Learn Your History: Painting Our Lost Past: Lois Mailou Jones

If you are fortunate to have opportunity, it is your duty to make sure other people have those opportunities as well.
~ Kamala Harris
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I wrote about Augusta Savage, whom I believe was responsible for the multicultural art world we live in today, and paved the way for artists like Mickalene Thomas and Kara Walker. To close the month, I want to introduce you to Mailou Jones, another Harlem Renaissance artist. As with Augusta, I won’t give you information you can read from the links down below. I will, however, share her story and how it impacts our lives in these modern times.

I am inspired by Mailou Jones because our lives are very similar, yet very different. She grew up loving art and her parents encouraged her to express her creativity. She remained passionate and further developed her talent. I've mentioned before how fortunate I am to have been raised by supportive people and given opportunities and experiences that would otherwise have been fantasy for me. She was also fortunate to have supportive people in her life, and was able to attend high school. 

According to her interview, she was also able to earn many scholarships that allowed her to pursue higher education, and even travel abroad. Even though she was well-received and able to accomplish so many of her goals, she was limited. Her talent could only take her so far in a world where she was deemed inherently less-than. She said, “this country wasn't interested in exhibiting our work or allowing us any of the opportunities that the white artists enjoyed. I made up my mind at that moment that I would go to Paris.” (Rowell) 

I’m currently studying French, and her stay in France was brought forth by the “egalitaire” (not so racist) culture. I’ve read many biographies of other black artists (including Augusta Savage) and many of them wind up in Paris. I want to experience for myself the difference between modern-day French and American culture. Even though she didn’t speak the language, her translator (and friend) did her best to make that year magical. She met other famous artists and worked on a variety of projects. Living la belle vie indeed.

Life is full of many struggles, but she chose to look past them and focus on what she could do and how she could do it to reach her goals. I’d call her an optimist. Besides her life-story and vibrant personality, her artwork is a treasure itself. While in France she focused on capturing the natural beauty of the vineyards, but later on decided to change her style. Haitian and African culture were heavy influences on her later work. You may recognize her painting Les Fetiches of African masks. It’s my personal favorite.

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Haitian culture is often misunderstood (the positive term) by other cultures. Vodou is seen as “dark magic” full of strange rituals and the Haitian people were, and still are, looked down upon. (Although many famous artists did develop their style based off of patterns, colors, and prints of African culture. But that topic is for another day.) The concept that something as refined as art could be influenced by non-European cultures was shocking. Yet, she went against the status quo. 

It's 2019, which means it's been 99 years since the start of the Harlem Renaissance! How much has changed since then? It's all thanks to our brave predecessors who have paved the way with their own two feet for the rest of us. Despite the racism, despite the segregation, despite being the children of slaves, women like Lois and men like Garrett came out on top. We have opportunities and privileges that were not available even 20 years ago, but we also have many issues we have to face and overcome to continue progressing as people of this country. Let's make them proud.

I wish I could have a little gallery of all of her paintings, but I can’t. That would be copyright infringement. So, make sure to click on the links down below for more info on our amazing Black woman of the week! And don't forget to leave a comment down below. 


Sources
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Passport Fiasco

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I long to leave this country, and the sooner I can, the better. Perhaps you want to visit London, Berlin, or Hong Kong. I need to go to a French-speaking country (France, Canada, Switzerland) to “perfect” my French. To study abroad I’ll need to find the right program, scholarships, and funding, but for this dream to become a realistic goal I first need the verification that I can legally do so. I need a passport.

Step 1: Passport Card vs Passport Book
You first need to decide whether you will be needing a passport book or a passport card. A passport book will get you across oceans to see various different countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. A passport card will get you to Canada and Mexico. These are border countries, which require less for you to pass through, since you can drive there.

Step 2: Proof of Citizenship
This one should be easiest to get. You simply need to prove you are an American citizen using your birth certificate. If you are from another country, you must have your Visa ready. If you are undocumented you must become a citizen in order to receive a passport. You will need both the original and a copy for them to process your information.

Step 3: Get a Valid ID
My parents are not residents of the same state, and neither one of them are here in Iowa. Being from Chicago, my state ID (expired) and driver’s permit (also expired) are both only valid in Illinois. I got my state ID and permit on my own, but because I couldn’t afford a driving school, I never got my license. I attend college in this state, meaning I reside in this state. I just need to prove it.

You see, one of the requirements for a US passport is valid identification. A State ID, driver’s license, or expired passport is needed. You will also need a copy of whichever method you choose, so the can process your information. NEVER GIVE SOMEONE THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT. This is your proof that you were born in this country, and if anyone else gets a hold of it, they can pretend to be you. But, identity theft is a topic for another day.

Crystal Triplett took me to Linn County last semester so I could take the permit test, but I didn’t study beforehand and needed to be updated on IOWA’s rules (not the same as Illinois). Next time will be different. I’ve read the rules and have finally been behind the wheel, though only in a parking lot. Once the weather is warmer, and not snowing or hailing, I can go back to Linn county to retake the test, and hopefully get a permit. If not, I can still get an ID, and use that to apply for a passport.

Step 4: Take a selfie
Your new passport book or card will need a photo so you can be recognized. They photo must meet the requirements set by the facility, though. Just like when you got your driver's license or state ID. You can also have your photo taken at the facility for $10. 

Step 5: Find the Funds and Forms Needed
In order to apply for a passport, you must have the money to pay for it. $110 is the national price for the book, and $30 is for the card. There’s also the acceptance fee which will be $35 for each of them, so make sure you save up for them. You’ll also need to download the DS-11 and fill it out before you got to a state facility.

Step 6: Find a Passport Facility
This is most likely your local post office or DMV. Wherever matters of the state are handled, go there. But, here’s the link to know the exact address. 

That’s really all there is to getting a passport. Hopefully this helps you make your plans to leave this country. Leave a comment down below with your travel plans! I can’t wait to write a post about mine.
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Learn Your History: Sculpting the New Age: Augusta Morgan

I have created nothing really beautiful, really lasting, but if I can inspire one of these youngsters to develop the talent I know they possess, then my monument will be in their work.
~Augusta Savage

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How many people have you met that left you awestruck? 
Just hearing their voice and conversing with them opened up your worldview to wide you were left speechless. When researching Black Female artists, I found Augusta Savage, and I have nothing more to say.

Aww, I can’t resist. I spent all week researching Black Female Artists, because of my fascination with empowered women who’ve paved the way for me, and all future generations. You see, Augusta Savage is the woman who began the push for Black artists to be the ones to incorporate African culture and tradition into their works. Her sculptures have the heart and soul of a woman who has been both ostracized and recognized for her talents from a young age. I relate to her and am greatly inspired by her, and I hope you will be too.

Before this week, I thought I’d never heard the name Augusta Savage, but, I was wrong. I simply didn’t remember her. Through remembrance our predecessors live on, and when reading articles and researching individual pieces, I saw a photo of The Harp. I Suddenly, I knew her again. The Harp is a beautiful work of art that portrays the ancient instrument through a choir of black women, ending with a black man. The art world looked down on Black artists and felt they had nothing to contribute. Even though many artists were inspired by traditional African styles (as well as many non-European cultures), African-American artists were less-than solely because of the color of their skin.

Stop and rest your mind for one moment. Imagine the most beautiful painting, the Mona Lisa or Starry Night. A work of art, praised for its originality, its ability to portray the world in a way seen through the eyes of a genius. What race do you assume the artist is? What gender? Would you like the piece any less if you discovered the creator of such a magnificent piece was a woman? If they were Black? How about a Black woman?

I could go into great detail about race relations, segregation, denied opportunities et cetera, but this isn’t a research paper. This is as common knowledge. In a society where citizens are systematically treated as second-class citizens through public and private policies (as well as social situations) due to their race, the correlation is clear. However, her talents were realized and acknowledged by wonderful people who wanted to help her reach her full potential, despite the social climate of the time. Her tenacity and faith in herself and her abilities helped her push through and do what she was always meant to do.

What if I never met Julia? What if my art teachers weren't all amazing women? (Yes, all of my art teachers have been women) I remember glazing tiles with my stepmom in her studio. I would be given clay to make my own creations and paper to draw on. I was surrounded by professionals who all believed in giving back to the community through CPAG (Chicago Public Art Group) and providing the resources needed for those who had none to let their creativity flow and make the world a more colorful place.

The feeling of creating something on your own is amazing, and the feeling of that work being recognized by others gives the satisfaction of being accepted. I took metalsmithing one summer, and worked with ASM (After School Matters) once I was old enough. We spent the whole summer learning to design and cut tile, and our mosaics remain a part of the city’s walls. Like Augusta, I’ve been given many opportunities that were not available to those of similar backgrounds, and I am very grateful. From her experiences, and my own, I see how amazing and necessary it is for those who have (opportunities, privileges) to help those who do not.
From her experiences, I've learned to see my life from a new perspective, and have gained more confidence in my abilities. I hope you’ve been inspired to be thankful for all the opportunities and privileges you have, and use them to help others who are not as fortunate. I did not go into great detail on her life story, and that's okay; all of my sources are down below, and it's better you read them for yourself.
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Broke AF: When You're Down and Out

by Arabella Chamberlain
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College is expensive. I don't need to tell you that. You see the bills piling up. College finances can be so stressful and can have a big impact on your academics, especially if you're more stresses about tuition than that Calc exam.

Below, I've compiled some great reads on how to save money, spend it better, and get those scholarships:

Saving

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College Ave: Creative Ways to Save Money in College

The Street: 31 Ways to Save Money in College

FastWeb: 31 Ways to Save Money in College

The College Investor: The 50 Best Ways To Save Money in College

Best Value Schools: 30 Money Saving Tips for College Students

CNBC: 7 Ways to Save Money in College



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Better spending

UNiDAYS: College Student-only savings

Spotify: Premium for Students

Amazon Prime: Prime for Students


Honey: Quick Savings for Online Shopping





Scholarships

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BOTW February 20

By Paige Waskow


The Book of the Week is:

Humans of New York: Stories by Brandon Stanton


What's it about?

How do the people of the world live? How does experience shape our beliefs, struggles, and response?

Humans of New York: Stories is a nonfiction compilation of photography and captions of everyday people sharing something about their lives. Most are answering questions posed by author Brandon Stanton, a photographer who blogs and posts online about the experiences of those he meets on the streets of New York. The book itself derives its stories from those online publications. Each page typically has one or two photographs and are put together often in ways that reflect themes or beliefs.


Why did I choose it?

This may be, and as a huge bookworm I say this quite cautiously, my favorite nonfiction book. My love of stories has always been present and driven me to learn more about the world I am in. I heard about the social media page Humans of New York on Instagram and followed them. I loved the stories shared, and eventually, the author of the site announced the release of the Humans of New York: Stories book. I got it for Christmas and, like most books I ended up loving, I read it in a day.

My very loved copy of HONY: Stories.
The book is so unique and powerful in its ability to tell the stories of everyday people. It pulses with emotion and is so full of diversity.  From children collecting rocks and talking about building bridges to memories of people who have survived war or gang violence to conversations between lovers to those attending religious events, this book leaves nothing out. I think what is most amazing is that the book itself is not crafted by one person. Sure, there is one official author, but it is a book by people, capturing one sliver of a moment in their lives. Side by side on the pages, people have different beliefs and life experiences.

Together, these photographs and captions form what I believe to be both a beautiful and often heart-breaking look at what it means to be human- what it means to be alive. Like, if I had to send an alien planet one piece of media that describes humanity, it would be this book. I have read HONY a few times now, and it doesn't fail to get old. If you are looking for beautiful photography, people, and stories, please read this book.


Where can you get HONY: Stories?
This book is available for checkout at Coe's library and the Cedar Rapids Public Library. If you don't have a CRPL library card, you can get one for free any time.


Is there anything else you should know?

As mentioned above, Humans of New York started as a photography blog and continues to publish stories online. You can view their work on social media or at their website here. From this site, you can view all of their past stories and series. I highly recommend checking it out.

Additionally, Brandon Stanton also wrote a book published in 2013 (earlier than HONY: Stories) called Humans of New York. I haven't read it, but it has the same premise as Stories. The only difference is that Stories has longer captions alongside the photographs.
                                            
If you have a book you love and want to see as a BOTW, leave a comment below. 

Happy reading!


References:

Stanton, Brandon. Humans of New York. www.humansofnewyork.com/.

Stanton, Brandon. Humans of New York: Stories. St. Martins Press, 2015.


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Perfectionism: Seeing the Big Picture

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It's been a while since I last posted, but this is college.
We left on the topic of perspective shaping, and how important it is to look at a situation from not only your anxious, Type A, "gotta be the best" mindset, but from your friends, family, and other respected peoples' viewpoints. Perfectionists have the bad habit of agonizing over the smallest of details and letting it take priority when it shouldn't. For example, I used to try to do my French homework by reading through all the texts (to see if I understand it), highlighting words I don't know, and re-reading it with the proper translation (if there is such a thing). This process took all day, and no one needs to spend five to six hours on one assignment.

That's right, this wasn't a study session but ONE ASSIGNMENT. In fact, all of the assignments are like this. They can be overwhelmingly time consuming, and stress-inducing since I have other classes that are equally as important. Realizing this, I've changed my strategy. These texts are long, and the goal isn't to understand each word, but to get this gist of what's going on. My last big assignment was finished in about three hours, so...progress?

Last semester, I wouldn’t have been able to convince myself that there is nothing wrong with me if I can’t read a foreign language perfectly. Now, I can see my obstacles through the eyes of the people that care about me, and I know I’m doing just fine. What are other ways I’ve practiced these new ways of thinking? Just last week I had my first Stats exam, but I took longer on the problems than I expected. Exams are timed, in that you only have as much time as the class period, but I want my answers to be right before I move onto the next. I had to rush, and in the last 20 minutes I finished more questions than the first 30. I grumbled for the whole 50 minutes -confusing and worrying my professor - about how slow I was moving. I wasn’t hard on myself, like I usually am. After all, I did the best I could do. I could hear a few of my sisters say, "at least you finished it".

The focus of this week is “Big Picture Thinking”. When I’m worried about something, I will take into account ALL of my other priorities and goals, and compare them to each other. One side of the scale can be my desire to complete my French, comprehending every single word, while the other side is my overarching goal of completing my other homework assignments on time, as well. Let’s work through Anxiety Canada’s tools with a more recent (non-homework related) example.

There is a beautiful sweatshirt I want, because it’s cute and all of my friends are getting one. I just received my paycheck, but I need to pay the school, and my next paycheck isn’t for another two weeks.

Here’s what I did: I weighed my options. There was a T-shirt option for $10 less and a Long-Sleeved option for $3 less (which I dismissed, obviously). I decided that if I was going to spend money I would get the one I want, the sweatshirt. I created a budget to see how much financial trouble I’d be in if I bought the sweatshirt, and realized that budgets are hard to make. I paid the school half of the money I owed and continued from there. The money needed to be paid in cash, but I needed a ride to the bank. [As you can guess, the obstacles continued from there.] No one was going to give me a ride, so I made a new plan to have someone else buy it and I pay them back through Venmo. It was settled, but I honestly didn’t want to spend money on a sweatshirt. I forgot about it over the weekend, and when I double-checked with the person I made the agreement with, they forgot too. It was destiny.

Here’s what I could’ve done:
Does it really matter? Does it really matter that everyone else is buying it? It’s my money that I’ve earned, plus I have other financial obligations. Does it really matter whether I get the sweatshirt? Yes, there’s no point if it isn’t the sweatshirt. Winter is for sweatshirts and I already have too many T-shirts. Does it really matter that I get this sweatshirt? The design is cute, but the only color option was black, even though the T-shirt had six options. The blue or the beige would look better on me.

What is the worst that could happen?
If I don’t buy the sweatshirt, I’ll have that money in the bank, and when I get my next paycheck I’ll be able to pay the school more. If I buy the sweatshirt, I’ll have a sweatshirt, but not the money, and I like having money. Believing that I won't be considered part of the group weighed on my mind, but I know this is not true. No one cares.

If the worst does happen, can I survive it?
The cost of the sweatshirt could be the exact amount I need to finish my payment to the school. I could get the amount from a relative, but I’d feel guilty since I’d rather ask them for money for something cute that they could see me wear and say "is that the sweater I bought you? Man, I have good taste".

Will this still matter tomorrow? How about next week? Next year?
No. I don’t think I want it anymore.

As you see, one process took days and brought unnecessary stress with it. The other lead me to the same conclusion, but without the headache. This is “Big Picture Thinking”, and I believe this concept will make weeks leading up to Spring Break much more productive.

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Sources
https://www.anxietycanada.com/sites/default/files/Perfectionism.pdf 
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Flying Fantasies

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I am a language major. I take writing classes for my minor and psychology for my other major, but for this post, I am a language major. I want to go to Japan, Canada, Switzerland, Germany, China, Mexico, and more. I’ve always wanted to travel, around the country, around the globe, but never had. I’ve only be legally allowed to for two years and one month. No more hesitation, no more listening to my family’s worries and my nervous heart’s concerns. I will leave this country before graduation.

My biggest worries were: lack of knowledge in foreign cultures (and languages) and money. I can speak French, no where near as good as a native, but, enough to survive. After speaking with members of the Japanese Student Association, I'm also relieved to know I can get by with key phrases (in the big cities). Travel, on the other hand, is expensive (passports, air fare, taxis, food, hotels, luggage), and I don’t have much money. The money I do earn goes to the school, and I have to fight myself to spend any on myself. I’m so grateful for what I have, but the constant stress of student loans and unpaid bills make it very hard to sleep at night.

So, I asked myself the question “if money wasn’t an obstacle, would I leave?” Yes. I say yes firmly because more than anything I’ve wanted to travel. I’ve denied my childhood and teenage wish for too long. I came to Coe for a great education, a challenging curriculum, and small class sizes, but mostly for the study abroad program that I listed as my requirements when choosing colleges. Other colleges simply don't do enough (in my opinion) to help their students go abroad. I know, most students don't want to go abroad, but I'm clearly not one of them. John Chaimov was my FYS professor and my first adviser for goodness sake! How can I pretend I’ll ever be happy if I don’t get on a plane and plant my feet thousands of miles away from my home?

With this series, we’ll work through the process of using resources available here at Coe to explore the world and finally make our fantasies reality. Starting with the bare requirements to leave this country: legal identification and passports.

I'll be posting weekly to keep up my motivation. If you or someone you know have traveled leave a comment down below and share your story!

Table of Contents
Resident of Where?
Passport Fiasco
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Accomplishments: Week Four

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It's safe to say that I'm exhausted. Last week was an emotional rollercoaster, with work, classes, social, and financial obligations, but I pushed through. I accomplished my goals, but they're all too personal to share, except one.

Saturday
How do you spend your weekends? Relaxing with a book on your bed? Playing video games? Hanging out with your friends? I woke up with seven hours of sleep on the 9th, ready to seize the day and study for Statistical Methods and Data Analysis. I don't have time during the week to make note cards for my different subjects, because I work most of the day, then have homework to do. So, the weekend became my time to get everything done.

I opened my blinds, washed my face, and opened my laptop. I meditated for a bit, and finally accepted that this wasn't a fluke and I really wasn't sleepy anymore. I was ready to complete my notes in preparation for our first exam, as well as practice problems from the lecture slide, and I did. For six hours straight I worked solely on Stats, then ate lunch, then did more Stats. I only had two more slides to work through after dinner, and when I finished I started my hair, and watched my favorite show with my best friend.

I went to sleep proud of myself, exhausted enough to stay in bed for nine hours, then awoke for brunch with a friend I hadn't seen in quite some time. A stressful week ended good, and helped pave the way for a better one.

Hey guys, I know this one is really short, but WAY too much happened that I'm still processing right now. Make sure to take time this week to reflect on your past, so you make the same great decisions (and don't make the same awful ones) next time!

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BOTW February 11

By Paige Waskow


The book of the week is:

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

What's it About?

Starr Carter lives two different lives. One is in Garden Heights with her family and the other is at an majority white high school, Williamson Prep. Keeping the two Starrs separate is something that she has learned to do. As she puts it, Garden Heights Starr would be considered "too ghetto" at Williamson and Williamson Starr would be "too white" in Garden Heights.

When Starr's childhood best friend, Khalil is shot and killed, murdered, by a white police officer, she is thrust into the spotlight. As the media explodes over the event, she must decide how she will respond. Does she speak up as the key witness? Does she stay quiet at school? How does she heal and move forward when most of the world is against her?
Why did I choose it?
&  Learning Commons writer Jasmine Barlow's take on it!

I choose this book for a lot of reasons, but mainly, I was blown away by its complexity. Thomas does not stray away from hard topics and the layers of white privilege that are a constant in our society. There is so much, SO much I did not know going in. Some aspects, such as the continuation of police brutality, white privilege, and double standards, were things I was familiar with. But Thomas doesn't simply outline these issues. She shows how deeply interconnected and real they are. The story not only focuses around police brutality but dives into topics such as separation of black and white neighborhoods, black women dating white men, being one of the only black people at a school, blaming a black victim's life choices for their death but giving immediate grace to a white officer, the ability for white people to listen to R&B or rap without being seen as "ghetto" but people of color being judged for listening to it .... the list goes on and on and on.

The Hate U Give was not a book I could put down. The characters are so vividly created, their stories perfectly webbed together to create an unforgettable story. Thomas does incredibly well to make the story feel like it happened in real life. She leaves you changed.

What Jasmine says about the book:

"My favorite book is "The Hate U Give". It was the first book to make me cry (not just "feel sad", many tears fell in many different chapters) because I relate to Starr. I love reading and have read many fantastic books, but Starr was the first person I could truly understand. It hit home and I recommend everyone to broaden their horizons and learn how people of different backgrounds and cultures see the same world, through what they have to live through. I tend to be drawn towards books written by Black women, but I've never read a character so close to my age, from the same time period, from a big city. I'm still in awe."


Where can you get The Hate U Give?

This book is available at Coe's library and the Cedar Rapids Public Library. If you don't have a CRPL library card, you can get one for free anytime!

The Hate U Give was made into a movie last year, and it. is. amazing. I highly recommend it (but read the book first!). Both Coe's library and CRPL have the movie to rent for free.


Is there anything else you should know?

Angie Thomas just came out with a new book! It's called On The Come Up and is about a high school girl who is aspiring to be a rapper. I haven't read it yet, but based on Thomas' work, I'm sure it's going to be great.
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If you have a book you love and want to see as a BOTW, leave a comment below. 

Happy reading!


References:

Thomas, Angie. The Hate U Give. Harper Collins Publishers, 2017.

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Learn Your History: Fact or Fiction: Garrett Morgan

Start where you are, with what you have. Make something of it and never be satisfied
~George Washington Carver

Another day another opportunity to learn US history. 
This week I've decided to focus on a Black inventor who's name is not well-known. George Washington Carver was the only name I could think of, and one is definitely too small a number in 2019. I remember being told once (or many times, I've forgotten) that a Black man was the one who invented traffic lights, and also being told that I was lied to, so let’s begin there. His name is Garrett Morgan (1877-1963), and he was born the son of a former slave and the grandson of a Confederate colonel. He was a master inventor, creating the first chemical hair straightener for Black hair (a.k.a. relaxer), a sewing machine, the predecessor to the gas mask, and the traffic light.

Fact or Fiction
According to LiveScience, Garrett Morgan did not invent the first traffic light, that honor goes to Lester Farnsworth Wire, whose creation looked like a birdhouse on a pole, that was placed right in the middle of an intersection. You may remember this from old cartoons like "Pink Panther" where an officer stands in the middle of the street, blowing a whistle, pulling a lever to change the colors from red to green. Although, this honor should also go to multiple other inventors, I believe because all of these inventions had to start somewhere. This tale begins on the British railroads, where train traffic needed to be better controlled, then continues in America, where various variations of the stoplight, or traffic light, were patented.

I want to give credit where credit is due, so Garrett Morgan did indeed create the traffic light, the one that we know and love today. You see, the stop-go method left when and how soon to stop to the driver’s discretion. Depending on the speed of the car, someone could be left in the intersection, while another car hits the gas. The "three color system" was invented three years before Morgan's invention, but this doesn't take away from its importance, since Morgan was the one who decided it best to stop all lanes of traffic before giving a lane the green light. This allowed better control of the flow of traffic, and made intersections significantly safer. His invention was also far cheaper to manufacture and once he sold it to General Electric, thousands were able to mass produced across the country.

Dreams not Differed
The tale of the traffic light is enjoyable to read, but unfortunately the process to gain recognition for his inventions became far more difficult once it was uncovered by the media (newspapers) that Garrett Morgan was a Black man (the horror!). While his ads for “hair straightener creams” and combs made sure to include his picture (a largely Black audience), he hired a white actor to pretend to be him when convincing white patrons to take his next invention seriously. Worried for the safety of firemen who inhaled smoke and ash from fires, he created a special breathing masks that blocked the smoke, preventing pollutants from floating into their lungs.
He dreams were not deterred nor differed, and he continued to live his life with pride in himself, and eventually, was given the respect he always deserved. I hope you enjoyed learning about such a unique man today, and are inspired by both the joyous and sad times in his life. Don’t forget to leave a comment down below!

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Sources
Biography.com Editors. “Garrett Morgan Biography”. Biography.com. Biography.com website. 15 January 2019. February 13, 2019. Web. <https://www.biography.com/people/garrett-morgan-9414691>.
“Garrett Augustus Morgan”. Who Made America?. PBS. [2004?]. February 13, 2019. Web. <http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/theymadeamerica/whomade/morgan_hi.html>.
History.com Editors. “Garrett Morgan Patents Three-Position Traffic Signal”. HISTORY. 13 December 2018. February 12, 2019. Web. <https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/garrett-morgan-patents-three-position-traffic-signal>.
Mark Traffic. “Traffic Lights Invented by William M. Potts”. Mark Traffic: All That is Mobile. 16 October 2010. February 13, 2019. Web. <http://www.marktraffic.com/traffic-lights-invented-by-william-l-potts.php>.
Moss, LeAnn. “45 Quotes from Black Leaders on Mindset, Progress, and Making an Impact”. Bossedup. Bossedup.org, Feb 2018. February 8, 2019. Web. <https://bossedup.org/45-quotes-from-black-leaders-on-mindset-progress-and-making-an-impact/>. Ross, Rachel. “Who Invented the Traffic Light?”. Live Science. LiveScience.com. 16 December 2016. February 13, 2019. Web. <https://www.livescience.com/57231-who-invented-the-traffic-light.html>.
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Learn Your History

You don’t make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas.
– Shirley Chisholm
I haven’t taken a history class in two years. That’s right, since college, history has been a no. I'm learning French history, which is very useful since I want to go to France, but the gaps in my knowledge bother me. It's February, and I want to take more time to learn Black history. If you don’t know why it matters so much to me that I learn Black history, or even why we should all learn Black history, read on.

I went to a predominately Black, Roman Catholic grade school in Hyde Park. I specify Roman Catholic, because I did not attend CPS (Chicago Public Schools) and yes, there is a difference. We learned about Black history every February and my classmates and I would perform as historic figures every year for the entire school. I was Shirley Chisholm, and was very proud since all the teachers said I reminded them of her. You see, Shirley was a very confident, outspoken Black woman who paved the way for future generations of politicians from underrepresented populations. I was a very outspoken and confident child, at least when it came to my passions. (She also looked a bit like my Granny when she was younger, but I could just be seeing things)

The faculty and staff were a mixture of Black and White adults, younger and older, Christian and Jewish. Hyde Park is a rather affluent neighborhood, full of young college kids attending the University of Chicago, as well as professors and their families. Students would visit and teach us about law, science, and the wonder that is a college education. My teachers wanted us to be proud of our cultures and see ourselves thriving in the world. It was a unique childhood.

Most students, as I’ve come to know, did not come from this type of background. Many don’t know Shirley, or Jesse Owens, Mae Jemison, or even Thurgood Marshall. (Seriously, how can you not know Thurgood Marshall?) I can name so many historical figures that are White (majority males), that it feels as if Black people didn't contribute to US History in any way? I know. Just typing that makes me VERY angry, but it's the truth. The whitewashing of history is a common practice in this country. Newsflash: Black history is US history. In fact, Native American history, Asian American History, Polish American History, etc. - you get the picture - all make up the whole of American history. The lives of your family, friends, and neighbors is affected by the past. The past created this present.  
Every week I’ll research a Black historical figure, and tell you all about them in relatable ways. The history we learned in grade school was not the same as high school, and now that we’re adults there’s no excuse not to know all the nitty-gritty details of the lives of those we celebrate, or admonish. One month isn’t enough time to understand an entire culture, but I hope every post educates you on the lives of those who are different from you, AND inspires you to see the world a bit differently. 

This post was inspired by my fellow writer Paige Waskow. Check out her article on white privilege, and don't forget to leave a comment down below!

To see photos of all the people mentioned, please click their names:
Shirley Chisholm
Mae Jemison
Thurgood Marshall
Jesse Owens

Gif Source

Sources
"Jesse Owens Pictures and Images". gettyimages. gettyimages, 2019. February 8, 2019. Web. <https://www.gettyimages.com/photos/jesse-owens?family=editorial&mediatype=photography&phrase=jesse%20owens&sort=mostpopular>.
"Mae Jemison Pictures and Images". gettyimages. gettyimages, 2019. February 8, 2019. Web. <https://www.gettyimages.com/photos/jesse-owens?family=editorial&mediatype=photography&phrase=jesse%20owens&sort=mostpopular>.
Michals, Debra. "Shirley Chisholm." National Women's History Museum. National Women's History Museum, 2015. 5 February 2019. Web. <https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/shirley-chisholm>.
Moss, LeAnn. “45 Quotes from Black Leaders on Mindset, Progress, and Making an Impact”. Bossedup. Bossedup.org, Feb 2018. February 8, 2019. Web. <https://bossedup.org/45-quotes-from-black-leaders-on-mindset-progress-and-making-an-impact/>.
"Shirley Chisholm Pictures and Images". gettyimages. gettyimages, 2019. February 8, 2019. Web.<https://www.gettyimages.com/photos/jesse-owens?family=editorial&mediatype=photography&phrase=jesse%20owens&sort=mostpopular>.
"Thurgood Marshall Pictures and Images". gettyimages. gettyimages, 2019. February 8, 2019. Web.<https://www.gettyimages.com/photos/jesse-owens?family=editorial&mediatype=photography&phrase=jesse%20owens&sort=mostpopular>. 
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Refresh Sleep Program

Giphy Source
In my obsessive desire to improve my overall sleep pattern,
I started the Refresh Sleep Program one week ago. I’ve researched “how to get the best sleep”, drank tea, practiced yoga, and even showered earlier with the hopes of attaining eight hours of sleep per night. Sadly, this has yet to be the case, but there has been a noticeable improvement. I could not get to sleep earlier last week, at least not with all the pressure I put on myself to change my habits. This week, I’ve changed my pattern little by little. When I look at the clock, 11 pm makes me sleepy. I also time myself using a stopwatch to make sure I stay on track. I’ve been getting to bed before midnight for four days now.

Since I stayed up until 2am last Wednesday, I went to bed by midnight over the weekend. I’ve also been extremely exhausted from all my work, and have been ready to go to bed by 8pm. I am getting more than seven hours of sleep every night - improvement from last month - and I feel more relaxed at night too. It seems that seven and a half hours is what I need to wake up with gusto, but my energy level is still far lower than last semester. I’ll just blame the cold and my weary muscles for that.

Let's wrap this up. I was given a simple 30-second-sleep log to fill out every morning, and while I prefer reflection (all the time) it’s best to move on. Rather than weekly updates, I’ll be doing monthly updates on my sleep progress. The less I worry about it, the easier it is to get things done. This is my New Year’s resolution, and I intend to keep it.



If you or anyone you know is interested in learning more about their sleep behavior, make sure to check out the posts listed down below!




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Accomplishments: Week Three

“You measure the size of the accomplishment by the obstacles you have to overcome to reach your goals.” 
~Booker T. Washington

Another week has ended, and so it's time to reflect a bit on my top three accomplishments. The reason I continue to do this is because I'm always on the go and didn't take the time to pat myself on the back. I was too hard on myself, and always pushed myself beyond my limitations. Writing my thoughts and recollecting events of the past help fuel my drive to continue onto the next task. This is also an exercise in my goal to moderate my perfectionism. If you or someone you know is just a little too hard on themselves (or a lot), feel free to point them to this post, and leave a comment down below.

Confidence in my Abilities
I believe, yes, the aftermath of spending my entire weekend on my French homework was pleasant. I am proud to say that I completed all of my assignments on time. We arranged everything in French history and I was ready. I spent most of Saturday researching people, events, and dates, so it makes sense that I understood what was going on, but imposter syndrome is a factor that plays with my anxieties and tricks me into believing that I didn't know the answers. With my previous classes, it's hard to see how well the time I put into something effects the outcome, but with languages time is a necessity. My changes to my schedule this semester are beneficial indeed. 

Non-Stop Production
Classes were cancelled, so I spent my day being more productive than I’ve been my entire life. I accomplished so much yesterday that I scream from love and joy and joy and joy! When I woke up, I drank water, ate a banana, washed my face, brushed my teeth, did a random dance on my yoga matt, changed the water in my oil diffuser (different scent too), turned the blinds to let light in (but not open; too much light), and did my MANY officer duties.  Yes, I did quite a many things yesterday, and am grateful to the windchill for keeping me indoors. At the end of the day, I decorated my room a bit. 

Tried Something New
I went Taiko drumming with the Japanese Student Association Club, and it was so much fun! I love learning about other cultures and I have to say, I am a fast-learner, which may be the reason I was pushed to perform. The teacher's were very nice, and I was the "teacher's pet" for the day (typical). We performed as a group in front of the students a part of the Nagoya exchange program. It was warm and the snow turned into nasty mush. When we left we took out coats off. Speaking of something new, I threw out my leftover ceramic creations I've been hording for over one semester. I finished my psychology and French homework, and magically (though not through magic) finished the FAFSA. 
Well, that was my week in three mini-paragraphs. I recommend getting out of your "comfort zone" at least every once in a while, because you may find something you truly enjoy! 


Giphy Source


Sources
N/A. goodreads. 2019. Web. . 21 Jan 2019. <https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/tag/accomplishment>.
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BOTW February 4


By Paige Waskow

The book of the week is:

An Absolutely Remarkable Thing by Hank Green


What's it About?

 What would you do if you were walking in downtown New York at 3 am and stumbled upon a giant robot-samurai looking sculpture? Would you take a picture of it? Yell at it? Completely ignore it and move on?

 For April-May, the sculpture, which she kindly names Carl, is a work of art that cannot and should not be ignored. As a former art student herself, she does not feel it is right to notice it and then move on without giving some sort of credit to the artist. So, she calls up a friend and takes a video which she then uploads on YouTube.

 What begins as a simple video turns out to be a viral sensation around the world. Carls, as they become known have appeared everywhere, overnight, out of thin air. And April-May is the first to document one. Suddenly thrown into the realm of fame, April-May's life turns upside down as she dives in the mystery of the Carls as well as her own popularity.
Why did I choose it?

I loved this book from start to finish. Honestly, I might have been a bit biased going in. Both the Green brothers, Hank and John, are known for their commentary and life documenting YouTube channel, Vlogbrothers. It is a pretty cool channel, and I would recommend checking it out.
                   

 But besides knowing the author from other content, I loved this book because it provides the reader with a whirl of sci-fi and real life. It is full of action and mystery, taking plot turns and weird moments and making them into a book that is hard to put down. April-May is a great lead character who shows her flaws boldly and is honest with the reader. The book is her recollection of events all leading up to a grand final that will leave you wanting a sequel. 

 What I really appreciated was that Green made his characters complex. Women are not simply sidekicks or love interests but rather their own people who have their own problems and ideas. Additionally, this was the first book I read where the main character was bisexual and the plot did not completely evolve around sexuality. It mostly revolves around giant weird robot sculptures and the reasonable question, "What do we do with the Carls?" It also deals with the pains and struggles of fame and independence. What do you do when you are thrown into something that you can hardly control? How do you involve yourself without becoming the thing you are absorbed in?


Where can you get An Absolutely Remarkable Thing?


This book is available at the Cedar Rapids Public Library. If you don't have a CRPL card, you can get one for free!

                                       
If you have a book you love and want to see as a BOTW, leave a comment below. 

Happy reading!


References:

Green, Hank. An Absolutely Remarkable Thing: a Novel. Dutton, an Imprint of Penguin Random House LLC, 2018.

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Black History Month and White Privilege


By Paige Waskow

I am white and because of that, I have privileges and opportunities in all levels of society that people of color do not have. For instance:

-I can get pulled over and not be afraid of getting shot or arrested.

-I do not have close relatives who are in prison or who have died from violence.

-I had more opportunities and choices as a child in regards to education.

-I do not have to worry about my appearance in public and how others regard how safe they are around me.

-I am not constantly thinking about the fact that I am white and my position in a certain place or situation.


Additionally, society continues to reflect that white supremacy. For instance:

-Most of my teachers and authorities in higher education have been white.

-Whenever I go to a hotel, there is only free shampoo for my type of hair.

-Commercials and beauty companies favor people with lighter skin tones.

-White people still use the n-word (when speaking to others as a positive or negative, singing along to a song, etc.)


This is obviously not an exhaustive list, but these are some things that I need to remember. As Black History Month begins, we need to not only be aware of black greatness and uphold it, but also realize our own bias as white people. It is incredibly easy to celebrate, say we are not racist, say we are feminists, say we have black friends, and hold up a Black Lives Matter sign.

But what does this mean if we continue to allow white supremacy to exist in the shadows or plain sight?

I am guilty of allowing my privilege to be something I have used to benefit myself. I am guilty of ignoring issues because it is more convenient and easier to do. I am not here to say I am perfect, because I am absolutely not. But just because I mess up does not mean I should ignore the issue and perpetuate it.

I would like to provide resources to learn more about white privilege and history in the United States. The first is called White Privilege and Me by Layla Saad and is a free online workbook for the month of February. I am planning to start it today, and it has great reviews. You can find it here.

Additionally, the Equal Justice Initiative, a law firm in Alabama started by Bryan Stevenson, has a this day in history calendar. Their whole website is amazing, and this source is a great way to learn about black history. You can find it here. If you are interested in learning specifically about the history of white supremacy and segregation, you can visit their website here.

These are not exhaustive sources in any regard, and if you know of any good sources or information, please leave them in the comments below. We should all educate ourselves on this issue, and that is important, but remember that it can’t end with reading and then moving on with our lives as we did before.





References:

Saad, Layla. “Me And White Supremacy Workbook.” Me And White Supremacy Workbook, www.meandwhitesupremacybook.com/.

Equal Justice Initiative. “February | A History of Racial Injustice.” Calendar EJI, 2019, calendar.eji.org/racial-injustice/feb.

Equal Justice Initiative. “Segregation in America.” How Segregation Survived | Equal Justice Initiative, segregationinamerica.eji.org/report/.
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