Grandeur Living

We all hear of gruesome child abuse from all over the world. From physical abuse to sexual abuse, many people are expressing their concerns through charity in order to save the children who become victims of human ignorance. But what if the table turns around and unfortunately parents become the abused? Would we give the same reaction? Should there be another law that protects parents from their kids?

Yes, there is such thing as parent abuse. Most of the time, it is the teenage children that could afford the kind of unexpected treatment. The sad part is parent abuse is very hard to distinguish, because it is so vague when particular behaviors are just being normal or if they have already become abusive.

However, parent abuse often involves manipulation or force to gain power over the other, and then there are the random threats. It could be any act that may result in physical, emotional and even financial damage. The point is the children will gain power and control.

In most cases, it has always been a confusion between resistance and aggression. Teenagers normally go through a phase when they insist individuality, particularly separation from parental authority. Yet, some of them cross the line of being more than defiant.

Most abuse start with a petty verbal attack. But when this habit progress and continue everyday, it could be very disturbing. Teenagers usually don’t feel any guilt about what they have done. They are often successful in justifying their unacceptable actions. And then the worse will come… verbal abuse which is always a form of psychological abuse. There is the:

· arguing challenge

· being sarcastic or belittling

· name calling

· ‘I hate you!”

· yelling

· swearing at the parents

On the other hand, physical abuse often includes:

· throwing things

· spitting

· shoving and pushing

· hitting, slapping, punching and kicking

· throwing and breaking things

· punching holes in the walls

Teenagers can also become emotional terrorists through:

· lying

· intimidating the parents

· making unrealistic demands

· running away and even staying out all night

· threatening to kill the parents or somebody else

· degrading parents

· withholding affection

· taking control of the household

· making mind games

This form of abuse is not really acknowledged because parents are naturally expected to understand their children. Hence, they are always in control of what their teenagers ought to do and experience. But sometimes it is hard to enforce authority if the parents have lack a thing or two, like spending quality time.

Parents should be able to identify when to straighten things out. Call the police or the social welfare. Don’t be afraid to report, because it is not only for their sake, but for the sake of the children as well. Kids’ unkind or worst behavior should not be tolerated. If it is very difficult to confront the situation, a professional help will always come in handy all the time. The love between parents and their children is not designed to be painful. It should be nurturing. Tolerating such ugly behaviors should be corrected as soon as possible.

One of the most shocking parent abuse cases is this nine year old kid. Watch her smoking at a very early age. Read the accompanying article of this picture, CLICK HERE.

I don’t think everybody wants to get old sooner. But see, the trend today has urged people to look at their “youngest best” and whatever that means, really. Perhaps companies want to sell more products and take advantage of aging, not really helping how to make people embrace the idea of youth. Personally, age is just an idea, and finding a way to hold on that thought might not really cost you as much as advertisements would like you to think.

Face it aging is a fact of life. The only way to cheat aging is to work with your self, and not just the physical self but the whole self. Yes, there are products that keep skin young and still glowing, but you have to position yourself in a way that you are not too relying on creams, lotions and even surgery.

Again, it’s all in the mind and somehow aging is a decision. It is not about not acting or looking like your age. It’s about perspective in life. If you think old or you’re too old for the world, then aging becomes more than a reality.

These might be the usual ways to stay young, but if you do more than what it takes, you could actually outlive yourself:

Eat healthy. Switch to something organic. There is an unspoken conspiracy that food products contains chemicals that contribute to aging. This is a certain way to hasten death so population could be controlled. It’s an absurd idea somehow, but regardless chemicals always destroy the beauty of human existence. And, don’t just eat healthy because you want to stay you, eat healthy because it is the right thing to do. Be good to your body.

Exercise. Why would you not take time to sweat? Sure, you have many excuses like you’re too busy or too lazy, or yet, you’re too old. It’s never too late to exercise. It’s not just about defying age, but it’s a way to remind your body to move in order to survive. Stretch a muscle or two or get that bones working. If the body moves constantly, it won’t slow down sooner.

Positivity. Thinking affects the whole idea of age big time. If you really want to stay a bit younger than your age, be positive on your outlook. List all the negative elements of your life and avoid them. Stay away from things and people that could upset you. Worrying, stress and even depression are emotions, but they have a great effect on the body.

Like beauty, aging is relative. There maybe a standard of what’s being young, but still, it is a matter of choice. Are you going to stay young, or are you going to decide to get old sooner? Others may not praise you for that decision, however at the end of the day, it is only what you think and feel that matters most. It won’t kill if you will think you are still 18 even if you are already 35. Everything somehow is all in the mind.

I don’t really think that there is such thing as a celebrity style fourth of July celebration. Of course, except for the grand pyrotechnic display that most celebrities can afford. Although it is about the spirit of independence, 4th of July is also a high time to organize a little if not a big party for friends and families. But this time, I suggest that you have to out-celebrate the event. Like go beyond what is expected out of a picnic. Make it extra special for everybody:

Don’t serve the same food. Forget about last year’s party menu, or what is called the traditional independence food. A barbecue is still good but definitely change everything and be creative. And also, don’t try to serve what’s your next door neighbor is serving for their 4th of July party.

Costumes are good. I’m not suggesting to be an early Halloween party, but ask guests to dress up. For instance, make them wear a long hat just like Abe Lincoln’s, or perhaps wigs. Or, hire someone to paint the faces of kids.

Don’t forget the flag. This is the one 4th of July accessory that should not be absent. However this time, don’t let it just be a simple flag. Explore the possibilities of changing it into something else, like make flag cookies.

I know it is still early to plan the party. But if it’s going to be a big celebration, start planning now on the event, especially your guest list. I think 4th of July should be like Christmas. It may not be entirely about love, but it is indeed about freedom.

There are women who just stand out from the rest of the entire female population. They are noticed, watched and observed. Why are people looking up to them, or at most, helplessly admiring them, wishing to be in their affluent lives? Perhaps they are too lucky because they descend from famous and rich people of the past. Or maybe, they have managed to make themselves grand in front of the world because they have beauty, skills and talents.

They have been successful in their own fields, and constantly praised and criticized of their actions. However, in so many ways they have influenced others and participated for good causes. How famous could they ever be? Who are they anyway?

The Presleys – Priscilla, Lisa Marie and Danielle Riley Keough

Being the women of the late king of rock ‘n’ roll, Elvis Presley, they are still in the spotlight even after Elvis death in 1977. Priscilla is the wife of Elvis; Lisa Marie is their daughter, while Riley is the granddaughter. After the family’s tragedy, Priscilla goes back to her roots of being an actress. She guest-stars in several TV shows, and lately become very visible in Dancing With The Stars. Lisa Marie, on the other hand, follows the footstep of her father and eventually become one of the influential artists in country music. Although she has not become super famous like her dad, she has managed her way to get to the top with her own musical style. Riley, the little girl of Lisa Marie, has become one of the most desired models in the fashion industry.

The Judds – Naomi, Wynonna and Ashley

Both Naomi and Wynonna flash their singing talents in country music. They are good at their successful duo has earned them so much respect from other singers throughout the United States and even the world. However, Ashley finds her way through Hollywood and become one of the most respected actors up to date. She is adored with her different characters and how she portrays them with passion and so much talent.

The Hiltons – Kathy, Paris and Nicky

Everybody even wants them off the television. It’s like they have infected the media with their beauty and charm. They might not be really known for their talents and significant contributions, but their presence always make a difference in the society. They are the elites that most of the masses both love and hate, especially Paris who have been so notorious with her public display of what not actions. However, these ladies have managed to redeem themselves of their occasional inappropriateness.

The Hearsts – Patty, Lydia, Gillian and Amanda

They have made headlines starting with Mom Patty, whose been kidnapped and then later on joined her captors (Symbionese Liberation Army). She has been imprisoned after participating in a bank robbery, but later on pardoned by President Bill Clinton. Lydia become a supermodel and recently compared herself to Paris Hilton, in which she says that she is way better off because she has a degree. Amanda, the niece, is also a big shot model, while Gillian the sister is in the magazine business of the family.

I admit I have this thing for celebrities. I’m not a fan but I like to watch them live their glamorous, if not shitty, lives. Everybody has their favorite. If you ask me, I have plenty of them to like and stay in touch with. But, I have my very favorite this year. Ladies and gentlemen, it is Britney Spears. Actually, she is my all-time favorite star.

She is a great performer and it breaks my heart to see her spiral downfall. However, I still have high hopes that she will pick herself up and make the rest of the world so sorry. I’m glad that there are celebrities that are willing to help her. Right now, Mel Gibson is on the top of that list.

Everybody might be getting sick of watching her on TV, but she represents the epitome of being a superstar. Nobody would like to see her end up like Marilyn Monroe. Or perhaps, liking her so much is just a part of the fact that I have a hard time letting go of being so young and restless. Not that I’m that old, but have been a teenager when Britney became an instant worldwide star.

I am not a feminist and an advocate the rights of women against abuse. It’s not that I do not support the cause, but I also recognize that men are also experiencing the same traumatic situations. Although the ratio may only be 60% (women) to 40% (men) in terms of domestic abuse victims, it does not rule out the fact that there are men that are equally vulnerable just like women.

Because it is more unlikely for men to be victims of violence and domestic abuse, the cases are not really reported. Plus the fact that men can be embarrassed to tell about their situation. Besides, some women even act like they are the victim instead of being the abuser. Who would the authorities rather believe?

Men domestic abuse is almost the same as women’s abuse. It includes hitting, throwing objects, slapping, pushing, forcing, using a weapon, striking the other person with an object, and even slamming a door. It could also be emotional and mental abuse. But the only difference is, men and women differ when they are hurt mentally or emotionally. Examples of emotional abuse of men consist of calling them a coward, impotent or failure. Some men are deeply wounded when they are emotionally abused than being physically abused.

Why men become victims:

Alcohol Abuse. It is a fact that women are abused because of their alcoholic partners or husbands. It also applies with men. When some women get intoxicated they become frustrated and eventually angry. By then, she will resort to any kind of abuse, especially verbal abuse. Men, usually calm down their partners, but some of them receive an unfavorable nagging, worse yet, insults.

Psychological Issues. There are certain relationships that dwindle with mental illness. Some women become violent towards their men because of their personality disorder. Borderline personality disorder is an example, such a disorder is mostly apparent in women. At least 50% of domestic abuse and violence against men have been related with Borderline Personality disorder. In this case, men are just trying to be man enough to handle the situation, mostly become understanding towards their partners even at their own expense.

Expectations. Women who are abusive and violent towards men have stronger personality. Most of them are more capable than men, especially in terms of financial capacity. In turn, these women demand of their men to be more than their abilities even if the idea is very unrealistic. Some other women have their own insecurities and emotional problems and they project that on the partners, expecting them to have more patience and understanding. Worse yet, they blame their negative emotional state on their male partners. And then, when they notice that men cannot make them feel better, such women become so frustrated and presume that men are doing it on purpose.

Since men domestic abuse and violence are not that prevalent than women abuse, there are no programs or advocacy groups for them. In spite of this fact, men should learn to own up their situation and tell their side of the story.

The popular excuse is parents know what’s best for their kids. It’s always true, sad but true. However, sometimes parents just go beyond what kids call an embarrassment, and it’s so funny how they get away with it by justifying their actions. The even funnier thing is that some kids are not just embarrassed in class or in school; they are embarrassed in front of the whole world. Of course they have to stick with mom and dad, because whatever happens… it’s a common thing for everybody to win the love of their parents either way.

Some parents are not just nurturing their children into desirable human beings. They have been cashing in on their kids as most desired people. It’s like they are making profit out of their own children. It’s not that bad if conceive in a family point of view, in terms of keeping the money within relatives. But, it’s like being 30 and still living with mommy and daddy. No wonder most of these kids end up too messed up:

1. Lynne Spears. Why would a mother come up with her own book about her famous daughter in the middle of Britney’s unstable public actions? She should be dragging little Brit Bit’s ass into sanity. It’s true that Britney is of legal age to act in her own rights, but Lynne gets a bowl of popcorn instead and join the rest of the world watch her daughter’s failure. It’ a good thing that Poppa Spears finally come to rescue his little angel. Take a look at Britney now.

2. The Lohan Parents. If baby girl is so famous, that also entitles mom and dad the same attention. Media frenzy and a new reality show works just fine for both Lindsay Lohan’s parents. Everybody feels sorry for Lindsay as she goes to and from rehab. The sadder part, she seems to be on a solo flight right now as her spotlight-crazy mother trying to make it as a reality star, and at the same time building up her little sister. Dad, on the other hand, is trying to tell the world that he is a good father (?).

3. Poppa Joe Simpson. His little girls are pretty and almost out of work. But still, he manages to pull the cash in for exclusive photos and insights of his daughters, especially now that Ashley is married because Pete got her pregnant. Joe is even the first source for Jessica’s dating schedules and guys. Talking about being a real pimp. Excuse the French.

There are also the mother of Kim Kardashian who is also a diva “momager,” and the parents of Amy Winehouse. The former is way better than the latter. At least, she just let her daughter pose for Playboy unlike Amy’s dad who joins in the drug drama of his girl.

Somehow it is unfortunate to know that their own parents become part of their downhill journey. Everybody is just hoping that these families will work it out and things will get better for them.

Honestly, I never thought that a woman could actually compete with big late night show names like David Letterman, Jay Leno and Conan O’ Brien. Well, there is the former Rosie O’ Donnell, but then Chelsea Handler of Chealsea Lately is different. Or at least, I think so. She’s so opinionated just like a guy. I always believe that men make late night shows so successful, because men actually talk a lot than women. I’m not being gender bias in anyway. But, there is a huge difference when he said and she said.

I just happen to love Chelsea Lately, just like how I adore those institutional late night hosts. I think she becomes lovelier by being witty and funny. She’s mocking most of the people, especially celebrities. I love the fuzz in Tinsel town, and I love how Chelsea makes a sense of it all. Perhaps she and I are in the same frequency.

I also appreciate her whole team who chips in ideas and additional mockery. I’m really glad that there is a woman to watch late at night. I don’t know why women rules the daytime TV while the guys reign the nigh. It’s just a thought.

With Tom Cruise heading the list of Hollywood scientology trend, I can’t keep from thinking that there is a conspiracy going on in between. I even think that the reason why he has divorced Nicole Kidman is because she can’t keep up with his cult belief. I mean, everybody knows that Nicole is a hardcore Catholic. Well, marrying Katie Holmes does him all good. Katie seems like a puppy to say yes to anything, even parading herself on high heels after a marathon. I wonder if that whole no-bra stint is part of the scientology ideology. It really got me wondering why these celebrities resort to such a religion, if it could be called as one:

1. Scientology hoards the press. It’s a publicity stunt for the celebrities. It’s not Catholicism that obviously has swept the globe since almost the beginning of time, but being in a new age spiritual belief can get those media-hungry celebrities the cover of the magazine. It keeps the Paparazzi on their feet.
2. Scientology supports their celebrities. I think the spiritual organization offers a good lifetime benefits to its famous members, like an assurance of their career or something like it that keeps celebrities on their pedestal status quo.
3. Scientology makes celebrities higher beings. I mean seriously, perhaps Tom Cruise wants to be worshiped rather just than merely adored.

Whatever reasons, I really find it weird. If scientology means changing the face of the Earth through the same tenets that have been advocated for centuries, why not stick with the old school and make the positive change sooner? All I could hear of Tom is all talk. Well, he has done something but it’s still weird. Why can’t he represent the United Nation instead?

The news will not be complete without seeing a little of them. It’s like a reality soap opera that has been incorporated with the daily updates of everyday life. We watch them make a fool out of themselves. We say that they are disgusting and giving everybody else the wrong impression of a healthy life. If we only have the power to get rid of them….

1. Lindsay Lohan – We always think that she will be as sweet as she has been in her roles as a little child star. We have loved her freckles and smiles. We know somehow that she will become one of the most successful Hollywood stars. However, all we see of her now is a repeating trip to rehab, not to mention her appropriate partying.

2. Paris Hilton – It’s not an excuse to be an heiress. Not all elites have been brought up with a sense of righteousness. We always think that rich people have to behave because they have kept their honor. Too bad, not this girl. We have enough of her sex tape, haven’t we?

3. Amy Winehouse – We watch her become more and more of an addict everyday. We are definitely beyond words on how she has managed to make it okay to screw life with cocaine. We even seen her doing it for real. We also feel sorry for her because she really has an exceptional musical talent. We want to see her clean her act and get on stage and sing again without the drugs.

4. Pete Doherty – The person we think that could beat Amy Winehouse at being a drug addict. It makes us very scared when he hangs out with some other celebrities, because we know that they are going into a drug party or whatever it’s called these days.

Somehow we think that it is just a publicity stunt for all of them. We have enough. It’s really hard to make the media stop showing how screwed up they are. I guess it is up to us. We just have to turn off the television.