What defines our being?

I recently read an article pertaining to the Aryan and Dravidian races of Northern and Southern India, respectively. It's findings confirmed my already thought of views about all races of people being linked, and the fact that the colors of our skin merely symbolize our ancestors' location near to and far from the equator in ancient times. Here is a piece of the article pertaining to this issue:

"Aryan and Dravidian Races

The idea of Aryan and Dravidian races is the product of an unscientific, culturally biased form of thinking that saw race in terms of color. There are scientifically speaking, no such things as Aryan or Dravidian races. The three primary races are Caucasian, the Mangolian and the Negroid. Both the Aryans and Dravidians are related branches of the Caucasian race generally placed in the same Mediterranean sub-branch. The difference between the so-called Aryans of the north and Dravidians of the south is not a racial division. Biologically both the north and south Indians are of the same Caucasian race, only when closer to the equator the skin becomes darker, and under the influence of constant heat the bodily frame tends to become a little smaller. While we can speak of some racial differences between north and south Indian people, they are only secondary.

For example, if we take a typical person from Punjab, another from Maharash- tra, and a third from Tamilnadu we will find that the Maharashtrians generally fall in between the other two in terms of build and skin color. We see a gradual shift of characteristics from north to south, but no real different race. An Aryan and Dravidian race in India is no more real than a north and a south European race. Those who use such terms are misusing language. We would just as well place the blond Swede of Europe in a different race from the darker haired and skinned person of southern Italy.

Nor is the Caucasian race the "white" race. Caucasians can be of any color from pure white to almost pure black, with every shade of brown in between. The predominent Caucasian type found in the world is not the blond-blue-eyes northern European but the black hair, brown-eyed darker skinned Mediterranean type that we find from southern Europe to north India. Similarly the Mongolian race is not yellow. Many Chinese have skin whiter than many so-called Cauca- sians. In fact of all the races, the Caucasian is the most variable in its skin color. Yet many identification forms that people fill out today in the world still define race in terms of color."

After reading this article, I became more aware of the fact that most of our lives are centered around the idea that we are different. As mentioned in my previous post, no one perceived "race" belongs to a particular country, or culture because our ancestors moved around a lot to occupy many landmasses for various reasons. Why then do we tend to characterize one another by our outer appearances? I have noticed that in nearly every single conversation that I have had with someone, the subject of race and nationality would come up. Must we live our lives trying to define each other's external appearances and skin tone? Or should we be focusing on our similarities, rather. If we were to do so, I do believe that a major chunk of our problems would be solved. The implementation of different "ethnic group" check boxes on questionnaires and information forms which we are occasionally required to complete are merely reinforcing our already held views that our world is segregated and different. I encourage each one of us to reflect upon these issues. Let us strive to re-define ourselves, eliminating any mistakenly held views, and becoming inwardly appreciative people.

How shall we?

"Emancipate yourself from mental slavery, None but ourselves can free our minds" - Bob Marley

I occasionally ponder upon this simple, yet extremely powerful phrase. We all want to be open minded, free spirited, and embracive to everything which presents its place in our lives. Yet, ever so often when opportunity presents its chance, we decidedly focus on aspects of a situation which reinforce our already standing beliefs of that particular person or object. How then, can we ever learn the truth? How are we to break free of these mistaken and untrue stereotypes that we so easily grasp, yet outrightly fail to let go?

I recently had the opportunity to express my knowledge and opinions of certain plaguing stereotypes which are ever so present here in the U.S. Having been born and raised Trinidad and Tobago (multicultural, and multiracial islands located in the Caribbean), my knowledge about diversity throughout the world is reinforced. I know that race doesn't characterize who you are, what country you are from, or what religion you hold. It was of my belief that when I came to the U.S, it would be easy to state that I am from Trinidad and Tobago, without the objections, or confusion of the people here. I was wrong. It is now continuously my burden to explain to most people here in the U.S, that I am not of eastern origin, and that I was never born or raised in an eastern country such as India, Singapore, Thailand, or the Middle East. These are some of the countries which people here in the U.S place me into. I was never looking for a placement, nor was I of the belief that each country should consist of one single race of people. Afterall, history reveals that our ancestors all migrated from somewhere. It just so happened that after the British had concluded their bout of importation of slaves to the island of Trinidad, they decided to offer wages to people in India, if they agreed to work on the sugar cane plantations in Trinidad. Soon thereafter, wages were also being offered to people in other countries. Eventually Trinidad became rich in the diversity of East Indian, Chinese, African, Caucasian, and Spanish race and culture.

Why then, must I have to explain these in depth details to U.S born and raised citizens, in order to prove that I do indeed belong to Trinidad and Tobago? Shouldn't we all already instinctively know that race doesn't belong to one set country? And that people of East Indian racial heritage can be born and raised on other landmasses, besides that of India? OR people of Chinese racial heritage can be a proud member and citizen of England, Jamaica, or Trinidad? And what about religion? Does race determine our stance in that domain?

I do believe that the U.S media has contributed a lot to the mistaken concepts which many Americans hold about racial diversity in other countries. But I also think that as members of this world, we are entitled to look beyond our barriers, STRIVING to find contradictions to whatever is presented to us. Wouldn't the world be more unified and refined if only we sought to perform these simple investigations?

Let's all seek to find out the TRUTH..........

Content

I'm quite content with where my life is, at this point. Although, I know that I won't stop here, and I will continually seek to learn and grow more, especially in the knowledge of God's grace and love. I'm learning a lot about true friends and the like, and appreciating the fact that God has blessed me with so many things; even those with which I weren't certain would be good. We go through many trials in our lives, and get to the point at which we are able to accept things and move on. The key is not to get stuck there, but to rise above it, and certainly i've done that throughout the past year.
I think that God wants us to continually grow stronger and knowledgeable spritually, and I think at each stage and season, He presents different options and turning points at which we should follow. I know that i've definitely learned a lot via just praying and crying out to God. He has opened many avenues for me, which I never thought were possible. He allowed me to make awesome friends, and through them, I was able to rise higher spiritually. Praying a lot, opened my eyes to new possibilities; ones in which I believe are healthier for me and those who remain an active part of my life. When opportunity knocks, I believe we should evaluate carefully and then make the best choice/decision. Don't let people or things hinder your progression; especially if the opportunity is one which builds you up spiritually, and draws you closer to God. :-)

It's been a while!

So I decided to import my blog to facebook! haha, I never actually thought i'd be getting back into writing and journal entries, but I truly believe that it helps one reflect and provides a sort of "escape" from our present lives, which are constantly filled with many activities, and events. My original blog site is http://princessserella.blogspot.com . Therefore if anyone likes, they may visit that site, and read the comments of my other fellow bloggers and friends :) Today has been quite interesting. I've had a good day back out to school. I met my very cool friend Michael! and we hung out for a while on campus until I had to go to my Language and Culture course. I'm currently wet due to the sudden outburst of rain which occurred earlier. hehe. I guess I should be getting prepared to go to my next class, but instead I'm in the library typing this. This semester is going to be indeed filled with many adventures! God is wonderful! and I cannot wait to see how much He has planned for my life and those who are dear to me. I will be volunteering at a place called Haven Hospice of North Central Florida this semester for credit. I'm so excited yet somewhat nervous. I will be helping counsel cancer and other terminally ill patients and their families, as well as I will be helping with office and administration work. I believe this would truly help me get closer to God, as I will be able to forget my daily struggles and concentrate more on helping those around me. It will also help me with my major (Psychology). I'm really looking forward to it! :)Well, I hope everyone's semester has started off pleasantly! I shall post something soon! Feel free to read from the beginning of my blog. They were written and posted throughout approximately one and a half years. :)

Happy New Year!!

Wow, it's truly been a while since i've written on here! I know, i'm not doing very well at keeping up to date with my postings! To any devoted fellow readers, I sincerely apologize! Well, Fall semsester has gone by and I'm proud to say that I've made it through and graduated from my college! I'm entering University of Florida this semester as a Junior (3rd year student), majoring in Psychology. I'm very excited, yet a bit nervous. However, I know that God will help me through any adjustments. Life as a disciple thus far has indeed been very fulfilling. I'm learning so much about God/Jesus, and the Bible, and about living a good life pleasing to Him. Otherwise, I feel very accomplished with regards to my short term goals. I've finished 2 years of College courswork (which I completed in 1 year and a half), and I can't wait until i'm done these next two years (hopefully it will be less). I feel refreshed, and I know that God has a lot in store for me this year, and for future years. I'm excited to know what they are! Well, that's about it for now. I just figured i'd type something since I haven't posted in such a long while! I'll update very soon :)

Changing Lives

How can I begin to thank God for all the things he has done for me. He was with me throughout my life, yet I failed to see the good which HE had been doing all along, and I failed to listen to him calling out and trying to have a a relationship with me. I'm forever greatful for what He has shown to me now. By introducing the most wonderful people into my life who serve and praise HIM. MY life will never be the same again. As of tomorrow, Thursday August the 18th, 2005, I shall and will be Baptised. That is, the end of my old life, and the beginning of my new life with God. Repentence of Sins, and the like has been done on my part, and I have prayed to God for Grace and forgiveness. I am ready to live the life of God. I have no other choice. He is awesome and worthy. My friends of the church are the greatest. They stuck with me, and helped me, teaching me the Bible and having many quiet times with me. This is what I want to do for the rest of my life. Live the life of God and be amongst His people. My friends of the church are doing so many great things for God. Bible talks on my College and University campus keep the faith alive. We encourage so many to come out, because God wants Everyone in the entire world to have a relationship with him. God placed so many of His people to go out and make other Disciples. That's what had happened with me. My good friend had invited me to a College campus Bible Talk, and I knew at that moment that God was calling me. Tomorrow Will be the greatest day of my life. God will be there with me, and all of my friends, and my mom. I can't wait. :) Well enough of the great stuff for now :) I'm gonna keep you all updated on my wonderful Baptism tomorrow.

Just some thoughts

Now that i have some spare time on my hands, I find myself more able to think with great depth. This can be either advantageous or disadvantageous to my well being. I've been thinking about life's complexities and uncertainties, as we are never guaranteed anything throughout our lifetime. It's all a matter of chance, or right timing. Some people have it easier than others, in that they fall into a promising situation at just the right time. For others, it's not that simple and they are the ones who find themselves searching for an answer to this mystery of so called Life.
It has suddenly dawned on me the other day that most humans live in their own little worlds, concentrating on that which surrounds them in their community and their immediate environment. How many people have dared to explore that which is beyond their horizon? Indeed, everyone should love the things which they can see and make contact with on a regular basis, yet they would never know what they could have beyond their territory. This is indeed sad, yet it happens regularly.

New Beginnings?

Wow, I haven't written here in ages! Well okay, not ages but it has indeed been a long time! So I can say that life right now for me is in a nutshell hectic and inspiring. Hectic in the sense that the semester is drawing to a close pretty soon and I've still got lots to accomplish study wise. Teachers are pressing forward giving us tons of work to do within these last three dreaded weeks of school. On the bright side, I've joined this wonderful bible talk group which my friend Zach introduced me to. I've never felt so accepted in my entire life! I mean these people are surely God sent. They treat me as though i'm their own sister. Going to church on Sundays has never been so exciting! The church we attend is mainly attended by students of the University and College here, therefore most of us are young. It's great to see that young people are so actively involved in the church and have a great passion to do things which is pleasing to God. I feel safe there. It's a feeling that I cannot describe. Imagine having friends with whom I know I can depend on. Imagine going through this entire life knowing that people care for me and will support me in whatever you do. It makes me wonder about people who live in the "world". Those who don't know or don't seek to know God. They are missing out on so much! They're missing out on having great, reliable, trusting friends. The kinds that lift you up and never once say or do anything to hurt you. Why would someone want to go along the "worldy" path and find themselves being hurt by "worldy" friends? I've noticed this, really I do. I ponder on this so much everyday. People are so highly drawn to the bad things of this world because they feel that they will fit in with the "cool" group of friends, when in fact they are setting themselves up for hurt. These "worldy" friends don't care at all about one's well being. I guarantee that at least one time one would be hurt by someone they thought of to be their friend. Drinking, Partying, Immorality? What's it worth it in the end? Why not have a meaningful life with friends who can lift you up in the church; friends that believe in God and love God. Friends that love and care about you because they are filled with the love of God. I guess everyone might have an opportunity at some time in their lives to truly make the decision of following God. However I hope it's sooner than later, for their sake. I want them to see the eternal happiness they can enjoy by being amongst other Godly people. Great friends! Thankyou God for blessing me with these wonderful friends who believe in you and love you too. No one can make me go back to the life I had before when I subjected myself to abuse from ungodly, unemotionless, unreligious friends. I still pray for them and talk to them, but I don't make them my number one priority anymore. I feel at peace now, knowing that i'm blessed with higher friends, those from the church, those who believe in God, and love me for me :)

no napkins, no patronage

I learned a lot today.
Things I feared would come to pass,
Things I longed for, things I had.
The feeling of security,
Suddenly slipped away from me.

You are surely a treasure,
One that should be kept for eternity.
And to know that I met you seems so surreal,
A blinding dream of fantasy.

The Love I seemed to never have,
Struck me once, then fell deeply.
I'll be the person you want me to be,
A friend indeed, for sympathy.

I care deeply,
More than words can say.
Yet I respect your personhood,
Your destiny.

Keep these words I say close to your heart,
So that in a lifetime we can look back at this moment.
A time for saddness, yet no regret.
A time for happiness, which i'll accept.

A Guardian Angel is watching over me,
The kind who lifts me up to show me more than I can be.
An inspiration for those who have lost hope,
A comfort for the broken hearted........

Everything will be ok

So I talked to one of my best friends back in my home country today, and she seemed a bit down, which automatically affected me. She's dealing with a lot of situations back home; a lot of people are getting involved in her private affairs, and judging her based on it. It hurts me to hear her hurt, because she is such a wonderful person. I always wondered why people are put through such hurt. In a sense I believe that God puts us through these trials so that we can get closer to him. There must be a reason for everything right? But all I know, is that i will pray for her, and I know she will get through it, because she is strong, if she went through bad stuff in the past she can go through this now and will be rewarded for her pain.
I do believe there is a purpose for us living here temporarily here on earth, but sometimes i wonder why is it so hard to deal with people or situations. I mean everyone is entitled to their own views and opinions, but some push it to the limit you know. So why can't everyone see the good in each other. I think they put a mental block to things because they see the world through a stereotypical point of view. This is clearly revealed with what's going on in my friend's life at present, and I wish I as an individual can do something to change the minds of all those who persecute her. But I know there will be a time for everything, and they may be happy and joyful in laughing at her pain, but sooner or later they will not be so happy anymore. Seasons come and Seasons go right?

como estas, mi amiga pasada? or not?

So I saw her today, she and I could not avoid this confrontation. Our eyes were forced to see one another. I pretended to be alright, faking a smile to not show how hurt I was. Afterall I had not seen her in so long, and with all my trials of contacting her, they were in vain because she never responded. What happened to us, my so called "best friend"? I tried contacting you so many times, I tried calling you for your birthday but you never called back. I tried messaging you online, but you set your status to "away." Does this situation still haunt you? It hurt me for that point in time, but why did we let one person come between us? I never thought it would reach this stage. I still miss you my spanish "best friend". We had so much in common; could relate to situations; we are both only children. I miss hanging out with you. If only you know how much you mean to me. But now you tell me that you've got new friends, a new boyfriend, and a new car, and suddenly I begin to feel as though I am "una amiga pasada." You say that you want me to see your new car, and we should go hang out sometime, but the words in your eyes appear differently. I know I am only consolation to you. Now I still accept your "friendly" invitations, but when? When will it be? I would have gladly gone to lunch with you today, but you had other agendas. One day both of us will heal, and we will be closer than ever, I feel it, I know it......

A Tiring Day, once again...

Sometimes I wonder if my mind can ever be at rest. It seems as though it never stops working, especially pertaining to my studies. Where are the days where I didn't have to worry about the uncertainties of tomorrow, the stresses of today, or the hauntings of the past? Those days seemed to be short lived. Sometimes I wish i could go back to that point in time when i was a kid, where i didn't have to depend on myself, but rather i knew that my elders would have taken care of me. It's only now i realise what my mother always used to say to me when i was a bit younger; she would always say that i shouldn't rush to grow up because life is tougher being an adult than a kid. So I work myself so hard at school, go to classes everyday, do homework every night, hardly have a social life, but yet, seem to not get the grades i had wished for. It's not that i'm complaining, i just feel that life is so short, that sometimes it seems to appear useless. I don't want to be recognised, I don't want to be the richest person in the world, all i want is to be able to have a comfortable life, slightly better than the one I had as a child growing up; I want to help my mom, because I know how she struggled to make the best life for me, and I think i owe her the best repayments. But you know i do believe there is a reward in the midst of all this. I know that one day i'll be the happiest, relaxed, accomplished princess there is, and it is this thought which keeps me going...........

yippie, I created my own blog :-)

It's neat to have a place where i can express myself. I owe it all to my friend indeed, Judge Dredd :-) Ever since he came into my life, i've been inspired to do great things. He's just a positive driving force, anyone would be happy to be in his company. Thanks Dredd :-)

Keep informed to learn more about the princess!