

Waking up EVERY day, looking at yourself in the mirror feeling good about who YOU are, then going to bed the same way & sleeping well…That? That’s priceless.

Remember, that no one has the right to try to use you or make you feel less than who you are.

The Positivity Derived: These types of experiences can be utilized & benefited from, by talking about it, encouraging research, development, creativity, and or inventing opportunities and other methods of getting things done. 

🌹✍🏾”We’re All In This Thing Called Life, TOGETHER…Remember?”✍🏾🌹

“Namastè & One Love”❤️💛💚

~Maxwanette A Poetess

*A Special Thank You: To the 1 gentleman that I shared this experience with. He stated, he would support me in my stand. That means a lot.