Pearls of Wisdom

Study seeks root of known disparity
By Stephen Smith, Globe Staff | July 20, 2007

Deeply imbedded attitudes about race influence the way doctors care for their African- American patients, according to a Harvard study that for the first time details how unconscious bias contributes to inferior care.

Researchers have known for years that African-Americans in the midst of a heart attack are far less likely than white patients to receive potentially life-saving treatments such as clot-busting drugs, a dramatic illustration of America’s persistent healthcare disparities. But the reasons behind such stark gaps in care for heart disease, as well as cancer and other serious illnesses, have remained murky, with blame fixed on doctors, hospitals, and insurance plans.

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Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta`aala, the Exalted, says:

“Then, there has succeeded them a posterity who have given up As-Salaat (the prayers) [i.e., made their Salaat (prayers) to be lost, either by not offering them or by not offering them perfectly or by not offering them in their proper fixed times] and have followed lusts. So they will be thrown in Hell. Except those who repent and believe (in the Oneness of Allaah and His Messenger Muhammad Sall Allaahu`alayhi wa sallam), and work righteousness. Such will enter Jannah and they will not be wronged in aught.” (19:59-60)

“So he went forth before his people in his pomp. Those who were desirous of the life of the world, said: ‘Ah, would that we had the like of what Qarun (Korah) has been given! Verily, he is the owner of a great fortune.’ But those who had been given (religious) knowledge said: ‘Woe to you! The reward of Allaah (in the Hereafter) is better for those who believe and do righteous good deeds’.” (28:79-80)

“Then, on that Day, you shall be asked about the delights (you indulged in, in this world)!” (102:8)

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We have all been called upon at one time or another to help a loved one through a difficult time. When the help required consists of concrete actions, such as running errands or making phone calls, we know what to do. But sometimes we are called simply to hold space for the person as they go through whatever they need to go through. They may need to express anger or grief; they may need to talk or be silent. They may need us to hold their hand; they may need us to give them time alone. Whatever the case, when we hold space for someone, we offer ourselves up as a container for the overwhelming feelings they may be encountering due to their circumstances.

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“Stop kicking yourself about your past regrets and disappointments.

You can choose to: fault yourself, get depressed, get angry, second guess your faith and possibilities, live in fear, put yourself down and always live in the dead past, feel like a victim, focus on your pain, seek to be perfection instead of progress or —-

You can choose to: be bold and move forward, forgive yourself, shake it off, make amends, own your chooses and say “the next time I’m in that situation I will choose wiser”, move to plan B, choose progress, optimism, faith and gratitude, accentuate the positive and focus on what’s next.” - Jewel Diamond Taylor

“When you change the way you SEE things, the things you see change.” anonymous

Position yourself for success:

1) Denial in any form will cause you to procrastinate and resist growth. Be willing to admit and work on the deficiencies in your character, habits, skills and lifestyle.

2) Commit to a lifestyle surgery. Cut out the habits, relationships or attitudes that are success saboteurs and unhealthy.

3) Define what prosperity means to you. Understand life has seasons. What was important to you last year may not be a priority in the new year. Write your own personal mission statement for success. This will be your compass when you get lost, distracted or discouraged.

4) Isolation can breed an environment of depression and incompletion of goals. Be accountable to a friend, family member, mentor, success coach or support circle to help you achieve your goals for life enrichment.

5) Strengthening your faith, self-esteem and self-determination will help you endure the tough times, enjoy your life and excel in your goals. In my life enrichment sessions I use the 4 tires of a car as a successful living metaphor. Health, Spirituality, Finances/Career and Family/Friends/Leisure are the four areas that need our constant attention to keep us balanced on the road of life. Pray, plan, prepare, pursue passionately, persist and believe that you are worthy and capable of achieving your definition of prosperous living.

~ Author and Success Speaker Jewel Diamond Taylor