Soul Sunday: What's Your Legacy?

I was inspired to write this blog by the former producer/Co-Creator of the Simpsons. As interesting and as random as it sounds today he is my HERO. His name is Sam Simon and his legacy is GIVING.

I, as millions of others have the Internet as my primary source of news. The other day I came across an article in the UK DailyMail about Simon giving away his fortune. I have been reading it on-line from various media sources and am HAPPY to finally be reading a positive and inspirational story.

The article talked about his passion for protecting and caring for animals as well as feeding the homeless.  He expressed in a recent interview with the Hollywood Reporter "'The truth is, I have more money than I'm interested in spending. Everyone in my family is taken care of. And I enjoy this." 

He was recently diagnosed with terminal colon cancer and was told by doctors he had 3-6 months to live. I'm sure this was a sobering thought to him but based on his actions, an inspirational one too. He is contributing his 'Simpsons Royalties', tens of millions of dollars annually it has been reported, to causes that produce an instant result or reward for those who are the recipients. He is re-investing his fortune in humanity and to limit the suffering of animals. 

Mr. Simon and the Sam Simon Foundation is responsible for what includes but is not limited to the following:

* Turning his Malibu Mansion into a dog rescue shelter for strays that standard shelters would otherwise put to death. They are cared for and trained to be companions for the deaf through the 'Hearing Dog Program'

*Purchasing zoos and travelling circuses to save the animals. He told the reporter "I just wanted to have some days where I get to see animals walk in grass for the first time. Through PETA, we rescue animals in roadside zoos and circuses. They are some of the most abused animals in the country. Freeing those animals, that's something I'm not sure I would do if it weren't for the cancer." 

*Feeding the homeless or families in need with cruelty free, healthy Vegan food. I have read that his place services and feeds over 200 families a day via Tom Bradley Family Source Center, 5213 W. Pico Blvd. , Los Angeles 90019. 

*Service dogs for Veterans. This foundation provides companion animals to veterans suffering emotional and/or physical injury as a result of the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts.

* Pet visitations. Taking animals into visit people in assisted living facilities, thus providing health and well being benefits to the recipients.

*Mobile surgery clinics for animals This service provides FREE surgeries for animals. 

The motto: "Saving the lives of dogs, to enrich the lives of people"

He was asked what change in the world he would like to see by the Hollywood Reporter and he replied, 

"I want medical experiments on animals stopped. They don't do anything, and they don't work. Veganism is an answer for almost every problem facing the world in terms of hunger and climate change. It helps people's health. Meat is the biggest greenhouse gas producer. There's also the cruelty and suffering aspect. When people do meatless Mondays, and when people adopt instead of buying a dog, that's a PETA victory."

The three people he mentioned to be an inspiration to him are Capt. Paul Watson of the Sea Shepherd (who now has a boat named after Sam Simon)

Ingrid Newkirk of PETA

Sam cuts the ribbon for the New PETA Headquarters, now maned the Sam Simon Center

and Charles MacCormack of Save the Children

Former CEO of Save the Children in Ethiopia

Reading about Sam's generosity, besides feeling like he is my new HERO, it made me think a lot about the legacy I would leave behind. Not a legacy of fame or fortune but of service or example. None of us need millions like Sam to help, give or make an impact. I am however inspired and impressed with someone who has the resources to accomplish such good and who actually goes out and DOES IT. Giving of your time or resources no matter how big or small does make an impact. What if it only helped one person or animal? wouldn't it be worth it? 

My legacy? Time is the most precious commodity available to us all. Taking time out of your life to enrich the lives of others is one part of the legacy that I will leave behind. I hope it inspires my children to do the same. I want to empower and inspire women all around the world through fashion, there is an investor out there to make my vision a reality, I will just keep moving forward and working with women one-on-one to build self esteem through personal style until I am able to reach them globally. I also want to make an impact in the Down Syndrome community as my son has blessed my life in more ways than I can possible articulate. My children are my greatest legacy of all. Spending time with them and teaching them the compassion and respect for the planet and animals (we ALL have Plant Based diets) and people. Sharing with them the virtues of hard work, service without reward, honesty and persistence. Most of all inspiring them to follow their dreams no matter when it may lead them, they need to fight for what they would like to accomplish in their lifetime, essentially their legacy.

I must also make clear that I'm not counting Sam out yet either. I would assume based on all the fighting he does on behalf of others and voiceless animals he has a hell of a lot of fight in him too. May he find healing and peace in what I hope is a very long life ahead. The world could use more people like him.

What would you like your legacy to be?

 

Leave your comments below!

Giving Thanks

Today we celebrate Thanksgiving in America. Words alone could never convey the gratitude I have for my life and all of the people in it, both friends and family. As I begin to prepare my VEGAN meal for my family I am left thinking about this countries history and that of my native country Canada (who celebrates their Thanksgiving in October). I guess we all get so bogged down with "tradition" and social norms we never sit and realize how this celebration came to be or even stop to give gratitude to those who were forced to sacrificed their lives and land so we could sit up to our tables today with our loved ones. I think about the millions of slaughtered Turkeys and all of the Natives who lost their land and lives so "we" could call this country OURS. I had to share this statement by Russell Simmons as it really spoke to me today.

"I hope everyone has a wonderful time today with their family and friends, while reflecting on all the things they have to be thankful for. 

In my house, however, we’ll be doing things a little bit differently than most Americans. Instead of eating Turkey flesh, we’ll be chowing down on some delicious Tofu Turkey. And instead of celebrating the story of the Pilgrims, we’ll be reflecting on how the kindness of the Wampanoag tribe who helped them got paid back with enslavement, violence and death.

I don’t say that to judge what anyone else is doing today, but rather to explain why sometimes I have a hard time “celebrating” a day that’s built around the enslavement and impoverishment of indigenous Americans and the annual slaughter of millions of innocent animals.

So today, try to take a moment from your celebration and at the very least be mindful of the suffering the Wampanoag and so many other Native Americans went through. And then take another moment to reflect on the suffering that turkey on your plate must have gone through too. 

No matter what you end up eating and how you end up celebrating today, please have a safe, relaxing and loving time with you family and friends. But please also take that moment to reflect on the real stories behind this “Holiday.” You owe it to the Native Americans, the turkeys and yourself." - Russell Simmons

Enjoy each moment today regardless of your beliefs or traditions. Express your gratitude each and every day to those who you love and to strangers as well. Never forget to say "Thank You" every time someone does something for you, no matter how big or small. I am appalled to see how many people do not thank others or are devoid of simple manners. DO for others and be the example of compassion for all living things. Count your blessings and share them with others. The capacity to do so is what you REALLY should be giving thanks for.

Let today inspire the gratitude you should have all year long!

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." ~ 

John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Where Do You Get Your Protein?

 Dan Piraro’s comic strip Bizarro

If I seriously had a nickle for every time I was asked the question, Where do you get your protein? or What do you eat? both as a Vegetarian and now as a Vegan. My husband's reply to the "what do you eat" question is "NUTRITION". Seems simple enough to me.  We eat a plant based diet (NO animal products) and try to eat as little processed food's as possible. Our rule of thumb is if it has more than 5 ingredients we try to steer clear. We also seriously limit our sugar and eat no white/bleached grains (no white sugar, flour, bread, pasta or rice). I LOVE  my lifestyle and when you KNOW better you DO better. My husband is the most physically active and fit men that I know. Being Vegan is the most amazing thing he has done for his health and fitness level. It has certainly motivated me as well. Weight loss was never the goal but a welcomed side effect for both of us.

Our Protein Sources:

*Green Veggies

*Almond Milk

*Beans

*Legumes
*Peanut Butter / Nut Butter

*Nuts

*Quinoa

*Chia Seeds (1 Table Spoon  = 2g)

*Plant Based Protein Powder (we like smoothies with fresh fruit and Almond Milk)

*Whole Grain Bread (We Eat OROWEAT - Health Nut @ 4g per slice)

   My Husband (P.S. He's 44)

I found an interesting VEGAN's story to share, does not look like he is "missing" or "lacking" anything does it?

Germany’s Strongest Man is a Vegan

“When I started the vegetarian diet I knew little about the effect it would have on my performance and strength. The reasons for my decision were mainly based on my empathy for all kinds of non human animals and the mental conflict I felt, when consuming meat, which would mean that an animal would have to lose its life for my appetite. I was amazed by the great 

gains in lean body-mass and strength that I got with the meat-free diet. After winning the German strongman title I was ready to take the next step and switch to a vegan diet.

As a strength athlete I have to make sure that my body gets all three macro-nutrients in feasible amounts. Especially protein is a key factor for the development of the type of body that is needed to endure the gruelling events you have to face as a strongman. My main protein sources are: soy-milk, soy-protein-powder, tofu, nuts and beans. To get the energy I need for my daily training sessions I use carbohydrates out of: rice, potato, oats and lots of fruits and greens and vegetables. I have never been stronger and I have never felt better in my entire life!”

FYI: Patrik currently holds the world log lift record in the 105k-category (165 kg), as well as the German heavyweight loglift record (185 kg) and the title of “Strongest Man of Germany. 

The choice is ALWAYS up to you what you put into your bodies. I think the results speak for themselves. It is all about Education and Preparation. We take a B12 Vitamin and eat a balanced diet. It is important to do your homework and listen to your body! It could be the best thing you have ever done for yourself.

Exploring Carnism

I have been a Vegetarian for almost 5 years and soon to be a full VEGAN and I find myself over and over again defending or justifying my choice to not consume meat to friends, family and strangers. Today I had a carnivorous friend tell me that she took the time to watch "Meet your Meat", "If Slaughterhouses Had Glass Walls" (Narrated by Paul McCartney) and "Meat is Not Green". She is now questioning her meat eating and never realized or made the connection that what was on her plate is brutally treated and then slaughtered for "her taste buds".

Many meat eaters sit at home and chow down on a steak while they pet their cats, or spend hundreds of dollars a month on their dogs (food, grooming, etc) and eat chicken. I was once that person and now feel ashamed and a little daft that I did not make the connection.

I wanted to share an interesting theory as to why/how we as humans can make that disconnect (besides rationalizing unhealthy behaviour). Melanie Joy (PhD) explains "Carnism" in this short video clip.

It is the psychological phenomenon behind why people eat certain animals and not others.

Check out Dr. Joy's Book "Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows" if you want to explore the subject in greater depth.

Style Maven Series: Simone Reyes

Many of you may not know this Maven but let me introduce Simone Reyes. Hip-Hop mogul Russell Simmons RIGHT hand (assistant), an unequivocal supporter and protector of animal's rights, vegan, burlesque dancer and pole dancing/fitness aficionado.

She starred on the 2010 debut of the Oxygen reality show "Running Russell Simmons" that chronicles the day-to-day grind of Russell Simmons and his fierce femme support team, that organize and facilitate Russell's busy life. Simone and Christina being the top two girls who are the closest to Russell and handle all dealings from business to personal for the extremely busy entrepreneur, entertainment and fashion mogul, philanthropist, and yogi.



Running Russell Simmons (Trailer):




What truly inspires me about Simone is her COMPASSION and PASSION for animals and their rights. She is a Vegan and a hard core supporter of PETA, Mercy for Animals, Farm Sanctuary and Animal Acres. She speaks for those who do not have a voice in our society, the millions of defenceless animals slaughtered each day so society can keep the status quo on their plates. In the wise words of Sir Paul McCartney; “If slaughterhouses had glass walls, everyone would be a vegetarian.” Think about that concept for a moment. People would have to really consider where their food comes from.

Many people also do not realize that their choice to eat meat is not only cruel but they are contributing to an entity that is the LARGEST contributor the destruction our planet - Factory Farms! Did you know that a Factory Farm creates more pollution and greenhouse gas emissions than ALL the cars, trucks, vans, planes, trains and ships in the world COMBINED! This is according to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).



I was particularly impressed by her efforts in NY times Square making a statement along side PETA (WATCH THE VIDEO)







Her quest for equality for all; men, women and animals extended to her participation in the NOH8 Campaign.
Lend your face & voice: www.noh8campaign.com

She stays fit and sexy through her pole dancing and fitness.



Simone On Pole Dancing: "I always feel it's my job to introduce women to pole dancing because I have personally gotten so much out of it. Sure, it's a hot badge of honor, a cool notch on your belt to be able to hang upside down on a pole, but the benefits go much deeper. Pole dancing takes me back to a very primitive, organic part of myself physically and emotionally. It frees me. And yes, it's HOT."
My sister owns a business called "RockNPole" (www.rocknpole.ca) which encompasses personalized fitness programs, customized pole fitness with a fun "girls night in" component of pole parties at your home. Get the girls together and ROCK the POLE! I wish more women knew of the benefits of pole fitness and dance. Spread the word Simone!!

She also has spread her creative wings into the area of burlesque dance.







Simone has a hippy-chic sense of style mixing boho with rock-n-roll and sequins; the combination of flashy & earthy! I LOVE her accessories; headbands, hats and Vintage bags. Of course all her fashion choices are 'animal friendly' too -She wears no furs, animal skins, leather or otherwise. If it ain't Vegan she's not buying.

I had a chance to ask Simone my Style Maven Questions:

LISA: Can you describe your personal Style aesthetic AND attitude about fashion?

SIMONE: My personal style is Cherie Currie meets Sharon Tate..70's glam rocker/ 60's flowerchild

LISA: What are the key components / pieces in your closet?

SIMONE: I love bell bottom jeans, platform shoes and dresses with sequins. I love anything shiny, like a bird.

LISA: How do you feel about Vintage Clothing and Accessories?

SIMONE: I am a vintage girl at heart..its boring for me to shop at a mall and I never follow trends. However, put me in a vintage store and I feel my heart begin to swell. The hunt is the most thrilling part.

LISA: What are your favorite Vintage pieces (Clothing and/or Accessories)? Do you only wear designer vintage?

SIMONE: I don't limit my wardrobe to only vintage but it's my go-to favorite look. My favorite pieces are a few 70's jumpsuits that I embellished with some retro patches and studs to rocker them up a bit. I have some delicate lace shawls that remind me of my idol, Stevie Nicks and some amazing 60's minidresses that I adore.

LISA: What are you wearing this Spring? Tell our readers the key elements for your Spring 2011 wardrobe

SIMONE: I love capes so I am going to be wearing those as the NY weather goes from chilly to breezy.

LISA: If you could give women 1 piece of STYLE advice, what would it be?

SIMONE: My style advice is to choose their wardrobe from the heart..come from a place of non-violence which means DON'T wear fur, leather, feathers, silk, wool or suede. I remember meeting with a stylist on the first season of filming "Running Russell Simmons" and the look on her face when I told her I'm a vegan and we don't wear any animal products. She had the look of "WHAT am I going to pull for her?!?!". Then, as she got to see all my pieces from my closet she understood that you don't need to be cruel to look cool. Compassion is the Fashion.










Evolution Vintage's Picks for Simone:


Vintage Silver & Black Sequin Top


Designer Re-Sale: Jovovich-Hawk Dress


Late 40's Vintage Whiting & David Metal Mesh Clutch


White Evolution Vintage T-shirt ~ vintage Style Burn out shirt - VERY ROCK N ROLL!

SHOP: www.evolution-vintage.com