Rina Risper, President & Publisher of The New Citizens Press (Pandemic photo 2020)
Dear Readers,
It is interesting reading articles from ten years ago. I feel like they are still very relevant today. Here is another flashback from 2011.
It is printed in its entirety:
Dear Readers,
In August, I heard one of the most interesting quotes:
“The most authentic thing about us is our capacity to create, to overcome, to endure, to transform, to love and to be greater than our suffering.”
– Ben Okri
There are just some things that do not change and missing someone is one of them. At the strangest moments, a feeling may begin to well up inside you. It does not have discretion. It feels like a hurricane is whipping up in your stomach while some other weird front is going on in the tip of your toes. By the time it gets to your eyes it is too late to try an hide your tears or anger. It happens to both men and women.
Yes, that tingling sensation that reminds you that you have been asleep too long. There is a moment when the universe is aligned just right (or maybe not for some) and you become over emotional. No, I am not crazy. We are all human. We go through pain and happiness. We mask pain with activities that we should not be involved in or overindulge in things that then become harmful.
There are limitless opportunities to celebrate life. Take the time to do just that? Savor your last days of fall by driving to the West Coast (umm that would be Lake Michigan folks) and placing a rose in the water or just enjoying the fact that you have limitless possibilities.
Decompress depression by taking a family member out to dinner that you enjoy being around that you have not seen in a while.
Create your own private sanctuary in your home where you can write letters to the people who have passed away, whether they were nice or not. Write letters to those you like and those you dislike or find downright disgusting. You will be able to write, stuff the envelope and put in a box with the return address to nowhere.
Be greater than your suffering. Just remember that your happiness is based on what you are willing to let go, forgive or understand. The decision to remain unhappy, to make others unhappy or to wallow in jealousy and bitterness does not help you. People may not like the changes that you make in your life but it is all about you and your full hearted attempt to find joy in places you least expected to find it.
Love people,
Rina Risper
P.S. Please remember to vote on November 8th.
This was printed in the October 23, 2011 – November 5, 2011 edition.
I hope you enjoyed our flashback. After 20 years in the business, it has been an incredible experience rereading some of the articles.
Have an amazing day and remember to be easy on yourself and others, mask up and stay safe. Call your relatives and friends too.
Support your local eateries! Even though this was printed in 2011, we are always encouraging to support local businesses. Your pandemic check has probably already been deposited in your account. Please share.
Businesses really need you right now. We have been staying at home and eating in but take out is a super option as well. Also, try the recipes.
Love people,
Rina Risper
