red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Well, Prince Charles is now officially King Charles III, and it should be very interesting to see how his reign will be vs. the decades of speculating. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Technically, the moment Queen Elizabeth II died, he automatically became King. Regardless, he has been preparing for the role his entire life. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Yes, but there’s something about the pomp and pageantry of a coronation that makes it seem like it’s the beginning of his reign. Not to mention, it’s a rare event as the last one in England was his mother’s in 1952. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | The rarity is a monarch ruling for 70 years. Obviously, the next coronation will be in much less than 70 years. If there even is one. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | I know after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s interview with Oprah, there was talk about how the Monarchy should end with Queen Elizabeth. But the idea wasn’t anything new as I remember there was talk of that when I lived in England decades ago. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | I can understand why people are questioning whether the Monarchy, with its “old-fashioned” traditions and beliefs, is still relevant. And, having apparent “issues” in terms of race relations certainly does not help. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Are you referring to the story about someone wondering what color Prince Harry and Meghan’s unborn baby would be? Or, more recently, when one of Queen Elizabeth’s long-time ladies in waiting, Lady Susan Hussey, made an embarrassing social gaffe when asking a Black director of a charity where she was “really” from. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Neither specifically, but both in general. The “old guard” comes from a generation that grew up when overt racism was more accepted and institutionalized, and probably internalized those attitudes. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | True. Plus, the Royal Family, or The Firm, which is how the family and institution refers to itself, is very isolated from the real world, so has less exposure to people from different racial and ethnic backgrounds. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | That is not surprising, but who nicknames themselves? The Firm sounds like a Netflix series, but less refined than “The Crown.” |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | “The Firm” is one of my favorite Tom Cruise movies and is based on the John Grisham novel of the same name. But it has nothing to do with British history. Anyway, as you know, I love Tudor history. However, I’m not an expert on the British Monarchy or the current Royal Family, although I think they serve an important purpose. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | They do when it comes to money. It is a business with over a thousand people working for it, which may explain the nickname. I remember reading a Forbes article that stated the amount of money they bring in (primarily due to tourism) is estimated to contribute $2.7 billion a year to the U.K. economy (pre-pandemic), making the $550 million cost of running it a wise investment. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Wow! Those are huge numbers, but I was referring to the invaluable role the Royal Family played in getting a nation to pull together, and stay together, as they fought not one, but two, World Wars. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | But, that was a long time ago. How is that relevant today? |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Sometimes the mere existence of a well-established institution, and its pomp and circumstance, can remind people that they’re a part of something bigger than themselves. That there’s a history that binds you. In this case, as a country. Don’t believe me? Look at the outpouring of grief when Queen Elizabeth II died. The British people put their differences aside and came together in their praise that she was more than a queen; she was a symbol of her country. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Yes, but that was a reflection of her 70 years of representing the country. They were honoring the past, which is very different from supporting the Monarchy’s future. Especially given all the drama within the Royal Family, not only going back to Princess Diana, but in terms of Prince Harry and Meghan, and the scandals around King Charles’ brother, Prince Andrew. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | There have always been royal “scandals” or less-than-acceptable behavior. But it does seem worse today. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Is it worse? Or, is it because it was much easier to do damage control before the internet and social media? Regardless, the Monarch was always looked upon as a role model and was supposed to represent values worth emulating – love of country, public service, respect, integrity, grace, discretion, tradition … |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | That’s certainly what Queen Elizabeth II represented. And even King Charles’ sister, Princess Anne, who’s one of the hardest working royals although not given nearly enough recognition. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | It is not an easy job, and not one you choose … you are born into it. Obviously, some people are better suited for the role. Or, do a better job preparing. King Charles, the oldest individual to ascend to the throne, has had plenty of time to think about how to honor something as old and established as the Monarchy while still making it relevant in today’s world. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Well, he has been at the forefront of so many important issues, whether climate change, the environment, conservationism, that used to be considered quirky,but are now mainstream and recognized as critical issues. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | He does have a unique background, and a history of strong opinions, which may make one of his greatest challenges finding the balance between being head of state, where he is required to remain neutral on political matters, and still addressing the important issues facing society. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Given the situation with Prince Harry and Meghan, I’ll be curious how he may shine a much-needed light on mental health and racism. Regardless, he definitely has his royal plate full, and I wish him all the best |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Agree. And, it will be interesting to see what happens to The Firm now that it is under new management. |
Want to read other columns? Here's a list.
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | As much of a history buff as I am, I’m embarrassed to admit that for a long time, I didn’t know March was Women’s History Month. But now that I do, I’m amazed by all the inspirational stories of women’s remarkable achievements. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Too bad Natasha and Sawyer do not still live at home; it would be fun to start a conversation by asking them what women they find inspiring. |
Red assets.rebelmouse.io | I already know who they would pick. The first woman to race the road course at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. And I’d have to agree with them. Your Ferrari racing has made an impact on so many people. But especially girls. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Until you mentioned it several years ago, I never thought about that. In the 1970s, I was one of the few women in business school. I then made a career in the male-dominated oil and gas industry. I am used to being a “token” female. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Trust me. I watch people whenever we’ve done speaking engagements. It’s predictable ... we put up the family tree, and Natasha and Sawyer get awws, but your two racecars get everyone’s attention. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | A Ferrari and vintage Porsche usually do. I appreciate that not many women race cars, but as I often say, “How hard can it be, boys do it?” |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | That always makes me laugh. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | It is a factual statement. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | I’m not saying no, but it definitely makes a point. That girls can do anything. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Well, I have always felt that way. Looking back, my role model growing up was Marlo Thomas in “That Girl.” |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | The late 1960s TV sitcom? Seriously? I have to admit I didn’t watch it as it never really appealed to me. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Maybe you should have. Until then, women on TV shows were either someone’s wife, someone’s mother, or someone’s secretary – but never someone independent. Playing an aspiring actress living on her own in New York City, it was easy for me to relate to as we grew up just a short train ride away on Long Island. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | But she wasn’t real. She was a character on a sitcom! |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Regardless, it changed my perception of women. Here was a single woman with dreams and aspirations. And, ambition. She was willing to try new things and willing to fail. She put her career ahead of a traditional marriage with children. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | That may have contributed to why I didn’t watch it. I always wanted to get married and have children, and in a perfect world, would be a stay-at-home mom. I like tradition and history. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Does “Gone With The Wind” count as history? Growing up, the character of Scarlett O’Hara was my favorite movie character. Still is. She was a dynamic, independent woman who did not leave her fate to others and pushed the boundaries of her time. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Another fictional character. Don’t you think real-life women make a greater impact? |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Inspiration comes from different places for different people. And, at different stages of our lives. Funny thing is, and I did not realize it until decades after “That Girl” was off the air, Thomas had formed her own production company, Daisy Productions, to produce and own the series. But, the ultimate badass was Lucille Ball. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | I’ve always loved “I Love Lucy” and have probably seen every episode multiple times, giving me years of laughter and enjoyment. But that’s not how I’d describe her! |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | She was much more than an actress and comedian; she was a trailblazing producer and very shrewd in business. She became one of the first women to own her own TV production company (she bought out Desi Arnaz's share of Desilu Studios several years after their divorce), but also produced such TV classics as “The Untouchables,” “Mission Impossible,” and was even behind the original Star Trek TV series. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Wow, I had no idea. Talk about an amazing woman and role model. At the risk of repeating myself, she really did prove girls can do anything. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Of course, we can. If we put our mind to it. It is all about mindset and perspective. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | True. But what I find amazing is you don’t see how you’re a role model. Your entire life is full of examples of doing things girls – and women – traditionally didn’t do. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | I did things I wanted to do. Plus, telling me I could not do something made me even more determined. It never dawned on me that someone might think it unsuitable or “wrong”. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Not that it would have made any difference. You’ve never cared what others think about you. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | And, I doubt that will ever change. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Well, you should care. At least, about the impact your racing has made on young girls. I’ve seen you do in minutes what parents have tried to do for years. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Sounds like a bit of an exaggeration. |
Red assets.rebelmouse.io | Really? A friend of mine, a single dad, called me after his daughter saw you and your racecar at a Make-A-Wish event. For years, he told her she could be whatever she wanted, never getting a reaction. That night, she came home and said, “Hey Dad, I met Natasha’s aunt, she races cars, I really can do anything.” |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | It is the power of showing versus just telling. |
Red assets.rebelmouse.io | So, you admit that you’re a role model! |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io |
Never.
|
Looking for ways to celebrate Women’s History Month? Spend some time learning about and celebrating women’s accomplishments, including these female trailblazers who changed American education, these women who were pioneers in medicine, and these history making female scientists. Or, it can be as simple as ““women helping women” by sharing motivational stories, offering words of praise and encouragement, or becoming a mentor.
Were you like Red and shocked when the actor Chadwick Boseman died at the age of 43 after battling colon cancer for years? Cancer isn’t only for older people, and recent studies show more people under 50 are getting cancer. (Doctors aren’t sure why but suspect it may be due to less physical activity, more highly processed foods, and new toxins.) That’s why cancer screenings are more important than ever!
February may be Cancer Prevention Month – but we need to do it all year! Every year. And is why we’re rerunning last year’s post …
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | I know that cancer isn’t the “death sentence” it used to be when we were growing up, but it’s still a very scary word. Especially if it’s heard “close to home”. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | When we were young, the word was rarely said. And if it was, it was whispered or referred to as the “ c-word.” |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Kind of like when I had my two miscarriages. No one wanted even to acknowledge, let alone talk about, them. Which made it all the more difficult to get through it, although intellectually, I knew it was not uncommon. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Unfortunately, neither is cancer. It is the second-leading cause of death in the world, surpassed only by heart disease. But, at least, it is no longer a taboo subject. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Please don’t make this about numbers. It’s about people. Which you should know. I’m sure you remember when Daddy was diagnosed with parotid gland cancer , which luckily was treatable. And I’ve had skin cancer, although I was very fortunate, it was caught early and easily treated. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | OK, I will not quote statistics, but it is important to realize that although cancer affects many people, that is all the more reason to try and prevent it. Or, catch it early. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Very early. I’m not sure I ever told you this, but when I had squamous cell carcinoma confirmed on my nose, it wasn’t because of an annual body screening. It was because I just thought something wasn’t right, even though I had gone to my family doctor and was told it wasn’t anything to worry about. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | I thought you were always extremely conscientious about your annual cancer screenings, whether mammograms, Pap smears, or body checks. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | The first two, absolutely, ever since I was in my 30s. But it was only when I went to a dermatologist to check my nose that I realized the importance of having full body screenings, too. Especially since redheads are more susceptible to skin cancer. So, yes, now I go on an annual basis, although it was on a six-month basis for several years after I had to have Mohs surgery . |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Well, having routine cancer screenings, whether due to standard recommendations , because you think something is not right (after all, who knows your body better than you), or due to family history, has contributed to a decrease in cancer mortality rates . But, you do not want me to talk about numbers. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | I don’t, but that’s great news! It just shows you how important it is to be proactive. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Exactly. And, as we learn more about cancer, we can adjust our lifestyles to lower the risk of getting cancer. For example, think of all the people who quit smoking to lower the risk of lung cancer. Of course, advances in medical treatment have made a huge difference. And, given my involvement with Make-A-Wish, I have watched with pure joy how the cancer death rate among kids and teens has dropped dramatically. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Wow, I had no idea! That really makes you stop and think, and makes me think about the cancer stories in movies and TV shows. And before you roll your eyes, and tell me my theater degree’s showing, it does make a difference when a subject like cancer is reflected in storylines. It lets audiences understand it on both an intellectual and emotional level. Which is very powerful. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | It is. When you think of the movie “ Love Story,” unless you read the book, you did not know that Ali McGraw’s character had leukemia. But, around the same time, there was a “made for TV” pseudo-documentary/movie, “ Brian’s Song ,” which is the first movie I can remember that talked about cancer. It made it an acceptable topic of discussion. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | I’m impressed you remember those movies. There’ve been so many since then, not to mention celebrities who tell their cancer stories. But cancer being in the mainstream makes it so much easier to discuss. Not just as a society but personally, as I’ve taken advantage of those opportunities to talk with the girls about the importance of early detection , something Mommy never did with me. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | It was a very different time. Cancer was a “bad” word and potentially a “death” sentence. Today, the future is brighter, but it needs to be part of routine conversations. |
Even though Red’sthe warm and fuzzy one and Black’s extremely pragmatic, we both think of hearts on Valentine’s Day. Just not in quite the same way …
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Happy Valentine’s Day. And before you say anything, yes, I know you don’t celebrate holidays, so just humor me. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | But, I do “celebrate” February being American Heart Month since heart disease is the leading cause of death – for both men and women. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Gee, that’s one way to turn a “fun” holiday into a real downer. Today’s supposed to be about letting people you love and care about know that you’re thinking of them. Think Hallmark cards, squishy teddy bears, chocolate hearts. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Do I have to? I rather think about eating well and exercising. I would think you would want to make sure you are around for the people you care about. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | I do, and the irony is that I know what to do . I just can’t find the motivation to keep it going for more than a few days. But when it comes to eating well and exercising, nothing seems to deter you. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Because every morning, I walk into a large closet filled with size 2 clothing. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | That’s funny. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | It is the truth. I have always been a clothes horse. Now, decades later, I have a significant investment hanging in my closet. And, since almost everything is timeless and classic, I would be extremely annoyed if it no longer fit. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Well, even if that’s something us “mere mortals” can’t relate to, at least it keeps you motivated. I just don’t have anything like that in my life. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Really? I can name two things. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Well, I’m not sure Natasha and Sawyer would want to be referred to as “things”, but I see your point. I think I did a better job staying fit when they were younger and truly needed me every day. Plus, back when I was cooking for them, I was more focused on healthy eating. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Those are excuses. Are you saying that now that they no longer need you as cook and chauffeur, they also do not need your life experience and unconditional love? Especially as they face the challenges of adulthood. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Ok, now I don’t know whether to feel guilty or sad because I’m not taking good enough care of myself to always be there for them. At least, if I’m lucky, for the next 30 or 40 years. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | How about stop being so dramatic and just start taking better care of yourself? Do you remember the airplane and oxygen mask analogy? |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Absolutely. It was one of your more clever trick questions. You asked me if I was on a plane with the girls and we lost altitude, causing the oxygen masks to drop, would I first put the mask on myself or the girls. I answered, “The girls, of course.” You then pointed out that if I didn’t take care of myself first, I wouldn’t be in a position to help them. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | And everyone else that might either need you or want to have you around for a long time. But, it is your call … you can make smart decisions now or regret it later. |
red head assets.rebelmouse.io | Well, that’s brutally honest. But it has motivated me to go for a walk and think about how I’m going to not only begin, but maintain, a “new and improved” lifestyle. I guess, in many ways, I’m now saying Happy Valentine’s Day to myself, not you. |
Black assets.rebelmouse.io | Mission accomplished. |