The Face Behind the Mask

Last Tuesday was Fat Tuesday as many celebrated Mardi Gras in various states, me included.

Having had my share of Mardi Gras celebrations, I often wonder what’s behind the mask as I watch the various people throwing beads from their floats.

Every day, we see people’s various smiles and frowns.

Have you ever wondered what’s behind the masks of the people we run into or come into contact with daily?

I know for sure that there is always someone in a condition worse than we can even imagine as they hold back what’s behind their mask.

It’s just that they are not showing it or providing a way to mask it.

How is it that they can mask their emotions so well?

Today, I’m reflecting on my short visit to a local store to pick up some vitamins.

As I walked in, little did I know that the young pregnant lady would demonstrate what was behind her mask without any courtesy.

I never heard the words “thank you” or any response to my informal greeting in the morning when I walked in as the only customer in the store.

Knowing it wasn’t even 10:30 AM, I can imagine how others are treated with her mask off and her full appearance on display, regardless of her outward appearance.

Our parents tell us at times to put our best face forward; I did my best; however, the clerk or salesperson didn’t seem to care about her facial expressions or about being courteous.

I’m not going to discount or excuse her eight-month appearance and disheveled look, because our attitudes about life are up to us.

In that moment, I knew she had nothing to hide as it was out in the open.

I witnessed another mask this past Friday, February 20, 2026, as the television networks were interrupted by President Trump’s reaction to the U.S. Supreme Court decision.   It was about the policies imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEPPA) being unconstitutional.

I saw his mask slip when the verdict was “does not authorize the President to impose tariffs” and when he defied those who defied him.

‘A Disgrace to Our Nation’: Trump Delivers Blistering Attack on Supreme Court After Tariff Ruling | TIME

https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5748670-trump-attacks-court-justices/

We also heard about the masks worn by the three Justices, Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, and Brett Kavanaugh, who dissented.

These are President Trump’s new heroes, at least this week.

‘Very proud’: Trump lauds ‘new heroes’ Justices Kavanaugh, Thomas and Alito after tariff dissent

I’m sure it’s not over as it was a major blow to the president’s signature economic policy.

Supreme Court strikes down Trump’s tariffs : NPR

For some, there is no need to wear a mask because we see the true colors every time we meet them.

I’m reminded that there is a specific amount of tact we should all employ, regardless of the masks we wear.

Foreign reaction among 4 issues to watch after tariff ruling

We’ll all have to wait and see how the messaging will change when President Donald Trump delivers his 2026 State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, beginning at 9 PM ET.

Maybe we’ll hear about what language is the President reading in “Section 122.”

What Is Section 122? A Rare Trade Law That’s Donald Trump’s Latest Weapon In Tariff Arsenal | Explainers News – News18

Therefore, put on your Be Patient Masks!

This week, I’m reminded of a specific Bible verse as we begin Lent.  For those who read the Bible and observe Lent as part of fasting, it’s Matthew 6:16. Take a moment to decide whether the mask you are wearing is telling others who you really are or who you are not.

“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.” – Matthew 6:16

I’ll close today’s thoughts with these three quotes:

“We understand how dangerous a mask can be. We all become what we pretend to be.” — Patrick Rothfuss.

“Sometimes it’s not the people who change, it’s the mask that falls off.” — James Baldwin.

“Choose your self-presentations carefully, for what starts out as a mask may become your face.” — Erving Goffman.

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/the-face-behind-the-mask/

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Grief is like Glitter

Today, my thoughts are with the grief we continue to witness in Minnesota.

I reflect on the recent story about Alex Pretti, the 37-year-old intensive care unit nurse at the Minneapolis VA Hospital, who was killed by a federal border patrol agent near his home in Minneapolis last month.   My prayers and thoughts immediately went to both this country and the people of Minneapolis.

Health care community mourns Alex Pretti, the VA nurse killed Saturday by federal agent | MPR News

Minneapolis has been through so much in the past five years, starting with the murder of George Floyd.

Sometimes I try to understand what lesson we can learn from all of this.

Minneapolis Five Years Later – City of Minneapolis

Grief has become infrastructure in Minneapolis, a city mobilized by trauma | CNN

Maybe the real question is “What is the lesson that we can learn from all of this as it relates to watershed moments that we continue to relive?”

Watershed Moment – Meaning, Origin and Usage – English-Grammar-Lessons.com

There is a quote that says, “Grief is like glitter.  You can throw a handful of it in the air, but when you try to clean it up, you will never get it all.  Even long after the event, you will still find glitter tucked in the corners.  It will always be there…. somewhere.”

I’m aware that grief in all its stages is a process, according to Dr. Kübler-Ross, who spent her career studying the dying process and the impact of death on survivors.

5 Stages of Grief: The Kübler-Ross Model

This past Wednesday evening, at one of my Toastmasters meetings, I told a story about several people in my life who, to me, have died within the last five years.

What I didn’t realize then, during the speech, was that my grief was like glitter. When you try to clean it up, you will never get it all.

Although I have peace in my heart, I continue to carry that legacy of their love.  I have learned that telling stories in both positive and negative forms is a reminder of the glitter.

We all have those moments years after someone we loved has left this physical world.

I also thought about all the recipes that have been passed on to me by several people in my life, who have been a blessing to me.

Then, on this past Saturday, while attending Mass, my mind went to each time we attend Mass, when we pray for those who are no longer with us.  It was at that moment when I heard the person’s name being called and remembered seeing him at Mass the two weeks before he died.

There is so much that I could write about grief.

My final thought is remembering Ms. Shirley Raines.  I’m sure there is plenty of glitter she has left based on her role.

“Ms. Shirley dedicated her life to serving others and made an immeasurable impact on homeless communities throughout Los Angeles and Nevada. Through her tireless advocacy, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment, she used her powerful media platform to amplify the voices of those in need and to bring dignity, resources, and hope to some of the most underserved populations.”

How did Shirley Raines die? Updates on Ms. Shirley’s cause of death

I’ll leave you with this final thought about the “Beatitudes.”

The 8 Beatitudes: List and Meaning Explained | Bible Study Tools

For all those we have lost in life, their lives have been blessed by blessing others.  The world’s culture is rapidly changing; however, it’s up to us to keep blessing others.

May the repose of souls that have deeply departed rest in peace. Grant us the peace that surpasses all understanding and let Your gentle spirit refresh our hearts.

“What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” ~ Helen Keller

Therefore, this week continues to be a blessing to others.  You should know that “Grief is like glitter.”  “You can throw a handful of it in the air, but when you try to clean it up, you will never get it all.”

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/grief-is-like-glitter/

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The National Anthem

Today, allow me to ask you a question: when was the last time you thought about your National Anthem?

Having witnessed the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, the memories still linger with me.  You and I get to hear the various national anthems each time a winner is announced for bronze, silver, or gold.

The opening Ceremony for the Winter Olympics 2026 in Milano Cortina is no different, with a sense of pride throughout the Olympic village.

I’m sure that while we are watching the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina, Italy, there will be at least one event where everyone can agree there were only winners: the Opening Ceremony, which took place this past Friday, on February 6, 2026.

“Held primarily at Milan’s historic San Siro Stadium, the Opening Ceremony is a chance for the host country to show off a bit of local pride while honoring all nations, starting things off with a bang and a moment of unity as the Olympic torch relay culminates in the lighting of the cauldron. Or in this case, for the first time in Olympics history, two cauldrons — one Milan and another in Cortina d’Ampezzo, representing both host cities.”

Events will continue through the closing ceremony on February 22, 2026. The Paralympics will take place the following month, from March 6, 2026, to March 15, 2026.

See the Olympics schedule for the 2026 Milano Cortina Games

We hear various national anthems many times a year, depending on the host country’s location, but they don’t stick in our minds; is it passive because they’re not ours?

I’m not a big sports fan and hardly watch any major championships, including the Super Bowl.

However, early this past week, I came across Pharrell and Voices of Fire in relation to the 2025 World Series.

 

Pharrell, Voices of Fire to perform on-field before World Series Game 1

Little did I know that I would be captivated by the choir singing our National Anthem.

Of course, not to mention yesterday was the Super Bowl with Charlie Puth performing the national anthem. It was another captivating moment.

Charlie Puth sings Super Bowl LX national anthem at Levi’s Stadium | Super Bowl LX

I also enjoyed hearing Coco Jones sing “The Black National Anthem,” Lift Every Voice and Sing, the hymn written as a poem by NAACP leader James Weldon Johnson in 1900.

Coco Jones Sings Lift Every Voice and Sing at Super Bowl: Watch

During the month of February, let’s not forget the Black National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice,” and Black History Month, which is now in its second week.

We have so much to be proud of as Black Americans, despite this country’s current state. As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, the singing of “Lift Every Voice” grows louder each year.

Lift Every Voice and Sing | NAACP

This week, as you take a moment to watch the Winter Olympics, I challenge you to think about all those whose dreams will come true.  Regardless of who stands on the Olympic Podium as they hear their National Anthem being played.

Today, I honor the words of George Foreman and his achievements.

“The Olympic Gold medal in 1968 was definitely the highest moment of my career. It was a dream come true. I was a 19-year-old boy, and it was just amazing to be standing on top of the podium and hearing the National Anthem in the background.” ~ George Foreman

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/the-national-anthem/

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Lost and Found

Today, allow me to ask you a question: when was the last time you lost something very important and then found it?

This week, I’m thanking God for his amazing grace.

Last week, after over 2 years, I received a text from one of my siblings saying that my oldest sister, who is 75, was alive and well.

In our case, as a family, we relied on information from my oldest sister’s children to help us find her after we intentionally left it up to the universe.

I believe all the prayers worked because each of us was mentally drained, not knowing her status.

I waited a day after hearing the good news that one of my sisters had spoken with her, needing confirmation for myself.

As I wrote in my gratitude journal this past Wednesday, on February 11, 2026, I was grateful that my sister was alive and well.

I found out after speaking to her that she admitted she was in a dark place in her life, disconnected from everyone, and is now doing better.

If you only knew the joy and jubilation I felt during those 30 minutes talking with her, I can’t begin to describe it.

It was also a testament to keeping the faith that we would find her.

I’m humbled to have a greater understanding of resilience and to have earned 51 of 60 credits for Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

In those moments, I heard about her breakthrough. As I listened without passing judgment, it was clear that she wanted to live.

Life has a way of giving you another opportunity if you’re willing to take it.

In my case, I was given another opportunity to connect with her and show her that we, as a family, love her.

I’m sure my other siblings are elated as well, and everyone plans to reach out to her in person.

My goal is to visit in October or November this year, based on my calendar, and to stay connected until then.

Although I asked, “When was the last time you lost something very important and then you found it may not seem important?” What is important to me is life.

We sometimes take life for granted until it’s taken from us.

We hear the words “I love you”; however, we don’t take the time to tell others we love them until we’re at their funeral or when it’s too late.

I believe my siblings and I agree we need to stay in touch more often.

Too often, it takes a funeral or a tragic event to bring a family together.

As I carry this life lesson into another chapter, I’m humbled to have had the opportunity to tell my sister I loved her last week.

Therefore, today, take a moment in your life to tell someone you have not spoken to in a while that you love them as well.

I believe this quote by Anais Nin describes our conversation from last week.  “I postpone death by living, by suffering, by error, by risking, by giving, by losing.”

I woke up yesterday morning, hearing the words “We are more than we hold” spoken very clearly to my unconscious mind.

I was so clear about it that I had to write it down to ensure I didn’t forget.

We are more than we hold because of God’s grace.  Sometimes we believe we can’t hold it all together, but I’ve found out we can.

Ironically, when I Googled it, the phrase “encourages us to recognize our capacity for growth and resilience beyond our current limitations.”

It validated my thoughts for today.

Today is Presidents’ Day, and I would be remiss if I didn’t mention it.

In the article “Reimagining Presidents Day,” Seth Levi and Jalaya Liles Dunn state that “Presidents Day offers an opportunity to consider how U.S. presidents have used power — for good or harm — and what that means for us.”

In his 1981 Farewell Address to the Nation, President Jimmy Carter leaves us with his lived understanding of the power of the presidency and the people: “We are asking our political system to do things of which the founding fathers never dreamed. … We are all Americans together, and we must not forget that the common good is our common interest and our individual responsibility. Because of the fragmented pressures of … special interests, it’s very important that the office of the president be a strong one, and that its constitutional authority be preserved. The president is the only elected official charged with the primary responsibility of representing all the people.”

Reimagining Presidents Day

This week, take a moment in your life to tell someone you have not spoken to in a while that you love them as well.  As you celebrate Presidents Day today, know that all is not lost, because “We are more than we hold.

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/lost-and-found/

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How Public Speakers in Alabama Help Organizations Communicate with Confidence

In today’s competitive and fast-moving business world, the ability to communicate clearly, confidently, and with impact isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. Whether you’re leading a corporate team, organizing an industry conference, or hosting a fundraising event, the quality of the message and how it’s delivered can make all the difference between an ordinary gathering and one that leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

At the core of this transformation are expert communicators who bring clarity, energy, and credibility to your organization’s most important moments. The role of public speaking in strengthening organizational communication has never been more vital—and working with seasoned professionals elevates both your internal culture and external reputation.

Why Effective Communication Matters for Organizations

Strong communication is the backbone of every successful organization. It influences teamwork, helps drive innovation, nurtures leadership, and builds trust with clients, partners, and stakeholders. But conveying a message effectively—especially in front of an audience—requires more than just good intentions. It takes skill, practice, and a deep understanding of how to engage people in meaningful ways.

Quality speaking doesn’t just deliver information; it builds a connection between the speaker and the audience. This connection encourages attention, inspires action, and fosters alignment with organizational goals. Professional voices have the ability to bring complex ideas to life, frame challenges as opportunities, and rally teams around a shared vision.

The Transformative Role of Public Speakers in Alabama

This is where specialized expertise becomes a game-changer. When you choose Public Speakers in Alabama through a trusted provider, your organization gains access to professionals who know how to craft and deliver messages that resonate with diverse audiences. These speakers bring a mix of storytelling, persuasion, and insight that helps your audience not only understand your message but feel it.

What sets great speakers apart is their ability to listen to organizational needs, tailor presentations to context, and deliver with confidence and clarity. They can help you:

• Refine your message: Skilled speakers translate your core themes into clear, memorable talking points that reflect your brand and values.
• Inspire and motivate: By weaving in powerful stories, real-world examples, and audience-relevant takeaways, they elevate your message from informative to transformative.
• Boost audience engagement: Great speakers read the room, adjust pacing, and use dynamic presentation techniques to keep audiences invested from start to finish.

These capabilities are essential whether you’re addressing internal teams, clients, industry leaders, or community groups. Organizations that invest in strong communication often see improved alignment across departments, higher morale among employees, and increased interest from partners and customers.

Supporting Organizational Goals Through Expert Delivery

Professional speaking adds value far beyond the event itself. A speaker who understands your industry and audience can reinforce your organizational goals in ways that resonate long after the session ends. This becomes especially significant for organizations seeking to:

• Accelerate change initiatives: Leaders can use external voices to reinforce important internal messages such as new strategic direction or cultural transformation.
• Strengthen brand reputation: A compelling presentation at an industry event positions your organization as a thought leader and demonstrates credibility to key stakeholders.
• Improve employee performance: Engaging speakers can refocus teams, inspire personal accountability, and reinforce the behaviors that support organizational success.

In short, bringing in experienced professional speakers lifts the communication burden off your internal team and ensures your message lands with maximum clarity and confidence.

What Organizations Should Look for in a Speaker?

Not all speakers are created equal, and selecting the right voice for your event makes a measurable difference. When working with a provider for Public Speakers in Alabama, you’ll want to look for professionals who can match your needs, including:

• Expertise relevant to your audience: Whether your focus is leadership, innovation, sales, or personal development, the speaker should have demonstrable experience in those areas.
• Ability to tailor the message: Great speakers don’t deliver generic talks—they customize their content to your organization’s objectives.
• Strong presentation presence: Confidence, clarity, and the ability to engage diverse audiences are non-negotiable traits.
• Proven track record: Testimonials, video clips, and past performance indicators help you assess the potential impact of a speaker.

By partnering with a reputable provider, you can access curated recommendations, streamline the booking process, and find the perfect voice to elevate your next event.

Why Partnering with Professionals Is a Strategic Advantage

Instead of leaving your message delivery to chance, working with expert communicators gives your organization a strategic edge. Professional speakers bring:

• Confidence: They stand before your audience with poise, credibility, and the skills to command attention.
• Fresh perspectives: External voices often offer new insights that spark innovation and challenge assumptions.
• Measurable engagement: A compelling presentation leads to stronger retention, higher participation, and clearer communication of your core ideas.

From corporate seminars to nonprofit fundraisers, the right speaker elevates your communication and ensures your message is heard, understood, and remembered.

In a world where attention is limited and expectations are high, investing in professionals who elevate communication isn’t just smart—it’s transformative.

Blog source: https://mckinleysthought.wordpress.com/2026/02/07/how-public-speakers-in-alabama-help-organizations-communicate-with-confidence/

 

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