Be Informed About DACA

So much has been said about DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals).  I've seen school institutions send out letters assuring students that they are safe.  I've seen celebrities post heartfelt and in my opinion, intelligent reflections in support of DACA. And on the other side of the coin, I've heard disdain for the program mainly complaining about following the law, defending jobs, and protecting citizens from criminals.  Since the election this past November, I've learned that it doesn't matter what facts are told to those that have taken a stand--either way.  If you support the government wholeheartedly and without question, I have to admit I have a hard time relating or understanding you.  But I can be open-minded to the idea that most people have the best of intentions and have no desire to hurt their fellow human beings. I have no interest in addressing the racists, misogynists, xenophobes...and all those with similar ideologies except to say, I wholeheartedly stand against you. With that in mind, I wanted to throw in my personal support for the DACA program and share what I know about it.

DACA participants are contributing members of society.

DACA participants contribute more to the government than they receive or are eligible for. Before standing in judgement and calling someone "illegal", please endeavor to see these individuals as human beings.  They have lived in this country their whole lives, have assimilated into the culture and may not have any knowledge of their country of origin (lifestyles and/or language).  Like I said, I'm not trying to convince anyone who stands in support of rescinding this bill.  I'm just trying to share what I know & what I believe.  It's my hope that I help spread some compassion for human kind...that every person has a story and every person deserves the chance to be heard.

 

 

Reading is Dreaming with Eyes Wide Open

When I'm reading a book I enjoy, I get to experience a world different from my own.  It's the best way to practice empathy and understand the idea of perspective.  No matter what genre you enjoy, you can learn and get something new out of every book you read.  Here are three book recommendations from me.  These books are in the genre of Contemporary Romance and are meant for adults, 18 + years old.

Cancun: Bad Boys on the Beach by Kimberly Fox 

It was hard for me to read the beginning part of this story.  Tanya is headed to her best friend’s wedding in Cancun, only she’s been downgraded to “bridesmaid” playing second fiddle to the obnoxious groom’s sister.  She is also attached to the worst boyfriend on the planet (my very biased assessment).  I feel like Tanya is the most patient, nicest character, almost to the point of being a doormat.  Enter Ethan, the groom’s cousin, & total hottie & hero. He is completely smitten with Tanya & makes no qualms about letting her know.  And as a reader, I began immediately rooting for him, if only for Tanya’s sake.  Does Tanya get the man of her dreams?  You’ll have to find out. 

Sparked by Lily Cahill 

There are numerous themes in this story—the division between social classes, domestic violence, romance, family ties, forgiveness, letting go and supernatural abilities.  Wait. What? Supernatural abilities? Yes, this book has that too!  But first, let’s journey with Cora and Clayton and root them on as they maneuver through their feelings for one another while trying to deal with the judgements of both of their families.  It’s often a rocky ride, but never once did I NOT root for Cora and Clayton.  Loved them both & I love this story! It’s the beginning of the Independence Fall Superhero Romance series.  Not sure if the title of the series gives away what it’s all about. LOL! Read this. It’s a good one!

The Navy Seal’s E-Mail Order Bride by Cora Seton 

Sounds like a funny title.  And it does start of quite funny.  Due to a stipulation regarding acquiring a family ranch, Mason Hall must find a bride and have a baby within a year.  Being a Navy Seal, he knows how to tackle assignments and missions. He approaches “task” like he would any other.  Through an on-line ad, he gets acquainted with Regan and makes it his mission to convince her to agree to marriage and a life on the ranch.  And seeing as how she’s pretty much given up on love, it’s fun to see what he’ll do to convince her.  It’s not like Regan isn’t instantly attracted to Mason either so maybe this “mission” won’t be so difficult after all.  This was a very fun read. 

Completely relatable!

 

And the struggle is real!   LOL!

It's the best way to enhance the skill of  "walking in someone else's shoes".