The name "Aiden" is often associated with warmth, fire, and spiritual light. Its origins trace back to the Irish name Aodhán, derived from Aodh, meaning "little fire" or "fiery one." This essence embodies qualities like passion, inner strength, and resilience, symbolizing someone who is driven, tenacious, and carries a warmth that can inspire and uplift others. Spiritually, people with the name Aiden are often seen as natural leaders with a strong inner fire that helps them navigate challenges and encourages others to persevere as well. In a broader spiritual context, Aiden signifies transformation and growth, like a fire that brings light, warmth, and renewal, hinting at a journey of continuous self-discovery and evolution. It aligns well with qualities of guidance, inner wisdom, and strength – apt for someone seeking both personal peace and the power to uplift others.
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Samhain Ritual Ideas - Tips for SamhainHow to Celebrate Samhain:Decorate Decorate with pumpkin, squash & gourds to represent seasonal abundance & to honor nature. Samhain is all about celebrating the harvest and the culmination of the year - what can you display or give gratitude for that represents your harvest? Candles Lighting candles during Samhain is a traditional way to help spirits find their way home. Connect with Nature Find ways to connect with and honor nature by spending time outside. Even just a short mindful walk can be a great way to feel connected to mother earth. Ancestors Honor your ancestors with an altar & prayer. On your altar, consider placing items that remind you of the ancestor. If you don’t know your ancestors, consider tapping into intuition to see what you feel called to include. Perhaps consider what part of the world did they live in? What types of foods were enjoyed? Was it hot or cold climate? Questions like this can help to inspire you to add different items to your altar. Photos, trinkets, leaves, rocks, pumpkins, water, candles and even a food offering can be placed at this altar. Spirits & Mediumship During Samhain the veil between our world and the spirit realm is thin, this makes it a great time to practice your mediumship abilities. If you are a baby witch or someone who has not practiced mediumship before, please do your research to keep yourself and your home safe.
Intention Set intention for the upcoming darker half of the year by journaling & reflecting on the past year. What do you still want to accomplish? What feels complete? What lessons have you been learning? Death Celebrate the circle of life by acknowledging that death is one thing we all have in common. We are all walking towards death, so let’s consider how we can walk one another home safely. 4 Ways to Embrace Rebirth on SamhainWithout darkness, there would be no light – and without death, there would be no life. On October 31, we’re reminded of this truth more than any other time of the year. Known to the ancient Celts as Samhain, October 31 is commonly referred to in the modern world as Halloween. Though its name has changed over the centuries, Samhain remains an evening of darkness and mystery – a time for us to experience a deeper connection with our shadow selves and the spirits on the other side.
Though Samhain is an allusion to death – a reminder that all things eventually wither and fall away – it’s also a promise that new life will eventually emerge. Even before I “‘knew” or learned that Samhain was the Celtic New Year, I always had this feeling right around November 1 that the planet was rebirthing itself. Something seems new, fresh, and available on the morning after Samhain. And it is. As the trees shed their leaves and let the old, decaying parts of them return to the earth, they create space for new things to grow. On Samhain, we are reminded that as we, too, release the old parts of ourselves, we make room for new parts of our soul to emerge – ones more deeply aligned with our most authentic selves. With every death, there is new life, and in this way, we are infinite – manifestations of an unending cycle of decay and growth. To harness the magic of rebirth this Samhain, here are four easy rituals you can perform:
2. Connect with your ancestors On Samhain, the veil between our world and the spiritual realm is at its thinnest, making it a powerful time to connect with your ancestors and guides on the other side. Connect with your ancestors by leaving offerings out for them, such as their favorite foods, photos of them, or any old trinkets of theirs that you may have. Ask them to guide you in the coming months and provide you with their wisdom and support as you traverse through the darker half of the year.
These are just a few ways that you can channel the energy of rebirth on Samhain. However you choose to celebrate, may this sacred holiday be a time of transformation, self-exploration, and strength for each and every one of you. And so it is. ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ Evening of Thu, Oct 31, 2024 – Fri, Nov 1, 2024🗓️ Overview of Samhain Samhain is a Gaelic festival celebrated on November 1st, marking the end of the harvest season and the onset of winter or the 'darker half' of the year. 🎃 Cultural Significance The festival symbolizes the transition to the new year in the Celtic calendar, linked to various traditions of honoring the dead and celebrating the harvest. 🔥 Druidic Traditions In Druid traditions, Samhain is celebrated with bonfires and rituals meant to honor deceased ancestors. LEARN | PAGAN HOLIDAYS | SAMHAIN EVERYTHING YOU NEED |
2024 Veterans Day Poster
Each year, the Veterans Day National
Committee publishes a commemorative Veterans Day poster. The poster is selected from artwork submitted by artists nationwide and is distributed to VA facilities across the country and to military installations around the world. It also serves as the cover of the official program for the Veterans Day Observance at Arlington National Cemetery.
This year’s poster is by Myisha B. Godette,
from Queens, NY, U.S. Army, RET. For information about the inspiration for Ms. Godettes’ design, visit the Veterans day poster announcement webpage at news. va.gov/133569/2024-veterans-day-postercontest-and-the-winner-is/va.gov/133569/2024-veterans-day-postercontest-and-the-winner-is/.
Current and past Veterans Day posters are
available for download from VA’s Veterans Day Poster Gallery at www.flickr.com/photos/ veteransaffairs/albums/72177720300172803. |
The Story of Veterans Day
dead – whether in wartime or peace. In fact, Veterans Day is largely intended to thank living Veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who serve have sacrificed and done their duty.
and have different histories. Memorial Day, which has its roots in the post-Civil War effort to “memorialize”
all those who died in that war, has become a modern holiday to remember those from all wars and conflicts
who gave their lives in service to the country. To ensure the sacrifices of America’s fallen heroes are never
forgotten, in December 2000 the U.S. Congress passed and the President signed into law “The National
Moment of Remembrance Act” to “encourage the people of the United States to give something back to
their country, which provides them so much freedom and opportunity” by encouraging and coordinating
commemorations of Memorial Day and the National Moment of Remembrance. The National Moment of
Remembrance encourages all Americans to pause wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day for a two minutes of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation.
called upon Americans everywhere to re-dedicate themselves to the cause of peace. He issued a presidential order directing the head of the Veterans Administration (now the Department of Veterans Affairs) to form a Veterans Day National Committee (VDNC) to organize and oversee the national observance of Veterans Day. In addition to fulfilling that mission, the committee oversees the annual production and distribution of a Veterans Day poster and Teachers Resource Guide.
in October, but it became quickly apparent that the American public held fast to the historical significance
of the First World War armistice on November 11, and in 1978 Veterans Day was returned permanently to its traditional date.
Cemetery. At 11:00 a.m. E.T., a color guard made up of members from each branch of the military renders
honors to America’s deceased Veterans during a tradition-rich ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The President or his representative places a wreath at the Tomb and a bugler sounds “Taps.” The balance of the ceremony, including a “Parade of Flags” by Veterans Service Organizations (VSO), takes place inside the Memorial Amphitheater, adjacent to the Tomb.
that the President issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States to observe a two-minute
national moment of silence on Veterans Day at 3:11 p.m. Atlantic standard time, 2:11 p.m. Eastern standard
time, 1:11 p.m. Central standard time, 12:11 p.m. Mountain standard time, 11:11 a.m. Pacific standard time, 10:11 a.m. Alaska standard time, and 9:11 a.m. Hawaii-Aleutian standard time.
number of Veterans Day Regional Sites. These sites conduct Veterans Day celebrations that provide excellent examples for other communities to follow. To learn more about the Veterans Day National Committee and the Veterans Day Regional Sites at department.va.gov/veterans-day.
POW and MIA
an international armed conflict. Missing in Action (MIA) is a person whose status and/or whereabouts is
unknown. A known POW is not “MIA,” but a person “MIA” may be an unidentified POW. MIA status is often the temporary report until a serviceperson’s whereabouts can be identified and his or her status confirmed. Sadly, some Servicemembers’ status becomes permanently MIA. Military POWs and MIAs are all Veterans.
currently more than 81,200 unaccounted for U.S. personnel, including 72,044 from World War II, 7,465 from the Korean War, 126 from the Cold War, 1,575 from the Vietnam War, and six from Iraq and other recent conflicts. For current counts, please visit DPAA’s website at www.dpaa.mil.
National League of POW/MIA Families. Congress has approved displaying the POW/MIA flag at all military
and VA facilities.
designated federal properties, including the U.S. Capitol Building and the White House “on all days the U.S.
flag is flown” and “in a manner designed to ensure visibility to the public.”
their sacrifice considered less than that of any other Veteran of the United States.
The Medal of Honor
President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War, The Medal of Honor was the nation’s first valor Medal and
remains at the top of the military’s “pyramid of honor.” The Medal represents the courage, integrity, sacrifice, commitment, citizenship, and patriotism displayed by those awarded it. Since its first presentation in 1863, just over 3500 Medals have been awarded, a very small percentage of the over 40 million individuals who have served in the United States Armed Forces. As of June 2024, there were only 61 living Medal of Honor Recipients from all conflicts.
wear the Medal for those who didn’t come home and in honor of all those with whom they served.
for actions “above and beyond the call of duty.” The current criteria were established in 1963 during the
Vietnam War.
gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty.
- While engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States;
- While engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or
- While serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed
force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.”
sworn eyewitness statements; and any other compelling evidence that can be gathered. Recommendation
packets must be approved all the way up the military command structure, ending with the United
States President as the Commander-in-Chief.
of the valorous act and the Medal must be presented within 5 years. Any submissions
outside of this timeline require an Act of Congress to waive the time limits.
and to access living history videos and additional reference material, see the
Congressional Medal of Honor Society’s website at www.cmohs.org.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
the Potomac River and Washington, D.C. The burial site of this unknown World War I soldier in Arlington
National Cemetery became known as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The neoclassical, white marble
sarcophagus depicts three carved Greek figures representing Peace, Victory, and Valor. Inscribed on the back of the Tomb are the words:
Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God.”
crypts for an Unknown Soldier from World War II and the Korean War. A white marble slab flush with the plaza marks each crypt.
respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which soon came to symbolize the sacrifices of all American
Servicemembers.
midnight on July 2, 1937, the Army has maintained a 24-hour guard over the Tomb. Sentinels of the 3rd U.S.
Infantry, “The Old Guard,” assumed these duties on April 6, 1948, maintaining a constant vigil regardless of
weather conditions. For more information, please visit the Arlington National Cemetery website at
www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Explore/Monuments-and-Memorials/Tomb-of-the-Unknown-Soldier
School Programs to Honor Veterans Day
more sensible than one that would take place outside, eliminating the need for foul weather plans.
to program areas if you intend to invite Veterans, some of whom may be elderly or disabled. Also take school security restrictions into consideration as you plan your event.
Veterans groups. If school rules allow, students can be encouraged to bring family members who are Veterans (especially parents, siblings, or grandparents) or who currently serve in the Uniformed Service.
Students tend to better understand and absorb the significance of Veterans Day when they can attach a
human face to it.
Anthem to thrilling speeches and stories, Veterans will sometimes entertain and educate students. But they
will also be pleased to attend as honored guests.
and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities or regional offices. You may be surprised at how
many Veterans live in your area. Schools that send out invitations often end up with former generals and
admirals, Medal of Honor Recipients, and other distinguished Veterans as guest speakers. A listing of VSOs
appears later in this guide. Or visit www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp for an online directory of
Veterans’ groups.
following are some suggestions for a program that will make this Veterans Day memorable for both students and guests:
Prelude and Posting of Colors — As the audience
enters to be seated, a school or community musical organization may offer several appropriate selections. A procession and posting of the colors (U.S. Flag) is a stirring event. Local VSOs often participate in such programs with their impressive array of military banners and U.S. Flags. School JROTC color guards also appreciate the opportunity to practice their skills and honor Veterans at such events.
Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem --
The program chairperson, school principal or student body president should invite the audience to stand and join in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and singing the National Anthem once the colors have been presented. |
https://department.va.gov/veterans-day/.
school alumni with distinguished military service, Veterans from the community who represent different
periods of service, and faculty members who are Veterans.
preparation for your program.
student body participation may be increased. Selected essays from class or school-wide competitions may
be read aloud by the authors. The reading of a well-known patriotic address by a U.S. president or war hero
is also effective. There are a number of published musicals/narratives that can enhance your program. A
student-performed short play or skit can be quite entertaining as well.
always appropriate to recognize and remember those who gave their lives for our country. More than a
century ago, World War I ended when an armistice – a truce – took effect at 11 a.m. on November 11, 1918;
thus, the saying that the war ended on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. Although 11 a.m.
remains a traditional hour for remembering our fallen heroes, a moment of silence is appropriate at any point in the program. This may be followed by the playing of “Taps.” For more information on the history of Taps please visit www.tapsbugler.com.
music, such as a John Philip Sousa march, the Colors are paraded out of the assembly area. This concludes
the ceremony
Student Activities: Veterans Day 2024
flag, flag pins, a medal, a traditional “poppy,” or other remembrance and honor them during the program.
[Poppies first became a symbol of remembrance for soldiers who died during World War I, since poppy fields grew where some of the battles were fought.
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Author
Aiden Kirchner is a passionate entrepreneur, skilled graphic designer, and dedicated content creator with over a decade of experience. Driven by self-improvement and a commitment to peace, Aiden is the founder of Kirchner Admin Services, where he provides diverse digital services from web design to social media marketing. As a Disabled Veteran, he brings a strong ethical foundation from his military background, incorporating the Army Values into his business approach. Aiden is a lifelong learner with certifications across various fields, including web design, customer service, and digital literacy. Outside of work, he enjoys spiritual practices, including meditation and gratitude journaling, and he shares his journey of self-love and growth with readers in an authentic, heartfelt way.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Avon supports BCAM with events like concerts, bake sales, and walks and runs. Avon also sells products to raise funds for breast cancer charities.
Avon is a national presenting sponsor of the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer events.
Avon promotes breast health awareness through initiatives with employees, representatives, and customers.
- Wear pink
Wearing pink shows solidarity with those affected by breast cancer and raises awareness for research and patient care. - Participate in a mountain climb
Climb to Fight Breast Cancer is an annual series of mountain climbs that raise funds for breast cancer research.
ADHD Awareness Month: How to Get Involved and Make a Difference
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can affect a person’s daily functioning in school, work, and social environments. ADHD impacts both children and adults, with symptoms often persisting into adulthood.
- Reducing Stigma: There are many misconceptions about ADHD, including that it only affects children or that it’s simply a result of lack of discipline. ADHD Awareness Month works to challenge these myths and spread accurate information.
- Promoting Early Diagnosis and Treatment: Awareness encourages early detection, which is critical for better management of the disorder through therapies, lifestyle changes, and, when needed, medication.
- Supporting Individuals and Families: Raising awareness helps provide better support systems for individuals living with ADHD and their loved ones.
- Educate Yourself and Others: Read up on ADHD from reliable sources such as CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) or ADDitude Magazine. Share articles, videos, or infographics to spread accurate information.
- Join or Support an ADHD Organization: Many organizations host webinars, discussions, and events during ADHD Awareness Month. Consider joining these, donating, or volunteering your time to support those with ADHD.
- Share Stories and Resources on Social Media: Use your platforms to share personal stories, raise awareness, and encourage acceptance. Use hashtags like #ADHDAwarenessMonth to reach a broader audience.
- Advocate for Better Policies: Write to your local representatives to advocate for policies that support people with ADHD, such as accommodations in schools, access to mental health resources, and insurance coverage for ADHD-related treatments.
- Wear ADHD Awareness Colors: Wearing ADHD awareness colors, such as orange, can be a simple way to show your support. You can also share photos on social media to help spread the word.
- Host or Attend ADHD Events: Whether it's a local community event, an online webinar, or a group discussion, these gatherings can help spread knowledge and offer support to those affected by ADHD.
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
- AVON 39
This event brought together people from across the country to raise money and awareness for breast cancer. The San Francisco event was a 39.3-mile walk. - Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
This program is the largest network of breast cancer events in the country. It includes non-competitive walks of 3–5 miles that celebrate survivors, caregivers, and thrivers. The program also educates the public on breast cancer prevention and detection. - Avon's role in Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
Avon is the national presenting sponsor for the program. Avon invites its employees, customers, and representatives to join Team Avon to raise money and awareness. Avon also donates a portion of the proceeds from pink ribbon product sales to the American Cancer Society.
@wildsoul420 October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and as an Avon Representative, I’m proud to recognize the significant role Avon has played in the fight against breast cancer. Avon 39, The Walk to End Breast Cancer, helped raise $646 million over 15 years to fund research, early detection, and support services. Although the walk ended in 2017, Avon continues its commitment by partnering with the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer program. Breast cancer doesn’t discriminate—it affects both men and women. That’s why it’s so important to get a mammogram, regardless of gender. Early detection saves lives, and a mammogram can catch breast cancer at its earliest stages when it’s most treatable. Let’s continue the fight together by raising awareness, supporting survivors, and encouraging everyone to schedule their mammogram this month! #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth #AvonFightsBreastCancer #MakingStrides #EarlyDetectionSavesLives #FightLikeAGirl #GetYourMammogram #PinkOctober #EndBreastCancer #AvonRepresentative #TogetherWeCan #SupportSurvivors ♬ Pink - Dolly Parton & Monica & Jordin Sparks & Rita Wilson & Sara Evans
STATISTICS ON BREAST CANCER
- Breast Cancer Incidence: In the U.S., about 1 in 8 women (12.9%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of their lifetime. In 2024, an estimated 297,790 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women, along with 55,720 new cases of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer.
- Breast Cancer in Men: While breast cancer is far more common in women, men can get breast cancer too. In 2024, about 2,800 men are expected to be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, and approximately 530 men will die from the disease.
- Breast Cancer Mortality: Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the U.S., second only to lung cancer. In 2024, an estimated 43,170 women will die from breast cancer.
- Survival Rates: The average 5-year survival rate for women with non-metastatic invasive breast cancer is 90%. When breast cancer is detected early, localized in the breast, the 5-year survival rate increases to 99%.
- Mammograms and Early Detection: Early detection through regular mammograms can reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer by 25% to 30% for women aged 50 to 69. The American Cancer Society recommends women begin annual mammograms at age 40 to help detect cancer early.
- Breast Cancer Worldwide: Globally, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, affecting 2.3 million women annually. It accounts for 1 in 4 cancers diagnosed in women and remains the leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide, responsible for 685,000 deaths each year.
Ways to reduce Breast Cancer
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese, especially after menopause, increases the risk of breast cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and regular exercise can help reduce this risk.
- Exercise Regularly: Engaging in moderate physical activity (like brisk walking) for at least 150 minutes a week or vigorous activity for 75 minutes a week can help lower your risk.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption: The more alcohol you drink, the higher your risk of developing breast cancer. It’s recommended to limit alcohol to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking is linked to many types of cancer, including breast cancer. Quitting smoking can improve overall health and reduce cancer risk.
- Breastfeed, if Possible: Breastfeeding may slightly lower breast cancer risk, especially if done for a total of a year or more across multiple children.
- Limit Postmenopausal Hormone Therapy: Combination hormone therapy (estrogen and progesterone) taken during menopause can increase breast cancer risk. If you need hormone therapy, talk to your doctor about using it for the shortest time possible.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can contribute to better overall health and reduce the risk of cancer. Limiting processed foods and red meat may also be helpful.
- Avoid Exposure to Radiation and Environmental Pollutants: Some studies have suggested a link between breast cancer and exposure to certain chemicals in the environment. Limiting unnecessary exposure to radiation (like from medical imaging) can reduce risk.
- Get Regular Mammograms and Screenings: Early detection is key in catching breast cancer when it’s most treatable. Women should follow recommended guidelines for mammograms based on their age and risk factors.
- Know Your Family History: If you have a family history of breast cancer, especially in close relatives, it may increase your risk. Talk to your doctor about genetic testing or increased screening if you have a family history of breast cancer.
- Consider Preventive Medications or Surgery (for High-Risk Individuals): If you're at high risk due to family history or genetic factors (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations), medications like selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) or preventive surgeries (such as mastectomy) can be options to lower your risk.
- Limit Hormonal Birth Control Use: Some studies suggest that taking hormonal birth control (such as birth control pills) may slightly increase breast cancer risk. Speak with your healthcare provider about your risk and alternative birth control methods.
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Recruiting a Dream Team of Industry Experts
Why Collaboration is Essential
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