TAKE THE PLEDGE : MAKE EVERYTHING NEW. RIGHT NOW.

In our little world, our little community, I think I'm mostly considered a "good girl,"  and I'm glad.  I really work hard to remain neutral, to stay out of disagreements, to work hard and to work towards a common goal.  I think on the whole, I'm able to accomplish this.   I don't like being wrapped up in drama, and I don't like to single people out and/or make any decisions ABOUT them based soly on online interactions.  People are more than the words they write online, they are more than their opinions alone.  And personally, I strive to like everyone equally until they give me a really solid reason not to.  

So as I sat here getting heated about all the ridiculous antics going on, I realized that getting upset, that posting my opinions on Facebook, Twitter, etc. only fuel the fire.  I don't want to participate in that behavior.  I want people to speak and think freely, and to be able to that openly and with courage and passion.   So my mission became instant:  pledge to work together.  This is primarily directed at the weight loss surgery and obesity community, but really?  Anyone.

I want kindness, support, and unity in a cause to spread like wildfire just as quickly as gossip, backstabbing, and negative remarks.  I want us to be unified, even in our differing opinions.  That doesn't mean that we have to be in-love with everyone in the community, it just means that we have to "cease and desist" the crappy behind the scenes (and front lines)behavior - and that means YOU.  And ME.  Let's just stop this, because really?  It's getting ridiculous, and blurring the lines of support, friendship, and activism.

 

TAKE THE PLEDGE:

• I will NOT actively search for conflict
• I will NOT spread rumors or negative comments about another community member
• I will NOT try to interfere with another's purpose, livelihood, or mission
• I will NOT purposely try to negatively promote a company or person
• I WILL speak to a person directly if I have a conflict, differing opinion or problem
• I WILL  remember that people are entitled to their opinions, even if I dislike them or disagree
• I WILL  remember that although our experiences may be different, we are working towards the same goal
• I WILL speak openly and honestly about my own personal experiences without fear of reprimand
• I WILL be kind to others
• I WILL remember that I am not perfect, but will always try to be my best to others
  
  I WILL be part of the solution, NOT the problem.

I want to create an atmosphere where any of us can walk up to another and say hello, despite any differing opinions because we know that we are part of the same community.  A community that is made up of good and bad experiences, but supported by all of us.  

I know that some of you may view this as "pollyanaish", but I'm ok with being branded that if it gets people thinking and acting and paying more attention to promoting positivity in our community.   Most of us have had a lifetime of hurt, why inflict more upon each other?     We're human, we make mistakes - sometimes towards each other - but it's how we recover from those mistakes that matter.

"What you need to know about the past is that no matter what has happened, it has all worked together to bring you to this very moment.  And this is the moment you can choose to make everything new.  Right now. " ~Author Unknown

Your actions matter, and mine do too.   I'm signing the pledge below to promise to do my best to be respectful and supportive, and hope you do too to show your renewed commitment to respect each other.  Share this on your wall and with your community if you agree.  Pledge kindness, respect, and unity.

Cheers,
Taunia 

 

 

 

Comments

[Diva Taunia]

With much respect and love,
Taunia (aka Diva Taunia)

[Donna Howard]

Well said Taunia! I'm afraid to ask what in the world is going on...remaining clueless can be a good thing. I look forward to meeting you in Vegas!

Donna Howard(formerly Journey2betrhealth on YT)

[Yvonne McCarthy (Bariatric Girl)]

Taunia if you check my blog you'll see the exact same words including being called a Pollyanna. I have posted it almost word for word...several times...and for the same reasons.

[sally]

best best best thing that has come out of this community ---NOT for a long time Taunia-- best that has come out of it EVER.

[Melting Mama]

I appreciate the attempt.

I appreciate your words.

I am upset that this in reaction to it HAPPENING TO YOU as well.

I want you to take note of how quickly it was reacted to.

[Melting Mama]

http://www.meltingmama.net/wls/2011/04/unpopular.html

[nicole]

taunia, we've never met in person, but i feel i "know" of you because of radio show, FB, and youtube. i agree with our sentiment. it's what i raised my daughters with "do onto others as you would want done onto you". that said, i'm not perfect. i try. when hurt i can speak my mind, to people i trust and hope that the "universe" forgives my anger. i have kept my mouth shut on the web, it's not my place to air my dirty laundry. but, i will keep my mouth as quiet as i can, though my lips itch to speak. i also will protect myself from future hurt. maybe this isn't a virtue, but it's part of the new behavior i am learning to further my wellness. i love your pledge. i take your pledge. forgive me if i don't adhere to it perfectly. i am human afterall. xxoo~nicole
p.s. i miss the radio show...

[sally]

Blessed are the Peacemakers---

[Robin Forbes]

Much love, Taunia! <3

[Tammy Edwards]

I love what you just said and I take you pledge and applaude you for being such an inspiration in our community. I look forward to meeting you at the Vegas Meet and Greet. Big Hugs to you Taunia!!

[Waning Woman]

*signing pledge with a calligraphy pen*

[Mvcicogni]

"kindness, support, and unity" is why we are all involved with this unique WLS community.

Thank you to all who voice the same concerns -

Ms. Taunia, looking forward to meeting you soon!
Marie