Remembering 9/11–Staying Safe in an Unsafe World

We often hear the phrase, “Never Forget” in connection with the date 9/11. Those words can prompt a variety of thoughts, memories and reactions in the minds of those who hear them. Certainly, we don’t want to forget those that perished so violently and senselessly on that day.

For me, the phrase, “Never Forget” means even more:

“Never Forget” to remember those who responded to this terrorist attack; the First Responders at the three scenes that day at the World Trade Center, The Pentagon and the field in Pennsylvania.  They were firefighters, police officers, paramedics and EMT’s (some of which were also nurses), regular citizens and Military Members (who worked at the Pentagon); all who stepped up to help their fellow human beings. Many lost their lives while helping others.

“Never Forget” the next wave of First Responders; those in the U.S. Military (current and Combat Veterans) who were part of our National response to this attack. Thousands of them continue to fight for our freedom and way of life right now, still in response to 9/11. Thousands have been killed or injured in action while bravely and successfully fighting our enemies. They place themselves at personal risk and spend time away from their families and the comforts of daily living, all to keep us safe.

“Never Forget” to remain vigilant regarding your (or others) safety and health each day.  Whether at home, work, shopping, traveling or playing: Maintaining an awareness of your surroundings and calling 911 for any type of perceived or real threat against yourself or others can help to improve the health and safety of our families, neighborhoods and communities. 

Getting your treats to trick your taste buds - Halloween leftovers

Halloween has come and gone and for many (including me), it marks the official opening of the holiday eating season.  You may have Halloween candy lying around the house from either your kid’s stash or leftovers from what you handed out.  Either way, all that candy is a huge temptation.  Here are a few tips to help to prevent you from sabotaging your diet.

Donate it: If you can’t resist the temptation, donate any originally/intact wrapped candies you have to our troops or a local charity.

• Try to locate an individual, community group or house of worship that is preparing packages to ship to deployed U.S. troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.  They appreciate some familiar treats from the States upon returning to their base after being out in the field.
• Contact a local homeless shelter or soup kitchen to see if can use it.

If you plan on eating it: 

• Set a limit for yourself, such as 1 or 2 pieces per week.  Agree with yourself to only indulge on days you have exercised.
• Go for the bite size/fun size pieces that are much smaller than a full size candy bar and can still give you some satisfaction.
• Choose a piece of dark chocolate over other treats; at least there are some health benefits to be gained from eating small amounts of dark chocolate and you can satisfy your sweet tooth at the same time.

Portion control plays a huge role in maintaining a healthy weight, so only have “just a taste” to stay on track with the goals you have set for your diet.