About Gina Roy-Opalec, Graphic Designer Behind This Issue's Cover

As a little girl, Gina Roy-Opalec’s prized collectible was a Calligraphy pen set. She was amazed at the beautiful letters she could create by simply manipulating the pens at different angles. Shortly after, Gina developed and is known for, by family and friends, her beautiful and unique penmanship style. This was the beginning of her artistic creativity. She then started taking art classes in junior high school, high school and in college, which lead her to enroll at Platt College, to specialize her craft, in graphic design.

Gina is a San Diego based Graphic Designer. She is a Packaging Designer, in Product Development for Infant Toy, with Infantino. Prior to Infantino, Gina was a Graphic Designer, Product Design and Managing Designer, Product Design, heading the Entertainment and Attractions Division for Fotoball USA and K2 Licensed Products (K2LP) for thirteen years. There, her clients included Disney, Busch Gardens, Universal Studios, Zoos - nationwide, Nickelodeon, Marvel, Warner Brothers, DC Comics, MLB, NFL and the NBA. At K2LP, Gina assisted the Creative Director and managed a creative team for products such as collectible pins and lanyards, as well as sport collectibles and toys.

Gina is very passionate about her career as a graphic designer. She loves the freedom to be artistic and create products that people will enjoy for years to come.

Gina has played an integral part in helping her sister, Zenaida Roy-Almario, with her dream of becoming an author and starting her company, BRAGN™ - Be Real And Great Now. Gina designed the book’s cover and interior layout, company logo and icon, as well as her press kit and other business marketing collateral. Zenaida says, “I really love my BRAGN™ peacock icon and logo! Gina’s ‘awesome left-handed talent’ brings life and existence to my visions, better than I dare to imagine them! I am blessed for having her, to create the pictures to my words and even more so, as my sister.”

Gina can be reached at: gina@berealandgreatnow.com.

Conversations' Model Citizen: Wilner Sainlot

Hometown: Haiti

Currently living in North Lauderdale, FL

Wilner in his own words: "I am an aspiring young model who`s willing to work hard to achieve his goal. One of the reason I want to become a professional model is because I believe modeling is a God-given talent. Moreover, I will have a greater opportunity to motivate and help the others who look up to me as a role model."

Wilner, how do you stay motivated as you puruse your goals and dreams? First, I would like to say none of us were born with knowledge; however, knowledge is not something limited when you are really committed to pursuit it. In addition, I stay motivated by inspiration,the key to my pride. Motivation is the way to my success. Determination is the strength to my wisdom and criticism. And most importantly God is the shield to my antagonist.

What is the best advice you have for others who are looking to follow their passion in life?

Believe in you, what you already have inside. Be able to work smarter than harder because everything you want to accomplish in life can never come so easy until you are willing to risk some facts on your own experience. If you failed today promise yourself that you will be victorious tomorrow. No matter how much others tell you that you won't make it, start your own story from scratches then be the author of your book tomorrow.


Wilner Sainlot can be reached by email at wilnerslot1@yahoo.com and on Facebook.

MODEL CITIZEN: Teresa Kain

Model Citizen: Teresa Kain

Hometown: Eyota, MN

Teresa's in her own words: If one takes risk...there is a chance one may fail....if one never takes risk, one ALWAYS FAILS.

I am motivated to stay fit due to the fact I am a Registered Nurse that struggled with weight and had gestational diabetes. Fourteen yrs ago I began Personal Training originally to educate myself regarding health and fitness, leading to my desire to switch from nursing to an 'alternative field of nursing' working in wellness. Being personal trainer has me working with clients daily regarding their fitness and health, which keeps me from losing sight of that for myself. Staying fit has been about being healthy with a great side affect of looking better (for my age!), keeping 'normal weight' and continuing to work as a model/talent here in Minneapolis.
I came upon modeling by accident and now consult with others that desire a model/acting career along with using my medical background to work as a personal trainer focusing on health and fitness daily. My advice to others is to surround themselves with supportive friends and to learn who and what you are about. Modeling is complex and keeping a healthy attitude and outlook is extremely important as it is easy to be distracted by outside influences, the more grounded you are as a person the more successful you will be at anything. We can do and be anything we choose, you first have to know who you are to know what you want to BE... you have to have a clear understanding of what you like, need and want in order to know what your dream is.

MODEL CITIZEN: Aaron Ballard

MODEL CITIZEN: Aaron Ballard



Hometown: Columbus / Georgia

How do you stay motivated and encouraged as your pursue your goals and dreams? I stay motivated mainly because I found myself. After all the hard and down times, you eventually stand tall and proud and know more about yourself and what you want out of life. I have won some physical looks contest and that alone was a confidence booster. Everyone has their own insecurities, once you can take control over them and no longer let them run your life you become happy and confident in your self. I wake up know who I am and how much of a great loving person I am and I keep my dreams right in front of me leading the way to the life I want to create for myself. I keep my friends close for emotional support. I pray that God leads me in the direction I need to go not the one I think or want to take because it may be an easier route. I have learned to slow down a bit and take time to get to know me and take care of me, once I did that I know how to be all that I can for not only myself but others around me.

What advice do you have for others when it comes to pursuing their own goals in life? For anyone wanting to pursue their dreams as odd as it may seem to say, first you have to stop dreaming and start doing. Get out there and make what you want happen. Call on others loved ones, friends, colleagues, co-workers, and anyone you know in the industry you are wanting to pursue. You must know yourself first, you must know what you really desire and that your positive you will be happy with your decisions. All things in life are not simple nor easy, following your dreams is one of those. It may be a hard, expensive, and winding road but the end outcome of your complete happiness is all worth the effort. Make sure you keep the ones that got you to where to get in life still in your life. Don't let money or promises tare you away from your family and friends. It's your life and its time to take control of where you want it to go.

MODEL CITIZEN: Sophia Gababe

Model Citizen: Sophia Gababe

United Kingdom

How do you stay inspired when it comes to following your dreams in life?
I stay focused and take each day as it comes.

What advice do you have for others who are looking to following their dreams?
First of all, it's very easy to have dreams, but not take steps toward them. Your hardest steps are the first ones. You have to dream big, but you have to take the steps. first of all Make a list of your goals and the steps you have to take. Hold strong to whatever comes your way, and don't listen to whoever tells you you can't. A lot of times it's about imaginary earplugs:-) nothing is for free and nothing comes easily you have to work hard for it.

MODEL CITIZEN: Mikhail Tank

Mikhail Tank
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA & St. Petersburg, Russia

How do you stay motivated as you pursue your goals and dreams?
I try not to pay attention to the rejection, to the hype or the hip, I listen to my soul and instinct.

What advice do you have for someone who has not been successful in finding the way to their passion in life?
In my opinion, perfection leads to destruction. Just Begin without trying to be perfect and once you do, respect your creation and share it, caring none if others listen.
Also you can go to my website www.MikhailTank.com and watch a free documentary, titled The Importance of Creativity

Conversations Magazine Presents Its "Model Citizens"

Conversations Magazine Presents Its "Model Citizens"

Good role models are hard to find, especially when you are talking about those who are there to show you what is possible with hard work and dedication. For Conversations Media Group and our partners discovering your best self is one of our main goals, and recognizing those that are doing just that became the focus of this special edition of Conversations Magazine. (seen here is Nahid Samandari of Valley Village, CA)

What is our definition of a Model Citizen? It's an individual who is working against all odds to pursue their dreams and are using their journey to encourage and inspire others. With Conversations' new publication and features you will find individuals of all ages, shapes and colors who are following their goals and being rewarded.

I saw the addition of "Model Citizens" as a way for us to showcase ordinary individuals who are pursuing extraordinary paths. I think it's important that anyone, regardless of where they are from or what they look like, can find someone they can relate to that speaks to what they can do themselves.

That is the whole purpose of "Model Citizens". Once it was announced that it would be featuring such individuals so many showed interested in the Model Citizen feature that I decided to devote a special bi-monthly publication to individuals from different backgrounds that are moving forward with their dreams and offering advice for others who want to do the same. Included in those recognized are celebrated recording artists, actors, models and those on the rise. It's truly a reflection of the world that Conversations believes we want and can be attained.

As a thank you to our yearly subscribers of Conversations Magazine, this first issue of Model Citizens is being sent to you at no charge. Future issues can be ordered by visiting www.conversationsmodelcitizens.com. What I hope comes from this is that we are able to look at our place in the world a little differently, and realize the power each of us has to make a difference.

Interested in being featured in Conversations Magazine or want to share your thoughts about our Model Citizens? As always I would love to hear from you. Contact me at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

Conversations' Model Citizen: Tanya Wright

Tanya Wright has garnered fans for years in her roles on The Cosby Show, 24, E.R. and now True Blood, but in 2011 she has added new dimensions to her brand as a writer and director. Conversations LIVE Radio talked with her as she was preparing for the release of her movie Butterfly Rising, and the discussion gave a glimpse into what inspire the young creative and her motivations.

Wright describes herself as a shy little girl but says that her entrance into the entertainment industry has been an evolution that is 'weird and staccato.' Along the journey she has realized that no matter what has brought attention to a project she is attached to, it is up to her to "stay in the room," letting her talents shine through.

When it comes to discussing going from television and movies to writing a book and directing a movie, Wright says it really wasn't much of a stretch. "You graduate from acting to writing," she says, "and directing is a natural progression." Butterfly Rising (the book and the movie) showcases the butterfly as the symbol for change. "Change is something you can't get away from," Wright says. "It's best to just embrace it."

Regardless of what you are doing professionally, this entrepreneur knows that you can't be your best without reaching outside of yourself. "Listen to everything," she says. "Even if you can't use everything, have more than one voice around you." When speaking about her advice for others who want to pursue their passion, she says this: "Be willing to make the sacrifices and be up to the challenges."

As someone who has remained relevant in a changing industry, any advice from Tanya Wright is definitely worth listening to. Find out more information about her book and movie by visiting www.butterflyrisingthemovie.com.

Model Citizen's Cover Girl: Nahid Samandari

by Cyrus Webb

Her very life is prof positive of what can be accomplished with hard work and dedication. Born in Tehran, Nahid Samandari has had to make tough choices in order to have a better life for not only herself but her six children as well.

The fifty-seven (57) year old has lived in the United States since Feb. 1989, and she has taken advantage of every opportunity possible to pursue her love of modeling and acting. 

Conversations Magazine learned of Nahid in the summer of 2011, and we knew that we had to showcase not only her beauty but amazing life story as well.

Nahid, first of all thank you for allowing Conversations Magazine to have this opportunity. One thing that is apparent when people see you in pictures is not just your beauty but the confidence you have. Where does your confidence come from?

Thank you, Cyrus, for wanting to talk with me. I think that, for me, confidence is something I have always had. I can honestly say that I have never felt lonely in my life. When people stay lonely and they isolate themselves the confidence goes away. We face so many different attitudes and ideas. I respect that, but you have to know who you are. I love to learn, and that is what I feel is part of being a student on the earth. We are forever learning.

Confidence is one thing but staying inspired and motivated is another. What keeps you motivated as you pursue your dreams?

What keeps me motivated in life to pursue my dreams is that I will make a great change in other people's lives and help them more when I am successful in the future. 

You are obviously a beautiful woman, Nahid. How important is it for you to be just as appealing on the inside as you are perceived on the outside?

I believe beauty comes from the inside. That's where it all starts. If you don't work on your goal things are not going to pay off for themselves. The way you look is not the important thing. What's important is what you are doing with your life and what you have to give. 

You mentioned earlier about helping others through your success. Why has it been important for you to support other people and to help others?

Because I believe we are on the earth to help others in the world. We all go through hardships, but it can be made easier when we are looking out for others other than myself. That's why I live my life in a way so that I can be of assistance to others. 

I talk alot with people about their idea of success. What does success mean for you?

Success is whatever your goal in life is. Success is what you want to do and what result you want to get. It can be about how you raise your kid, doing the best you can in a relationship, communication or whatever you want to do well.

Thank you again, Nahid, for your time. It goes without saying that I wish you nothing but continued success and blessings. Last question: What advice do you have for others who are also looking to be successful following their passion?

I would tell them to never let go of their dreams and work hard in order to accomplish their aspirations. If they do that then in time their hard work will pay off, and their dreams will be sure to come true.

You can stay in contact with Nahid and her amazing work at www.nahidsamandari.com. 

Model Citizen: Tripp Ivey

Model Citizen: Tripp Ivey

Hometown: Birmingham, AL

How do you stay inspired when it comes to following your dreams in life?
Well for most people it is long hard path to go down if you chase your dreams.I stay inspired by knowing I will make it. By knowing I will succeed. I stay inspired by knowing no dream is too big. Key word there? Knowing, never doubt yourself, doubt is the seed to mans downfall. My family and friends inspire me further. I want to be able to help all these people that have already helped me. That's what inspires me."

What advice do you have for others who are looking to following their dreams?
Never give up and never have any doubt in yourself. When you have followed a dream to the ends of the world, follow it farther. Keep in mind that these facts are only true, if you truly believe in what you do."

MODEL CITIZEN: Cheyenne Bush

* Model Citizen: Cheyenne Bush

* Sealy, TX 77474

Interests: Cheyenne is into some sports, loves to ride horses, barrel race, sing and act. She loves to be around people and is very animated.

Cheyenne in her own words: "Why I decided on modeling as a profession? I decided on modeling as a profession because like to pose and be in front of the camera. People have so much to say and pictures can capture the things you cannot say verbally. When I look back at my photos I see someone else. I try to make it as though that person is someone I would want to know. Modeling is fun and I get to have fun with it."

* How do you stay inspired as you follow your dreams?
My Mom and America's Next Top Model (ANTM), Tyra Banks, because my mom tells me I can do anything and ANTM, Tyra inspires me and shows me it can be hard but not to give up. I really like how Tyra points out that we all have differences and those differences are what makes us unique. Everyone of us can make a difference and reach our goals and dreams. I hope someday to get to meet Tyra and thank her for the inspiration she has given me.

* What advice would you have for others when it comes to their dreams?
When people say you can't do something, block them out because you can do it! You should try to keep friends and family that believe in you around all of the time so you don't ever feel down about it and always keep your hopes up.

Model Citizen: Jared Drennan

Model Citizen: Jared Drennan

Hometown: Magee, MS

How do you stay inspired when it comes to following your dreams in life?

I stay Inspired by playing music on my guitar, singing my favorite songs and never letting anything get to me. I always think about how much my life would change when I become famous, and I keep that love in my heart.

What advice do you have for others who are looking to following their dreams?

For anyone that wants to follow there dreams no matter how big or small they can always be accomplished by following your heart and staying happy and keeping there dream alive in there hearts no matter what it may be. Anybody can do anything.

MODEL CITIZEN: Kevin Saccucci

Model Citizen: Kevin Saccucci

Hometown: Alberta, Canada

How do you stay inspired when it comes to following your dreams in life?I stay inspired by reminding myself that I am doing what I love. I am so blessed to have this opportunity in my life. As well as having a very strong support system of family and friends to pick me up when I fall down.

What advice do you have for others who are looking to following their dreams?My advice to others is not to give up on what you love. Don't let anyone or anything get in your way. Don't be afraid of taking  a risk because with great risk comes great success. If you have faith in yourself you will succeed. 

Photos taken by : Diane Herro & Samantha Scharf.

MODEL CITIZEN: Lea Bella

Model Citizen: Lea Bella

Hometown: Phoenix, AZ

Current: Boca Raton, FL

Lea in her own words: "It's easy staying motivated in South Florida for a model/actress/spokes model like myself. There is so much activity here for work that it is a constant day to day process of castings calls for all kinds of venues. I come from a long line of entrepreneurs I think working hard believing in myself and watching the results has been motivation enough for me.

"For those that are wanting to get into the industry of any kind of entertainment or modeling you have to inspire yourself. In the end it is you who makes decisions good for bad and you have to live with them. It is important to surround yourself with upbeat individuals and weed out the nay sayers who do not believe in your dreams or who seem to purposely try to steer you away from your dreams. I believe that if God put a desire that is so strong in your heart that it gets you up early and keeps you up late. Preparing, practicing, networking then He will make a way where there seems to be no way."

Conversations' Model Citizen: Enrico Delves

Though London is his home, the talent of recording artist Enrico Delves is definitely crossing geographical borders and even those created by various genres. There seems to be no limit to his abilities, and no matter how humble he is about the international buzz he has created, Enrico is on the verge of making a permanent mark for himself in music.
Conversations Magazine first became aware of him through his rendition of Lady Gaga's "Bad Romance" on Youtube. In that performance he showed off his range and gift for making any song his own. Now Enrico is preparing for the release of his own EP, and is using his popularity online to ensure that everyone knows about it.
In this interview, he talks about his beginnings, what separates him from other talent in music and how social networking and other online avenues are aiding in his dreams coming through.
This is our conversation.
Enrico, thank you for talking with Conversations Magazine. Before we get into what you are working on now, I want to talk about how you got here. When did you realize that music was something you were interested in?

I have been singing since I was 10, but only realised that music was something I wanted to get deeper into when I hit reached aged 14 or 15. I did my first performance and although I had horrific nerves, the adrenalin I got from doing something I loved has kept me engaged.

When you look back on the time you have been singing and producing music, does it surprise you the effect your voice has on others?

It really is a shocking thing to know that people enjoy listening to me. I love music so much, and I am pleased to know that people like what I do.

I found out about you through Twitter when you were promoting your performance of Lady Gaga's "Bad Romance". How have social networking tools help you in getting more exposure?

I think besides from performing, all social networking sites drastically boosts anybody's exposure. Online promotion is really effective because you can target any market worldwide without leaving your house (laughs). I hate technology but realized I have to use it wisely to create a fan base. I would say that twitter is an amazing site to talk to people and get a buzz circulating your name so quickly if you use it properly.

Success is measured by people in different ways. What is success for you?

I consider success as a goal that is reached. I believe if we set targets and achieve them can be the most rewarding success. But money does sometimes help. (laughs)

It's not easy to get noticed sometimes in the entertainment business. What are you doing to set yourself apart?

My songwriting and voice sets me apart from a lot of artists. I believe my bold song concepts and vocal range creates something dynamic and reflects old school soul, with a contemporary twist that makes it relevant for the present time in music.

Motivation is also important. How do you stay encouraged when it seems as though your goals are not met as quickly as you would like?

Firstly, I pray for courage and wisdom. I tend to watch documentaries about the rise of musicians for inspiration and reassurance, hard work does eventually get you to where you want to be---as cheesy as that sounds. (laughs)

Thanks again for the time, Enrico. If our readers want to find out more information about you, where would you suggest they go online?

I can be reached at www.youtube.com/eme10d1c, www.twitter.com/enricodelves, on Myspace and Facebook. 

Conversations' Model Citizen: Jackson Brundage

Since the age of five actor Jackson Brundage has known that he wanted to be in the entertainment business. Now at the age of ten he is experiencing success not just because of his role as Jamie Scott on the hit show One Tree Hill on the CW Network but the great example he is giving for the world.

Conversations LIVE caught up with the young actor to talk about his four-year run on the show and the joy that comes from living his dreams. He told us that the show is alot of work but it is something he loves and he is able to have fun along the way. In talking with Brundage you can tell he is someone who loves life and is eager to share who he is with others. His cast members sing his praises as someone who comes to work prepared, knowing not just his lines but theirs as well.

The lessons to be learned from Jackson Brundage include this important fact: Do what you love and the success and happiness will follow.

Conversations' Model Citizen: Abraham McDonald

by Cyrus Webb

At a time when many in the United States wonder if the American Dream is dead, singer/songwriter Abraham McDonald is living proof that with perseverance and faith it is very much alive. His journey into the ears and hearts of the world has not come without hard work and sacrifice, but it is paying off in a big way.

I was first introduced to the talented artist in late 2009 through Youtube, and it was obvious to me then what is clear to many today: he is not just a performer of music. He is the music. With every note he delivers not just something that is pleasant to the ears but sinks down into the psyche and touches the heart.

The past couple of years professionally has been a whirlwind that any individual who desires a career in the entertainment industry would long for, but I truly believe that for Abraham it is only a fulfillment of a vision that he saw for himself long ago. Life for him didn't begin with his winning Oprah's talent competition in 2009. It didn't begin with his signing a record deal with Island Def Jam records. It didn't even begin with the performances all around the world in the past several months. According to Abraham, it began when he was just a boy growing up in Texas when he realized that he had been blessed with a gift that if used properly could change not only his world, but that of those who would hear him.

I think he was right.

Abraham McDonald was named Conversations Recording Artist of the Year in 2010. Two years after bestowing that honor upon him, I am still convinced he is one of the best voices of my generation. In this interview we talk about his life in music and what he believes others can take away from the roller coaster ride of a lifetime that he is only just beginning.

Abraham, you have had an amazing ride over the past couple of years with appearances on Oprah, a record deal with Island Def Jam and performances around the world, but this journey has been a long one for you. When did you first realize that music was something you wanted to do as a profession?
I don’t recall wanting to sing as a “profession” as a kid, I only knew that singing made me feel good and that I could see myself on stages. It’s in this season of my life, my right “now” that I’m discovering music/singing as a profession. And I’m loving it: the traveling, the smiles, and even the valleys that come with the desire of success. Singing is a well of things to me now.

People hear you sing and they say that the words seem to come from your heart and your soul. That's a true gift. How do you feel when you see people respond so positively to something that you enjoy doing?
This is one of the hardest questions I’ve been asked; more so because I can’t take credit for that amazing feeling of connecting in spirit. Ultimately that’s what true expression should ignite… an exchange, my gift for your wonderful energy… a complete cycle. I guess you could say that I feel complete when I hear positive responses to my sharing the gift. All I know is that I get to smile a lot.

I've had the pleasure to interview you for the radio edition of Conversations, and each time we talked it seemed as though you were still humbled by what you have been able to do. That's not an easy thing to accomplish given the trappings of fame. In one interview you said that you saw yourself as a vessel. Can you explain that?
I’m only as strong as my connection is to my source. I can’t paint a perfect picture because I’m nowhere near a perfect man. But, what I can do is tune in and respond accordingly. Without my connection I’m useless. I thank God as often as I’m reminded that I am placed by assignment and not by my own work.

Success is a word that is thrown around a lot, Abraham, and it means different things to different people. Given where you've come from and what you have done up until this point, what does success mean to you?
Success is a personal word. It shouldn’t be flagrantly flung in front of anyone. I have no successes without peace. What I have been blessed to see and do in this new season of my life is only due to a mild trust in me that I believe my source wants to believe I can handle. Daily though, I work at my gift, I think about how my family will and can be blessed if I’m focused, and the truth is, I’m not always focused. (laughs) The success of it all is to be diligently connected to the mission laid before you. Only you know your true failures and successes.

Congratulations again on all of your accomplishments, Abraham. What advice would you give to those looking to you as an example about why they should follow their dreams?
The only thing I can say about dreaming is that self-belief is connected to trusting in your source. I was not created to lose. Pungent, maybe, but in truth, I believe in my heart of hearts that something special has been designed just for me to do, to become, and to share.

I sat on the side of my bed back in July of 2009, I said to myself, “I know there is more!" I began to search my heart and my memories. Who was I, who did I want to be, what did I want to do… I got to the place of completely trusting the leading of my source and I began to move, even before my Oprah experience.

I didn’t wake up in Chicago and say, ”Well now this is it! This here! Now this is living” (laughs) No, I’d made a decision to live before that opportunity was even birthed. To the listener, the reader, I encourage you to seek the vision for your life, make a decision to live and then trust your source to direct you. Easier said than done…but check this out… Your 1% contribution is to follow, your source will hold down the other 99%. Pay attention and protect your thinking.


When asked what advice he would give to others who had a dream they wanted to follow, Abraham answers this way: "Get up... You only have to do 1% of this thing. Your Source will take care of the other 99%. If heavy-listing is alot for you at 1%, it's not going to happen for you... You have to begin to think yourself forward. Ask yourself 'What should I do today?' Each day is an opportunity to do something towards your dream."

Abraham McDonald's singles include "Miracle" and "Heroes". Find out more information about Abraham McDonald by visiting him online at www.mrabrahammcdonald.com.

MODEL CITIZEN: Rejina Bai Oldham

* Model Citizen: Rejina Bai Oldham

* Hometown: born and raised in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

* Current city/state: Springfield, Missouri

* How do you stay inspired when it comes to following your dreams in life?
While many of us can always claim to have family bless our lives, the beautiful furry creatures we have as pets who give us unconditional love are great inspiration. I also would like to remember those who actually beat the odds of their opportunities and rise up to realize their dreams. People that do inspire me are those who have caused change and freedom to become norms in our current world - among some that come to mind are Golda Meir, Susan B. Anthony, Rosa Parks - and so many others who began with little or no opportunities. I am also inspired by Princess Diana, Queen Rania of Jordan and who could forget our own President Obama who prevailed in this new era?

* What advice do you have for others who are looking to following their dreams?
My dreams in life are basically to stay happy and I found that since I was young, I was always looking for something better even after I had basically got most of what I wanted. Recently I have come to a realization that I need to look around and see the blessings around me and try to spread it to others. We are so often caught up in everyone's complaints about the little inconveniences in life and ignore the suffering of others who have much more to complain about. When you keep complaining, one day it's all going to come true which will either bring you to your senses, or the only way to go is downhill. I just hope we can all put ourselves in each other's shoes and empathize, in a proactive and productive way.

Pervis Taylor: Using Principles To Put Life In Perspective

by Cyrus Webb

There is something truly amazing about the human spirit. No matter what we might go through, there is something within us that urges us to keep fighting, keep striving and not allowing our circumstances to defeat us. 

I have found it true in my life and Pervis Taylor has found it to be the case for him as well.

He has used not only his ability to rise above his challenges but is not sharing his knowledge with others through a series of books called "Pervis Principles", of which Volume One has already been released. 

I've had the opportunity to interview Pervis twice on Conversations LIVE radio show, and what is so obvious about him from the very beginning is that he truly wants to use what he has learned to help others.

Part of being a model citizen is realizing that life is not just about you. Whether its through his book, speaking engagements or his online footprint left on Facebook, Pervis is showing others what is possible and urging us to live our lives with purpose and understanding of the power we hold. You can't ask for any more than that.

You can find out more about Pervis at www.pervistaylor.com. 

PERVIS PRINCIPLES VOLUME 1 BOOK DESCRIPTION: "Mini in stature, but Mega in truth wisdom and Love" is the best way to describe Pervis Principles Volume One. Inspired by social media phenomenon, Twitter, Pervis Principles, Volume 1: A Daily Meditation Mini Book is the 21st Century's Proverbs! Geared to teens and young adults, this mini book aims to guide them toward a better quality of life versus a life quantified by things. Pervis Principles is a brief but poignant piece of inspiration that is practical and easy to apply!

REVIEW FROM CONVERSATIONS BOOK CLUB
Alot of times we just need a reminder of what is possible in order for us to move forward and do what needs to be done. To help us along author Pervis Taylor has given us a handy book to keep us motivated and inspired. PERVIS PRINCIPLES is small in size but packs a real punch when it comes to what is gives us in the way of advice for each day of our lives. Whether you are looking at the perfect way to make your time count or how you deal with individuals around you, the book let's us not only see ourselves but encourages us to ask the questions that need to be answered about the direction we are headed and what we need to do in order to get there.

The book also tells us how important it is for us to look not at who a person might be but at what they are doing. We can relate this to the celebrity obsession that is going on today and how quick people are to jump on the bandwagon of people who might not necessarily deserve our respect and adoration.

Whether you decide to read it day-by-day or enjoy it in one sitting, PERVIS PRINCIPLES is something that you will see as a daily reminder of what's possible and what it takes to turn dreams into a reality.

BOOK REVIEW: Sara Stover's THE WAY Is Just That For Women AND Men

Live in accordance with nature and your soul

Our ancestors adhered to the daily, seasonal, and yearly rhythms of nature by necessity, but modern life overrides these cycles, compromising women’s health and happiness. In this book, Sara Avant Stover shows how simple, natural, and refreshingly accessible practices can minimize stress and put us back in sync with our own cycles and those of nature. When we honor spring’s seedlings, summer’s vibrancy, fall’s harvest, and winter’s quietude, we harmonize our inner and outer worlds. Sara’s recommendations nurture the body, invigorate the mind, and lift the spirit. Illustrated yin and yang yoga sequences, one-day season-specific retreats, enticing recipes, and innovative self-reflection techniques make it easy to reconnect with the essential.



REVIEW FROM CONVERSATIONS BOOK CLUB
When it comes to books like Sara Avant Stover's The Way, I always look for a way that I can apply its message to the audiences I reach in print and on radio. In this case, though, it's not hard at all.

Stover has written a book based on her own experiences that allows for women and even men to look at the path she is outlining and seeing a way that they can use the same principles in their lives as well. I think most of us would say that we want to be Happy. Sara shows that this is more than just saying that's what we desire. We have some work to do in order to make it happy. Some of it is physical while other parts are emotional and even spiritual. I think at the end of the day the main thing is that we have to do everything in our power in order to have the life that we say we want.

Written with care and the well-being of the reader in mind, THE WAY OF THE HAPPY WOMAN is just that for women AND men.