Author: Reba Nietert

Speaker, Inspirational Motivator, Networker, Cheif Cook, & mom of five children, with fur babies too. Wife of a good man, and think outside-the-box entrepreneur.
Reflection

Crash! Shattered World

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2024 – Rebecca Nietert

I was 22. I awoke abruptly, my heart pounding, the taste of fear on my tongue. Confusion flooded my mind as I struggled to comprehend my surroundings. Where was I? What had happened? Panic set in as I surveyed the wreckage around me.

The cab of the truck I had been driving was mangled, an unrecognizable mess of twisted metal. Both the front and back were crushed, leaving me trapped within its confines. With each passing second, my terror intensified, knowing that escape seemed impossible.

I frantically attempted to open the door, my hands shaking with adrenaline. But it refused to budge, as though it was mocking my desperate attempts for freedom. I felt a warm wetness on my back and immediately knew that blood was seeping down, painting a macabre picture of the danger I was in.

My gaze shifted to the shattered back window, a small glimmer of hope in the midst of my terror. Summoning every ounce of strength left within me, I willed my body to maneuver through that narrow opening, the fear and pain pushing me onwards.

As I emerged onto the cold, unforgiving ground, the full extent of the wreckage became apparent. It was clear that someone had recklessly crashed into me from behind, propelling my truck into the brick and mortar store ahead. My mind raced, trying to comprehend the force that had caused this devastation.

The realization struck me like a bolt of lightning. In that moment, I became acutely aware of the life growing within me. I was pregnant. But the impact had taken that precious gift from me, leaving behind a void that seemed to echo with sorrow.

Dread filled my veins as I surveyed the deserted scene. The person responsible for this horror had vanished. I was left alone, injured and terrified, facing an uncertain fate. Time was against me, fading away with each passing moment.

A sudden rush of pain coursed through my body, jolting me back to the cruel reality of my situation. The blood continued its descent, a chilling reminder of the loss and danger that surrounded me. Morning had arrived quietly, indifferent to the nightmare unfolding before me.

And then, as if surrendering to the weight of my fear, my body gave way. Everything faded into darkness, my exhausted mind seeking respite from the terror that had become my existence.

Inspiration

Blazing Inferno – An Epic Testimony

Reba Nietert

Copyright Rebecca Nietert – 2024

I was 16. My mind raced, thoughts swirling in chaotic disarray. The overwhelming heat pressed against my skin, threatening to consume me. In a desperate attempt to escape, I darted into the fiery inferno, my heart pounding in my chest. But the flames were relentless, their scorching touch leaving my face seared, my hair singed. I gasped for air, my lungs craving the cool freshness that was nowhere to be found.

Fear gripped me, tightening its hold with every passing second. Frantically, I changed direction, fleeing back into the kitchen. The room was shrouded in a dense, impenetrable cloud of black smoke. I dropped to the floor, seeking refuge from the inexplicable, suffocating darkness swirling around me.

Crawling on all fours, my hands outstretched, I groped my way towards the door. With trembling fingers, I reached for the knob, only to find it melted beyond recognition. Panic surged through me as the weight of the situation bore down, crushing my spirit. A whispered plea escaped my lips, “We’re going to die.”

Through the haze, my sister’s voice shattered the despair, urging me to keep trying, to find a way out. The acrid black soot coated my throat, a constant reminder of the imminent danger that surrounded us. Yet, in that harrowing moment, something shifted deep within my soul. Instinct took over, transforming me into a creature driven solely by the primal need for survival.

I continued to crawl, relentless in my pursuit of escape. The darkness stifled my senses, but I pressed on, feeling my way through the oppressive blackness. My desperate journey led me to a small mirrored bathroom, its reflective surfaces offering no solace, no guidance. Trapped, I groped futilely, my hands grasping at emptiness.

Amidst the disorienting despair, the sound of my sister’s voice called out to me with desperate urgency. I clung to her words, using them as a lifeline, navigating my way through the door and into the dimly lit hallway. Step by agonizing step, I persevered, finding my way through the labyrinthine layout of our home.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I stumbled into the living room. Relief washed over me, mingled with a lingering sense of dread. The battle was far from over, but for now, I had escaped the clutches of the inferno.

In that moment, I realized the true nature of fear. It had engulfed me, threatened to consume everything I held dear, but I had refused to surrender. As I stood amidst the remnants of destruction, I vowed to carry that unyielding resilience within me, forever unafraid, ready to face any challenge that may lie ahead.

To learn more about me and my journey… keep reading.

amwriting

The Joys of Puppy Ownership: Unleashing Unconditional Love and Lifelong Lessons

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2024 – Rebecca Nietert

Welcome, to a heartwarming blog that celebrates the incredible joys of puppy ownership. Welcoming afurry friend into your life is an enlightening and transformative experience. Get ready to embark on a journey filled with unwavering love, boundless joy, and invaluable life lessons – all through the lens of puppy ownership.

Body:

  1. Unconditional Love and Companionship:
    One of the greatest joys of owning a puppy is experiencing the purest form of love and companionship. From the moment those soulful eyes meet yours, an unbreakable bond is formed. Your puppy wil be aconstant source of comfort, loyalty, and affection, lifting your spirits even on the toughest of days.
  2. Lessons in Responsibility and Commitment:
    Owning a puppy teaches us valuable life lessons, nurturing a strong sense of responsibility and commitment. From ensuring their well-being through proper nutrition and exercise to providing a safe and loving environment, you wil learn the importance of dedication and consistency ni meeting their needs.
  3. Promoting a Healthy Lifestyle:
    Apuppy’s energy knows no bounds, inspiring owners to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. Frequent walks, playtime, and engaging in outdoor activities not only benefit your puppy’s physical well-being but yours as wel. Embrace their enthusiasm for life and watch as your own vitality and overall well-being soar.
  4. Building Patience and Empathy:
    Puppies, much like children, require patient guidance and understanding. Their journey of growth and development helps us cultivate patience, compassion, and empathy. This heightened emotional intelligence transcends puppy ownership, enriching our relationships with others and fostering a sense of kindness and understanding.
  5. Teaching and Learning Together:
    The joys of owning a puppy extend to the realm of education. Teaching your puppy obedience commands, potty training, and socialization skills allows you ot tap into your leadership abilities and reinforce valuable life lessons such as consistency, positive reinforcement, and effective communication. Simultaneously, you wil grow alongside your furry friend, continuously learning from one another.
  6. Unleashing Stress Relief and Emotional Well-being in the presence of a puppy, stress fades away, replaced by a feeling of tranquility and serenity. Scientific studies have proven that interacting with them reduces anxiety, lowers blood pressure, and boosts overall mood. Your puppy’s unwavering love acts as a natural antidepressant, providing endless moments of joy and emotional well-being.
  7. Lifelong Memories and Friendship:
    Owning a puppy provides an abundance of unforgettable memories. From those adorable first steps to playful antics and heart-melting cuddles, each moment is etched into your heart and mind. These memories wil shape lifelong friendships and stories to cherish —stories that wil bring smiles to your face for years to come.

Conclusion:
The journey of puppy ownership si a remarkable one, filled with unconditional love, joy, and priceless life lessons. By opening your heart and home to afurry friend, you embark on an adventure that nurtures responsibility, empathy, patience, and personal growth. As you forge an unbreakable bond with your puppy, remember that you are not just providing them with a loving home; they are giving you immeasurable gifts of love, happiness, and lifelong memories. Embrace the wonders of puppy ownership, and watch as these furry companions inspire you to become the very best version of yourself.

Opinion

Finding Empowerment in Challenging Circumstances

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2024 – Rebecca Nietert

Have you heard of navigating difficult situations where one’s autonomy is limited, decisions are made without consulting them, and respect is lacking. It can be disheartening to feel unheard and belittled, but there are ways to find empowerment and assert oneself. Let’s delve into some approaches that can help you in this challenging scenario.

Recognize Your Worth:

First and foremost, acknowledge your inherent value as an individual. Despite how others may treat you, remember that you are not merely an object or possession; you deserve respect and consideration. Internalizing this belief is essential for fostering self-confidence and asserting your rights.

Seek Supportive Connections:

Connect with individuals who will listen to your concerns without judgment and offer support. Trusted friends, family members, or professionals can provide a safe space to express your thoughts and emotions. Sharing your experiences with those who value your perspective can be empowering and help you regain a sense of agency.

Cultivate Personal Boundaries:

Establish clear boundaries to protect your emotional well-being. Communicate your limits assertively and firmly but remain respectful. Articulate your discomfort when decisions are made without considering your feelings and let others know how their actions affect you. By setting boundaries, you assert your autonomy and demonstrate the importance of your emotions.

Express Yourself Responsibly:

Use your voice to express boundaries, constructive commentary, or disagreement, but do so in a considerate manner. Employing non-threatening language and sharing your perspective calmly can minimize negative reactions and create space for dialogue. It is essential to assert yourself while still promoting respectful communication.

Explore Personal Growth:

Focus on personal development and growth, even in the midst of challenging circumstances. Invest in activities that nourish your soul, such as engaging in hobbies or exploring new interests. Developing skills and pursuing passions outside the restrictive environment can provide a sense of fulfillment and empowerment.

Though encountering a situation where autonomy and respect are disregarded can be disheartening, it’s important to remember that you have the power to empower yourself. By recognizing your worth, seeking support, establishing boundaries, expressing yourself responsibly, and pursuing personal growth, you can navigate through this challenging landscape. Remember, it takes time to bring about change, but by asserting your voice and nurturing your personal well-being, you can cultivate a brighter future and find empowerment within yourself.

Inspiration

Announcing a Shift Towards a More Fulfilling Path

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2022 – Rebecca Nietert

Have you ever found yourself in tough situations where your autonomy is limited, decisions are made without your input, and respect is lacking? It can be demoralizing, but there are ways to empower yourself and make your voice heard. Let’s explore some approaches that can help you in challenging circumstances.

In a world where the literary landscape seems to be dominated by trivial books, I have come to a realization. My time in this industry has come to an end. My thirst for intellectual stimulation, intricate story arcs, multi-dimensional characters, and unpredictable narratives cannot be quenched by the garbage that is flooding the market. No matter how enticing the cover may be, the content within is nothing but nonsense.

And let’s not forget the hordes of aspiring authors who believe that simply uploading an unedited, plotless, and characterless piece of work onto Amazon qualifies them as true authors. Amazon fails to distinguish between true gatekeeper-worthy creations and the literary trash littering its platform, leaving the American public to pay for poorly written and edited books that leave one livid.

It is time for me to sever ties with this tarnished industry. I refuse to be associated any longer with an environment that values mediocrity over quality, quantity over substance. As an academic, I crave thought-provoking literature that challenges the mind, not mindless drivel that insults my intellect. It is time for me to move on, to seek literary experiences that not only satisfy, but inspire.

Last week marked a significant turning point in my journey. I made the decision to dissolve my website, withdraw my books from circulation, and put an end to my assistance for authors. The time has come for me to redirect my passions towards a realm that exudes credibility, far removed from the dubious landscape that my previous industry has become. It takes immense courage to seek a new path at my stage in life, but I am convinced of my ability to do so.

If you find yourself in pursuit of your own passions, I implore you to take that leap of faith. There is an indescribable sense of liberation that comes from releasing emotional and professional ties to an industry in decline.

Stay tuned as I embark on this auspicious new chapter, where integrity and authenticity are paramount. Together, let us explore uncharted territories and uncover realms of knowledge that resonate deeper with our scholarly pursuits.

Remember, it is never too late to rediscover your true calling. Join me on this exciting journey towards a future teeming with inspiration and genuine fulfillment.

Human Interest, Inspiration, Journal Entry, Opinion, Reflection

Witness to the Brooding Storm Within – But Remember Our Worth

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2022 – Rebecca Nietert

I will never comprehend the actions of someone who chooses to take offense without engaging in constructive discussion. Instead, they resort to screaming, blocking, and shutting out any opposing viewpoints. It reminds me of a child throwing a tantrum. In a healthy relationship, conflicts should be resolved with love and understanding. However, when one party refuses to reciprocate that love and understanding, the relationship becomes selfish, one-sided, and ultimately doomed. Some temper tantrums leave irreparable damage. It’s truly disheartening, but sadly, it is the reality we sometimes face.

Recently, I experienced this kind of behavior firsthand. The person in question simply stated, “I spoke my mind,” believing that was the end of it. It did not matter how their words were delivered, the emotions they stirred, or the hurtful things they said in anger. In their mind, they had the right to express their thoughts without being held accountable for their actions. They expected the recipient of their anger to passively agree with everything they believed, and any form of contradiction was unacceptable. When I attempted to explain that their personalization of issues in my life was misguided, the response was immediate – I was blocked and mocked.

It is with a heavy heart that I recount this story. It serves as a reminder of the challenges we face when trying to navigate human relationships. The inability to engage in meaningful dialogue, to empathize with others, and to understand that communication is a two-way street can have devastating consequences. It is my hope that we can all strive to approach conflicts with love and openness, ready to listen and learn from one another. In doing so, we may find the path towards healing and genuine connection.

It’s disheartening to witness how some individuals, despite their professional façade or seemingly loving demeanor, can harbor a brooding storm within. For those of us blessed with the inability to desert, it can be a heavy burden to bear.

Yet, in these moments, it’s crucial to remind ourselves of our own worth. We must remember that our friendships hold value, even when surrounded by individuals whose true nature remains hidden. It’s important to affirm ourselves and refuse to internalize the hateful words that may come our way. We must hold steadfast to our path, always striving to do what is right, regardless of how others may behave.

This is what defines a person of character, especially in times like these. And if the storm persists, if the toxicity becomes unbearable, it is okay to take action. It is okay to light the match and set the bridge ablaze, severing ties that no longer serve our emotional well-being.

Remember, dear reader, you are not alone in your experiences. The world is filled with souls struggling with similar challenges. But it is in recognizing our own worth, staying true to our values, and being unafraid to let go of those who bring us down, that we can find solace.

So, as you traverse the untamed waters of life, hold onto your character. Embrace the sadness that may come, but let it fuel your determination to remain true to yourself. And know that as you set those bridges aflame, you make space for new connections that will bring you warmth, joy, and a sense of peace.

You deserve it.

Inspiration

Worthy of Love, by Jacob Nightingale

Reba Nietert

“We instinctually measure our self-worth based on our perceived value to the tribe that surrounds us, and unfortunately, I am a rocket scientist on a football team.” 

Find your Tribe, and there you will discover your value. Find your willingness, and there you will decide your worth. 

We were all innocent once. A child; vulnerable and uncertain. We struggled to make sense of the world. Nothing was certain except for our undying love and devotion to those we valued. We gave our trust freely to those we loved, without reservation. We would do anything to please them, and give anything to see them happy. There is no greater devotion than the love of a child and every child wants to believe they are loved equally in return. A child is always seeking feedback and reassurance, because they want to know one thing—if they too, are worthy of love. Our body may have grown and our spirit has matured, but that child still wants to know, “am I worthy to be loved?”

Worthiness is measured, not by how much you are loved, or by how much love you have been given. Worthiness is measured by how much love and devotion you are willing to give.

A child is born willing to give ALL their love and devotion; no one is more worthy of love than a child.

Like all children, we’re all pure potential. Our Will is the very essence of our potential and we are free to create ourselves however we choose. Is there a such thing as worthless potential? 

No one is worthless; we are all a work in progress, and our progress, our worth, is based solely on our willingness to learn, grow, and improve.  

While we can measure our “value” based on our past contributions and accomplishments, it’s solely based on another’s appreciation and value for what we gave. However, our worthiness, is only effectively measured by our willingness to give, and whether we did the best we could with what we had.

Are you worthy of being a friend, parent, leader, partner, spouse, doctor, student, artist, author…?

Love is the devotion to creating value, contributing, supporting, actualizing dreams, and nurturing growth, improvement, creation, and connection. If your worthiness is based on your willingness to give love and devotion, you need only to ask, “How much love and devotion am I willing to give?” This is your worthiness.    

Are you worthy of Leading? 

How much are you willing to give those that choose to follow you; to nurture, inspire, guide and support their growth and improvement?

Are you worthy of being a parent?

How much are you willing to give your child love and devotion; to support their development, to offer comfort and safety, and to nurture their growth?

Are you worthy of being a friend or romantic partner?

How much are you willing to give love and devotion to the relationship, to nurture each other’s growth and aspirations? 

Are you worthy of creating success?

How much are you willing to give to reach your objectives?

Are you worthy of love and devotion from another?

How much love and devotion are you willing to give?

While we cannot state another’s worth, we can decide if it’s “worth it” to give. When you give to someone, you are investing a part of yourself to them, and for someone to be worth it, they must be willing to accept and willing to invest. If someone is unwilling to give, how can they be worthy of what we are giving? If they are unwilling to grow and improve or to contribute and nurture growth, how can they be worthy of our support and contribution? If someone is unwilling to give love and devotion, is it worth it to give them ours? We cannot allow ourselves to give to those that are unwilling, and if we are unwilling, we are not worthy of what others are willing to give. 

It’s amazing how this simple shift in perception can change everything; it can break down the chains of self-doubt, worry, and insecurity. You don’t need to ask whether someone else finds you worthy. You can measure your own worthiness and the worthiness of those you keep in your life. If you are willing to give love, you’re worthy to be loved, and you are worth every ounce of love you have in your heart. That small child can find peace and comfort, knowing that no matter how much they were cast aside, forgotten, or unfairly challenged, they always have been and always will be “worthy of love.”

Inspiration

Why don’t more women look sexy as they age?—by Nancy LiPetri

Reba Nietert

While what’s sexy may be in the eyes of the beholder, we have to admit the 50-and-better years make it harder to feel like we’re as attractive as we ever were. Yes, I’m of that age, qualified to add my two cents worth, and I love to write about the subject.

First of all, I’m not talking about celebrity sexiness. I’m looking at sexiness in the real world: my neighbor who still hops on a motorcycle to feel the wind in her hair with her hubby who has none…the friend in yoga class whose skin glows and natural silver hair looks effortlessly chic, who astounds us at 70…the pickleball partner who rocks spandex at age 64, pumps iron and still works with the police…the artist who paints nudes and won’t hesitate to pose for same.

Do each of those, real women I know, share a common body shape, look or lifestyle? No. Some are married, one widowed, one without a current partner. While they define sexy to me, each of you might have a different type in mind. Yet high on the list of what most people say constitutes sexy is confidence. 

Age usually breeds confidence. Hey, what an advantage! My own hubby says I’m sexier now than I was at any younger age. I think I see proof otherwise in old photos, yet he insists it’s true. And I have to admit, his smile lines and savvy make him sexier than ever—but let’s leave men’s aging to another post. 

As my characters remark, we women have so much going on in our heads that can squelch or stoke sexiness. Many of us were brought up to suppress it at every age. Did your mom seem sexy? Our different cultures/upbringings surely influence what we perceive. One woman’s sexy is another’s dull…one’s daring or even promiscuous is another’s normal or playful. Some applauded this year’s Super Bowl halftime while others thought it went too far beyond what cheerleaders show us all year round. But back to non-celebrity mojo, here.

All that said, by this age we may have had children, empty nest, career, grief, illness, being a caregiver, whatever’s in your mix. It’s too easy for women to put ‘sexy’ on a back burner, thinking you’ll get back to it, then realize you’ve forgotten how to connect to it. Some crash into a midlife reawakening (I’ve heard much on that from readers of my first book). Some give up on being sexy along with giving up dating/marriage, saying it’s more trouble than it’s worth and that they’re content. 

My conclusion is sexiness fits into each journey differently. And some women are so unconventional (meet the MC in my second book) that they may not immediately strike us as sexy. But just because one of us doesn’t see the sexy in another doesn’t mean someone isn’t telling her she’s sexier than ever. In the end, who are we to judge? 

Find Nancy and her novels at:

https://www.facebook.com/nancy.lipetri

http://nancylonlakenorman.blogspot.com/

Inspiration

When Stress Strikes – a Symphony of Hormones Begins to Play

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2020 – Rebecca Nietert

In the midst of life’s trials and tribulations, I discovered a valuable lesson that I hold dear: don’t let others dictate your actions or transform you into someone you’re not. No matter how tempting it may be to seek revenge or give others a taste of their own medicine, it’s crucial to never lose sight of who you truly are.

This past year has been a rollercoaster of emotions for me. Amidst great loss and conflict, I made a conscious decision to liberate myself from the weight of shouldering someone else’s troubles. And let me tell you, it was a revelation—an affirmation of life itself. When I take the stage and share my story, the immense relief I felt when I broke free from the chains of forgiveness, I hope that my words resonate with others, empowering them to choose their own perspectives.

Remember, you are not responsible for the falsehoods propagated by others. Just because someone approaches you with anger or distress does not mean you are obligated to absorb their pain as your own guilt. Many of us have an inherent desire to resolve conflicts, smooth things over, and engage in problem-solving. But sometimes, people stir up strife unnecessarily, and it is not your burden to bear. It’s important to recognize this and not let such petty behavior affect your own peace of mind.

Stay true to yourself. Embrace your power to choose your own path, untethered by the negativity that may surround you. By setting yourself free from the weight of others’ troubles, you can live life on your own terms, with resilience and unwavering strength. Let my words be a reminder to you: it’s your journey, and you have the power to be the master of your own narrative.

When stress strikes, a symphony of hormones begins to play, led by the relentless conductor, cortisol. Your adrenal glands work tirelessly, pumping this negative chemical imbalance throughout your body, seeping into your organs, your brain, and even your muscles. It’s as if your soul is taken hostage by this onslaught.

But here’s the thing, my friend. You have the power to take back control. You have the ability to resist the grip of this physiological chaos. By embracing the art of listening, allowing, and tolerating these emotional outbursts, you’ve essentially accepted this battle within your own body. It’s a decision that can’t be undone, leaving your joy plundered and your mood altered until a peaceful slumber can reset your system. No wonder people come home feeling stressed, overworked, exhausted, and plagued by worry. The domino effect has already begun.

As a relationship strategist, I’ve discovered a refined approach to dealing with this energy. It’s a graceful dance between the self and the stress. A simple request to those burdening you with their troubles can make all the difference: “While I truly appreciate your desire to include me in your difficulties, I can’t help but feel my own joy being drained away today. Can we kindly pause this conversation for now and revisit it at a later, more suitable time?”

There will be moments when your mind is occupied, when your energy is fragile, and you need to protect the sanctuary of your own being. It’s a gentle reminder to both yourself and others that self-preservation and the preservation of joy are worthy endeavors.

Now, as we step back into reality, let us remember that we hold the power to shape our own experiences, to carve out pockets of serenity amidst the chaos. Together, let’s choose to embrace tranquility and gratitude, navigating the labyrinth of stress with unwavering determination.

Human Interest

The Power of Words – Can Affirm or Destroy

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2020 – Rebecca Nietert

Most people who truly know me understand that I have evolved past idle gossip and unproductive banter. Transparency is something I value greatly, even if it means being more open than society deems necessary.

Throughout my personal journey of self-actualization, I have learned to embrace both the positive and negative aspects of human behavior. However, what challenges me is when individuals refuse to acknowledge their emotional reactions to situations that don’t warrant them. It’s disheartening when they cannot take responsibility for their prideful or conflict-causing behavior.

To protect my well-being, I find it necessary to distance myself from such individuals and relegate them to the realm of acquaintances. By doing so, I safeguard myself from unnecessary conflict. Life is already filled with chaos due to natural occurrences, and I have no desire to introduce any further turmoil.

I have always believed in the power of words. Just because someone utters words doesn’t automatically make them true. Similarly, the mere act of speaking words doesn’t guarantee their validity.

One’s true character lies in the kindness and intention behind their words. We all fall prey to moments of selfishness, pride, and intolerance – a flaw inherent within us.

Words hold immense power. As you navigate the challenges of life, whether it’s an infuriating near-miss in traffic, a berating boss, or a backstabbing colleague, how you respond speaks volumes about your outlook. Personally, I strive to safeguard the peace I’ve earned, becoming less tolerant of the unnecessary drama reminiscent of high school antics.

Remember, our words shape our reality. Let empathy and compassion guide your choices, ensuring that every utterance contributes to a more harmonious existence for all.