Month: March 2019

The last few years in politics could have demonstrated this. However, there are several factors and scenarios that show when we are on different levels from a person.

For instance, the movie “Us” by Jordan Peele released this week. It was a different type of horror/thriller, one that makes you think and where a 2nd viewing may be necessary.

I saw it Thursday, enjoyed it and was intrigued. Then I saw reviews all weekend, some saying it was bad just because they couldn’t fully grasp the concept.

It showed a divide: between thinkers and analyzers and those that like to take in things simply as entertainment.

Now there is nothing wrong with either category, it’s a differentiation is all. You have to remember who you are and know that you will not get everything and vice versa.

For example, I cannot get Snapchat filters (or Snapchat period), why women cannot let the toilet seat down, how people can be late for work daily and many other things. These are classic divides but I don’t let these things stop me from communicating with others effectively.

We should accept and embrace each other’s differences, unless they are deadly. I think it’s truly time for everyone to visit the Museum of Tolerance.

#imjustdrew #fromdarktosunshine

I have said in “From Darkness To Sunshine” and other places that spin offs are often the best types of friendships and connections.

A spinoff to me is a connection formed from another connection or as the result of a current connection.

For me, this has worked out well with one of my favorite families: The Sansings.

They are family to me. I attend their birthday parties, anniversary parties, Thanksgiving and other holidays. They are the first I buy Girl Scout cookies from since they’re a huge Girl Scout family. I have also supported their business ventures through the decades, their current one being their food truck, Aunt B’s Hog Wild BBQ.

Through this, I discovered we have a coffee shop and used bookstore in Blacksburg. This place is owned and operated by Thomas and Vanessa Dover. Over the past year in business, I have become close to them. Due to my schedule, I am usually only able to see them on Friday nights, and the occasional weekday when I am off and they are open.

But thus far Tommy and Vanessa and their little girls have become near and dear to my heart. I support them as a business and as friends. When the town tried to come against them last month, I was slow to find out but resounding in my defense. I am proud of them for being in business for 1 year and for the atmosphere and culture they have built that extends beyond some of the best coffee you will find and safe, comfortable, surroundings.

They have also helped the local Chinese place, Joy Wok, gain more business as many Wisefire customers order from there. They also fervently work to improve and restore downtown Blacksburg and work in accordance with some of the popular town events. Furthermore, they support other local businesses such as Christy Gibson, former owner of Sweets On Main and Moxie Made Bakery by Jennifer Childers.

I have other great spin offs but this is my latest and greatest one. I love being around folks in a safe environment where I can voice my views and unwind from a tough day or week. Tommy and Vanessa have provided this and more. I want to say thank you to them and congratulations on a successful first year in business.

Also, thanks to Bryna Sansing “Aunt B” for introducing me to them and Wisefire Cafe. These are some of the benefits of connecting with others and freeing up yourself.

#imjustdrew #fromdarktosunshine

Any word, action, place or even occurrence can trigger a negative experience or memory and throw you off track.

Knowing common trigger words and phrases are one thing. Trying to learn them or refusing to learn them is another.

For example, we’ll go with teaching someone to drive. This is a task everyone definitely isn’t built for. It takes a lot of patience, overall knowledge and experience and understanding where your student is and how they are.

I learned years ago even saying a simple “WHOA” goes a long way. You want to be more encouraging, using positive reinforcement, starting them slow and steady and not raising your voice.

People have all sorts of demons and stuff that has happened to them or certain insecurities. They also have hot buttons. Knowing and gauging what makes them uncomfortable is of extreme importance. You can be considered a mean, condescending bully if you know what bothers a person and you continue to nag them and poke at them. That part isn’t cool.

Friday was International Women’s Day and dealing with women definitely isn’t one of my strong points. But I have learned often that less is more in regarding to talking and to listen as much as possible. Obviously referring to a random woman in a sexual or overpowering manner isn’t condoned. Keeping it basic and polite is best until you reach a certain level. For instance, I have a female friend that got mad I didn’t tell her her booty was increasing. I told her I couldn’t and don’t just do that. But she’s different and expects people to be more open with her.

Therefore know the person and know yourself. Fall back and be very generic if you sense a lot of tension. Relax and breathe. Most of all, enjoy the company of others!

#imjustdrew #fromdarktosunshine

Someone had actually asked me why I don’t post more about alcohol. Well for starters I do not drink it, except for medicinal purposes.

However, I do realize that a small sum is a good and healthy way to take the edge off after a long day, week, or a stressful situation.

I am not in favor of getting sloppily drunk and it impairs your judgment and memory. It is interesting, however, how much more honest people are with you when they are inebriated.

Flu season is still upon us and congestion and sinuses have hit me. I medicate primarily with moonshine, the original alcohol and cold medicine. It cleans your veins, removes infection and is so strong that you may not want to drink too much unless you’re staying inside and not driving.

Alcohol, like food, will draw a crowd, period. Many festive activities involve spirits and adult beverages. My father actually had a cough syrup addiction (and I mean the strong stuff that you get from the doctor, not Tussin). I keep cough syrup in the rotation as well, but I don’t drink it like he once did.

Therefore, drink responsibly and in moderation. And of course if you’re a recovering alcoholic, it’s best you’re not even around the smell.

Drink up, turn up, have fun and be safe!

#imjustdrew #fromdarktosunshine