Community

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS EXPRESSIONS PONDER THIS! Tis the Right Time to Rejoice

By Hazel Rosetta Smith Life is full of swift transitions, trials and tribulations are a part of the journey, how we handle them is what counts. We cannot help but feel a sense of anxiety when our thoughts are centered on what we cannot do, instead of what is waiting just a breath away. No need to reiterate the words of that timeless song by Marvin Gaye, “What’s going on?” That is a question for which there is no logic or rational answer right about now. Stop filling your head with thoughts that are not serving any purpose other than to disturb your peace of mind.

Okay, I will say it, we are in the process of unwrapping a hot governmental mess. Thank God for those who step up to the plate to share “good news we can use” and cheery stories of joy and laughter. Tis the season to be happy, and that means you too. What you do for you is of the utmost importance. If you are good and kind to yourself, some of that kindness will make its way to someone else. Do not neglect or put yourself aside.

Si se puede, yes, we can…muster up the energy we think we do not have. There is a will deep within you and a way is there as well, waiting for you to heed its beckoning. Get ready to bust your best step into fantastic, without fear. Whether you know it or not, the wonders of the world are going on all around you. Whatever the circumstance, your present situation might need to be reevaluated. Do not feel guilty to admit that you feel good. It is your right to stand tall and proclaim proudly that you are content and comfortable. A dollar in your pocket does not signify selfishness.

In your darkest moment, the unexpected happened and it feels amazingly marvelous, you are still here. Wisdom is gained by cultivating an attitude of gratitude. We may be alone in our dwelling places, but loneliness does not deserve contemplation. With or without a mate or significant other, laughter is possible, happiness is plausible and downright good fun is present. All of it is attainable, individually, and collectively.

Throwback your head and let loose a good holla. Life is good. Stay focused on the best of your days and commit to making the rest of your days better than the ones before, because you believe you can. REJOICE! Make it a Merry Christmas wherever you are and more so, if you know the reason for the season. BE BLESSED BELOVED. [Hazel Rosetta Smith is a journalist, playwright, and director with Help Somebody Theatrical Ministries; retired former Managing Editor and Woman’s Editor of the New York Beacon News; current columnist for Harlem Community News, Inc. Contact: misshazel@twc.com]

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BROOKLYN UPCOMING EVENTS

Now Until January 3 burg to Coney Island a diverse range of narra All Day and beyond, New York tive, documentary and

Programmers’ Note- Lives gathers stories of experimental media. book: New York Lives activists, artists, outsiders, Visit brooklyncollegep-

Eight months of lock- oddballs, and caregivers resents.org to stream the down have us missing in a testament to the re- films for FREE. the places and people silience of the city and its of our incredible city, so residents. Head to bam. December 24-31 BAM invites you to take org to join. 12:00-6:00pm a socially distant tour CaribBeing Holiday across New York. Fo- Now Until Market cusing on spaces and December 31 This popular pop-up communities not always Made in Quarantine holiday market celecentered on screen, Showcase brates the riches and these documentaries The Showcase high- flavors of the Caribbeand local shorts remind lights the resilience of an. The Market will take us of the city’s vitality, its Brooklyn College’s film place on Thursdays, patchwork of neighbor- students, their determi- Fridays and Sundays hoods and melting pot nation and the power through December 31. of human beings. From of creativity during times It will feature 15 beauty, the Bronx to the Lower of hardship. These re- culinary, clothing, jewEast Side, South Williams- markable films highlight elry and wellness goods

The Great Blizzard of 1888 (Dec 30)

from local and international artisans situated in CaribBeing’s mobile shipping container, CaribBeing House. Mask wearing is mandatory and capacity is limited to two guests at a time due to the tiny nature of the CaribBeing House. The Market will also encourage contactless pick-up and online shopping via iamcaribbeing. com. LeFrak Center at Lakeside Prospect Park 171 East Dr.

December 27 7:00-8:30pm

Reiki Healing Circle: Release 2020 Trauma

The year 2020 has been one for the history books, and some of the historical moments that took place have caused trauma personally and as a collective human race. Let’s end the year by releasing the trauma sustained over the last several months so that we can create space for our highest and greatest selves to continue thriving even through the challenges this human experience presents. Join Zayda to take a deep dive inward through guided meditation and Reiki healing. Inhale deeply, and exhale a big sigh of release. Join online at healhaus.com $25.

December 28-Jan 11 6:00-9:00pm

Soil Management

Healthy soil is the foundation for a healthy garden ecosystem and abundant crops. In this course, learn about soil’s contents and physical and chemical properties, soil fertility management, and soil cultivation techniques. Gain an understanding of soil improvement practices—including composting, cover cropping, soil testing, and mulching. The instructor will share videos and activities for hands-on learning and facilitate group discussion to share experiences and grow our knowledge and understanding of soil. This course takes place on Mondays only. Register online at classes. bbg.org $360.

December 29-3 0 1:00-1:45pm

Transit Museum Highlights for Kids

Join Education staff

Reiki healing circle (Dec 27)bk.jpg

Cozy Winter Storytime (Dec 29)

for a virtual tour of their 6 and up. Join online at popular trains and exhib- nytransitmuseum.org its. Listen to some of their favorite transit stories, December 30 play interactive games, 11:00-12:5pm and answer questions The Great Blizzard of and chat with one an- 1888 and the Science of other. See you online at Snow Court Street Station! FREE New York City Tranonline program. Recom- sit runs year-round, and mended for ages 4-6. that means trains and Join online at nytransit- buses must be able to museum.org keep moving through some very wintry weath-

December 29 er. Join this special snow11:00-12:00pm themed program to hear

Cozy Winter Storytime all about the Great Bliz-

Stay snuggled under zard of 1888, discover the covers and join cozy how the MTA helps keep winter storytime, where vehicles moving safely New York Transit Muse- through snow and ice, um Education staff will and then make your take turns sharing their own ice cream at home! favorite winter-themed FREE online program. stories with you online! Recommended for ages FREE online program. 6 and up. Join online at Recommended for ages nytransitmuseum.org