Category Archives: General Ramblings

General Ramblings, Parenting, Social Commentary

The Non-Accidental Family

IVF: Because Some of Us Weren’t Blessed with an Accidental Family

For some lucky folks, starting a family is as simple as a romantic evening, a bottle of wine, and a little bad timing. For the rest of us? Well, let’s just say that biology didn’t get the memo. Enter IVF—the modern miracle for those of us who can’t seem to reproduce the old-fashioned way, despite really, really trying. As fun as that may be!

Now, some might say, “If it doesn’t happen naturally, maybe it wasn’t meant to be.” To which we say: By that logic, glasses, antibiotics, and WiFi weren’t meant to be either—but here we are, seeing clearly, curing diseases, and binge-watching Netflix. Science is a beautiful thing, and IVF is just another example of humanity refusing to take “no” for an answer.

Trump Signs Executive Order Expanding Access to IVF – Want to read more about it? Google it!

Go forth and propagate!

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
General Ramblings, Social Commentary

Why is the ICC ignoring genocide in South Africa?

I am profoundly heartbroken and alarmed by the brutal violence escalating in South Africa, where countless innocent white citizens, particularly Afrikaner farmers, are being subjected to unimaginable torture and murder. These are families, fathers, mothers, and children who deserve to keep their land and the right to live without fear.

For too long, the world has turned a blind eye to their suffering. However, President Trump stepped forward when the world remained silent, recognizing their plight and offering a lifeline through refugee status. He took it one step further by refusing any aid to South Africa while the government stands by and, in some cases, orchestrates the genocide. His willingness to acknowledge this crisis gives hope to those who felt abandoned.

I plead for awareness, for justice, and for the world to open its eyes to the horrors these people endure daily.

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
General Ramblings, Not So Private Thoughts, Parenting, Social Commentary

The case against having children

Parenting and kids are increasingly portrayed by society as liabilities rather than assets. A change in the way our nation views family life is reflected in the emerging narrative that has been highlighted in recent articles. For example, the Surgeon General’s caution that parenting is bad for mental health implies that being a parent is a solitary and possibly dangerous task. This perspective reduces having children to a simple cause of stress and loneliness, ignoring the deep joy and fulfillment they bring into our lives.

Furthermore, it’s becoming increasingly common to have conversations about being “child-free” or unsure about having children. The papers note that a growing number of young Americans are debating whether to have parents due to concerns about money and the high standards set for modern parents. Compared to previous generations, when having children was viewed as a normal and fulfilling aspect of life, this is a significant shift.

American families’ future. Are we allowing the inherent worth of parenthood to be eclipsed by societal demands and growing costs? It’s imperative for parents to counter this unfavorable narrative. Children are a source of love, hope, and continuity—not problems. Parenting presents certain challenges, but the benefits of raising the next generation significantly exceed them.

References:
Parenting Is Hazardous to Your Health, the Surgeon General Warns – The nation’s doctor says parents are lonely. Maybe it’s really the powerlessness of parenthood that’s gotten us down.
https://www.wsj.com/tech/surgeon-general-warning-parenting-mental-health-53f75c63

How Americans Are Thinking About Children – From the ‘child-free’ to the ‘maybe someday’ parents.
https://www.wsj.com/articles/how-americans-are-thinking-about-children-fa8fff60?mod=opinion_feat4_letterstoeditors_pos3

Why Americans Aren’t Having Babies – The costs and rising expectations of parenthood are making young people think hard about having any children at all.
https://www.wsj.com/lifestyle/relationships/americans-babies-childless-birthrate-daf438f9?mod=article_inline

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
General Ramblings, Social Commentary

Why Denial Is Killing Progress

It’s essential to have constructive discussions on how to address challenges or areas needing improvement. But let’s start by acknowledging what has transpired.

We live in a dynamic world with constant shifts and changes. Examining the facts and data isn’t contentious; it’s a prerequisite for meaningful dialogue. Only by grasping and embracing our current reality can we move forward constructively.

Movements that choose to deny reality do so because they lack a viable alternative and resort to stalling tactics. However, standing still is not a real option; it only delays progress.

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
General Ramblings, Parenting

Food for Thought

In the tapestry of our family life, food and grandparents are the warp and weft, weaving together the very essence of the home of my boys and me. Their presence infuses the air with warmth and comfort, turning a house into a sanctuary and a sanctuary into a home. From the kitchen emanates the rich aroma of homemade meals, crafted with love and tradition, nurturing both body, soul, and maybe a glass of wine (or two). Meanwhile, the love of grandparents reverberates through the walls, a symphony of joy that uplifts and binds generations together. In this embrace of culinary delights and familial bonds, we find solace, connection, and the true heartbeat of home—the nourishing blend of food, family, and love. We are blessed with every home-cooked meal and hug.

P.S. Let’s not forget the joy of our furry friend, Eva, who is almost certainly an alien.

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
Faith - huh?, General Ramblings, Not So Private Thoughts, Uncategorized

The Power of Speaking to Your Mountains!

As we navigate life’s journey, we MUST cling to the promises of success, joy, and triumph found in God’s Word. Proverbs 3:5-6 urges, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths.”

God’s word is a source of life, healing, and redemption. Psalm 107:20 says, “He sent out his word and healed them.” When God spoke, healing and rescue followed. John 14:12 reminds us that: “whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do EVEN GREATER things.”. It’s not enough to think good thoughts; it’s not enough to pray. We have to speak to our mountains. Speak! Mark 11:23 says: Whoever will say to this mountain be removed, and does not doubt, he will have whatever he says”. Don’t speak defeat, speak success.

Ephesians 3:20 promises that God will do exceedingly, abundantly above all we ask. ASK! His blessings will chase us down and overtake us when we ask and profess it. God’s favor surrounds us BUT “We will eat the fruit of our words”, Proverbs 18:21. It’s not enough to believe. We must talk confidently and remind God to fulfill every promise He has spoken over our lives so we experience the abundant success, overflowing joy, and unwavering victory that God has prepared for us.

Even in the face of challenges, the Bible provides solace and reassurance. In John 16:33, Jesus affirms, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” While struggles may arise, the promise of victory in Christ surpasses any obstacle we encounter.

As we navigate life’s challenges, let’s hold fast to God’s promises of success, joy, and victory. Our faith is not in our circumstances but in the unchanging Word of God. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

God wants us to succeed in every area of our lives. In Joshua 1:8, we’re reminded, “For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”

We are not created for mediocrity; we are created to be prosperous, to have success, joy, and health! Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

“The tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.” Proverbs 15:4.

What does all this mean to me? Simple! I needed to read them. I needed to be reminded of the power of the tongue and the promises made to me. I am encouraged to speak my success, to tell my mountains of negativity, doubt, and defeat to be removed. “Nothing will be impossible for you.'”, Matthew 17:20.

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
General Ramblings, Uncategorized

From ‘You’ve got mail’ to ‘You’ve got patience’

Remember those good old days when we used to have a dial-up connection? Ah, the memories! Waiting for a webpage to load was like a mini-marathon for our patience. But hey, we made the most of it! Multitasking became a necessary skill; we would do jumping jacks, make a sandwich, or even fold laundry while waiting for that precious website to appear on our screens. Who needs a fancy gym membership when we had dial-up providing us with the ultimate cardio workout?

Back then, the internet was a different world. Whenever we heard that iconic “You’ve got mail” sound, we knew we were in for an adventure. But along with exciting emails came the challenges of dial-up browsing. We would sit there, staring at the loading icon, praying for a stable connection. It required an immense amount of patience and determination.

But you know what? We conquered those challenges! We became wizards at troubleshooting and fixing connection issues. It was like a secret society; only those who survived the dial-up era truly understood the struggles and triumphs we experienced.

Looking back, waiting for dial-up seems laughable now, but it was a significant part of our lives. It taught us perseverance, patience, and the ability to find entertainment in unexpected places. So, let’s raise a toast to those days when waiting for a webpage to load was our daily cardio routine. The struggle was real.

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
General Ramblings, Parenting, Uncategorized

We don’t have a cat!

Ah, the teenage years! Raising two teenage sons as a single father feels like navigating a tornado of emotions, laughter, chaotic arguments, and perpetually empty pantry shelves. In this journey, I’ve discovered the unique art of teenage logic—a realm where debates transform into philosophical discussions that leave me questioning how my sons have earned a secret Ph.D. in argumentation.

Their passionate defense of staying up late swiftly transitions to using an empty popcorn box as evidence of insatiable hunger. Logic takes unpredictable twists, where excuses like “the cat stole my homework” (we don’t have a cat!) are considered valid. Dealing with teenage sons challenges my sanity daily, requiring deep breaths, a sense of humor, boundless love, and a well-stocked supply of Ben and Jerry’s Chunky Monkey ice cream or wine for those particularly trying moments.

Amidst the chaos, I remind myself that these convoluted arguments signify their evolving independence and burgeoning critical thinking skills. Embracing the madness, finding humor in their unique logic, and relishing the adventure of raising two teenage sons becomes a journey worth taking. As they grow into responsible adults, the memories created during these years will be cherished and shared with laughter and love.

These 2 boys are my world, and the love between us is a bond never to be broken.

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

P.S. The same can be said for my puppy.

Standard
General Ramblings, Not So Private Thoughts, Uncategorized

Discover the Hidden Power within You: Could This Be Your Most Remarkable Year Yet?

Amidst the noise of politics, worldly affairs, and the uncertainties of the upcoming year, remember the fundamental truth that guides us – we’ve already triumphed, for God is with us. Stay grounded, radiate positivity, and be a source of light to those around you. Resist the temptation to repay negativity with more of the same. Instead, be a beacon of cheerfulness, helpfulness, and love, even in the face of adversity. Present a different path, an alternative to the negativity that often surrounds us.

As we approach January, it might seem like a continuation of past challenges or hard to envision change. But what if this year held the promise of being your best ever?

Regardless of your current circumstances or past experiences, the new year is brimming with potential. Embrace the optimism, relish the anticipation, and seize the moment. It’s a clean slate, a fresh beginning, offering every reason to feel positive. Don’t let skepticism or past setbacks hinder the potential for something extraordinary. This upcoming year could indeed be something truly special.

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
General Ramblings, Uncategorized

Go out there, be your fabulous self, and make it happen!

As we stand on the cusp of a new year, it’s the perfect moment to embrace the power within us and navigate the uncharted waters of 2024 with intention and vigor. Goal-setting is a universal practice, but let’s elevate it by understanding the potential obstacles that may cross our paths. Today, I present you with a set of transformative questions to unravel the hurdles that may lie ahead.

Firstly, let’s commit to ruthless analysis—scrutinizing what’s working and what needs a revamp. We all share the tendency to juggle too many priorities, scattering our focus and diminishing the quality of our endeavors. The key lies in discerning the right things to work on, for our choices shape not only our tasks but our very essence.

Next, let’s architect our lives with purpose, drawing inspiration from the insightful Charlie Munger. Recognize your weaknesses and engineer your life to mitigate them. In doing so, we cultivate not only self-acceptance but also resilience—an indispensable trait on our journey.

Now, let’s talk about the power of association. Successful individuals meticulously curate their relationships, understanding that the people we surround ourselves with act as ‘lead dominoes,’ initiating a powerful chain reaction. Take stock of your connections, identifying those who uplift and energize, and gracefully release those who drain your positivity.

Lastly, let’s heed the wisdom of Isaac Newton—don’t wait for life to hand you what you think you deserve; instead, go out and make it happen. Newton’s law applies not only to physics but to the intricate dance of our lives. By taking initiative, we create a ripple effect, shaping our future with purpose and determination.

Here’s to a year of purposeful choices, self-discovery, and the unwavering pursuit of the life we envision. Remember, you have the power to architect your destiny; go out there, be your fabulous self, and make it happen!

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard