• Home
  • Featured Posts
  • VoiceAmerica Channels
    • Business
    • Empowerment
    • Health
    • Influencers
    • Kids
    • Variety
  • Reviews
    • Movie Reviews
  • Food
  • Contribute
  • About VoiceAmerica
VoiceAmerica Press Blog | Internet Talk Radio News
  • Home
  • Featured Posts
  • VoiceAmerica Channels
    • Business
    • Empowerment
    • Health
    • Influencers
    • Kids
    • Variety
  • Reviews
    • Movie Reviews
  • Food
  • Contribute
  • About VoiceAmerica
  • Home
  • bethestaryouare

Tag Archives

69 Articles

A Tribute to Mothers

Posted by Cynthia Brian on May 15, 2023
0
Empowerment
A Tribute to Mothers

Miracle Moment®

“My mother said to me,

If you become a soldier, you’ll be a general;

if you become a monk, you’ll end up as the Pope. 

Instead, I became a painter & wound up as Picasso.”

Pablo Picasso

 


A Message from Founder/Executive Director, Cynthia Brian

When I was a little girl, my mother told me that she would cut off her right arm to save any of her children if they were in danger. I remember being horrified at this suggestion. If she didn’t have her right arm, how would she hug her five children? It wasn’t until I became a mother and a Momma Bear, that I understood the intense devotion, dedication, and protection a mother has for her offspring. The love of mothers for their children is an incomparable force that knows no bounds. It is a love that transcends time, distance, and even death. It is a love that is unconditional, unselfish, and pure. As a mother, we want our children to be happy, successful, and loving.

A mother’s love is often described as fierce, but what does that really mean? It means that a mother will go to great lengths to protect and care for her children, no matter the cost. She will sacrifice her own needs and wants to ensure that her children are well-fed, well-clothed, and well-loved. She will work tirelessly to provide for them, to guide them, and to teach them the values and principles that will help them navigate the world.

The love of a mother is also incredibly forgiving. No matter how many mistakes her children make, no matter how many times they disappoint her, she will always welcome them back with open arms. She will offer words of encouragement, a shoulder to cry on, and a listening ear, even when her children don’t deserve it.

How, then, can we honor the great mothers in our lives? Here are a few suggestions:

  1. Express gratitude. Whether it’s a heartfelt thank-you note, a phone call, or a simple hug, make sure your mother knows just how much you appreciate all that she has done for you.
  2. Spend quality time together. Set aside some time to do something special with your mother, whether it’s going out for lunch, taking a walk in the park, or watching a movie together. Make sure she knows that she is important to you and that you enjoy spending time with her.
  3. Help out around the house. Mothers often bear the burden of household chores and responsibilities. Show your appreciation by taking on some of those tasks yourself. Help with the cooking, cleaning, or laundry, or take care of younger siblings so that your mother can have a well-deserved break.
  4. Support her dreams and goals. Just as mothers support their children’s dreams and goals, it’s important to support your mother’s aspirations as well. Whether she wants to go back to school, start a new hobby, or travel the world, let her know that you are behind her all the way.
  5. Tell her you love her. This may seem obvious, but it’s important to say those three little words often and sincerely. Don’t assume that your mother knows how you feel – tell her in no uncertain terms how much you love her and how grateful you are for all that she has done.
  6. Make a donation honoring your wonderful Mother. Visit https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504 

The love of mothers for their children is a powerful force that should never be taken for granted. Mothers cheer for us and believe we can do anything.

I’m glad that my mother never had to sacrifice her right arm to save her children, yet, I know as a mother, and now a grandmother, I would do the same for my family.

Take the time to honor the great mothers in your life and let them know just how much they mean to you. They have given us life. Express your gratitude and appreciation.

Listen to our teens, Keerthi, Kirpa, and Milan talk about the history of Mother’s Day and why they are grateful for their Moms. Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/143981/happy-mothers-day

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY to all the AMAZING WOMEN who care for the world.

Remember, we are all Picasso’s to our mothers!

Sincerest gratitude,

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3 charity

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

https://www.CynthiaBrian.comhttps://www.CynthiaBrian.com
Being a Mother and Grandmother

FUN AT THE FAIRE

The Be the Star You Are!® booth at the Moraga Faire, under the direction of out two teen chairpersons, Ruhani and Taylin, was a roaring success. Our volunteers helped hundreds of children and adults plant seeds, distributed potpourri, told stories and read from the book, No Barnyard Bullies, in the Reading Circle, and walked around the Faire handing out goodies. Thanks again to our sponsor, MB Jessee Painting, www.MBJESSEE.com.

https://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-eventshttps://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-eventshttps://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-events
https://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-eventshttps://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-eventshttps://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-events
Scenes from the Fun Faire

Everyone had a great time and we look forward to seeing you next year! https://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-events


DONATE YOUR SHOES THROUGH END OF JUNE

Be the Star You Are!® in collaboration with Mark Hoogs State Farm Insurance and 5 A Rent a Space are collecting new or gently worn shoes to ship to women and families in developing countries. With the Russian war against Ukraine and the unprecedented natural disasters around the world, millions of people are currently experiencing difficult living conditions. Although books are always an enlightening resource, shoes are a basic necessity.

Through June 30th, drop shoes at these two locations:

·      Mark Hoogs

State Farm Insurance

629 Moraga Road, Moraga

925-254-3344

www.TeamHoogs.com

·      5 A Rent-A-Space

455 Moraga Rd. #F, Moraga

925-631-7000

https://5aspace.com/

With your donation of shoes, you will be sharing your love. Thank you!

For more information, visit https://www.bethestaryouare.org/shoedrive

https://www.bethestaryouare.org/shoedrivehttps://www.bethestaryouare.org/shoedrivehttps://www.bethestaryouare.org/shoedrive
Be the Star You Are!® Shoe Drive

TO OUR MOTHERS

by Julia Howe

Each mother is uniquely beautiful.

Maybe she’s the she-E-O of her own life, fearlessly proposing her investment model at a table that would dismiss her. Yet, she still saves an extra 2 hours of the 26 she works to binge-watch Buffy the Vampire Slayer with me.

Perhaps she is a trailblazer, doing research by women for women, and a compassionate doctor who learned Mandarin so she can crack jokes with her patients. She’s also the mother who I crawl into bed with when I’m shaking from a midnight nightmare, and she will always hold me close and say, “You are safe while you are here with me.”

To the parent who wears many hats, from nurse to teacher to chef to chauffeur. Motherhood is a job that demands ceaseless dedication, patience, selflessness, and unwavering love. It changes one life and also changes billions of them. My mother embodies both selfless love and unwavering strength. Her love is the purest form of love there is; the unwavering force that transcends boundaries and radiates through every aspect of our lives.

Mothers are often compared to superheroes, cheerleaders, and warriors because of their ability to juggle multiple responsibilities, be present at every event, and fight fiercely for their children’s well-being. But our mothers go beyond comparison. There is no superhero who, like her, can enliven and electrify all who stumble across her path. There is no cheerleader who will go wild when you lose your first tooth. There is no warrior who fights with kindness.

It is a rare person who can battle without hate.

My mother leads by example. She is beautiful, so I can be beautiful. She doesn’t just protect me; she strengthens me. Most of all, she is a person whom I love.

A person whom I love very much.

Teen Artwork credited to Perisu Deviren, Nathaniel Howe, and Alison Cohn

Julia Howe is a teen reader and writer with Be the Star You Are!®, passionate about youth mental health and literacy. She loves exploring innovative education methods and running long distances.”


BTSYA TEEN SHOWCASED

Teen poet and Express Yourself!® host, Sharaya, has been honored to have her poetry on display at the Orinda Library in a special showcase of art and poetry.

Congrats, Sharanya. https://lamorindaarts.org/product/joann-lieberman-that-was-then/


MORE NEWS

Next month Be the Star You Are!® will be focusing on the mental health of teens with articles and radio broadcasts. One of the organizations that we will be featuring is A Brighter Day.

A Brighter Day is a nonprofit organization that is passionate about improving the lives of teenagers and young adults by providing them with essential mental health resources and support. The organization’s upcoming events offer an exciting opportunity for teens to get involved, make a difference, and join a community dedicated to making the world a better place for teenagers! By volunteering with A Brighter Day, teens can gain valuable experience, make new friends, and create positive change in their own lives and the lives of others.

No prior experience is needed, just communication and teamwork skills!

2023 Charity Golf Tournament, Crow Canyon Country Club, Danville, flexible hours 9 am – 7 pm

Car Show at Broadway Plaza, Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek, flexible hours, 10 am – 6 pm

Anyone interested email the volunteer coordinator, Shaina, at shaina@abrighterday.info!

 


 

Share StarStyle® Empowerment

SIMPLE WAYS TO HELP!

Spring is time to stock up on gifts for holidays forthcoming. We have suggestions for you to shop, save, and stay safe. Please use these web sites for all of your shopping essentials.

1. Discounted books at Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity

Giving Assistant Icon 234x60

2. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash at 3500+ popular online stores :https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc

3. Shop at over 1300 stores on IGIVE: http://www.iGive.com/BTSYA

2020 IGIVE logo

4. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” black tanks and books at StarStyle® Store:

http://www.starstylestore.net/

5. Are you a gamer, lover of new software, or other digital content? Buy all of your favorites at Humble Bundle. http://ow.ly/cYs130iN6n4e


OUR RADIO BROADCASTS EMPOWER!

When you want to be uplifted and informed, tune into our two radio broadcasts: StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® and Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio.

Live every Wednesday from 4-5pm PT, Cynthia Brian hosts the lifestyle program, StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® showcasing success-perts and information that will make your life enjoyable and meaningful.

On Sundays from 3-4pm PT, listen to Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio, where teens talk and the world listens. No topic is off limits and the program is uncensored and unedited. What young people are thinking, they are broadcasting.

Tune in to both programs on all platforms where you listen to podcasts and music including iTunes, Tunein, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, Spotify, and more!


DIRECT LINKS

BTSYA cuff Bracelets

Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results

About Us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/about_us

Programs: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs

How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help

Blog: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1

Events: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/events

Contact us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/contact


Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND and PAYPAL with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES:  https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-in

https://www.guidestar.org/profile/94-333388

BE THE STAR YOU ARE!® is proud to be honored as a TOP NON PROFIT for numerous consecutive years. We THANK YOU for making that happen!

 

Share StarStyle® Empowerment

https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/p/honoring-moms

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY TO ALL!

Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3 charity

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

LIVE WITH JOY!!!

Posted by Cynthia Brian on April 24, 2023
0
Empowerment
LIVE WITH JOY!!!

 Miracle Moment®

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader. “. John Quincy Adams

A Message from Founder/Executive Director, Cynthia Brian

Throughout my life, my goal has been to encourage, inspire, motivate, amuse, educate, and inform others to become the stars they were born to be. We have to see beyond our physical beings and know that we have already arrived. To do that, we need to live in the moment and cherish every second making life fun.

We have a motto at Be the Star You Are!® charity: “Read, lead, succeed!” Our volunteers exemplify the qualities of leaders as they lead with empathy, respect, and most of all, joy. If you are looking for a good book, check out honest and reliable book reviews written by our young people at http://www.btsya.com/book_reviews.

This month we are participating in two fun and rewarding events, the Moraga Community Faire and a Shoe Drive to empower women and families living in poverty. Our teen leaders are leading these events and we are proud to support their inspirational actions.

Remember you are the star of your own performance. Make life fun. Care, share, be fair.

Just be you! You are enough.

Happy Spring!

With gratitude,

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504


 

VISIT US AT THE MORAGA COMMUNITY FAIRE on Saturday, April 29th

Volunteers Ruhani, published author and radio host of Express Yourself!™ and Taylin are the teen chairpersons for the Be the Star You Are!® booth sponsored by MB Jessee Painting (https://www.mbjessee.com/) at the 2023 Moraga Faire. Come visit Us at the Moraga Community Faire and Car Show this Saturday! At the Be the Star You Are!® booth you’ll be able to plant seeds, receive a free bag of spring potpourri, buy autographed books and fresh Meyer lemons, and enjoy free cookies, thanks to MB Jessee. The event showcases live music, over 70 classic cars, a robust (and FREE) KidZone and SportZone with games, battle bots, sporting contests, animal interactions, pony rides, bounce houses, balloons, face painting, a magician and so much more! Stroll the talented Artist’s Alley while noshing on food truck fare and Loard’s Ice Cream or while enjoying a local Wine, Cider, or Beer. Ride your bike to the bike valet and then thump a few “big wheels” on big vehicles!

There are so many interesting and interactive booths to see and enjoy this year. Besides visiting Us, you can stop in at booths about acupuncture, gardening, dog training, soaps, and creams, book a travel destination, or sign your trees up for fruit rescue.

Come see Us – rain or shine, at this wonderful, family-friendly event on Saturday, April 29th, 11a-4p at the Rheem Shopping Center (580 Moraga Rd) in beautiful Moraga, CA. MoragaChamber.org/CommunityFaire to check out the schedule of events!

And if you have shoes that you no longer want or need, bring them to our shoe drive.

See you at the FAIRE!!! Mark your calendars for April 29th as this is a very fun, family faire!

Moraga Faire: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-events

Visit us at Moraga Faire!

 

SHOES SHARE THE LOVE!

Many people are unaware that 85% of consumer textiles end up in landfills, a practice that is extremely harmful to the environment. For the past 24 years, Be the Star You Are!® 501 C3 charity has been increasing literacy and saving trees by collecting thousands of new and used books and donating them to disaster relief efforts around the country. With the Russian war against Ukraine and the unprecedented natural disasters around the world, millions of people are currently experiencing difficult living conditions, and, although books are always an enlightening resource, this year Be the Star You Are!® pivoted to share the love and assist with a basic need: shoes.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, over 70% of the global population needs shoes. In collaboration with Moraga’s 5 A Rent-a-Space and Mark Hoogs State Farm Insurance, Be the Star You Are!® volunteers are launching a shoe drive to collect and ship shoes to several countries including Haiti, Pakistan, Ghana, Ukraine, and more to help lift women and families out of extreme poverty by providing a means for them to create a micro-business. These micro-entrepreneurs will be able to sell footwear at an inexpensive price from their home, a street stall, or even a tent to enhance their income and support their families.

“We are excited to launch this new micro-enterprise project. Everyone has a few pairs of wearable shoes that no longer serve us. What a wonderful opportunity to give them to those who need them and will repurpose them to benefit themselves and their communities,” says Executive Director, Cynthia Brian.  All clean, new, or gently used shoes of all sizes, boots, and work boots are wanted. No ski or snowboard boots, rollerblades, or ice skates can be accepted. “If possible, please keep pairs together by tying laces or putting a rubber band around the shoes,” continues Ms. Brian.

 

Be the Star You Are!® teen chairperson, Ella Kalpakjian is spearheading the shoe collection at Campolindo High School. Shoes may be dropped in the designated Campo bin beginning on April 17. If you will be attending the Moraga Faire on April 29th, shoes may be delivered to the Be the Star You Are!® booth.

 

From May 1- June 30th, drop shoes at these two locations:

·      Mark Hoogs

State Farm Insurance

629 Moraga Road, Moraga

925-254-3344

www.TeamHoogs.com

 

·      5 A Rent-A-Space

455 Moraga Rd. #F, Moraga

925-631-7000

https://5aspace.com/

 

With your donation of shoes, you will be sharing your love. Thank you!

For more information, visit https://www.bethestaryouare.org/shoedrive


 

 

School Post-Pandemic

by Shanzay Haris

School during COVID-19 Lockdown was really different and the most significant reason was that it was online, so when I stood in front of Hidden Hills Elementary School in person for 5th grade, I was really excited to be back! School post-pandemic lockdown was definitely different than when I remembered it at the beginning of 3rd grade. In our class, we had to ensure we always wore our masks and kept our distance. It was very hard to get used to, but after a while, I got used to it and it became “normal” school. One thing my mom said I had to do was wash my hands and take a shower after school. Now, in the present day, I am in 6th grade. At school, I see some people wearing masks and some not, since it is optional. We don’t get reminded about social distancing anymore, and other than a few people wearing masks, it is back to normal. One thing I learned from the COVID lockdown, is to appreciate what I have right now, otherwise, when things like this happen you realize what things you should have done or thought about.

Shanzay Haris is a twelve-year-old volunteer with Be the Star You Are!® who loves to read books, write, and run.


 

Take Time to Notice

by Karen Kitchel

Has anyone ever told you that you are awesome?  If not, how would it make you feel?

Leaving little positive messages, either verbal or written, can turn someone’s day around or create a lasting memory. No need to wait for a major accomplishment.  All it takes is time to notice.

Stop. Look. Listen. Feel. You ARE awesome!

Karen Kitchel who penned two chapters in the book, Be the Star You Are! Millennials to Boomers Celebrating Gifts of Positive Voices in a Changing Digital World, is the Kindness Coordinator volunteer with BTSYA. She serves meals to the homeless and is a volunteer teacher, writer, job coach, and mentor. www.scatteringkindness.com


 

What Literacy Means to Me

by Kennedy Hollins

The definition of literacy is the ability to read or write, but it is so much more. Without literature, we wouldn’t know as much as we do. Literature connects people from all over. Whether it’s as simple as a quick paragraph posted on Facebook, or an autobiography telling the world your story as Malala Yousafzai did. Literature can date back to 2600 BC when the first piece of literature was made. Today that piece of literature gives us insight into the past history that we might not have known about it without it. Literacy enriches the mind of our youth and later allows them to provide for themselves and their families. While literature provides knowledge, it can also teach things like empathy and critical thinking.  At the end of the day, literature spreads knowledge and brings people together which is a power in itself.

 Kennedy Hollins is a fifteen-year-old BTSYA volunteer in our Book Review program and is currently a sophomore in high school. When she is not reading, you can find her dancing or cooking.


SIMPLE WAYS TO HELP!

Spring is time to stock up on gifts for holidays forthcoming. We have suggestions for you to shop, save, and stay safe. Please use these web sites for all of your shopping essentials.

1. Discounted books at Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity

Giving Assistant Icon 234x60

2. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash at 3500+ popular online stores :https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc

3. Shop at over 1300 stores on IGIVE: http://www.iGive.com/BTSYA

2020 IGIVE logo

4. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” black tanks and books at StarStyle® Store:

http://www.starstylestore.net/

5. Are you a gamer, lover of new software, or other digital content? Buy all of your favorites at Humble Bundle. http://ow.ly/cYs130iN6n4e


OUR RADIO BROADCASTS EMPOWER!

When you want to be uplifted and informed, tune into our two radio broadcasts: StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® and Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio.

Live every Wednesday from 4-5pm PT, Cynthia Brian hosts the lifestyle program, StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® showcasing success-perts and information that will make your life enjoyable and meaningful.

On Sundays from 3-4pm PT, listen to Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio, where teens talk and the world listens. No topic is off limits and the program is uncensored and unedited. What young people are thinking, they are broadcasting.

Tune in to both programs on all platforms where you listen to podcasts and music including iTunes, Tunein, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, Spotify, and more!


DIRECT LINKS

BTSYA cuff Bracelets

Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results

About Us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/about_us

Programs: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs

How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help

Blog: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1

Events: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/events

Contact us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/contact


Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND and PAYPAL with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES:  https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-in

https://www.guidestar.org/profile/94-333388

BE THE STAR YOU ARE!® is proud to be honored as a TOP NON PROFIT for numerous consecutive years. We THANK YOU for making that happen!

Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3 charity

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556


Live with Joy!


Share StarStyle® Empowerment

Shoe Drive to Help Others

Posted by Kids First on April 20, 2023
0
Empowerment
Shoe Drive to Help Others

BTSYA micro-enterprise 4 pics copy.jpegShare your love with shoes

By Cynthia Brian

Many people are unaware that 85% of consumer textiles end up in landfills, a practice that is extremely harmful to the environment. For the past 24 years, the nonprofit Be the Star You Are has been increasing literacy and saving trees by collecting thousands of new and used books and donating them to disaster relief efforts around the country. With the Russian war against Ukraine and the unprecedented natural disasters around the world, millions of people are currently experiencing difficult living conditions, and, although books are always an enlightening resource, this year Be the Star You Are pivoted to share the love and assist with a basic need: shoes.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, over 70% of the global population needs shoes. In collaboration with Moraga’s 5 A Rent-a-Space and Mark Hoogs State Farm Insurance, Be the Star You Are volunteers are launching a shoe drive to collect and ship shoes to several countries including Haiti, Pakistan, Ghana, Ukraine, and more to help lift women and

Photo provided

families out of extreme poverty by providing a means for them to create a micro-business. These micro- entrepreneurs will be able to sell footwear at an inexpensive price from their home, a street stall, or even a tent to enhance their income and support their families.

“We are excited to launch this new micro-enterprise project. Everyone has a few pairs of wearable shoes that no longer serve us. What a wonderful opportunity to give them to those who need them and will repurpose them to benefit themselves and their communities,” says Executive Director Cynthia Brian. All clean, new, or gently used shoes of all sizes, boots, and work boots are wanted. No ski or snowboard boots, rollerblades, or ice skates can be accepted. “If possible, please keep pairs together by tying laces or putting a rubber band around the shoes,” Brian adds.

Be the Star You Are teen chairperson, Ella Kalpakjian is spearheading the shoe collection at Campolindo High School. Shoes may be dropped in the designated Campo bin beginning on April 17. If you will be attending the April 29 Moraga Community Faire, shoes may be delivered to the Be the Star You Are booth.

Drop shoes at these two locations (May 1- June 30): Mark Hoogs State Farm Insurance (629 Moraga Road, Moraga) (925) 254-3344, www.TeamHoogs.com; and 5 A Rent-A-Space (455 Moraga Rd. #F, Moraga) 925- 631-7000, https://5aspace.com/

If your business would like to host a drop-off box, email info@BetheStarYouAre.org For more information, visit www.bethestaryouare.org/shoedrive

SHOE LOVE 2.jpg

The Greatness of a Community

Posted by Cynthia Brian on March 14, 2023
0
Empowerment
The Greatness of a Community

 Miracle Moment®

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” Coretta Scott King


A Message from Founder/Executive Director, Cynthia Brian

With the number of recent storms and blizzards, including atmospheric rivers, floods, and unprecedented amounts of snowfall, it is easy to complain about the weather.

Then we turn on the news to witness the devastating war in Ukraine, the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, and the horrific treatment of women in Iran and Afghanistan. Complaints turn to awe as spectacles of citizen’s strength, resilience, and community emerge as the dominant energy in survival.

We need a kinder and more inclusive world. Every individual deserves dignity, peace, and safety. It takes courage to right a wrong and stand up for truth. Because of the young people who are stepping up to create change, I have hope that together we will design a world where stability and empathy reign.

The teen volunteers of Be the Star You Are!® employ their voices and their actions to make a positive difference through our radio broadcasts and outreach projects. These smart and brave adolescents say “YES” to life. Read their stories below.

Starting next month, Be the Star You Are!® in collaboration with 5 A Rent-a-Space and Mark Hoogs State Farm Insurance, will launch a shoe drive to collect clean, wearable shoes to be shipped to 24 impoverished countries to lift women and families out of poverty by providing them with a micro-enterprise that will give them a living wage. If you have shoes you no longer want, we have the people who need them. Save them for our BTSYA shoe drive.

On April 29th, with generous sponsorship by MB Jessee Painting and Dr. Brian Sheaff Family Dentistry,  Be the Star You Are!® will host a booth at the Moraga Faire with free activities for kids including planting seeds fas a metaphor for planting the seeds of literacy. This is a day of fun for the entire family and we hope to see you there.

St Patrick’s Day will be celebrated on Friday, March 17th, and we wish everyone the luck of the Irish and blessings from the Emerald Isle.

March 20th heralds the first day of spring. I propose we spring forward with kindness, love, inclusivity, and empathy.

Compassionate actions of a community will alter the global climate. We can all be change makers. Start today!

With gratitude,

Cynthia Brian

  • Founder/Executive Director
  • Be the Star You Are!®
  • PO Box 376
  • Moraga, California 94556
  • Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org
  • https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org
  • http://www.BTSYA.org

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

For elevated empowerment, tune in to StarStyle® Be the Star You Are!® Radio Broadcasts, available wherever you listen to your radio shows or podcasts! More info at https://www.StarStyleRadio.com .


Teens Prepare for Moraga Faire

The last Morage Faire was held in 2019 as the pandemic stopped all in-person events. On Saturday, April 29th, the celebration begins anew and Be the Star You Are!® is thrilled to participate! Teen chairpersons are Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio host Ruhani Chhabra and volunteer Taylin Tyhurst with sponsorship generously provided by MB Jessee Painting and Dr. Brian Sheaff Family Dentistry. Free activities for kids including planting seeds, a reading circle, and crafts plus book signing and free potpourri and cookies! We welcome you!

Mark your calendars for April 29th as this is a very fun, family faire!

Moraga Faire: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-events

MB Jessee Painting Sponsor with Teen Chairpersons

 

Share

Courage

By Ella Kalpakjian

In February, I went on a trip through the Sojourn Project where I learned about the civil rights movement. I had the opportunity to meet people involved in the movement and experienced history coming to life as I listened to each person’s story. One person I met was Gwen Web; she marched as a child in the Birmingham Children’s March, a demonstration by children to end segregation. They were met with attack dogs and firehoses before being sent to jail. However, their actions paid off, and they pushed President John F. Kennedy to create the Civil Rights Act which eventually ended segregation. The children never used violence, but simply fought for their rights. Just like the children, we all have to stand up for what is right and remember that every action counts. Anyone can make a difference because, as Gwen Webb told us, “Even kids can make presidents act.”

Ella Kalpakjian is a teen volunteer for BTSYA, serving as the Teen Chairperson for our Shoe Drive. Ella is passionate about human rights. In her free time, she can be found drawing, reading, or learning about history. 


The Power of Literacy: Why Learning to Read Early Matters

By Dheeraj Manda

A fundamental ability that enables people to access information, communicate with others, and participate fully in society is literacy. It enables people to comprehend written language, communicate their thoughts and ideas, and arrive at wise decisions.

Early literacy instruction is essential for a child’s overall development. Children’s understanding of the world around them, as well as their imagination and creativity, are all boosted by reading proficiency. Additionally, it enhances their cognitive abilities, such as their capacity for memory, concentration, and problem-solving.

Reading is essential for kids to succeed academically. According to studies, students who are proficient readers are more likely to receive higher grades across the board, not just in English. Children who read for enjoyment also have better vocabularies, spelling, and grammatical skills.

The advantages of literacy, though, go beyond academic achievement. For one to develop personally and find fulfillment, one must read. It can increase knowledge, broaden perspectives, and foster empathy. Additionally, reading can help people cope with stress, lower anxiety, and enhance their mental health. Unfortunately, not all kids get the chance to start reading at a young age. The development of a child’s literacy can be hampered by a variety of factors, including poverty, lack of access to books, and scarce educational resources. As a society, we must place a high value on literacy and make sure that every child has the chance to learn to read. The lives of children and their communities can be significantly improved by funding programs for early childhood education, ensuring that books are available, and supporting literacy initiatives.

In conclusion, learning to read at an early age and promoting literacy is vital for personal, academic, and societal growth. It is our responsibility to ensure that every child has the opportunity to develop their literacy skills and reach their full potential.

Dheeraj Manda, a high school student, is a teen book reviewer and research with Be the Star You Are!® charity.


Barnyard Lessons in an Online World”

By Julia Howe

He swaggers in, baseball cap hanging sloppily on head, ominously cracking his knuckles, ready to terrorize the unsuspecting students. This was the formidable figure introduced to us through our favorite 2000s-era high school movies, the schoolyard menace in our picture-books, the teenage tormentor our parents warned us about. We were taught that this kid was the bully.

By now as you look across the playground, the lunch-money shakedown artists are nowhere to be seen. Where have they gone?  The answer: they have migrated to the internet.  Today, children are attacked not in front of adults or even other children but from the screens they stare into, alone in their rooms.  And the frightened kids driven to bullying remain unseen, unknown and unloved, hiding in cyberspace.

Speaking to students who have experienced “cyberbullying,”  I felt their terror and helplessness. “I’m so scared all the time because no matter where I am, I’m always vulnerable. People can hurt me through my instagram and I have no idea who they are.” And it’s not just a  few students. In 2018, Pew Research Center found that nearly half of teenagers have been victims of cyberbullying–in other words, most kids have experienced online bullying, your siblings, your friends, your classmates.

In Cynthia Brian’s beautiful children’s book, No Barnyard Bullies, a book about using love to combat bullying, we meet Cookie, a pampered piglet brought into a world miles away from a sheltered existence in the city. Cookie immediately starts being cruel to the other animals, refusing to accept their friendship. When we face the unknown, we scramble to defend ourselves, whether through causing mischief in the new barn, or taking to our phones to retaliate.

In the book, Monet, the rabbit does something inspiring, he notices. He not only notices how Tripod the goat is being treated, he also sees how anxious Cookie is and how that’s driving her to act out. I invite all of us to be like Monet, the rabbit who not only stood up for the other animals, but also taught Cookie how to lower her defenses and be loving.

As bullying becomes increasingly harder to see and more adolescents turn to bullying, it becomes more important to notice our friends, how their behavior might be a reflection of what they’re facing online or what they’re doing online. In this changing technological world, our empathy becomes key. When you notice your loved ones acting differently, reach out to them and be a listener.your empathy and remind them of your support. By listening and opening our hearts, we will be able to support our loved ones when they need us most, in real life and on the internet.

Julia Howe is a teen volunteer with Be the Star You Are!® who loves to read and write. She is passionate about youth mental health and literacy. She loves exploring innovative education methods and running long distances.

Julia Howe and the book, No Barnyard Bullies

SHOE DRIVE to Support Women in Developing Countries

In collaboration with 5 A-Rent-a Space and Mark Hoogs State Farm Insurance, with teen chairperson Ella Kalpakjian and other volunteers, Be the Star You Are!® charity is launching its first shoe drive.

The shoes we collect are shipped to micro-entrepreneurs, mostly women, in developing countries. These shoes are then sold by these small business owners in communities in need of proper footwear, at an inexpensive price. Additionally, micro-entrepreneurs create a path out of poverty for themselves and others in countries where they are limited. In many cases, the difference between being able to get a job and feed your family or have no work opportunity is a pair of shoes.

What Shoes are Accepted:

All clean, wearable shoes, boots, work boots, and baby shoes are wanted.  No skates, ski or snowboard boots, or rollerblades can be taken.

Countries Shipped to:
Benin* Botswana* Cambodia* Chile* Dominican Republic* Eastern Europe* El Salvador* Ghana* Guatemala* Haiti* Honduras* India* Ivory Coast* Jordan* Moldova* Morocco* Nicaragua* Pakistan* Peru* Philippines* Poland* Tanzania* Togo* Ukraine*

DATES for Shoe Drives:

High Schools in Moraga spearheaded by Ella Kalpakjian and Oakland organized by Natalie Hsu will have collection boxes beginning in April.

Collection boxes will be available from May 1-June 30 at these two retail locations. Stop by to drop off your shoes.

  • Mark Hoogs State Farm Insurance
  • 629 Moraga Road
    Moraga, CA 94556-221
  • 925-254-3344
  • www.TeamHoogs.com

 

  • 5 A Rent-A-Space
  • 455 Moraga Rd. #F
  • Moraga ca 94556-2208
  • 925) 631-7000
  • https://5aspace.com

This is a win/win/win outreach project that costs you nothing but has huge impact for those living in poverty. Your compassionate participation makes the difference.

Spring Forward with Empathy and Kindness and Change the World for the Better!

For more information, visit https://www.bethestaryouare.org/shoedriv


 

 

SIMPLE WAYS TO HELP!

Spring is time to stock up on gifts for holidays forthcoming. We have suggestions for you to shop, save, and stay safe. Please use these web sites for all of your shopping essentials.

1. Discounted books at Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity

Giving Assistant Icon 234x60

2. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash at 3500+ popular online stores :https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc

3. Shop at over 1300 stores on IGIVE: http://www.iGive.com/BTSYA

2020 IGIVE logo

4. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” black tanks and books at StarStyle® Store:

http://www.starstylestore.net/

https://www.cynthiabrian.com/online-storehttps://www.cynthiabrian.com/online-storehttps://www.cynthiabrian.com/online-store
https://www.cynthiabrian.com/online-storehttps://www.cynthiabrian.com/online-storehttps://www.cynthiabrian.com/online-store
https://www.cynthiabrian.com/online-storehttps://www.cynthiabrian.com/online-storehttps://www.cynthiabrian.com/online-store
Books by cynthia Brian

5. Are you a gamer, lover of new software, or other digital content? Buy all of your favorites at Humble Bundle. http://ow.ly/cYs130iN6n4e


Happy St. Patrick’s Day and Happy Spring! Dream, create, make a difference! Thank you for reading!

Share StarStyle® Empowerment

StarStyle® Empowerment is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

 

©Photos and Text 2023 Cynthia Brian. All rights reserved.

Love Not Bullying

Posted by Cynthia Brian on February 13, 2023
0
Empowerment
Love Not Bullying

Love Versus Bullying

Share Your Heart!

Cynthia Brian
18 hr ago

 

 

Miracle Moment®

“Do not waste time bothering whether you

“love” your neighbor; act as if you did. . .

When you are behaving as if you loved someone

you will presently come to love him.” ~ C.S Lewis


 

A Message from Founder/Executive Director, Cynthia Brian

February…the month that Cupid shoots an arrow of love and acceptance and everyone becomes kind to one another. Except, that is not the case. As much as we talk about love and being loving, fear, hate, and bullying persist, often with deadly consequences.

A couple of months ago, my newest children’s book, No Barnyard Bullies, was published with proceeds benefitting Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3 charity. It is a true story that revolves around three main animals: a pampered piglet, a three-legged goat, and a tiny lopped-eared rabbit. The pampered piglet was adopted into my barnyard and immediately stared terrorizing the little goat who was born with only three legs.  The additional barnyard inhabitants of chickens, ducks, geese, goats, and rabbits feared this new addition and didn’t help Tripod, the goat, or intervene to stop the bullying. One day the tiniest bunny of the bunch decided he was going to stand up to the bully in the barnyard. I had never seen a rabbit fight, but Monet, the bunny, was fearsome. Every time that Cookie, the piglet, attempted to harm Tripod, the goat, Monet flew into action to stop him. Monet began guarding Tripod day and night until the other barnyard critters stood up to the mean piglet as well. Cookie learned that if she wanted to assimilate into this new world, she would have to be kind and loving. It took time, but today, Cookie is a humungous hog and the sweetest animal in the barnyard, even giving piggyback rides to all of her new friends.

Bullies are made, they are not born mean and spiteful. Bullying doesn’t just appear, it emerges. When children grow up in an environment where criticism, insults, mockery, physical abuse, or a lack of empathy are present, instead of being loving individuals, they may grow up to be bullies, bystanders, or in some cases, the victims of bullying. Children respond to the dominant parenting style they experience.

As parents, caregivers, educators, coaches, and others who interact with children, it is our responsibility to model behavior that is loving, kind, inclusive, and respectful. We have the power to intercede before bullying occurs to help our children learn healthy ways of interacting with others. No person needs to be a bully, a bystander, or a victim.

We must all stand up for love.

I have learned numerous lessons from being observant of the animal kingdom. When love is the principal ingredient, everyone prospers. Life is sweeter and peaceful.

This week I was interviewed by Florida’s most popular garden expert, Teresa Watkins, on the issue of bullying. Tune in at https://audioboom.com/posts/8245921-better-lawns-and-gardens-hour-2-cynthia-brian-no-barnyard-bullies-february-11-2023.

 

Let’s stop bullying, be empathetic, and share the love.

Remember: Love yourself first.

Have a Happy Valentine’s Day.

With gratitude,

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504



Sponsor Books to Prevent Bullying

Would you like to do your part to stop bullying behavior? Be the Star You Are!® is seeking sponsors to buy the book, No Barnyard Bullies, in bulk at a discount to be distributed to schools and organizations. Our Kindness Coordinator, Karen Kitchel, bought books for every child in a kindergarten class and the teacher created a lesson around the theme. The result was kids cared more for one another. If you would like to scatter kindness and sponsor books for a school or organization of your choice, please email Cynthia Brian at cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org for more information. Let’s spread love not hate.


Moraga Faire is Returning on April 29th

The last Morage Faire was held in 2019 as the pandemic stopped all in-person events. But, it will again be a day of celebration on Saturday, April 29th, and Be the Star You Are!® charity is excited to participate. If you want to participate in our booth by volunteering or sponsoring, contact us! We welcome you! Mark your calendars as this is a very fun, family faire!


When Quiet is not Peace

By Natalie Hsu

I grew up as a quiet child. And yet, I would never have described myself as quiet.

I didn’t speak often, but I lived in my head and was always lost in my thoughts. Had you asked me back then for the reason, I would have said that the world in my brain was simply a more interesting place. The only issue was, the people around me mistook my silence for a stubborn peacefulness and assumed me to be impenetrably calm. They didn’t know that everything in my head was always loud and confusing, swarming with thoughts that I never felt I could express.

From that period of my life, I learned that quietness does not always signify peace. As we face the world today, we must remember: peace is not the absence of violence or sound, but the presence of kindness and love; peace is not living without tumult, but living despite it and helping others to do the same.

It starts with one. One heart, one smile, one kind word, one book, that might spread the peace a little further.

Natalie Hsu is a teenage writer who volunteers with BTSYA from the San Francisco Bay Area whose goal is to spread kindness, one word at a time. When she’s not writing, she loves playing the piano, reading classic literature, and painting. 


Amazon Smile Terminating

Along with other numerous grassroots nonprofits, Be the Star You Are!® was saddened to learn that the Amazon Smile program is ending on February 20th. Although Amazon gave a tiny percentage of each Amazon Smile purchase to the designated charity, pennies added to dollars. You have a few more days to shop through Amazon Smile while donating. Going forward, another great option for your purchases is to use IGIVE where over 2000 stores are featured with extra savings coupons for you. They are currently offering a $5.00 bonus donation through March 1. https://www.iGive.com/BTYSA


Reading in Community

by Julia Howe

Google “book communities,”  and over 2,020,000,000 results appear.

You’re just one *click* away from reading “alone” to reading “together.”

Welcome to the online bookworm community, where millions of avid readers swap insights about everything from The Great Gatsby to the newest Percy Jackson! Places like Litsy are brimming with book clubs built by book lovers scattered across the globe, all embarking on a shared journey through the pages.

Stop by a site for burnt-out bookworms challenging each other to a Bronte-A-Day book challenge. Skim Goodreads reviews, each gushing bibliophile inviting you into new reading adventures.

Recently, I discovered the user who had completely changed the way I saw Dune was from Amsterdam. 5000+ miles bridged by a discussion between two voracious readers.

Bookhounds thrive in these communities, diverse in background but connected by a shared love of good books. Make 2023 your mission to enter this new world of reading!

Julia Howe is a teen reader, BTSYA Book Reviewer, and writer, passionate about youth mental health and literacy. She loves exploring innovative education methods and running long distances.


Be the Star You Are!® Honored as TOP NONPROFIT for 2023

For numerous consecutive years, Be the Star You Are!® has earned the honor of being a TOP NON PROFIT. Read what the public, donors, and volunteers are saying about their experiences in collaborating with Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3. Join our Community of Stars! Congratulations to all! Small and mighty!


Do You Want to Help? Here are lots of ways to make a difference.

  • Send a tax-deductible contribution or offer a monetary tribute or memorial for a loved one.
  • Buy our “Read, Lead, Succeed!” T-Shirts to give as gifts.

  • Donate air miles
  • Sponsor or advertise on our radio programs

  • Donate goods that can be auctioned off at an event
  • Make BTSYA a beneficiary of your UNITED WAY donation
  • Sponsor an event making the charitable beneficiary
  • Buy or Sell on eBay through GivingWorks
  • Shop online at thousands of stores by using one of these sites that give back:

Amazon

Amazon Books

GoodSearch

                Giving Assistant

IGIVE

Humble Bundle Digital Content

  • #Giving Tuesday PayPal adds 1%, Donate at https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504
  • Volunteer time
  • Become a Benefactor
  • Establish A Charitable Giving Account with an Investment Firm in the name of Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3
  • Donate rent money for our storage space

Please join our Galaxy of Stars and support BE THE STAR YOU ARE!® with your contributions and/or ask your company to be on our team. Visit our creative community at http://www.BTSYA.org for book reviews, news items, newsletters, and press pass clips.


Small DONATIONS Make a Big Difference to Others:

Decrease Violence. Increase Literacy.

$25 provides 5 new books.

$50 provides 12 new books.

$100 provides 28 new books.

Donate via Paypal Giving Fund

https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

or Visit Https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

SEND CHECKS TO:

BE THE STAR YOU ARE!®

PO Box 376,

Moraga, California 94556

Make a donation via Paypal Giving Fund

View a partial list of beneficiaries we have served.

All donations are tax-deductible according to law. A tax receipt will be emailed to you for all donations over $25.00


Spreading love, kindness, and inclusivity. Happy Heartfelt February!


Share StarStyle® Empowerment

 

Share

Hop to it!

Posted by Cynthia Brian on January 15, 2023
0
Empowerment
Hop to it!

 

 Miracle Moment®

“I have a rabbit’s foot, a four-leaf clover, and a lucky charm. The only problem is, none of them become effective until I do.”

~Ziggy


A Message from Founder/Executive Director, Cynthia Brian

As we welcome in the Year of the Rabbit, it’s a perfect time to focus on empowerment and encouragement.  I have adopted and raised bunnies since I was a little girl and find them to be smart, sweet, strong, affectionate, and fast. Rabbits are one of my favorite creatures. People born in the year of the Rabbit are believed to be vigilant, witty, quick-minded, and ingenious. Does this describe you?

Empowerment is about giving people the tools and resources they need to take control of their lives, to make their own decisions, and to create the future they want. Encouragement is about providing support and motivation to help people achieve their goals. Together, empowerment and encouragement can help us all to lead happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.

In the coming year, let us all make a commitment to empowering and encouraging those around us. Whether it’s a family member, a friend, a colleague, or a stranger, we can all make a difference by offering a helping hand, a kind word, or a listening ear.

One way to empower others is by giving them a voice. This can be done by being an active listener and providing an opportunity for them to express themselves and have their opinions heard. Encourage them to share their ideas, thoughts, and feelings, and create an environment where they feel safe and respected.

Another way to empower others is by providing them with the resources they need to succeed. This can be done by sharing knowledge, providing access to education, or offering financial assistance. Encourage them to take risks, to learn from their mistakes and to strive for their goals.

Finally, let us all endeavor to be a positive influence in the lives of others. Encourage others to be their best selves, to believe in themselves and to be resilient in the face of challenges. Let us be a light in the darkness, a beacon of hope, and an inspiration to all those around us.

As we hop into the Year of the Rabbit, aspire to assist, support, and motivate those around us, while being empowered and encouraged in return. When you are your unapologetically authentic self, service to others is easy. Every one is unique and everyone counts.

 

No matter how many lucky charms you have, until you go into action to be affective, nothing will be effective.

For 2023, I pledge to welcome, support, listen, value, and encourage our constellation of stars through kindness, inclusivity, generosity, and gratitude.

Will you join me?

Together, we can create a brighter future for ourselves and for the world.

Happy New Year!

With gratitude,

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504


Words To Remember

by Karen Kitchel

I asked many people this important question: “What was something said to you that you will never forget?”

Here’s a sampling of the responses:

“When I grow up, I want to be you.”

 “Your mental health is more important than maintaining a toxic friendship.”

  “I do believe in fairies. And Santa Claus. And leprechauns. Don’t let the magic go away.”

“If you don’t believe in miracles, miracles won’t happen.”

“Life’s most difficult issue, which causes so much pain, is learning to say goodbye.”

“Don’t say ‘good-bye’. Say ‘farewell, until we meet again.’”

“Never say never.”

“Everything is possible when you are willing to work to achieve it.”

“Be brave.”

“Take measured risks.”

“Be the Star You Are!”

What words will you speak today that may empower someone to remember?

Karen Kitchel who penned two chapters in the book, Be the Star You Are! Millennials to Boomers Celebrating Gifts of Positive Voices in a Changing Digital World, is the Kindness Coordinator volunteer with BTSYA. She serves meals to the homeless and is a volunteer teacher, writer, job coach, and mentor. www.scatteringkindness.com


Do You Want to Help? Here are lots of ways to make a difference.

  • Send a tax-deductible contribution or offer a monetary tribute or memorial for a loved one.
  • Buy a unique NFT to hold, share, or sell.

  • Buy our books by the case or as singles through our office
    Be Empowered with the Be the Star You Are! series
  • Buy our “Read, Lead, Succeed!” T-Shirts to give as gifts.

  • Donate air miles
  • Sponsor or advertise on our radio programs

  • Donate goods that can be auctioned off at an event
  • Make BTSYA a beneficiary of your UNITED WAY donation
  • Sponsor an event making the charitable beneficiary
  • Buy or Sell on eBay through GivingWorks
  • Shop online at thousands of stores by using one of these sites that give back:

Amazon

Amazon Books

GoodSearch

                Giving Assistant

IGIVE

Humble Bundle Digital Content

  • #Giving Tuesday PayPal adds 1%, Donate at https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504
  • Volunteer time
  • Become a Benefactor
  • Establish A Charitable Giving Account with an Investment Firm in the name of Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3
  • Donate rent money for our storage space

Please join our Galaxy of Stars and support BE THE STAR YOU ARE!® with your contributions and/or ask your company to be on our team. Visit our creative community at http://www.BTSYA.org for book reviews, news items, newsletters, and press pass clips.


 

 

Small DONATIONS Make a Big Difference to Others:

Decrease Violence. Increase Literacy.

$25 provides 5 new books.

$50 provides 12 new books.

$100 provides 28 new books.

Donate via Paypal Giving Fund

https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

or Visit www.BTSYA.org

SEND CHECKS TO:

 

BE THE STAR YOU ARE!®

PO Box 376,

Moraga, California 94556

Make a donation via Paypal Giving Fund

View a partial list of beneficiaries we have served.

All donations are tax-deductible according to law. A tax receipt will be emailed to you for all donations over $25.00


Be a Honey Bunny! Welcome, support, listen, value, and encourage others!

Happy Hopping!

With gratitude and encouragement to make 2023 a great year!

https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/p/hopping-into-2023

Share StarStyle® Empowerment

Do Good with an End of Year Tax Deduction

Posted by Cynthia Brian on December 30, 2022
0
Empowerment
Do Good with an End of Year Tax Deduction

happy-new-year.jpeg

Miracle Moment®

“Do all the good you can

By all the means you can

In all the ways you can

In all the places you can

To all the people you can

As long as you ever can.”

Great Non Profits


A Message from Founder/Executive Director, Cynthia Brian

For twelve consecutive years, ever since the inception of Great Non Profits, Be the Star You Are!® has been honored as a Top Non Profit by Great Non Profits and Candid, formerly known as Guidestar. We don’t take this award lightly.

The volunteers work diligently to consistently provide the highest level of service to the programs we provide and the outreach we serve. Teen radio hosts, Book Reviewers, Researchers, Content Providers, Event Volunteers, Disaster Relief Workers, Social Media Ambassadors, Book Review Director, Kindness Coordinator, and many others from around the world show up to provide their talent, skills, time, and efforts. At Be the Star You Are!®, we truly care about the development and empowerment of our volunteers as much as the people we serve. Teen volunteers indicate that their involvement with Be the Star You Are!® has played a pivotal role in their positive development and growth. As the Executive Director, I am proud of our volunteers and the work we all do to make our world a more kind and inclusive place.

And we do all of this through individual and personal donations and a 100% volunteer staff, including myself. We don’t receive state or federal funding. We depend on YOU!

We are grateful to the donors, sponsors, and supporters who have contributed financially to our mission of empowering and encouraging women, families, and youth. Thank you, thank you!

As we say goodbye to 2022 and welcome 2023, we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has been part of our galaxy. We look forward to continuing the journey together.

If you want an end-of-year tax-deduction, or just want to make a final donation, you can easily do that online through PAYPAL Giving Fund, with no fees. DONATE here: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

Checks can be sent to Be the Star You Are!®, PO Box 376, Moraga, Ca. 94556

At the end of this newsletter, you can read a summary of a few of the accomplishments of this grassroots, all-volunteer charity and other ways you can help.

From all of us, to you and your families, continue shining.

May 2023 be the best year ever!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

With gratitude,

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504


Turning over a new leaf

by Shubham Acharya

Another year has gone by, and a new one approaches. Starting from Christmas through the new year, the air is filled with such a festive feeling and a renewed sense of hope that it is almost tangible. The new year presents a strange paradox, on the one hand, we are elated for the fresh chance we are given, followed by disappointment when we inevitably fail to fulfil the laundry list of new year’s resolutions we undertake. So, this new year, let’s keep things simple and instead of making a list, let’s follow the tagline, “A little something for me and a little something for you.” Do something for yourself—take a trip you’ve always wanted to take, buy a gadget you’ve always wanted to buy (within reason, of course!)—as a reward for surviving the previous year, and do something for someone less fortunate than you, whether economically or in terms of family: spend some time with them, lend a sympathetic ear to their problems, as little and as much as you can to alleviate some of their pain and return some of your festive happiness and hope. Lastly, I wish you a very happy and prosperous new year 2023!

Shubham Acharya is an IT professional, passionate about history and antiques living and working in India. He loves reading books and collecting antique coins. As a Be the Star You Are!® volunteer in Mumbai, he believes strongly in women’s empowerment and children’s literacy. Shubbam writes: “My mother was a teacher in a government sponsored school in one of the poorest localities in my area, so I grew up very aware of the importance of education and literacy in changing people’s lives. Having said this, I fell in love with the Be the Star You are!® motto ‘To be a leader, you must be a READER’.”


Bragging Rights!

With no paid staff and all volunteers, since receiving our 501c3 status in 1999, Be the Star You Are! has:

Served 555,927 individuals and families

Donated to 118 organizations

Logged 670,999 volunteer hours and growing

Distributed $2.1 million plus in resources

Broadcast 2200 unique hours of positive programming through radio broadcasts.

Published 5 signature award-winning books, Be the Star You Are!® 99 Gifts, Be the Star You Are!® for Teens, Be the Star You Are!® Millennials to Boomers, No Barnyard Bullies, and Miracle Moments®,

Written and published over 2530 book reviews in collaboration with The Reading Tuband Express Yourself!™ Creative Community.

Interviewed over 2500 authors, experts, and celebrities.

Honored by the California Assembly for 20 years of community service. 

Nominated for the California Governor’s and First Lady’s Service Awards

Honored with five-star ratings as a Top Rated Non-Profit by GuideStar and Great Non Profits for the Women’s Empowerment, Arts and Culture, and the Arts Appreciation Campaigns since 2010.

Be the Star You Are!® encourages and supports its volunteers to GROW people.

READ the congratulation letter from California Assemblywoman Catherine Baker 

READ recognition letter from Assembly California Legislature Assemblymember, Rebecca Bauer-Kahan

2021 Founder Cynthia Brian honored and featured on the Points of Light Inspiration Honor Roll celebrating outstanding individuals who improve the lives of others.

2022 Founder Cynthia Brian honored and featured on the Points of Light Inspiration Honor Roll celebrating outstanding individuals who take action to create change in communities

3 original films by volunteers accepted into International Earth Gratitude Festival: Cynthia Brian, Ruhani Chhabra, Sharanya Roy

BTSYA


Do You Want to Help? Here are lots of ways to make a difference.

  • Send a tax-deductible contribution or offer a monetary tribute or memorial for a loved one.
  • BUY an unique NFT
  • Buy our books by the case or as singles through our office
  • Buy our “Read, Lead, Succeed!” T-Shirts to give as gifts.
  • Buy a unique NFT to hold, share, or sell.
  • Make $100 donation and receive our 3 signature books
  • Donate air miles
  • Sponsor or advertise on our radio programs
  • Donate goods that can be auctioned off at an event
  • Make BTSYA a beneficiary of your UNITED WAY donation
  • Sponsor an event making the charitable beneficiary
  • Buy or Sell on eBay through GivingWorks

  • Shop online at thousands of stores by using one of these sites that give back:

Amazon

Amazon Books

GoodSearch

                Giving Assistant

IGIVE

Humble Bundle Digital Content

  • #Giving Tuesday PayPal adds 1%, Donate at https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504
  • Volunteer time
  • Become a Benefactor
  • Establish A Charitable Giving Account with an Investment Firm in the name of Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3
  • Donate rent money for our storage space

Please join our Galaxy of Stars and support BE THE STAR YOU ARE!® with your contributions and/or ask your company to be on our team. Visit our creative community at http://www.BTSYA.org for book reviews, news items, newsletters, and press pass clips.

SEND CHECKS TO:

BE THE STAR YOU ARE!®

PO Box 376,

Moraga, California 94556

Make a donation via Paypal Giving Fund

View a partial list of beneficiaries we have served.

All donations are tax-deductible according to law. A tax receipt will be emailed to you for all donations over $25.00.



Thank you again for being stars in our universe. Enjoy a happy, healthy, blessed New Year! And remember to do all the good possible, always!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!


Share StarStyle® Empowerment

At Christmas….

Posted by Cynthia Brian on December 19, 2022
0
Empowerment
At Christmas….

 

Miracle Moment®

“This Christmas…

Mend a quarrel.

Seek out a forgotten friend.

Dismiss suspicion and replace it with trust.

Write a letter.

Give a soft answer.

Encourage youth.

Manifest your loyalty in word and deed.

Keep a promise.

Forgo a grudge.

Forgive an enemy.

Apologize.

Try to understand.

Examine your demands on others.

Think first go someone else.

Be kind.

Be gentle.

Laugh a little more.

Express your gratitude.

Welcome a stranger.

Gladden the heart of a child.

Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth.

Speak your love.

Speak it again.”

Howard Hunter


 

A Message from Founder/Executive Director, Cynthia Brian

Although published more than twenty eight years ago, I have lived by the credo in this Miracle Moment® for a lifetime.  The holidays are the opportune time to share our love, encouragement, kindness, and generosity.

On behalf of everyone here at Be the Star You Are!® as well as StarStyle® Productions LLC, I take this moment to wish you the brightness and joy of this season of light. No matter what your race, religion, culture, or belief, as humans, we are all one. This is a time to come together, be gentle, and express gratitude.

I am personally grateful to everyone who has supported Be the Star You Are!® with their time, money, and ideas. For those who want to make an end-of-year contribution (and get a tax-deduction) there is still time. Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES:  https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504. Send a check:

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

There are many other ways you can help including buying NFTS, shopping through Amazon Smile, or visiting our online store to purchase our books and tank tops.

My Christmas wish for you is that all your dreams and wishes come true. Savor this sacred time with family and friends. Thank you for being part of our galaxy and we wish you a very happy, healthy, and prosperous 2023.

With love and gratitude,

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah, Happy Kwanza, or whatever you celebrate-from my family to yours….ENJOY!!!

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504


 

No Barnyard Bullies is a Favorite

If you’ve been reading StarStyle® Empowerment for a bit, you may recall that the Kindness Coordinator for Be the Star You Are!®, Karen Kitchel, purchased the book, No Barnyard Bullies, for an entire class in Minnesota. She recently emailed me this, which definitely made my day.

Hi Cynthia,

Just wanted to share a little happening in Kindergarten today.  I started one-on-one reading of little five-page paper books with all the kids   A student wanted to read with me so I told him he could pick any book, and we would read it together.  He came back with your book and proceeded to read every word.  I was amazed!  I also pointed out how you, the author, signed the book.  Loved seeing him smile.

All because of you…

Big hugs,

Karen

So many people have sent photos of kids enjoying the book. The illustrations by Jensen Russell are superb. Book two will be published in 2023. To purchase autographed copies now, visit

http://www.StarStyleStore.net

 

Buy No Barnyard Bullies

 

No Barnyard Bullies

No Barnyard Bullies No Barnyard Bullies No Barnyard Bullies
No Barnyard Bullies No Barnyard Bullies No Barnyard Bullies
No Barnyard Bullies No Barnyard Bullies No Barnyard Bullies
Everyone loves No Barnyard Bullies

SANTA DAY at 5A…the North Pole in Town

The weather was miserable, blustery, cold, and pouring rain, yet Santa and his reindeer made the trek to Moraga. Excited families arrived with children anxious to write letters to Santa, sit on his lap, do crafts, and enjoy treats. Thanks to Mark Hoogs State Farm Insurance, www.TeamHoogs.com for sponsoring Be the Star You Are!® and to 5A Rent-a-Space for asking Be the Star You Are!® to participate annually. Linda Pfost of  5 A Rent a space wrote:

Hi Cynthia,

You and your helpers are such a pleasure to work with. Thank you for your positive energy!

Have a wonderful Holiday!

Volunteers Sharanya, Keerthi, and Sophie were amazing elves! Thank you ladies for making the day fun and special for children. Watch Keerthi’s great video on Instagram of Santa Day at https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/.

 


Meet the Newest and Youngest Reporter on Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio, Milan Bains

 

Milan is an eleven-year-old sixth grader at Highland Middle School who loves looking at structures of buildings and high rises and hopes to one day be an architect. He has played violin since he was 5 years old and now plays for the school orchestra. When you don’t see him playing his violin he is probably playing on the tennis court. From a young age he has loved games whether it was Candyland as a four-year-old, Uno with his cousins (fellow teen radio reporters Nihal and Kirpa), or competitive chess at school. Milan loves math and is challenging himself in accelerated math every day at school. MIlan loves anything that involves technology and innovation and hopes to share some of this passion during his teen radio segments. He is super excited to be part of the “Express Yourself Teen Radio” team with his segment “Well-rounded!”

Listen to Milan’s first interview on the topic of Climate change on the Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/140750/climate-change


 

NFTS for the Holidays

If you are looking for a whimsical and fun gift to give to an internet savvy collector, check out the spectacular NFTS at www.StarStyleCommunity.com.  Each NFT depicts one of five characters drawn by talented illustrator, Jensen Russell from Cynthia Brian’s new children’s book, No Barnyard Bullies. You own your purchased unique and original NFT which you can trade or sell.

When you purchase an NFT, you become a member of the StarStyle® community. As a member, you are entitled to participate in exciting events exclusive to the community including hangouts, storytelling, book readings, sneak peeks, classes, discussions, and good old down-on-the-farm fun, all virtually from the comfort of your couch.

Best of all, you will be making a difference by empowering women, families, and youth through increased literacy and positive media messages as all purchases benefit Be the Star You Are!® 501c3 charity.
Get your NFTS today! www.StarStyleCommunity.com


SIMPLE WAYS TO HELP!

There is still time to buy gifts and make a difference. We have suggestions for you to shop, save, and stay safe. Please use these web sites for all of your shopping essentials.

1. AmazonSmile donates .5% of purchases https://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882

2020 Amazon smile logo

2. Discounted books at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_a

Giving Assistant Icon 234x60

3. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash at 3500+ popular online stores :https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc

4. Shop at over 1300 stores on IGIVE: http://www.iGive.com/BTSYA

2020 IGIVE logo

5. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” black tanks and books at StarStyle® Store:

http://www.starstylestore.net/

 

StarStyle Store

Visit the StarStyle StoreVisit the StarStyle StoreVisit the StarStyle Store
Visit the StarStyle StoreVisit the StarStyle StoreVisit the StarStyle Store
Visit the StarStyle StoreVisit the StarStyle StoreVisit the StarStyle Store
StarStyle Store

6. Are you a gamer, lover of new software, or other digital content? Buy all of your favorites at Humble Bundle. http://ow.ly/cYs130iN6n4

  1. Everybody wants an NFT! Get yours today athttp://www.StarStyleCommunity.com


    DIRECT LINKS

    BTSYA cuff Bracelets

    Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results

    About Us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/about_us

    Programs: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs

    How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help

    Blog: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1

    Events: http://www.bethestaryouare.org/events

    Contact us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/contact

     

    Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND and PAYPAL with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES:  https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

    https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-inhttps://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-in
    Top Rated non Profit

    https://www.guidestar.org/profile/94-333388 and https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-in

     

    BE THE STAR YOU ARE!® is proud to be honored as a TOP NON PROFIT for numerous consecutive years.

     

    We THANK YOU for making that happen!


    Rejoice like the angels and celebrate love.

     

    Season’s Warmest Greetings!

     

    Speak your love! Speak it again!


    Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3 charity

    PO Box 376

    Moraga, California

    94556

    https://www.BetheSTARYouAre.org

    http://www.BTSYA.org

    Share StarStyle® Empowerment

Giving the Gift of You!

Posted by presspass on December 5, 2022
0
Empowerment
Giving the Gift of You!

https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/p/the-gift-of-you

The Gift of You!

Celebrating Giving

Cynthia Brian
19 hr ago

Share StarStyle® Empowerment

 

Miracle Moment®

“It was only a sunny smile, and little it cost in the giving, but like morning light it scattered the night and made the day worth living.”~  F. Scott Fitzgerald


 

A Message from founder/Executive Director, Cynthia Brian

Have you ever stopped to contemplate the importance of your smile? When we walk down the street and smile at a stranger, we give the gift of recognition. A smile says “I see you” and every person desires to be seen. As humans, we want to be appreciated and acknowledged. Smiling costs us nothing yet it offers innumerable value to the recipient. We never know what is transpiring in the life of another person. Your smile could be life saving.

This holiday season as we write checks to donate to causes dear to our heart, I encourage you to also give the gift of a smile to everyone you encounter. You will feel empowered and you will shine a light on the soul of another.

Give the gift of YOU!

Thank you for your generosity of spirt.

Sending star smiles across the miles.

Cheers for the holidays.

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

 


Do you have five minutes….

by Shubham Acharya

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others” ~ Mahatma Gandhi

Folks, can you think of an entity that is both easy to come-by and very hard to find at the same time? It’s time, my friends. So why talk about time when talking about giving back to society? The answer lies in the inherent value of time. Time is the most precious resource that an individual can contribute to any worthy cause or person.

This philosophy of donating time to people in need forms the bedrock of human culture. Both in moments of joy and sorrow, we look to share our feelings with others.

Moreover, the scale does not matter. What matters is the gesture itself. Taking the time to listen to someone’s problems and offer a shoulder to cry on relieves some of their pain and replaces it with peace. If you manage to do this with just one person a day, you have made the world a little more emphatic. So, giving back to society does not have to involve grand gestures and major financial commitments; it can simply be achieved by devoting a little time and effort to being emotionally available.

Shubham Acharya is a Be the Star You Are!® volunteer in Mumbai, India who believes strongly in women’s empowerment and children’s literacy. Shubbam writes: “My mother was a teacher in a government sponsored school in one of the poorest localities in my area, so I grew up very aware of the importance of education and literacy in changing people’s lives. Having said this, I fell in love with the Be the Star You are!® motto ‘To be a leader, you must be a READER’.”


 

The Gift of Friendship

By Karen Kitchel

Not all gifts come wrapped in shiny paper with a bow on top. When we think about a time we’ve felt real joy or comfort, it was often because someone had given us the gift of friendship. It’s not the number of years we’ve known them. It’s the feeling we get when they cross our minds.

During the last year, many of us have turned to those special folks for both support and laughter. It would be easy to take these kind souls for granted, but they deserve so much more.

Let us all take a moment now to speak the names of those whom we consider to be our friend and give thanks for the gift of their presence in our life.

 Karen Kitchel who penned two chapters in the book, Be the Star You Are! Millennials to Boomers Celebrating Gifts of Positive Voices in a Changing Digital World, is the Kindness Coordinator volunteer with BTSYA. She serves meals to the homeless and is a volunteer teacher, writer, job coach, and mentor. www.scatteringkindness.com


Santa Claus is Coming to Town!

Come celebrate the holidays as Be the Star You Are!® charity and 5 A Rent-A-Space bring the North Pole to Moraga. Children will write letters to Santa and talk to Jolly St. Nick. Buy gifts for the holidays with autographed copies of the new children’s book, No Barnyard Bullies while enjoying complimentary refreshments, music, and crafts for kids. The event is FREE! Lots of fun giveaways, too! Bring the family. BTSYA sponsored by Mark hoogs, State Farm Insurance, www.TeamHoogs.com. Thank you!

Location: 5 A Rent a Space, 455 Moraga Rd f, Moraga, CA 94556, USA

Info: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/events-1/santa-day-at-5a-december-10-2022

https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/150

Santa Day at 5

Santa Day at 5A

Make a Donation and Receive a Beautiful Dayspring Engraved Pen

Dayspring Pens is proud to partner with Be the Star You Are! through a donation of 50 engraved pens. With a donation of $250 to Be the Star You Are!®, the donor will receive a unique luxury gift pen with custom engraving. Dayspring is honored to be able to donate to an organization that works so diligently to produce positive media and encourage families through books to be what they are! Dayspring hopes that this donation of pens can show the respect and appreciation they hold for those who are vital to Be the Star You Are!’s work of empowering women, families, and youth through the power of positive role models. Visit Dayspring Pens @ https://www.dayspringpens.com

Make a DONATION of $250 through PAYPAL GIVING FUND with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES:  https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504. Email your receipt to cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org and provide your shipping address. You will receive your tax-receipt and your beautiful engraved and boxed pen.


 

SIMPLE WAYS TO HELP!

The holiday shopping spree is in full swing. We have suggestions for you to shop, save, and stay safe. Please use these web sites for all of your shopping essentials.

1. AmazonSmile donates .5% of purchases https://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882

2020 Amazon smile logo

2. Discounted books at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity

Giving Assistant Icon 234x60

3. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash at 3500+ popular online stores :https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc

4. Shop at over 1300 stores on IGIVE: http://www.iGive.com/BTSYA

2020 IGIVE logo

  1. Join the StarStyle® Community with a unique NFT and enjoy exclusive experiences. https://StarStyleCommunity.com

  2. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” black tanks and books at StarStyle® Store:

http://www.starstylestore.net/

Buy books and Shirt

Buy Book


DIRECT LINKS

BTSYA cuff Bracelets

Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results

About Us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/about_us

Programs: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs

How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help

Blog: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1

Events: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/events

Contact us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/contact


 

Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND and PAYPAL with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES:  https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-in

https://www.guidestar.org/profile/94-333388

BE THE STAR YOU ARE!® is proud to be honored as a TOP NON PROFIT for numerous consecutive years. We THANK YOU for making that happen!


Sending Season’s Greetings and Season’s Giving.

 

You are a GIFT! Thank you for being part of our STAR Galaxy. Give the GIFT OF YOU! SMILE!


 

Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3 charity

PO Box 376

Moraga, California

94556

https://www.BetheSTARYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

Share StarStyle® Empowerment

 

We THANK YOU!

Posted by presspass on November 22, 2022
0
Empowerment
We THANK YOU!

StarStyle® Empowerment

Thank YOU Very Much!

Tips for Creating an Attitude of Gratitude Every Day

Cynthia Brian
Nov 20
4

THANKSGIVING IS EVERY DAY!

 

MIRACLE MOMENT®

“The more gratitude you show in life, the more you will have to be grateful for.”

A MESSAGE FROM FOUNDER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CYNTHIA BRIAN

America is a country of great abundance, yet, everyday most of us complain about the lack in our lives.  Being human means that all of us, regardless of race, religion, economics, politics, or sex, will have difficult times and challenges to overcome. This is a plan that my daughter and I created together when she was a teenager.

It’s called, Thanksgiving is Today.

Take time to give thanks for the little things every day, not just once a year. Be grateful for what you have. When we are grateful, we are rewarded with a sense of honor and personal strength. Say “thank-you,” for every gift you receive, positive or negative, because everything in life is a blessing.  Life may be giving you a lesson in appreciation. Learn to be grateful for everything. Gratitude exalts the heart and feeds the soul. Having an attitude of gratitude makes every moment shine brightly.

1. Say “Thank You”

During the next hour, say a sincere “thank-you” to everyone who does anything nice for you, your family, your friends, or the world. Write one thank-you note, and mail it.

2. Cook up a Treat

Create something nourishing, sweet, and delicious to give to a friend or loved one. Bake a cake and say “Thank you for being you!” The recipe for living a life of happiness is gratitude.

3. Create a Gratitude Journal

Find a beautiful journal to keep by your night stand and every night write down all the people, places and things that your are grateful for on this day. Date it. When you are having a bad day, re-read your entries.  You’ll be surprised by all your blessings.

4. Learn to Receive

Allow others to feel good about them selves by giving to you. Learn to accept appreciatively and to enjoy the spirit of the gift. Sometimes the way you receive can be the greatest gift of generosity.

5. Write a letter

Letter writing is a dying art.  Get pretty note cards and write a heartfelt “thank you” to those who have made a difference in your life…just because.

6. Party On

Throw a Gratitude Party and invite everyone you admire.  What better way to say “thank you” than to eat, drink, dance, and be merry with friends?

7. Color My World

Get out your crayons and get creative. Make a collage. Cut photos and slogans from magazines to express your love of life.  Make meaning from madness.

8. Offer Compliments

Beauty and grace are everywhere around us.  When you “feel the love” say so.  Compliment often and from the heart.  You’ll be amazed at how wonderful you can make others feel.

9. Reward Yourself

Who is the most important person in the world? YOU!  Before you can serve others, you must serve yourself.  That means that you give yourself the gifts you need- more sleep, a hot bath, new clothing, a pat on the back, a romp with your dog, a glass of champagne, a luxurious vacation or a relaxing massage.  The important thing is for you to get the message that you are important. You count.  You are worthwhile. You DESERVE to be special. And then express your gratefulness for being the star you already are.

Everyday is Thanksgiving Day when you live, learn, laugh, and love in the moment. Thanksgiving is today. Share the abundance.

“Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.”    Charles Dickens, 1812-1870, Novelist

On behalf of all the volunteers at Be the Star You Are!®, we THANK YOU for being part of our STAR family. We appreciate your ongoing support of our efforts to empower women, families, and youth while increasing literacy and positive media.

May you have a hearty, happy, healthy Thanksgiving with those you love.

With gratitude,

“To be a leader, you must be a reader. Read, lead, succeed!”

THANK YOU!

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

“No matter what the situation is…close your eyes and think of all the things in your life you could be grateful for right now.” — Deepak Chopra


THANKSGIVING RADIO BROADCASTS

To help you get into the spirit of this holiday of gratefulness, tune in to our two Be the Star You Are!® uplifting radio broadcasts: Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio and StarStyle®. Both shows air on the Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel, and are available wherever you listen to radio or podcasts including iTunes, Stitcher, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Tunein, Pocketcasts, and more.

On Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio Keerthi hosts this holiday favorite and surprisingly she is not a fan of Thanksgiving food because she is a vegetarian. But she is a believer in appreciation and thankfulness and offers several quotes to ignite our gratefulness. She interviews Kirpa and Nihal Gill who testify that Thanksgiving is their favorite holiday. They share their family traditions and meal preparations. Spending time with their extended family is the highlight. Kirpa provides some historical context to the holiday while Nihal encourages others to volunteer to help others less fortunate during the holiday season. Alix, our resident restaurant reviewer and foodie talks about the favorite part of the Thanksgiving meal…dessert and offers three places to buy the best pies and cakes. Alix makes our mouth water with her divine descriptions of the buttery crusts and creamy fillings. Keerthi is humorous, as always, with her wacky comments and fun improvisational tone.

Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/140324/thanksgiving-gratitude

 
Express Yourself! Radio Reporters

 On StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!®, airing LIVE on Wednesday November 23 at 4PM PT, Cynthia Brian hosts an hour of power in the StarStyle® playground with a program focusing on gratitude, Thanksgiving, overcoming pain, and planting peace. For holiday gifts that keep on giving, buy first edition autographed books at http://starstylestore.net and NFTS at https://www.StarStyleCommunity.com

Listen at the Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/140320/thanksgiving-psychological-pain-planting-peace


HOLIDAY IN-PERSON EVENT SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10

Come celebrate the holidays as Be the Star You Are!® charity and 5 A Rent-A-Space bring the North Pole to Moraga. Children will write letters to Santa and talk to Jolly St. Nick. Buy gifts for the holidays with autographed copies of the new children’s book, No Barnyard Bullies while enjoying complimentary refreshments, music, and crafts for kids. The event is FREE! Lots of fun giveaways, too! Bring the family. BTSYA sponsored by Mark hoogs, State Farm Insurance, www.TeamHoogs.com. Thank you!

Location: 5 A Rent a Space, 455 Moraga Rd f, Moraga, CA 94556, USA

Info: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/events-1/santa-day-at-5a-december-10-2022

https://www.Starstylestore.ne

https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/150

Holiday Event: Santa Day at 5 A

WHO SHOULD YOU THANK?

By Karen Kitchel

We often say thank you without even thinking about who we thanked or what just happened.  Are automatic thanks valued?

If we think about the last time someone thanked us, can we remember who it was or what we did?  Perhaps the person who wanted to express their gratitude was hoping they brightened your day. Maybe they did.

This week we are likely to spend a bit more time thinking about all the wonderful people who make our life better.  You know who they are, but in case someone has slipped your mind, here are a few to consider:

*Janitors *Receptionists *Mechanics *Coaches *Nursing assistants *Childcare workers *Construction laborers *DJs *Editors *Fast food cooks *High school principals *Ice cream servers *Snow shovelers *Butchers  *Grandparents *Organists *Truck drivers *Pizza makers *Librarians *Bank tellers  *Bus drivers *Readers of blogs

Keep some thank you coins or notes in your pocket, and you will never miss an opportunity to say THANKS!

Karen Kitchel who penned two chapters in the book, Be the Star You Are! Millennials to Boomers Celebrating Gifts of Positive Voices in a Changing Digital World, is the Kindness Coordinator volunteer with BTSYA. She serves meals to the homeless and is a volunteer teacher, writer, job coach, and mentor. www.scatteringkindness.com


SIMPLE WAYS TO HELP!

The holiday shopping sprees begin this week. We have suggestions for you to shop, save, and stay safe. Please use these web sites for all of your shopping essentials.

1. AmazonSmile donates .5% of purchases https://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882

2020 Amazon smile logo

2. Discounted books at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity

Giving Assistant Icon 234x60

3. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash at 3500+ popular online stores :https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc

4. Shop at over 1300 stores on IGIVE: http://www.iGive.com/BTSYA

2020 IGIVE logo

5. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” black tanks and books at StarStyle® Store:

http://www.starstylestore.net/

StarStyle Store

6. Are you a gamer, lover of new software, or other digital content? Buy all of your favorites at Humble Bundle. http://ow.ly/cYs130iN6n4

7. BUY NFTS from https://StarStyleCommunity.com to trade, sell, hold, and be invited to exclusive experiences and events.

Starstyle NFTS happy-alone.jpeg


“I’m grateful for the opportunity to live on this beautiful and astonishing Planet Earth. In the morning, I woke up with a sense of gratitude.” –Earl Nightingale


ALL WE NEED IS A THANK YOU!!

by Shubham Acharya

The show of appreciation is one of the most effective ways of motivating anyone. We may not realise it but when someone thanks us for our service, it fills us with a sense of accomplishment. We feel as if we made the other person’s life a little bit better. The power of gratitude is so profound that it forms the bedrock of employee motivation even in the cutthroat corporate culture.

There is reciprocity involved as well, we feel good in return after having thanked someone. Have you ever noticed that whenever you acknowledge the service of a waiter at a restaurant or thank a customer service personnel at a call centre, it immediately brings about a subtle change in their tone. We might not realise it, but that little extra effort goes a long way to improve someone’s day. They might be dealing with serious problems or simply having a bad day, but that simple ‘thank you’ might give them the fortitude to grit their teeth and battle it out.

So next time when the waiter brings your order say, “Thank You!”, when you accept a parcel delivery say, ‘Thank You!’, whenever someone offers you a service, no matter how trivial, remember to say, ‘Thank You!’. Our small token of appreciation will go a long way towards making this world just a little bit better.

Shubham Acharya is a Be the Star You Are!® volunteer in Mumbai, India who believes strongly in women’s empowerment and children’s literacy. Shubbam writes: “My mother was a teacher in a government sponsored school in one of the poorest localities in my area, so I grew up very aware of the importance of education and literacy in changing people’s lives. Having said this, I fell in love with the Be the Star You are!® motto ‘To be a leader, you must be a READER’.”

shubhamn achera from mumbai.jpg

 


DIRECT LINKS

BTSYA cuff Bracelets

Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results

About Us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/about_us

Programs: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs

How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help

Blog: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1

Events: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/events

Contact us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/contact

Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND and PAYPAL with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES:  https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-in

https://www.guidestar.org/profile/94-333388

BE THE STAR YOU ARE!® is proud to be honored as a TOP NON PROFIT for numerous consecutive years. We THANK YOU for making that happen!

Be the Star You Are!® is a TOP NON PROFIT

From our homes to yours, we wish you all joy and blessings of Thanksgiving.

Make Thanksgiving everyday and express gratitude for living.

“There is more hunger in the world for love and appreciation than for bread.” Mother Theresa

THANK YOU FOR BEING YOU!

Share StarStyle® Empowerment

 

© 2022 Cynthia Brian

Posts navigation

1 2 3 … 7 Next

Recent Comments

  • Doug (Coach) Peacock on LOVE LIGHT GUEST TESTIMONIALS

Recent Posts

  • Business Continuity, The Legal Team, and Community Resilience
  • A Dream That Continues to Grow: The 8th Annual Black Music Honors
  • Vibrant Energy: A Functional Medicine Approach
  • Movie Review: The Little Mermaid * An Absolute Triumph, Showcasing The Beloved Tale In A Fresh And Captivating Way
  • Methylation: Why is Everyone so Excited?
  • Home
  • Listen Now
  • Become a Host
  • Newsletter
  • Contact Us
  • VoiceAmerica
  • Contribute

Copyright © 2023. Powered by WordPress. Designed by myThem.es.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish.Accept Read More
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Non-necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
SAVE & ACCEPT
Posting....

Enjoy this blog? Please spread the word :)

  • RSS
  • Follow by Email
  • Facebook
    fb-share-icon
  • Twitter
    Tweet
RSS
Follow by Email
Facebook
fb-share-icon
Twitter
Tweet