Generation Y Dominica

With A Grain Of Salt

Straight forward, witty and timeless. #TellItLikeItIs, is a blog for our generation

The world ground to a halt, when coronavirus stepped into the spotlight. Mass hysteria ensued when testing showed large numbers of ‘cases’ predominantly determined by the use of the infamous PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) tests, which essentially can detect almost anything microbial, no matter how tiny, but it cannot determine how much of the microbe is there. Early on, these PCR tests were blamed for creating false positives. Many who questioned the validity of these tests were labelled ‘conspiracy theorists’, and the global populace urged to ‘trust’ the science, while the critical thinkers were considered ‘misinformed.’

Now, after a year of fear mongering which brought the world to its knees before the pharmaceutical giants, the CDC has declared that they will, “after December 31^st, 2021, withdraw the request to the FDA for Emergency Use Authorisation of the CDC-2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) Real-Time RT-PCR Diagnostic Panel, the assay first introduced in February 2020 for detection of SARS-CoV-2 only”. In other words, PCR tests will no longer be recognised as a valid method for determining COVID-19 infection. The CDC is encouraging “laboratories to consider adoption of a multiplexed method that can facilitate detection and differentiation of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses”. Consider the situation in New Jersey where PCR testing produced 902,870 positive test results, compared to 131,363 confirmed positives using the ‘more’ reliable antigen testing method.

Additionally, in a communication dated June 10^th, 2021, the Innova Medical Group SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Rapid Qualitative Tests used to determine if a person had an active COVID-19 infection, was revealed to have not been approved, authorized, or cleared for use in the US by the FDA and had been recalled.

The alarm created by puffed up numbers of COVID cases, and most deaths written off as related to the pandemic, the demand for salvation in a vaccine grew intense with the top companies waiting in the shadows to step forward with their experimental new technology, and investors anxiously tallying up profit estimates. Despite the initial phase out of the vaccine experimentation scheduled for 2023, administrations across the world still made moves to protect corporate oligarchic interest and on 23 August 2021, the FDA announced its official approval for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.

This move completes the final hurdle, for Pfizer is in the process of expanding further with an impending acquisition of Trillium Therapeutics Inc – a clinical stage immuno-oncology company developing innovative therapies for the treatment of cancer. In an article on globalnewswire.com – “Trillium’s portfolio includes biologics that are designed to enhance the ability of patients’ innate immune system to detect and destroy cancer cells”. The article revealed that Pfizer invested $25 million in Trillium in September 2020 as part of the Pfizer Breakthrough Growth Initiative (PBGI). PBGI was set up in June 2020, with the goal to fund scientific research as well as access to Pfizer’s experts to ensure continuity of clinical programs that could be of potential strategic interest for Pfizer. At present, Pfizer Oncology has an industry leading portfolio of 24 approved innovative cancer medicines and biosimilars across more than 30 indications, including breast, genitourinary, colorectal, blood and lung cancers and also melanoma. It is undeniable that Pfizer is ‘one of the world’s premier biopharmaceutical companies’.

The report of a study conducted by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), where pieces of lung tissue preserved from 58 victims of the 1918 pandemic, and autopsy reports of thousands of victims was published online by the Journal of Infectious Diseases in 2008. It was discovered that, “Histological and bacteriologic evidence suggests that the vast majority of influenza deaths resulted from secondary bacterial pneumonia” – report by David m. Morens, MD, Jeffery K. Taubenberger, MD, PhD, and NIAID Director Anthony S. Fauci, MD. From an article dated August 19, 2008 on the National Institutes of Health website explains –

“A future influenza pandemic may unfold in a similar manner, say the NIAID authors… [they]conclude, comprehensive pandemic preparations should include not only efforts to produce new or improved influenza vaccines and antiviral drugs but also provisions to stockpile antibiotics and bacterial vaccines as well”.

Also of concern is the proliferated use of cloth masks. A 2015 study by the University of New South Wales, found “the widespread use of cloth masks by healthcare workers may actually put them at increased risk of respiratory illness and viral infections and their global use should be discouraged”.

A holistic approach to adapt and mitigate the fallout of this crisis is vital. We must find sustainable solutions in nature – our health is inextricably linked to the quality of our food, water, and environment. Rollo May cautioned, “science, Nietzsche had warned, is becoming a factory, and the result will be ethical nihilism”.

Written & Contributed by: Farah Theodore

Gen X & Gen Y – Working Together

Straight forward, witty and timeless. #TellItLikeItIs, is a blog for our generation

In a world that is getting increasingly smaller thanks to technology, lines are being blurred between demographics as all people learn to work as one for the betterment of the planet and future generations.

We are Generation Y, the Millennials (born between 1981 – 1994). In this present day we have a lot going on for us, and are coming into influential positions to move the world in the right direction. But we can’t do this alone. The purpose of this article is for us to consider that we will need to work with those who came before us in order to not repeat mistakes of the past – i.e. Generation X.

Generation X (1965 – 1980) speaks to those born after the baby boomers Generation and before Generation Y. So we are looking here at people 41 – 56 years of age. Although Gen X is seldom overlooked, this demographic is actually the first digital savvy generation and has contributed to our current world in significant ways (e.g. Gen Xers invented Google).

Gen X-ers are at the point where they are approaching the middle of their working careers and potential peak earning years and there’s a lot that we can learn from observing and working with them. On a personal and professional level it is good to stay in touch with Gen X-ers to get tips and advice on how to advance in the workplace, or even how to attain some personal goals. Looking at the bigger picture which is the future for all mankind, collaboration between our generations is key.

We can start with a mentality shift. Gen X-ers were raised to compartmentalize issues and be exclusive on certain matters. But with the emergence of Gen Y, the Gen X-ers may be in for a rude, yet needed, awakening. Millennials are different, a bit more liberal in their thinking and can help Generation X see the world in a different light and realize that things are not so black and white. You see, Gen Y is more of the belief that Inclusivity is the way to go as we live together, work together, share the same resources and make the most of life on this earth.

Generation X and Generation Y working together can realize a similar purpose in life. In the workplace, collaboration is key to help the company thrive. In the wider world collaboration is key to help raise awareness on societal issues and take action to tackle social injustices. With the generations working together to tackle, and reverse trends such as climate change, domestic abuse, racism and other forms of injustice in society, the world would indeed be a better place and heading in a more positive direction – quicker.

So let’s actively try to collaborate or at least start to seriously consider, foreseeing all the benefits. Let’s also work with patience, understanding the differences between our generations may put up barriers at first, but will eventually create a beautiful working and living relationship. Bear in mind this practice will need to continue. In the near future Gen Y will need to work with Gen Z and vice versa to continue preserving the earth and working towards the best future for humanity.

Written by: Andrea Louis

For: Generation Y Dominica

Happiness and Health Are Directly Related

Straight forward, witty and timeless. #TellItLikeItIs, is a blog for our generation

Usually when someone mentions the word ‘health’, the word ‘happiness’ is not second in mind. To most people health means physical health – something which may be determined by the absence of pain or normality with which the body parts function. But health and happiness are so inextricably linked, you can’t have one without the other.

Primarily, happiness is important for your mental health and this is a main aspect of overall health which is easily overlooked. For some reason mental health has been somewhat of a taboo subject in Dominica and the wider Caribbean region. Luckily the importance of mental health and happiness are now being greater recognized. Your mental health ensures you function properly as a person. Research indicates that being happy reduces your chances of stress and helps with other aspects of health.

Here are some ways in which someone’s well-being can benefit from the person’s happiness:

1. Being happy will push you to make healthy lifestyle changes which will improve your overall health. You may feel the need to eat healthier, work out more or even spend more time doing things which are fun and relaxing, all which are good for your mental and physical self.

2. The body’s immune system is responsible for combating illnesses which can threaten its health status. Research has shown that being happy boosts the immune system thereby reducing your chances of catching a cold or becoming unwell.

3. Maintaining a level of happiness also reduces stress. Some of the many effects of stress are – going gray very early, losing or gaining weight easily, eating unhealthy, heart disease etc. Being happy combats the change in blood pressure and hormones associated with stress.

How can I be happy if I’m stuck in a bad mood?

If you realize you aren’t a happy person, or for reasons you have a negative outlook on life, here are some things you can try to improve your mood:

Be thankful – this may seem a simple inefficient action but it helps a lot to take note of the things, both big and small, that you have to be grateful for.

Increase activity – Exercise, get involved in a sport, take on a new project or start taking walks/strolls. Being outdoors and having a change of scenery will help improve your mood.

Sleep well – a good night’s rest will help you approach the new day with a positive attitude and in turn discover more things to be happy about.

Do something that makes you happy daily – Nothing makes us happy like doing something we love or being with the ones that we love spending time with. These are the important things in life that are sure to bring in happiness by the ounces. The way of the superior man by David Deida suggests ‘Spend at least one hour a day doing whatever you simply love to do—what you deeply feel you need to do, in your heart—in spite of the daily duties that seem to constrain you..’

Of course if you find other ways to be happy you are surely encouraged to follow them. After all, a happy healthy life depends on you and can also positively influence those around you to lead happier, healthier lives.

Written by: Andrea Louis

For: Generation Y Dominica

Choosing The Best Business Venture For You

Straight forward, witty and timeless. #TellItLikeItIs, is a blog for our generation

This one is for those of us who don’t fit into the 9 – 5 routine and know that quite well. In reality, we’d prefer to be working on our own objectives rather than contributing to another individual’s enterprise (aka: a job).

The world events of the past two years (2020/21) have been an inspiration to step forward toward that goal of owning your own business venture. With the instability of global economies and thousands of jobs lost worldwide due to the current pandemic, it seems like an opportune time to consider going into business for yourself.
Branching out into the world of entrepreneurship for the first time can seem a bit scary. There is a lot to think about, start – up money and funding being principal among them. But aside from this, there are important questions too; where do I set up my business? What challenges will there be? and of course WHAT sort of business venture do I go into? (this list of questions can go on and on).

Choosing the right business venture for you is the first step and is definitely not a ‘one size fits all’ sort of thing. It can be simple especially if you follow your passions. If you put your all into your business idea and it’s something you truly believe in and desire to work towards, then you’ve got the first step figured out.

For those of us who don’t have an idea in mind, this first essential step can pose a real challenge. It may seem a little overwhelming just to get started, but If you certainly can’t work for another individual, have a burning desire or deep seated passion to be creative, prefer to be your own boss and be in control of your economical future, stay right here.

Here are tips I hope will help you with Choosing the best business venture for you.

Hone in on your skills, experience, and passions.

You can take a minute to reflect and meditate on what you are really good at, what you are really passionate about and what you feel in your gut you want to pursue. Turn your passion into payment, Have you found it yet? Good, let’s continue.

Assess the time factor

Ask yourself how the work you want to pursue fits in with the lifestyle you want to have. Are you the type of person who wants to spend several hours at home and with your family? Do you want to have a lot of time to yourself to relax, rejuvenate, or pursue other projects? These are important questions to ask. Starting a business requires a lot of time, effort, and energy. For most start ups, you need to be willing to put in at least a 60 hour work week at the start in order to see the results later on. If you are up for this then you are on the right track.

3. Test your idea.

Now that you’ve found the business idea you’re passionate about and you’re willing to put in the work, but you have to know if this will be financially beneficial for you. For instance you may ask: is there enough demand for the product or service you’re offering? What challenges will you face? (you can find this out by talking to other entrepreneurs in the same field). Will this be profitable to me?.

Starting a business is a very intricate process and we’ve only just touched the surface. But rest assured if you are determined and driven (all characteristics of a great entrepreneur), with a strong support system, then go ahead and take the steps needed to turn your dreams into reality.

Written by: Andrea Louis

For: Generation Y Dominica

Does Race Matter To Generation Y?

Straight forward, witty and timeless. #TellItLikeItIs, is a blog for our generation

Image credit: pintrest.com & Zaimisolmos visual arts

RACE. Definition – Each of the major groupings into which humankind is considered (in various theories or contexts) to be divided on the basis of physical characteristics or shared ancestry.

By definition this word seems simple enough to understand. Human beings make sense of their world, by grouping, and naming things, places, animals, plants, people etc. But why does this particular 4 letter word carry so much weight and stir up so much emotion universally? And what does it all mean to Gen Y?

In 2020/2021 racial tensions peaked. People were ‘fed up’ once more of being categorised and treated differently based on how they looked or the colour of their skin. Fed up of being attacked based on racial stereotypes, which triggered huge movements globally, in the quest for freedom and change.

Now ‘What exactly does race have to do with me?’ This is the question that most age groups of generation Y think on; Most hardly think about race at all – We naturally ‘see no race, hear no race, think no race,’ outside of what’s imposed on us from birth and published in the media.

In the Caribbean there are diverse people. While our populations are predominantly from African ancestry, there are also thousands of Kalinago, Chinese, Indian, French, Spanish, and Caucasian Variants just to name a few. Based on experience and observation growing up in Dominica, it is fair to say that race does not have a huge impact on how our generation chooses to interact with each other. Previous generations certainly, but ours, not so much. We do not choose friends and associates purely based on skin color, but personality, ability and valued qualities.

Don’t get us wrong, we’re not saying that there is never any racial tension. After all, the trickling post colonial mindset and habits have been so deeply woven it’s not like they don’t carry on in some ways and stereotypes. But for Gen Y, it’s just not as important and for the most part we all get along.

‘We, the Millennials’, born in the years ranging from 1980 to 1994 have been spearheading change in just about everything under the sun, spreading our open minded and inclusive nature.

We also understand that prior to this generation, race mattered due to the fact that so many countries and Caribbean countries experienced significant trauma from colonialism and were coming into their own as regards to political independence from these colonial powers. However, so many decades later following the break away from the colonial system, Gen Y does not seem to be as consumed with race so much as previous generations. We accept the fact that there are different cultures, traditions and practices and try to incorporate this into the national landscape. What we see is that, ‘Racism is very real, not race.’

Our parents too must be commended for discoursing racist practices and beliefs among their children. Parents play an integral role in ensuring children see everyone as equal despite their racial background. This could be because a majority of Generation Y today, is the product of interacial love and marriages, and as some countries report, ‘The most diverse generation in history.’

To be honest, aside from all this, practically speaking, it just doesn’t add up. How does skin color even determine hierarchy in a modern world? Melanin, Haemoglobin and Dietary carotenoid (the biological composition of skin color) determines my opportunities in life? Huh? It just doesn’t make sense and seems so silly to Gen Y.

That’s why millions are taking to the streets as part of the recent protests brewed in light of Americans bringing to the spotlight, not just violent acts against Black Americans but also against people of colour, those in the Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) community who are also unfortunately seeing a record high increase in racially motivated acts of violence. It is this violence that we protest, as we seek to play our part in eliminating decades of undeniable senselessness.

Overall, it is safe to say that race does not entirely matter to Generation Y. Which is a great thing because thanks to technology, our world is becoming smaller, the global village is becoming more integrated, and it is amazing the things you learn when you meet people from different cultures and ethnic backgrounds. Our generation must be applauded for being open minded and accepting of people of all races.

Happy Emancipation Day Dominica (August 1).

Written by: Andrea Louis & Dilma Bastien

(A piece based widely on observation, with supporting evidence.)

For: Generation Y Dominica

Becoming A Local Tourist

Straight forward, witty and timeless. #TellItLikeItIs, is a blog for our generation

Mero Beach Dominica. **Photo credit:** trip advisor

The Nature Island of the Caribbean, Dominica, is just one of the sparkling gems on the necklace of islands which make up the West Indies.

True to its name, ‘Nature Island of the Caribbean’ Dominica is a paradise for adventure lovers, boasting a wide range of natural sites and nature based activities for visitors to enjoy.

Becoming a Local Tourists in Dominica

Oftentimes hearing the term ‘tourist’ instantly provokes the thought of a foreigner or visitor to a place. But this is not always the case. It is quite possible to become a ‘Local tourist’ and discover one’s own country!

Especially in light of the Covid 19 global impact on travel, local tourism has become a go to for many countries and their residents. You too have probably been considering this unique exploration.

Our data shows (after speaking to a vast number of people) that for a lot of local residents, there are places and activities which are experienced by tourists visiting the island that they have not yet been fully or even partly aquatinted with. For instance, we’ve discovered that there are many residents who haven’t yet been canyoning/rappelling off a cliff with Extreme Dominica, or whale watching on the open sea with local certified operators; both popular & bucket list activities of many visitors.

The timing could not be more right to become a local tourist yourself.

Canyoning with Extreme Dominica. **Photo credit:** Discoverdominica.com

Preparing for your new Local tourist adventure

We plan for almost every aspect of life – from breakfast and dinner to our education and careers. These days to remain fully functional, our life’s activities mostly need to be planned from day to day.

Preparing to officially ‘hop on the bus’ of Local tourism will need you to put those same skills into play – plan.

Start by scouting a few brochures and special maps that charter out the best sites and locations in your country. The type designed for the virgin eyes of visitors to your shores.

Check mark, circle, and or criss – cross any site or location that hasn’t been explored by you, and begin planning from there. Rank them by interest and there you have your first group of locations for your weekend, ‘local tourism adventures’. Next step, get some friends on board. These things are a lot more fun in groups.

As you go along you’ll diversify into joining organized tours, making even more plans – including activities along with the sites, joining in with other adventure groups and more.

Feel free to stir it up by throwing in some less popular but not so common sites.

Bwa Nef Falls in Penville for instance, which is in the north east of the country. Bwa Nef Falls is a very easily accessible waterfall and extremely child friendly. The entrance to the falls is right next to the main road and a fifteen minute walk through healthy Dominican vegetation, to the waterfall brings you into paradise. Walking to Bwa Nef Falls is something which can be easily ticked off your to-do list.

Bwa Nef Falls Penville Dominica. **Photo credit:** Trip advsior.com

The Nature Island of the Caribbean, Dominica is rich with hidden treasures and sites. Do yourself a favor, grab a map, grab a friend, and head out to become a local tourist and discover your country today.

Written by: Andrea Louis & Dilma Bastien

For: Generation Y Dominica

Love Thy Neighbor

Straight forward, witty and timeless. #TellItLikeItIs, is a blog for our generation

The full saying ‘Love thy neighbour as thyself’ has been shortened, ‘Love thy neighbour.’ As simple and well -known as it may be, it is important to know and appreciate the weight of this valuable phrase.

Hello Gen Y. Let’s quickly explore this essential piece of advice as it applies to this great journey we call ‘Life’.

If an individual were to love his neighbour as he did himself the world would be a much better place, and that is no exaggeration. If human beings treat each other as they expect to be treated the result would be a massive transition towards equality and equity in, race and other key areas of life. Honest.

Unfortunately, human beings may use different approaches outside of this principle to determine how they should treat another human being. Things which people tend to use include, social class, the colour of skin, the texture of hair, facial features, the quality and type of clothes worn, professional and celebrity profile and the list goes on.

In this day and age of reckoning which was thrust into the spotlight by events such as years of political instability worldwide, the most recent pandemic, the killing of George Floyd May 2020 & Breanna Taylor March 2020, the spike in violence against people in the AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) community and other subsequent and prior reports of unfair killings and or police brutality, it is of utmost importance on this spectrum of the millennium to now ‘Love thy neighbor as thyself‘.

Let’s look at how the saying applies to us here in Dominica first (skipping over anything political, so that we remain politically correct, that is). Interesting to note, this year’s virtual calypso monarch, Daryl ‘De Bobb’ Bobb won the competition with a song titled ‘Go and Love Your Neighbour’, where he sings of better treatment for the Dominican people by those who are able to ensure better treatment is given.

The fact is,no one is too young, old or above learning the importance of the ‘Love thy neighbour’ philosophy. We all begin as children before we become the fabric of society. If children learn this from a very young age; seriously, it will greatly reduce bullying in schools and how they relate to family members and peers. If young adults practice this, it will reduce others feeling ostracized from various social groups and gatherings. If matured and older persons practice this, it will help create a level playing field for those in the workplace and other essential arenas of life.

Moving further afield the ‘Love Thy Neighbour’ strategy can speak to us in a regional context. Just take for example the recent eruption of the La Soufriere volcano in St. Vincent. This event called for the evacuation of thousands of Vincentians from the place they call home. While many of them could stay in shelters on the island, others needed and chose to relocate to other Caribbean islands. CARICOM leaders have stood in solidarity with St. Vincent by showcasing neighbourly love and allowing Venetian nationals to take up temporary residence in their country given the circumstances.

What about from a racial standpoint? The black community is not the only group which needs to experience the ‘love thy neighbour’ remedy, but Asians, Hispanics and all the other ethnicities that have found themselves sharing land,space, culture and economies.

The world has been battling the Corona Virus pandemic and mass violence for several years with no public, clear, real-time resolution. Therefore, protests develop, people are outraged and the reaction seems to be worsening daily. Do you know however, that this can be solved simply by treating others as you would like to be treated? Just think about it.

We don’t expect an overnight improvement and radical change from reading one article (although if we all consciously, really wanted to, this is very possible). It requires deep reflection within ourselves, choosing to follow this strategy and the willingness to change individually and collectively as communities, societies and human beings.. Although a person has being raised or brought up to treat people a certain unwelcoming way, once he or she truly analyzes the saying ‘Love thy neighbor as thyself’, and comes to understand that the way we treat each other upon further analysis reveals an eventual domino effect, well then a change of heart is almost certainly inevitable.

Written by: Andrea Louis & Dilma Bastien

For: Generation Y Dominica

Sometimes Prayer Alone Is Not Enough

Straight forward, witty and timeless. #TellItLikeItIs, is a blog for our generation

Sometimes prayer alone is not enough. Sensitive topic alert!* Now dear readers, before the righteous brickbats come flooding in, please take the time to hear our thoughts on the subject and sink your teeth into the text below.

We live in a time where a majority of the time, prayer only isn’t sufficient to move mountains. Many believe in praying only, until a situation changes, which is fine. And if this change does not occur, what happens then? Most tend to placate themselves by saying “in God’s time”, while others get angry and experience severe spiritual and or moral decline, feeling that God did not ‘come through’ on their behalf.

But friends, we believe that sometimes, prayer alone is not enough and we wanted to share that with you today.

“What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?”
(James 2:14-16)

‘God helps those who help themselves’. This idiom is not in the bible (although most of us have thought so for several years!), but the expression is known around the world and originated in ancient Greece as “The Gods help those who help themselves” (from Wikipedia.com).

Prayer is certainly powerful and works wonders for those who trust in it. There are decades of records in all cultures, and even to our modern day persons who will testify the same. So we’re not saying prayer has no effect, but are simply recommending that unless it’s a special circumstance, in addition to the praying, you take some decisive action to change your situation instead of sitting around waiting on God to do the full work on your behalf. Why not take the steps possible to show that you’re capable and serious about making changes?

“But God answers prayers!” says the critics. Of course he does, but what if and possibly, His way of answering prayer becomes clearer when you spur yourself into action?

It’s been said quite clearly through inspired writings, that God will open doors for you, when you get up and seek them.

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
(Matthew 7:7)

In this world where we need to see instant changes in so many areas, this change starts with us. Let’s side step and take for example the issue of unfair treatment of unarmed black men in America and other countries worldwide. There is no doubt that there have been prayers for decades for change to happen where racial injustice exists. But in addition to the prayers, there has been a journey travelled as black people to effect the changes we have seen over several years. This has born fruit due to the actions and effort of great leaders and supporters of the early black movement.

Another issue on which people would like to see instantly corrected is that of the negative impacts of climate change. No doubt the preservation of the earth and communities being spared from the impact of natural disasters have been offered up in prayer on a regular basis, especially here in the Caribbean and particularly during the hurricane season which runs from June to November annually. Developed countries are well aware of the effects that greenhouse gas emissions have on global warming and climate change. They are also aware that inaction will lead to a worsening situation. This is why heads of state meet on an annual basis to discuss plans for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, in order to make the world a healthier, safer place to live in for current and future generations.

And the list goes on, we could list several everyday examples that will reveal to you, that action is indeed a complement to prayer. It can be challenging to take the first steps to get yourself out of a difficult situation or be the change you would like to see. But remember, ‘Nothing ventured, nothing gained’ (even God knows this).

This article has been written not on established fact, but in the nature of a humble opinion and dedicated to our generation, who needs more hope. We’d love to hear from you, let us know what you think by leaving us a comment below!

Written by: Andrea Louis & Dilma Bastien

For: Generation Y Dominica

Reading a book is still dope

Straight forward, witty and timeless. #TellItLikeItIs, a blog for our generation

Remember when reading used to be fun? The joy, excitement, the emotional roller coasters and cliffhangers! Come on, I know that there must be some old school ‘Nancy Drew’ and ‘Hardy boys’ fans reading this blog. The question of the day now is, ‘What happened? Does anyone pick up tangible books to read anymore?‘.

Though many people are grateful for the technological advancements which make several things in life easier, there are still others who enjoy the traditional way of doing things, and reading a book is one of them.

Back in the day, us book worms considered going to the Library at least once a week, a pure treat. The experience of entering a building with shelves from wall to wall, filled with all sorts of books, you could only wait to get your fingers on and digest was fascinating.

Yes, things have changed over the years, but there’s nothing wrong with picking up a good book to read today. Yes there are audio books, videos and e-books on a kindle, but we’re here to remind you of the magic of ‘page turning’.

Here are a few reasons why you should consider getting back into a more traditional approach.

First of all, reading a book increases your vocabulary. I know we’re all adults now but think about it. A lot of time is spent messaging friends and family who use abbreviated forms of the same words over and over again. Imagine how refreshing it would be to read a book which not only uses words in entirety, but also gives you new words to help boost your lexicon. Also imagine how accomplished you would feel throwing in these new words during regular conversation with your family, friends, or colleagues.

Another benefit to reading a book is it expands your horizons. Not only will you boost your word stock but you get to be informed on things you had no idea about, whether it’s a fictional book or not. You can learn about a foreign country, its people and cultures. You can learn about science or business or agriculture, or any new idea that crosses your mind. The sky’s the limit and a book is the ladder to get you there.

Additionally, books help you to take a pause. We live in this fast paced, ‘cray cray’ world where we’re sometimes so busy we don’t even take the time out for ourselves! Picking up a book and putting down the device can help resolve this problem. Shut out the outside world for an hour or two while you indulge in a book. Spending time reading a hard copy can do wonders for helping you to relax, forget the day to day stress of life, get in sync with yourself and much more.

Finally, this last point is for our mom and dad readers. Children imitate what they see. If you want your child to be an avid reader, then you should lead the way by picking up a book. We know there are many benefits for children who love to read. So help them along this path by showing them how and encouraging them to do the same.

I sincerely hope these simple reasons will jog your memory and will help you rediscover or uncover for the first time a love for reading in the traditional sense. Settle into a cozy spot, disconnect from the world and start reading a book right now!

And if you can’t bring yourself to do that just yet, then keep reading our blog. It’s sure to stir up the appetite.

Written by: Andrea Louis & Dilma Bastien

For: Generation Y Dominica

Get In On Indoor Planting

Straight forward, witty and timeless. #TellItLikeItIs, a blog for our generation

Each year, April 22^nd is set aside for observing ‘Earth Day’ To draw attention to the state of the planet and serve as a call to action for all countries to play their part in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, thereby prolonging the longevity of the Earth for future generations.

When it comes to the issue of climate change, most think that it’s a problem induced and to be resolved by the developed ‘first world’ countries, which have large carbon footprints. But, don’t be fooled. Smaller, lesser developed nations can also play their role in combating climate change and you, individually, can take small steps to contribute as well.

One of the simplest ways to help is by planting a tree. Dominica recognized the importance of this action by launching a tree-planting project back in 2018 as a Reforestation program – ‘1 million trees by the end of 2019’, following the devastating effects on our forests by Hurricane Maria and to contribute to the fight against climate change.

As we’ve heard time and time again, there are several benefits to having a healthy tree population. There are so many benefits and ways that trees help us and protect our planet. To name a few, trees provide oxygen which is vital to life, they also store the harmful carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, therefore, acting as amazing carbon sinks. Plants also create homes for wildlife and produce food to feed humans and animals alike. Not to mention trees play a key role in water resource management.

Very often when one thinks of planting trees, the great outdoors comes to mind or lots and lots of yard space. But, what about planting trees inside your home? Yes! This is also a viable option and practice.

Growing indoor plants not only adds to the aesthetics of the living space, it’s also therapeutic and has numerous health and environmental benefits. Studies have shown that having plants indoors reduces stress, inspires creativity and eliminates air pollutants, creating healthier air for you to breathe. There is much to gain from taking up indoor planting.

Of course, just like with any new initiative, it’s best to do a bit of research before jumping right in. Find out what the best plants are, as some may not be child-friendly or the best for indoors, how to keep them growing healthy and what to do to avoid small pest problems. Also in your pursuit of using this new hobby to play your vital role in reversing climate change, think about making small eco-friendly decisions such as eliminating the use of plastic pots (there are lots of alternatives) and consider using organic or natural fertilizer such as banana peels, eggshells, dried leaves etc. (everyday items found around the home) for your plants’ soil.

Coconut fiber pots.
**Photo credit:** ubeautypotsandplants.blogspot.com

We all can feel helpless at times in the war against climate change. The increasingly hot summers, the vast number of hurricanes, storms, tornadoes and floods, species extinction, and all the other global impacts that we currently face. Isn’t it great to know that by this one small act of indoor planting, we can all make a difference?

Go ahead and get in on indoor planting, give it a try. You’ll discover a healthier and happier you in the process and Mother Earth will thank you for it.

“Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago”
― Warren Buffett

Written by: Andrea Louis & Dilma Bastien

For: Generation Y Dominica