Part 3: Contemplative reflections on conforming to societal expectations related to gender and sexual identity. — In this next group of contemplative reflections*, I seek to emphasize the struggles and consequences of conforming to societal expectations related to gender and sexual identity. For the many LGBTQ+ individuals who feel pressured to adopt “straight-acting” behaviours, these contemplative reflections address the negative impacts of conformity on self-expression and…

Part 2: The celebration of diversity to cultivate human connection and understanding. — Following my first post in this series, Acceptance & Belonging: Contemplations About the Challenges and Aspirations of LGBTQ+ People, I have decided to describe this next collection of short passages as “contemplative reflections.” These contemplations are thought-provoking statements that encourage the reader to reflect on deeper philosophical and spiritual ideas…

On the fundamental human experiences of societal norms and self-discovery. — Several years ago, I published a collection of pull quotes from my writing on my since-closed Medium publication called, “Think Queerly — Meditations & Critical Reflections On Liberating Humanity.” The pull quotes were literally highlights. I reviewed over two years of articles, copying paragraphs that readers had highlighted, which is…

How to rewrite your self-talk: A 3-Step journey to cultivating self-compassion. What’s wrong with me? I don’t know why I can’t figure this out. I might as well just give up now. Have you ever found yourself entangled in a web of self-deprecating questions? How did you respond? Did you notice that the more you criticized yourself, the darker your thoughts became? …

An invitation that could be the inspiration you need to set your direction and move forward. — An invitation that could be the inspiration you need to set your direction and move forward. Last summer, I published an invitation on my website and social media for followers and new connections to book a free “Productivity Coaching” session with me. This time around, I want to make this offer even more specific and tailored to you, my readers and subscribers.

Untenable Podcast Episode: Embracing Diversity and Challenging Prejudice — LGBTQ+ rights activists tirelessly champion the cause of sexual and gender orientation equality. Why? Because deep down, they know there is absolutely nothing wrong with who they are, how they feel, how they present themselves, or whom they love. …

Nurturing harmony: exploring the fragile essence of the common good. — How can we define a common good for all people while cultivating and accepting differences? Let’s start with what the common good is not about. The common good is not a fairy tale or a classic story of good triumphing over evil. The common good is more like a steady stream, gradually eroding obstacles that lay naturally in its path. …

When you shift your focus to the process and the journey, you activate your motivation. — You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Love the process and not the goal,” tossed around when it comes to achieving your dreams. Let’s take a closer look at what that really means. The Pitfall of Goal Attachment A couple of years ago, I found myself in a constant struggle to make progress on my goals. I…

Transformative growth begins by critically exploring your beliefs and enhancing self-awareness. — Everything in Life Evolves and Transforms If you want things to stay the way they are, you are holding on to an illusion. We are not static beings. Approximately 330 trillion cells in your body are replaced every 80-days1, creating a new you. We are constantly transforming, unaware of this simple fact of nature.