"We have the power to reshape our perspectives, uplift our homes, jobs, and schools, enrich our communities, and ultimately, impact the world POSITIVELY, through each small act of positivity we choose to embrace."
Welcome to our monthly
Do Something Positive initiative!
Each month, we feature a theme centered around spreading positivity and kindness. We invite you to join us in embracing these themes, sharing your experiences with us and others, and offering suggestions for positive actions to take each month. Let's make a difference together!
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Embrace the Challenge:
April is Do Something Challenging Month
April isn’t just a month of blossoming flowers and warming weather; it’s also a time to push our boundaries and embrace challenges. This month is dedicated to Doing Something Challenging, a concept that encourages personal growth, resilience, and self-discovery. But what does “challenging” truly mean?
At its core, a challenge is any task or endeavor that requires effort, skill, or determination to overcome. It can range from stepping out of your comfort zone to tackling a long-held goal. Whether it’s physical, mental, or emotional, engaging in a challenge can unlock new levels of potential and self-awareness.
So, what are some suggestions for challenges you might undertake this April?
Chair Tai Chi and The Challenging Cat
The month of April had a message, and Rashidi heard it loud and clear:
Do something challenging.
He stood in front of the mirror, turned sideways, and shook his head. “Malcolm,” he called, patting his stomach, “An extreme case of Chronic Dunlap. Belly done lapped clean over the belt.”
Malcolm—the kitten who became king—strolled in slowly, his own round belly nearly dragging the floor.
Rashidi pointed. “Don’t look at me like that. You’re a portly king yourself.”
Malcolm blinked, then sat like royalty—calm, confident, and completely unconcerned. Then he rolled over insisting Rashidi do his morning ritual of belly rubbing, filling his food dish and pouring clean water into his stately bowl. But not today.
“Well,” Rashidi said, clapping his hands once, “your servant is making a change. YouTube Chair Tai Chi.”
He pulled a chair into the living room, positioned his IPad just right, straightened his shoulders, and began. “Inhale… exhale… slow and steady…”
His arms lifted with surprising grace. Then—thump.
Malcolm landed squarely in his lap as if to say, “Aren’t you forgetting something, Old Man?”
“Whoa! Not part of the program,” Rashidi laughed, trying to stay balanced. “I’m working on this swollen belly, which is challenging enough without your added weight.”
Malcolm purred louder, circling once before settling in deeper.
Rashidi shook his head. “So let me understand this… I improve, and you remain a fat cat king? No, no, no. That’s not how this works.”
He lifted Malcolm gently and placed him on a second chair. “You sit. Observe. Learn something.”
Malcolm sat. Watched inquisitively, wondering how long this new routine will last.
Rashidi resumed. “Inhale… exhale…”
He moved again—arms out, slow turn, steady breath.
For a moment, peace.
Then—another leap.
“Malcolm!” Rashidi laughed, catching him midair this time. “You are determined to interrupt this program.”
Seemingly content with his maneuvers to remain king of the castle, Malcolm gave a soft, satisfied purr.
Rashidi looked at him, then toward the kitchen. “Ahh… I see what this is. Strategic distraction.”
He set Malcolm down and walked to the kitchen. “Very well, Your Majesty. Let us negotiate.”
A moment later, the gentle sound of kibble hitting a bowl filled the room.
Malcolm trotted over immediately.
Rashidi smiled. “Challenge requires wisdom.”
With Malcolm occupied, he returned to his chair, lifted his arms, and began again. “Inhale… exhale…”
This time—no interruptions.
Just movement, breath, and quiet determination.
When he finished, he stood a little taller, feeling just a bit stronger.
Malcolm returned, licking his paw, satisfied.
Rashidi looked down at him. “You kept me on my toes… but I found a way.”
Malcolm brushed against his leg, challenge completed.
Rashidi nodded. “That’s what this month is about. Doing something challenging—and sticking with it.”
Malcolm glanced up, calm and confident as ever.
As if to say—
We shall see, servant… we shall see.
Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
1. Physical Challenge: Sign up for a local 5K run or hike a challenging trail.
Engaging in physical activities not only improves fitness but also boosts mood and
reduces stress.
2. Skill Development: Learn a new language or musical instrument. Committing to a
new skill can enhance cognitive abilities and foster a sense of accomplishment.
3. Creative Endeavors: Try your hand at painting, writing, or photography. Creative
challenges stimulate the brain, encourage self-expression, and can lead to unexpected
discoveries about yourself.
4. Social Initiative: Volunteer for a cause you’re passionate about. Engaging with
your community fosters connections, empathy, and a sense of purpose.
5. Personal Growth: Set a goal to meditate daily or keep a gratitude journal. These
practices can foster mindfulness, improve mental health, and lead to a more positive
outlook on life.
The benefits of doing something challenging are manifold. First and foremost,
conquering challenges builds resilience. Each obstacle overcome reinforces our ability
to face future difficulties, instilling confidence and a sense of achievement. Moreover,
challenges often lead to personal growth. They force us to confront our fears and
limitations, allowing us to expand our horizons and discover new passions.
Additionally, engaging in positive challenges can have a ripple effect on our well-being.
As we grow, we inspire those around us to do the same, creating a community of
support and motivation. The act of challenging ourselves can not only transform our
lives but also uplift others, fostering a collective spirit of perseverance.
This April, take a moment to reflect on what challenges you might embrace. Remember,
the journey of growth often begins with a single step into the unknown. So, why not
make this month the one where you conquer your challenges and reap the rewards of
personal achievement?
Do Something Positive