Category: Uncategorized

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Heaven-Touched Views: Life in a Craftsman Mountain Home

Reba Nietert

There’s a kind of magic that only exists deep in the heart of the mountains, where a craftsman-style home nestles quietly among the pines and wildflowers. Here, the world feels both infinite and intimate—views stretch up to heaven, blue and endless, while the sturdy beams and warm wood of the household you close, safe and grounded.

Every window frames a living masterpiece: sunbeams spilling over distant ridges, clouds drifting lazily above peaks, and forests whispering secrets only the mountains know. The air is always a little cooler, edged with the scent of pine and earth, as if the whole world is taking a deep, cleansing breath.

Outside, playfulness is the order of the day. Pups dart and dash across the meadow, chasing birds that swoop just out of reach and small critters that scurry through the brush. Their joy is contagious, their energy a gentle reminder to savor every moment—to let laughter echo off the hills and let curiosity lead us down winding paths.

There’s so much to do here that you can’t do anywhere else, especially when the temperatures dip and the world feels fresh and new. Midday rides on horseback become adventures through golden light and dappled shadows, the rhythmic clop of hooves blending with the rush of a nearby stream. Biking through valleys, the landscape rolls out before you—each turn revealing a new secret, a new thrill. The call of the wild grows stronger as you climb higher, ATV roaring up to the tallest points, where the world falls away beneath you and the sky feels close enough to touch.

Fly fishing in crystal clear waters is a meditation, a dance between patience and hope. The sun glints on the surface, the line arcs gracefully, and for a moment, there’s only you, the water, and the promise of something wonderful just beneath the surface.

And when the day’s adventures are done, there’s nothing like gathering around a table filled with homegrown ingredients—crisp greens, sweet berries, and the hearty flavors of food crafted with love and care. The laughter is warmer, the stories richer, and the sense of belonging deeper.

In this place, the quiet is never lonely. It’s filled with the music of the wind, the playful bark of a dog, the distant call of a bird, and the gentle hum of a life well-lived. Here, in the crisp mountain air, every moment is an invitation—to play, to reflect, to love, and to truly live.

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The Serenity of the Lake: Where Stillness Meets Joy

Reba Nietert

There’s a hush that settles over the water at dawn, the kind of quiet that feels sacred—almost as if the world is holding its breath in reverence. The lake stretches out in front of me, a glassy expanse reflecting the gentle blush of early morning. Here, time slows. Here, my soul exhales.

I watch as my dogs, those furry bundles of kinetic joy, race along the shoreline. Their paws kick up dew-damp grass, their tails high with purpose and delight. They chase each other in wide, looping arcs, tongues lolling, eyes sparkling. There’s a kind of magic in their movement—a pure, unfiltered happiness that shoots straight to the heart and fills me with a calm, unexpected rush of dopamine. It’s impossible not to smile, not to let their exuberance seep into my bones and soften the edges of whatever weight I carried to the water’s edge.

Above us, the wind stirs the leaves in the trees. They flitter and dance, catching the light in a thousand shades of green and gold. I find myself watching the way each leaf trembles, the way the branches sway and bow. It’s a gentle reminder that God lives here, in the quiet beauty of the woods, in the hush between the breeze and the water, in the ordinary miracle of another day. The world feels both impossibly vast and intimately close, as if I’m being cradled in the palm of something loving and eternal.

Out here, the remoteness isn’t lonely—it’s restorative. The silence isn’t empty—it’s full, brimming with the subtle music of nature: the distant call of a bird, the soft lapping of waves, the rhythmic panting of tired, happy dogs. In these moments, I remember how alive I am. I feel the pulse of my own heart, the steadiness of my breath, the quiet joy of simply being. The lake’s serenity fills me up, washing away the noise and hurry of everyday life, leaving only gratitude and peace.

Sometimes, all it takes is a quiet morning, a wild-hearted dog, and the shimmer of sunlight on water to remind me of what matters. Of how much love there is in the world—whispering through the trees, running along the shore, waiting patiently for us to notice.

Inspiration, Uncategorized

Let’s Discuss Gender Bias

Reba Nietert

Gender Biased Laws: Exclusion of Women and Preferential Treatment of Men since 1940. This means your direct lineage has had to endure female oppression in their lifetime.

It is essential to acknowledge the existence of laws that historically excluded women while conferring preferential treatment to men. This list explores some of the legislations, regulations, and practices that perpetuated gender bias against women, focusing on laws enacted since 1940. By shedding light on these discriminatory practices, we aim to raise awareness of past injustices, promote equality, and emphasize the importance of ongoing efforts to ensure equal rights for all.

Employment Discrimination: Many laws and workplace practices between 1940 and present day have favored men over women. Examples include laws permitting preferential hiring of men for certain positions, regulations forbidding women from specific job roles, and a gender pay gap that persists despite legal advances. These discriminatory measures limited women’s access to equal employment opportunities and career advancement. In my lifetime I’ve lost countless shortage of positions due to the fact I did not have a penis and couldn’t use the men’s athletic facilities.

Inheritance and Property Laws: Numerous jurisdictions enforced laws that favored male inheritance rights over female heirs. These laws often granted men the right to inherit and own property, while women faced restrictions or were denied these rights altogether. Such practices perpetuated gender inequity in the transmission of wealth and property. Not until the 1980’s was a woman allowed to buy a mortgage for a home without a man’s signature and it was frowned upon until the 2000’s.

Political leadership: I often hear men argue that leadership should be awarded to the best “person” for the job. But why must it always be a man? Allow me to challenge that notion. If we find ourselves in a situation where both candidates are men and neither is suitable for the role, why can’t we consider a woman? Why has a woman never held the highest office in our country? And why did it take hundreds of years for a woman to finally become vice president?

The truth is, women in leadership face relentless criticism. They are scrutinized for their appearance, their speech patterns, their word choices, and even the style of their hair. Meanwhile, their performance and ideals are often sidelined and ignored. On the other hand, men are only praised for their performance, and no one seems to care about their looks. This bias is deeply unfair. It perpetuates a system that overlooks and undervalues the incredible talent, intelligence, and capabilities that women bring to the table.

Marriage Laws: In some regions, marriage laws introduced during this period reinforced male dominance within the institution of marriage. Provisions such as the concept of marital power, which granted the husband authority over his wife’s legal and financial decisions, perpetuated gender imbalances and limited women’s autonomy within marriage. Men were allowed to say wives were crazy. Women were restricted to specific attire. In today’s culture women are shamed for being too thin, too fat, too tall, to masculine, too independent, to lazy, etc.

Voting Rights: While significant progress was made to secure women’s suffrage in the early 20th century, certain jurisdictions implemented laws or practices that impeded women’s access to voting rights. These included impediments such as literacy tests, poll taxes, and stringent registration requirements, creating barriers that particularly targeted women of marginalized communities. Since the 1960’s we’ve been trying to pass the Equal Rights Amendment but to date it’s still on the floor for vote. This might eliminate men taking our trophies ladies!

Family Law: Throughout the period, family laws often exhibited gender bias, favoring men in various aspects. For instance, laws granting child custody primarily to fathers, regardless of the best interests of the child, undermined women’s rights as equal parents. Prioritizing men in divorce proceedings further exacerbated inequities by granting them greater financial support and control over assets.

Military Service: Some countries enforced laws that required compulsory military service solely for men, while exempting women from such obligations. As a result, women were denied the opportunity to serve their country and gain the associated benefits and opportunities available to men in terms of career advancement and other military-related privileges.

Social Security and Pensions: Certain systems of social security and pensions have historically discriminated against women, creating disparities in retirement benefits. These discriminatory practices were often rooted in gender-based assumptions, such as considering women primarily dependent on their husbands’ financial support or undervaluing the importance of their contributions to the workforce. Today women can choose to stay home, but be careful because should you actually age, choosing to have children and not earn outside income could leave you penniless in retirement.

This list represents only a fraction of the many gender-biased laws and practices that have disadvantaged women in the last eight decades. Recognizing and rectifying past injustices is essential to building a more equitable society. By acknowledging the discriminatory laws of the past, we can strive for a future where gender-based disparities are eradicated, and equal rights and opportunities are enjoyed by all individuals, regardless of their gender.

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Beyond the Bullet: Triumph Over Prejudice

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2024 – Rebecca Nietert

Age 21 – In a world often marred by prejudice and ignorance, a single moment can alter lives indefinitely. Such was the case when a bullet punctured my existence, yet again, forever changing the course of my life.

I found myself tired. Tired of the discontent, tired of the fight, tired of the prejudice, tired of the meanness in the world. The weight of it all seemed unbearable, suffocating any glimmers of hope that once flickered within me.

At that point in time, I had been through so many traumatic events that I couldn’t justify why a human being would want to take my life, simply because of how they believed. It perplexed me, shattered me, and left me wondering how a twisted opinion of truth could hold more value than my right to exist.

Within the depths of serenity, where calm waters once flowed, a tempest brewed, unseen and unyielding. Blissfully unaware, I traversed my community, basking in a sense of belonging, blissfully ignorant of the prejudice lurking beneath the surface. Our neighborhood, awash with the vibrant hues of diversity, became our sanctuary, promising harmony. Little did I know, the tranquility was but a deceptive haze, concealing the impending storm.

It happened innocently enough – a simple outing, a shared journey to an event. Bubba and his truck, seemingly ordinary, came to a halt beside us at the red light. Yet, as I glanced out of the corner of my eye, a sight caught my attention – a shotgun in his grasp. Panic surged through my veins, and with a voice strangled by fear, I screamed, “Go!” In an instant, the deafening explosion broke the silence, its impact resonating as if fired from a cannon. The screech of metal, the reverberating blast shattered the tranquility that held my ordinary life together. In a twisted dance of ignorance, a prejudiced man had sought to silence the very beauty of diversity that eluded his grasp. The bullet, guided by hate’s twisted motives, found its fated target, tearing through my flesh, lodging itself within my physical being. Pain, confusion, and an avalanche of disbelief entwined, as the world around me descended into shadow.

In the aftermath, a palpable hopelessness enveloped me. I questioned the very nature of our existence, shaken to the core by the recognition that prejudice and hatred still hold sway, lurking within the hearts of those we once deemed neighbors. As the tendrils of agony reached deeper, piercing my soul, I found myself adrift in a desolate sea of despair.

Navigating the abyss in the aftermath of the shooting proved to be an arduous journey, one where the scars etched onto my body paled in comparison to the soul-deep wounds inflicted upon my being. The malicious act of a single soul had shattered the foundations of my trust, leaving me precariously perched upon the precipice of hopelessness. Yet, even within the unfathomable darkness, a faint ember of resilience flickered within.

Through therapy, self-reflection, and unwavering perseverance, I emerged from the shadows of prejudice as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The bullet that once sought to eradicate my existence inadvertently fueled a fire within me, igniting a passion for dismantling prejudice in all its forms. I channeled my pain into advocacy, standing tall as a voice for those silenced by prejudice, striving to foster understanding and acceptance within society.

While the bullet may have torn through my physical being, it failed to inhibit the indomitable spirit within me. The journey from victim to advocate has been arduous, littered with obstacles and moments of doubt. Yet, it has also been marked by profound growth, illuminating the strength of the human capacity for resilience. By sharing my story and standing against prejudice, I hope to inspire others to rise above their own adversities and reshape the world with compassion and understanding. Prejudice may have pulled the trigger, but it was the force of love and acceptance that triumphed in the end, proving that even the darkest moments can give birth to immense light.

As the venomous tendrils of bubba’s prejudice wormed their way into the very core of our relationship, the damage inflicted ran deep, beyond any possibility of repair. It was I who suffered the wounds, yet I understood the all-consuming hatred that had taken root in both our cultures. In his world, I became an outcast, scorned and shunned by the women who saw my presence as a threat to their established norms. On the other hand, within my own circles, my family greeted him warmly, offering open arms, but my friends and colleagues showed no such appreciation. Acutely aware of the shift in perception, I knew that every step I took alone on the street would not be met with judgment and disdain, vastly different from the demeanor I witnessed when he was by my side. The weight of prejudice and loathing would forever loom over us, casting a shadow that inevitably tore us apart.

This is not just the tale of one tragic encounter, but a stark reminder of the relentless storm that brews within society. It is a call to our collective consciousness, urging us to confront the demons that plague our souls and embrace the diversity that fortifies our existence. The path ahead may seem treacherous, shrouded in the dour cloak of hopelessness, but it is through our resilient spirit that we may yet find solace.

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Laughing At Myself – Laying Down Pride

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2019 – Rebecca Nietert

Join us on an unforgettable adventure with friends as we embark on a brisk evening walk. It all started when I invited my two besties, one 13 years old, the other my age, to accompany me on this journey. Curiosity arose from their sweet souls as they inquired about the presence of my youngest, a sprightly 12-year-old named Laura. With a smile, I informed them that Laura was not at home, but if she were, we would discover a newfound swiftness during our stroll, as she possesses a natural speed envied by even the most outstanding athletes. Chuckling, we set off together.

As fate would have it, serendipity intervened, and to our surprise, Laura returned home, hastily dropped her belongings, and sprinted down the street to meet us around the corner. Her energy was contagious. What started as a leisurely walk slowly transformed into an exhilarating game of trying to outmaneuver and outpace Laura.

As the night deepened and weariness began to tug at our muscles, we realized we were merely 30 minutes into our journey with another 15 minutes remaining. Darkness enveloped our surroundings, adding an air of mystery to our adventure.

It was finally my turn to demonstrate my abilities. Determined to keep up, I propelled myself through the grass, exerting all the force I could muster. Yet, fate had a different plan. In an unforeseen moment, my foot stumbled upon an unsuspecting divot hidden beneath the foliage. The notion of catching up with Laura in the dark now seemed ludicrous. In an instant, my pride shattered as I found myself face planted, my knees sinking into the soil. The humiliation washed over me, and I couldn’t help but laugh, knowing that I alone was at fault for my misstep.

Join us on this compelling journey where laughter, camaraderie, and unexpected obstacles forge unforgettable memories. Let us remind ourselves that in life, it’s not always about winning, but about embracing the joy of stumbling, laughing, and discovering the irreplaceable bonds of friendship. Together, we’ll experience moments that leave us humbled and grateful for life’s beautiful imperfections.

Don’t miss this opportunity to embark on an extraordinary adventure with friends. Allow us to guide you through tales that will warm your heart and evoke a sense of shared humanity. Come, let us weave a tapestry of unforgettable experiences – because life is an adventure worth living.

amwriting, Inspiration, Uncategorized

The Power of Forgiveness: Healing from Missed Connection

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2018 – Rebecca Nietert

Life, with its unpredictable twists and turns, often leads us to cross paths with numerous individuals. Some become close friends, while others remain mere acquaintances. But what happens when the trajectory of these connections takes an unexpected turn, leaving us with regrets and unspoken words? Today, we reflect on the power of forgiveness and how it can help us heal from missed connections that we carry with us.

Body:

1. The Blessing of a Network:

Having an extensive network and knowing a multitude of people is often seen as a blessing. It opens doors, creates opportunities, and fosters a sense of belonging. However, amidst the constant movement and ever-changing landscapes, maintaining deep connections can be a challenge. Life’s circumstances, such as frequent relocations, can make it challenging to cultivate and sustain intimate friendships.

2. Reflecting on Missed Connections:

Sometimes, we are confronted with the reality of missed connections when someone we knew suddenly passes away. The weight of missed opportunities to reach out and reconnect floods our souls. We are left grappling with the guilt of not being present or extending a helping hand when it was needed the most. This experience serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing our relationships.

3. The Alpha Male Paradox:

In our pursuit of connection, we often overlook those who appear strong and self-reliant. The alpha males or individuals who exude confidence and independence may give off the impression that they will always be okay. This assumption can lead us to neglect reaching out to them, not realizing that even the strongest among us may require support and empathy.

4. Embracing Forgiveness:

Forgiveness is not only a gift we offer others but also a powerful tool for our own healing. It is easier to forgive others when we understand that life’s challenges can hinder communication and connections. By extending forgiveness to ourselves for missed opportunities, we can release the burden of guilt and embrace the lessons learned.

5. A Path to Healing:

Forgiveness provides a path to healing and closure. Through forgiveness, we acknowledge our humanity and recognize that we cannot control every aspect of our lives. We learn to let go of regret, honoring the memories we shared while accepting that some connections were meant to be fleeting. By forgiving ourselves and others, we create space for growth and compassion.

6. Embracing the Present:

The experience of missed connections serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of being present in our relationships. It allows us to reevaluate our priorities and invest our time and energy in cultivating meaningful connections with those around us. By embracing the present moment, we can foster deeper connections and mitigate the regret of missed opportunities.

Conclusion:

Forgiveness holds the key to healing from missed connections that weigh heavily on our hearts. As we navigate through life’s network of relationships, let us remember to extend forgiveness not only to others but also to ourselves. Embrace the present, prioritize meaningful connections, and cherish the opportunity to create lasting bonds. For in forgiveness lies the power to find solace, acceptance, and ultimately, the freedom to forge deeper connections filled with love and understanding.

Inspiration, Uncategorized

Embracing Vulnerability: Rediscovering Our Emotional Depth

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2015 – Rebecca Nietert

Dear readers, today we embark on a personal introspection, exploring the depths of our emotions and the power of vulnerability. It is through self-reflection and understanding that we can reconnect with the rawness of our experiences and nurture a more fulfilling emotional journey. Join me as we delve into the complexities of our past, embrace vulnerability, and rediscover the girl or young woman we may have lost along the way.

Unveiling Layers of Transparency:

In this journey we call life, we often pride ourselves on being transparent and open about our experiences, choices, and circumstances. We share our stories with others, hoping to inspire and connect. However, there are times when others perceive our words as shallow or even unbelievable. It is in those moments that we must pause and reflect on our own emotional depth.

The Survivor Within:

Many of us have lived through challenging circumstances, and we wear our experiences as badges of survival. We have become tough, resilient, and fiercely determined individuals. But somewhere beneath that strength lies the girl or young woman who initially felt every moment of pain. Have we learned to forgive to the point where emotional attachment to the past dissipates? Or have we unintentionally created a protective shield, burying our emotions deep within?

Exploring Emotional Attachment:

For some, the absence of emotional attachment to painful experiences may indeed be a form of healing and growth. It could represent an evolved state of forgiveness and a release from the burden of the past. However, it’s crucial to examine the possibility of suppressing emotions as a result of trauma, leading to a form of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By acknowledging our coping mechanisms, we can begin the journey towards reclaiming emotional depth.

Embracing Vulnerability:

True emotional growth lies in our ability to embrace vulnerability and acknowledge the wounds we once carried. It requires a willingness to peel back the layers of toughness and reconnect with our most authentic selves. By doing so, we can reawaken the emotions that were once buried, allowing ourselves to process, heal, and move forward towards a more profound sense of wholeness.

The Path Forward:

As we venture forward on this journey of self-discovery, it is essential to surround ourselves with a supportive community. Seeking guidance from trusted friends, family, or professionals can provide the necessary encouragement to delve into our emotions and help us navigate through any buried pain. By actively engaging in self-reflection, practicing self-compassion, and embracing vulnerability, we can gradually rediscover the emotional depth we may have lost.

Conclusion:

When we reflect on our past and the emotional journey that brought us to where we are today, it is important to honor both our resilience and vulnerability. Let us remember that emotional growth is not linear, and healing takes time. By acknowledging and exploring our emotions, we can rediscover the girl or young woman whose pain may have been overshadowed by strength. Together, let us embrace vulnerability as a powerful tool for personal growth, nurturing a more profound emotional connection with ourselves and those around us.

Inspiration, Uncategorized

The Power of Choice: Embracing Joy in Times of Adversity

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2015 – Rebecca Nietert

Life often presents us with challenges that test our resilience and strength. During these trying times, it is natural to find ourselves stuck in a state of despair. However, even amidst the darkest moments, there is a flicker of hope. Today, we explore the transformative power of choice and how embracing joy can lead us towards healing, growth, and ultimately, triumph.

The Impact of Hurtful Words:

Words can wound deeply, particularly when they come from those who lack empathy and understanding. When faced with insensitivity and impatience from others, it is easy to dismiss the idea of finding joy amid suffering. We seek solace in accepting the notion that it is their own limitations speaking, rather than genuine concern for our well-being. However, embracing the wisdom within their words can be a gateway to liberation and self-discovery.

Accepting the Full Picture:

In the midst of life’s trials – losing a home, battling with health issues, and experiencing emotional turmoil – it is understandable to feel overwhelmed and trapped in despair. It is imperative to acknowledge the weight of these challenges but also recognize that they do not determine our ability to find joy. The key lies in our perception and our capacity to process these difficulties in a healthy manner.

Choosing Resilience:

Resilience is a choice, a conscious decision to nurture our well-being despite adverse circumstances. It begins with understanding that we have the power to influence our own mindset and emotions. By acknowledging our pain and seeking healthy coping strategies, we open ourselves up to the possibility of embracing joy. It is a gradual, sometimes arduous, process, but the rewards are immeasurable.

Discovering Meaning and Purpose:

In our darkest moments, we have an opportunity to find meaning and purpose. By facing adversity head-on, we become aware of our own strength and resilience. Through this process of self-discovery, we unveil our true potential. Each hurdle we overcome adds depth and meaning to our journey, guiding us towards a newfound appreciation for joy and a renewed sense of purpose.

Shifting Perspectives:

To embrace joy in the face of suffering requires a shift in perspective. We must recognize that joy is not the absence of pain but rather coexists with it. It is through acknowledging our pain that we can fully appreciate the moments of joy that light our path. By cultivating gratitude, practicing self-compassion, and surrounding ourselves with positivity, we create space for joy to flourish.

Conclusion:

Embracing joy is not an easy task, especially when faced with overwhelming challenges. However, it is a choice we can make each day, no matter how small the steps may be. By processing our hurt in a healthy way, nurturing resilience, and shifting our perspectives, we unlock a profound sense of personal growth and inner strength. In the face of adversity, let us courageously choose joy, illuminating our journey and inspiring others to do the same.