Monthly Archives: January 2012
FInDiNg yOuR iNnEr sImBa
Just wanted to share with all of you the significance of our most recent post about the circle of life; the Lion King was one of Marcus’ favorite movies growing up. I am sure he must have seen the movie about a hundred times, day in and day out he watched this movie, first thing in the morning he would turn on the VCR…yes the VCR and watch it. He loved it so much he wanted to be Simba for Halloween and his Mom was more than happy to fulfill his dream.
Kindergarten Year at Tranquillity Elementary School
What strikes me is that the movie is about hope rising out of tragedy and I think this is a lesson we could all use right now. Things have been very hard and we need to find strength in each other right now, just like Simba found strength through his friends Timon and Pumba. Be mindful of who you are and where you come from and most of all always be yourself. Marcus was himself through and through and yes he may have been influenced by others at times but he remained his own, very unique self and this is one of the things we will remember about him most.
In the words of Roy Disney this is what the Lion King is about:
“It’s about first of all knowing who you are, you personally inside of yourself and learning to be true to that and learning not to absolve yourself from your own responsibilities.” Roy Disney
So please take care of yourselves and here is a bit of inspiration from the Circle of Life…
The Circle of Life
Music by Elton John, lyrics by Tim Rice
Performed by Carmen Twillie
From the day we arrive on the planet
And, blinking, step into the sun
There’s more to see than can ever be seen
More to do than can ever be done
There’s far too much to take in here
More to find than can ever be found
But the sun rolling high
Through the sapphire sky
Keeps great and small on the endless round
It’s the Circle of Life
And it moves us all
Through despair and hope
Through faith and love
Till we find our place
On the path unwinding
In the Circle
The Circle of Life
a wOrD fRoM tHe nAtioNaL cRiMe pReVeNtioN cOuNciL
Protect Yourself From Violent Crime
A list of tips for adults on staying safe
- Don’t walk or jog early in the morning or late at night when the streets are deserted.
- When out at night, try to have a friend walk with you.
- Carry only the money you’ll need on a particular day.
- Don’t display your cash or any other inviting targets such as pagers, cell phones, hand-held electronic games, or expensive jewelry and clothing.
- If you think someone is following you, switch directions or cross the street. If the person continues to follow you, move quickly toward an open store or restaurant or a lighted house. Don’t be afraid to yell for help.
- Try to park in well-lighted areas with good visibility and close to walkways, stores, and people.
- Make sure you have your key out as you approach your door.
- Always lock your car, even if it’s in your own driveway; never leave your motor running.
- Do everything you can to keep a stranger from getting into your car or to keep a stranger from forcing you into his or her car.
- If a dating partner has abused you, do not meet him or her alone. Do not let him or her in your home or car when you are alone.
- If you are a battered spouse, call the police or sheriff immediately. Assault is a crime, whether committed by a stranger or your spouse or any other family member. If you believe that you and your children are in danger, call a crisis hotline or a health center (the police can also make a referral) and leave immediately.
- If someone tries to rob you, give up your property—don’t give up your life.
- If you are robbed or assaulted, report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions can help prevent someone else from becoming a victim.
tHe aNtI vIoLeNcE aRsEnAL
One of the best weapons you could arm yourself with, is to simply be fully aware of your surroundings.
Photo By Colleen Diltz
aN uNeXpEcTeD tRiBuTe
November 11th marked the last football game of the season for the Kerman Lions; the game was played at Washington Union High School in Easton. The rain was really coming down for most of the JV game and the beginning of the Varsity game. Despite this the Lions had a great showing of fans who were as always very supportive of their school. The rain began to break away in time for the Varsity half time.
To our surprise the Washington Union cheerleaders began a quiet march across the football field carrying this beautiful sign. “Our heart goes out to Snowden’s family & friends” the moment was very touching as the message clearly showed their kindness and concern for all who were affected by Lynn’s passing. Lynn’s brother Reno Ochoa greeted the Washington Union cheerleaders with hugs and cheer squads from both schools took photos with the banner.
This moment is an example of how violence affects many people in different communities; the camaraderie of both schools on the football field was clearly evident in this moment. The bonds formed between people are constant despite friendly competition on the football field or in a wrestling match. We were very grateful for this tribute in that moment he was there with everyone at one of the places he loved most, the football field.
The Love Could Be Felt In The Whole Stadium
Washington Union High School went on to become the 2011 state CIF Division III state champions, after the 21-16 win over Campolindo on Dec 17th, 2011.
Photos By Colleen Diltz
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- The Love Could Be Felt In The Whole Stadium
fReE gRiEf cOuNsEliNg
In the aftermath of tragedy, we are left to deal with our grief, family and friends are the best people to be around. There are times though, when we are alone in our thoughts and those can be the hardest moments. We wanted to share this link with you, where you can go to receive free group counseling. This service is provided by St. Agnes Hospital. We encourage anyone who needs help to attend and to be comforted by the fact that you are not alone. Grief Support Group
wHaT wE aRe sTrIvInG fOr
Hoping to spread a powerful message to the youth and families in our communities. Marcus your memory will live on in the hearts of everyone you touched.
Marcus Lynn Ochoa Snowden "D-bo"
Together Against Violence 