+EXAMPLE

+EXAMPLE

Experience is the best teacher, we all know this to be undeniably so. Of all the lessons learned those that were ingrained the deepest within us have often been those learned the hard way, through experience. Just as young people have many questions about the road ahead, as adults, we often have both regrets and wisdom from the road behind. As we become parents, leaders, teachers and caregivers, we form intentions and expectations for those who are the focus of our compassion. We often direct them to "do as we say, not as we do" knowing also that we should "lead by example". These two statements become somewhat paradoxical and confusing as they seem to contradict one another, yet they are equally important. Youth are quick to hold us accountable for our past actions and short comings and sometimes even quicker to make an excuse of the example we've set forth. The key factor missing in their comprehension is presence. Focusing on the example demonstrated in the moment. This present example is infinitely dynamic, always evolving, transforming and improving. Although it is a culmination of the flaws and successes alike, it is not defined only by one or the other.

A good way to comprehend this concept would be a reference to sculpture. In a sculptor's studio you'll find stone monoliths of all shapes and sizes, of differing degrees of completion. Some just solid untouched slabs of stone, others elegant and graceful depictions of humanity. As adults, our life is like the half finished masterpiece, formed and made permanent by experience. Some strokes of the chisel having been not as precise as others yet the flaws being compensated in subsequent strokes. A youth's life is equated to the untouched slab of stone, yet to be formed by the chisel of life's experience. A fresh and golden opportunity for greater perfection. A new journey where the pitfalls of the predecessors can be avoided and more outstanding accomplishments can be achieved. Our example should serve as a reference point upon which our followers can improve.

We all must understand that an example is not meant to be replicated, it is merely a foundation from which to improve upon and strive for greater things. Let us not only strive to be an example to others but to ourselves as well. Let us expect the same of ourselves as we expect of our children, students and proteges. If we expect success and wellness for them, let us be the embodiment of those exact qualities. If we expect them to earn degrees and climb mountains, let us stand proud at those summits as well. Let us move to evolve and improve our standing in each moment and be appreciative as those we lead follow suit.

REDEFINE SELF + Women's Wellness Seminar, January 26, 2011

(click image for full size flyer)

2011 Blessings!

Throughout the past year, I've been fortunate to experience an array of personalities, beliefs, social structures, and cultural understandings pertinent to life's ambitions. Through these platforms, I've come to understand the need for positive placement in the lives of individuals. In my experience as a leadership trainer, I have been introduced to countless ladies, young and old alike, who wish to seek avenues of self-fulfilled peace of mind. As I listen to their thoughts, I realize there is a fundamental need to restore insight and engage women to become active in the conversations of self-awareness. With this in mind, I've created an opportunity for Women to participate in their own personal development toward well-being.

On January 26, 2011, I will spend an evening with women to engage in a self-discovery journey of empowered thinking and redefine the levels of self, as it pertains to life goals, self-confidence, personal roles, and life ambitions. I've carefully designed this evening to be shared with all ages of women who seek tools for productive progress.

Please take a moment to register. This evening has been designed with you in mind, and will promise to bring an uplifted renewal to redefine self. This event is an open invitation to every woman 18 years of age and older.

To register contact:
Inspire.Motivate.Lead.
801.891.3127
lbitsie@hotmail.com

I look forward to seeing you on January 26, 2011!

LeAndra Bitsie

+HONOR

+HONOR

In a recent training session, a group of our young participants were asked what they would like for Indian people to become. In response, one young man stated, "we need more famous Indian people". I questioned his reasons for his statement and he quickly responded, "sometimes when I talk with non-Indians they argue with me and tell me, if you guys are so important and special, where are all the cool and famous Indian people?".

The young man's statements sit heavy in my mind as I contemplate the social structures that influence and shape our young people's expectations. The role models, the music, the imagery, all play an immense part in the development of their character. As strenuous efforts are put forth within our communities to instill the traditional values of our people, our cultural heritage is constantly undermined by the gratification of fame and vanity perpetuated by mainstream society. This has been an enduring struggle ever since the beginning of social integration in this country. Early on, our ancestors experienced it as a direct federal initiative known as assimilation. Today it has taken new shape and form. A far throw from the values of our predecessors, it sits dangerously present in our communities residing at the root of many of our adversities. From communal and social hierarchies to ranks of bureaucracy, this delusion of fame and vanity is often mistaken for honor and prestige. A great shift in the dynamic of clarity of our people is sorely needed.

I do believe that as a people we need examples to look to. People that inspire hope and faith within us and elevate our expectations of self. In our want for more, however, let us not disregard those who are present that have become the embodiment of all that we hold dear and strive to be. Let us be appreciative by our own reasonings and not be swayed or determined by the ignorance of others. In the resonance of our people, our monuments are often of a different dynamic. They are not carved from minerals or metals. They stand as mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, teachers and mentors, community and spiritual leaders, our own children even. In their beautiful humility, they exist far above and beyond the reaches of fame and vanity. Yes my younger brother, we need more people who are of strong character, who have the ability to see clear. In every avenue and expanse of life, we need more of you...

A sincere thank you to the youth and youth advisors/advocates of the White River and surroungding communities and the White Mountain Apache Tribe for your strength and greatness. You are all greatly needed and appreciated. Blessings be with you all.

-Jeremy "Meta" Fields