As the moon impacts waves and moods, astrologically speaking, the planet Mercury rules communication. Three or four times a year — around once a quarter — Mercury goes retrograde, meaning it appears to travel in reverse direction. When Mercury is in retrograde, any and all forms of transmissions of communication, including the human brain, are prone to a lack of clarity.
Computers, cars, cameras, phones, televisions, radios, satellites, emails, and the Internet can be affected when Mercury is in retrograde. Frustrated complaints rise among peers about technology glitches or unintended messages to the wrong recipient, for instance.
Each year is different on when the retrograde motion occurs, but it lasts up to three weeks with a peak of problems in the middle of its course. Small and seemingly insignificant disruptions show up before the estimated start date of the retrograde action. Even though Astrologists believe communication transmission can be effected while Mercury is in retrograde, NASA scheduled a return mission to study this mysterious planet hoping to capture more information about its magnetosphere.
Mercury Facts According to NASA
NASA MESSENGER’S Mission is scheduled to fly by Mercury on Sept 29th, 2009.
(While Mercury is in Retrograde)
- All planets in our known solar system have magnetic pull except for Venus
- Mercury has no moons
- Rotates around the sun in 88 days
- One of the smallest planets
- Hot, dry and practically airless
- Extreme contrasting temperatures
- Closest to the Sun
As humans of the MESSENGER trip return for a pre-existing plan, it follows the guidelines of the astrological rules of Mercury in Retrograde; It is acceptable to review but it isn’t advised to start anything new, sign any contracts, make a major purchase or commitment as it is highly unlikely it will be followed through with success without re-doing a few times afterwards. As the word retrograde starts with re it is a good reminder of what we should reconsider.
Consider These Words When Dealing with Mercury in Retrograde:
Re-search
Re-consider
Re-peat
Re-wind
Re-flect
Re-do
Re-try
Re-save
Re-discover
Re-evaluate
Re-write
Re-view
Remember two major Astrological signs are ruled by Mercury. The retrograde period may affect these personality types with more intensity for a longer period of time than the usual three-week time frame. Noticeably both exhibit some similar NASA Mercury details such as extreme contrasts. Gemini starts at the beginning of summer and Virgo at the beginning of Fall as temperatures change. Both can be judged like any human as possibly hot, dry, airless and can be confusing to understand.
Mercury Rules These Two High Communication Astrology Signs:
Gemini
Air Sign
Sign of the Twins
Take note of NASA’s fact: Mercury takes 88 days to rotate around the sun.
Socially floating, Talkative, Creatively Entertaining, Imaginative, Generalists, Artistic
Virgos
Earth Sign
Sign of the Virgin
Take note of NASA’s fact: Extreme temperatures and symbolically virgins are often judged as frigid.
Grounded Intellect, Analytical, Practical, Purposeful, Investigative, Points out imperfections
As Astrology and Astronomy were being discovered simultaneously, so was Palmistry. All three overlap elements onto each other. In Palmistry the smallest finger, is marked as Mercury, as NASA says one of the smallest planets. Sizes and shapes are interpreted with communicative traits.
Palmistry – Mercury the Pinkie Finger
Size and shape
Pointed arrow tip – Persuasive
Bulging bubble tip – Bursting with ideas.
Long pinkie that measures near the top of the ring finger – Musically talented
Leaning back away from the palm – Reserved Communicator
Involuntarily it points up when sipping a cup or twitches reflecting inner emotions when trying to stay calm. Jointly, as when Mercury is in retrograde, pain is felt intensely and easily when pulled back.
While Mercury is in retrograde, as usual, folks may look at a deeper message, over-analyze or assume what may not be the real intent. Unplanned events, wrong signals, delay in results are all celestial inconveniences when Mercury is in retrograde. At least it’s something else to blame besides humans. Refrain the possible expensive impulse before contacting the Geek Squad. Pause before pounding the computer keys again. Relax and see the planet pass through its natural cycle in just a few weeks.
*Picture located on NASA website
September 15th, 2009
Korean 100 days celebration Baby fortune game
It’s a customary Korean tradition to hold a big celebration once the baby has lived 100 days. Adopted during times of low infant mortality rate. As an effort to create more unified positive energy towards life, Koreans created a baby fortune game. Different variations and symbolisms have been used, but here are parts of the most common. Monks use similar methods as signs of reincarnated souls recognizing objects.
Directions: Place objects in front of the infant equal distance apart. See which object the child reaches for first. This foretells the baby’s destiny, and innate desires.
String—Long life
Food or chopsticks – Government official
Sword—Military, Warrior
Pencil or book—Scholar
Ruler—Laborer works with hands
Coin—Riches
The featured kit on my site comes with Chinese Astrology information and a Fortune cookie craft ornament.
Korean 100 days celebration Baby fortune game
It’s a customary Korean tradition to hold a big celebration once the baby has lived 100 days. This game was adopted during times of low infant mortality rate. As an effort to create more unified positive energy towards life, Koreans created a baby fortune game. Different variations and symbolisms have been used, but here are parts of the most common. Monks use similar methods as signs of reincarnated souls recognizing objects.
Directions: Place objects in front of the infant equal distance apart. See which object the child reaches for first. This foretells the baby’s destiny and innate desires.
Because Koreans celebrate the mark of 100 days of life, it is required to add a year when saying how old you truly are. For example, if you say you are 20 years old, it would be expected for you to say you are 21 years old.
Many still follow Chinese Astrology. Chinese New Year is celebrated mid January for almost a month. It is believed each of the twelve animal representations influence the child’s future as well.
String—Long life
Food or chopsticks – Government official
Sword—Military, Warrior
Pencil or book—Scholar
Ruler—Laborer works with hands
Coin—Riches
Many children are traditionally dressed for special occasions in old folk costumes called Hanboks. Girls wear a high Imperial waist full dress shimmered with multi-colored striped sleeves. These colors include the same colors in the Korean Flag or the tricolor Taeguk triple Ying Yang symbol. Colors include: Red representing Heaven, Blue representing Earth, Yellow for Man, and may also include green for health. Boys wear puffy light pants, a thick colored sash belt, and a long sleeve shirt with a cross over top. They may wear a long colorful overcoat in the same cross over chest shirt pattern. Both attires are very similar to cultural bride and groom attire.
Boys and girls may be dressed in black embellished hats. Predominate colors of the body of the outfits are usually solid colors. The brighter and more elaborate accents the higher class it represents. Other dresses may be plain and light or even as simple as black and white with a few embroidered pictures of nature or symbols. Mostly flowers and birds are used as birds are a sign of good news. Layers of clothes provide the full billowy effect and functional ease of removing pieces for comfort. Linen and silk are used to allow the body to breath naturally.
Koreans celebrate National Children’s day on May 5th.
- Buy your kit today! Treasure and remember along the way.
- Use at baby showers to see if the blinded folded mother senses or receives signals from her baby while picking up an object out of a bag or hat.
- Use at first birthdays.
- It’s sure an unusual oriental piece you can use over an over again.
- Introduce a new Eastern Asian game to your party mix!
- Send it as a gift to Oriental piece collectors or culturally interested persons
- New moms love it as a keepsake.
I only have a select few so get them while quantities last!
http://www.tolendahand.com/GIFTS.html
September 2nd, 2009
http://www.tolendahand.com/
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As of Sept 2009, over 1,500 contacts and growing.
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For more detail info: http://www.tolendahand.com/
EDUCATION
Intermediate language of Spanish, Sign Language (SEE), and Korean
Associate’s Degree in Electronic Imaging Multi-Media Graphic Design
Bachelor’s in Journalism emphasis in Advertising/Public Relations -Mass Media Communications
Extensive formal business training and courses attended with or outside of direct employers such as Small Business Administration, Attendance of AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Artist) functions, Marketing Expos Meet the Pros hosted by Omaha Federation of Advertising, Budwieser beer school, John Casablanca’s Modeling, White Glove fine dining catering food service. Nebraska state Alcohol awareness for restaurant personell provided by restaurant, Art Director for UNO magazine production class assisting with CFAM dept, PR group campaign for Nebraska Aids Project, video production director for group dynamic class, and more.
TRAINING:
20+years sales/service
20+years coaching/tutoring
10+ years Design/Advertising/Marketing/PR
10+years Administrative/Clerical/Personal Assistant/Office set up organizing
10+years Palm Reading /Metaphysical & Natural Healing studies
7+years Event/Film/TV/Radio/Internet Production, Writing Assistance, Modeling/acting
7+years Bartender/Waitress
EXPERIENCE WITH in Los Angeles, CA and Omaha, NE
20th Century Fox, Amblin Entertainment, Ameritrade, Aramark, Artist Rights Foundation/Director’s Guild of America, CBS studios, Cenex Casting, Clancy’s Pub, Clear Channel Radio, Dicobe Tapes Digital Duplication, Gordman’s employee party, Flixx Club, Harvell’s Blues club, Heartland Publishing, Icehouse club, Ikon home graphics, Jammer’s Pub, KETV/ABC, Kmart Photography, Loess Hills Motorcycle Rally Event, Loyola Marymount University, Metropolitan Community College, Mick’s Music and Bar, Mid America Center Arena, Mustang Sally’s Bar, Nebraska Aids Project, Omaha Film Commission -Omaha Visitor’s BureauOmaha Steaks, River City Roundup/Pace ProRodeo, PayPal, Pinkie’s pool hall, RedNeck’s Saloon, Saddle Creek Bar, Senior Resource Guide, Shooting Star Photo Agency, Sitel and West Corp, Sony Pictures, Steven Spielberg dedication dinner event, TBA/Romeo Entertainment, The Kat 103 FM, The Reader Newspaper, The Roxy Theatre L.A., The Woods Florist, Thrifty Nickel Newspaper, UCLA, University of Nebraska, Werner Enterprises and more.TV/FILM work: The other side, In the house, The Net, To Wong Foo thanks for everything, Picket Fences, Chess Wars, Irresistible Impulse, The O life public access -Produced, Directed, edited, acted and videography a 5 minute video for Omaha Film Commission, PSA Anti-Meth/project, assisted fellow students with student film production, Production Asst. MCC’s Adotas public access art and entertainment show, assisted publcity PR with Under the Willow tree life coach, Fox Pilot Psych Files, Nightstand, MTV talk show pilot, Old Home Bread training video, event info and product booth rep experience.
Tidbits about me:
Korean American
Graphic Designer
Communication Specialist
Writer
Artist
Psychic/Palm Reader
Natural Health advocate
Language and culture studier
September 1st, 2009
English is a hard language to learn with variety of versions then add adoptive words from other countries. Then there is sarcasm, tone of voice, and body language to decipher.
Two triple meaning words are What and Huh. Not only are they open ended probing for more information, but also what exactly does the listener want? Did they not hear the speaker or not understand or a statement of astonishment?
Tidbit: Interrogation tactic training may interpret this as avoiding or misdirecting.
Growing up with a non-native English speaker, a traditional Korean housewife mother, I face challenges of culture clashes. Often times, when I asked ‘What?’ she simply repeats the same words or would say in chopped up English, “Yah, can you beweeb dat?” Translation: “Yah, can you believe that?” Her other half, a career military man, did not appreciate the rude ‘Huh?’. Moving on I took on Sign Language, Spanish, and Korean.
No one really likes to repeat himself or herself. If after repeating the same exact statement a couple of times, try a different approach. Use different words to express yourself. Use more details
Instead of using What when essentially you simply didn’t hear them:
- I’m sorry I didn’t hear you, can you say that again?
- You can blame distance, voice direction, and or phone connections.
If you did not understand the person try phrases such as:
- Can you give me more details, I didn’t quite understand.
- Tell me more of what you’re trying to say?
If the person seems to get frustrated and offended, offer reassurance:
- I’m truly interested in what you have to say please explain more..
Avoid using the word ‘Huh’ as this can be interpreted as immature, disrespectful and unprofessional in many cultures including American society.
September 1st, 2009
Hand and Palm Reading are mutually practiced by many Middle Eastern and Asian cultures through many centuries. Currently the art is misunderstood as witchcraft or lacks validity. Experienced practitioners truly understand the meanings. It can give clues to the health of the human body, the psyche, interests, personality, internal desires and passions amongst other personalized details from reading the hands.
Palms and hands are filled with multiple symbols. I’m only covering a quick portion of parts. For a more detailed report please see: www.tolendahand.com. Combined with other signs, lines, fingerprints, areas, mounts, and coloring, one can see more emphasis, potential positive life changing moments, or troublesome challenging areas. As any form of ritualistic religion or belief system, it adjusts and adapts to more common understood terms. As any art or science – readings, reactions, interpretations and expected results are not 100% predictable over time.
Shapes, sizes, and positions of the subsections of the hand can give signs of someone’s personality pointing toward the person’s inside passion giving clues to ideal careers. To answer one of the most popular questions: Yes, your hands, fingers, and lines may change over time, but some will stay the same.
Dominant hands, either left or right handed, are ones used more often representing current time or possible future occurrences. For time and space saving sake, the following will focus on the dominant hand. Please notice being drawn to the largest, longest, thickest or outstanding finger to reveal more emphasized power.
right angle thumbs
Finger positions either pulled back away from the palm indicates an inhibited feature. Ones pushing forward toward the palm show exhibited characters of power of that finger. When you stretch out the palms comfortably, study both hands to see the differences. With this picture focus on the pinkie fingers. The left pulls more forward toward the palm than on the right.
Palm and hand reading assigns astrological names to sections of the hand. It gives the reader a representation of what influence it possesses. The pointer index is Jupiter (luck and authority), middle finger is Saturn (practical and wise), Ring finger is Apollo (science and art) and pinkie finger Mercury (business and communication).
Doctors often check nails and skin coloring for health clues. Anxiety ridden nervousness is connected to bitten or torn nails. Many lines on the hand also show high amounts of energy. If the energy is not used physically, it turns to another outlet - thoughts. Thoughts of lists to do, worry of forgetfulness, concern for someone, or even depression. Usually found on either worriers or athletic types. Following may be indications of an ideal way to discover what to do.
- short fingers, padded, thick wrist
A padded thickness, rather than bony thin fingers, forms a natural protective feature ideal for careers using hands to hold, grip, rip, tug and pull- similar to infant hands. Ideal for jobs in construction, automotive, plumbers, crafters, farmers and even nurses. Small raised pointers tips or touch receptors that look like small crystal balls on the fingertips are on people who have a high use of the sense of touch.
If the pointer or index finger is comparatively longer than the ring finger it points to dominance. People who make decisions such as executives or government officials. Used to point people where to go, what to do and can point with dramatic intensity. Many cultures, see my other blog on Korean hand gestures of etiquette; believe pointing with this single finger is rude.
Long or thick Saturn or middle fingers are on people who value higher education either through self-education methods or involved in formal established educational institutions. These are the wise souls, the bookworms, and high IQ types. As Saturn rules wisdom, practicality and conservative characteristics these are also the Mr. fix it types, bankers, financial gurus, electricians, and technicians. If the fingers are close to one another with minimal spaces in between, this sign accents even more of a conservative nature.
thick tips, long fingers, thin wrist and base
Plumper rounded padded fingertips fit to someone who has a more acute sensory of taste. Cooks, chefs, waitresses, bartenders, caterers or those who enjoy eating and drinking. Open spaces between fingers can mean free flowing energy, open communication and money flows in and out. Thicker lower sections of the fingers, that meet the palm, are also a sign of consumption of either food or material.
curved thumb
A curved back angled thumb is a sign of someone who is generous. These belong to humanitarians, charitable persons, and service providers. It does not necessarily attach itself to objects of money,
but can represent time and energy. The further back the thumb angles away from the palm, like a backward C, the more generosity the person expresses.
If the ring finger is prominent, thick or long it represents attraction to art and science-Apollo. There are many career types that cross relate in art and science. Included are cooking, automakers, doctors, and graphic artists. As these careers can combine scientific elements such as materials, chemicals, temperature, ingredients, reaction, and analysis but also presentation of beauty. A long ring finger, longer than the pointer index finger, can also mean a risky or adventurous type -gamblers, extremists, actors, models, and daredevils.
- long bony fingers
Long bony thin fingers belong to sensitive emotional types. Not necessarily hysterically emotional but empathic. Similar to a cartoon magic wizard zapping electrifying powerful energy through the finger tips. So, too, do these people feel true feelings of others, like psychic sponges. Great for investigative detective, lie detection, mystery, psychic, spiritual or psychology fields.
long pinkie and ring finger
Long pinkie fingers measuring slightly past the top knuckle of the ring finger belong to those who are musically talented normally who play an instrument. This can also be attached to someone who is a good dancer, a person capable of holding and following a rhythm easily -Poets, composers, singers, and songwriters.
A pointed pinkie tip symbolizes a good persuader. This is almost like an arrow tip rather than a half crescent moon smooth shape. Ideal for marketing, advertising, public relations and sales. Circular bulging top tip pinkies are filled with bursting brainstorm creative ideas.
- right angle thumbs
A wide-open space right-angled 90-degree thumb belongs to an idealistic thinker. These are the revolutionary types. The ones who gravitate towards sympathy of circumstances and change. A person who may state the way things ’should be’ such as allowing a homeless starving father of three who stole a loaf of bread go free rather than be punished for the crime. Charitable humanitarian, social work, and teachers.
When the thumb is closely touching the fingers near the palm, this person is a law abiding by the book type, with rarely any exceptions, firm law believer type. Police officers, Judges, and Attorneys. However, some cultures believe it is more proper to point with closed fingers than a single finger. Please do not confuse the two as mannerisms and learned behaviors are cultural.
A wide square or thick bottom base of palm and or wrist is a naturalist. If the wrist is almost as wide as the connecting base of the palm. Where there is minimal distinguishment but rather a blend between the two. It’s a person who enjoys pets, the outdoors, hiking, biking, gardening, or camping with a low maintenance laid-back personality. Rather than their counterparts- a luxury convenience or appliance loving person. Someone with usually an indention-tapered difference between the palm and dainty wrist.
The knotty fingers are the inquisitive type who tends to ask a lot questions. These are the journalists, interviewers and researchers. Often similar to people with arthritis that look like the knuckles flair out. Each three sections of knuckles represent different specific interests of inquiry.
Short fingers belong to fast pace people. Those skipping steps or trying to get to the quickest way, who tend to believe in not wasting time analyzing processes or details rather than their long fingered friends. Short fingers that appear shorter than the vertical size of the palm are ones who rarely look before they leap or lack preparation. A thick lower sectioned thumb without a diminished thickness on the second or lower base are also those who are impatient or intolerant. Large spaces between the love line and head line belong to people who are more open minded and adventurous.
Find more personalized reports about your health of the human body, the psyche, interests, personality, internal desires and passions amongst other personalized details from reading the hands go to www.tolendahand.com where I’ve listed more of what can be read through the hands.
August 30th, 2009
Polite Korean customs of etiquette
Keep in mind, the conflict of being westernized or both cultures simply trying to impress one another may create culture clash. And as many old folk traditions, they fade over time.
Third time is the charm
It is not unusual to be rejected three times when offering a reward or compliment. The recipient may make humbling comments very similar to: “ Oh you shouldn’t have”, “But that’s too much”, or “Are you sure?” Gifts may not be opened right away, unless the giver insists, in order to avoid any embarrassment or competitive comparative self-disappointments against other gift givers present. Koreans, like many Asian countries believe in attempting to save face – preventing associating a person’s identity in an unpleasant situation, shame or embarrassment.
The act of rejecting can produce the effect of redirecting self praise, a concept of fishing for compliments to receive reassuring praise of a job well done or built up appreciation. It is customary to not be boastful or arrogant. Rather, downplay your talents and skills to appear humble. If you can get someone to compliment or praise you, then you escape the act of inflating your own self-ego.
Asian societies still believe in a collective social contributing attitude. We believe that each person in the group can provide a unique skill to benefit the whole. It is our purpose to serve others. This may be misunderstood as subservient, when in reality we believe it is our purpose on Earth to contribute, or serve, something for the betterment of mankind at the right time.
Watch the hands
Don’t motion someone to come over by scooping the palm up and towards you with fingers facing yourself near your face – like we do in America. This is too similar to a lower level degrading motion of calling a dog. Commonly, one will motion to come forward, hail a taxi, or follow me with a movement with an open and close fist, palms facing the other person thumbs on the side. Fingers pointed down, covering the palm slightly, in a small slow discrete flapping fingers paddle swimming motion. It appears subtle and soft.
When showing a high level formal presentation, avoid pointing direction with the index finger, use the whole hand open and move with the elbow across keeping the forearm and hand together in a single smooth motion, similar to a tennis swing or opening a door. Motion the direction with the hand. Don’t use the index pointer finger solely repeatedly hooking like in the U.S. to come here. This is also a no no in African cultures.
In elementary schools, a teacher, as a superior, will have no hesitation of abruptly taking over a pencil or forcefully brushing hands away to take over a situation. It is also not unusual to see someone smack someone else on the back of the head such as a child being disciplined or a comical surprise reaction. Children in classrooms are not encouraged to ask questions.
Don’t play the American got your nose childish game. The placement of the fisted thumb in between the index and middle finger is like a up your behind vulgar expression. This is the letter T in American Sign Language.
When taking or receiving business cards, and sometimes money, use both hands. Position the card facing the reader, not upside down, so they can read it quickly. This shows a deep interest in the person’s information and recognizable status, as status helps dictate the proper formal respectful use of action and language. A two-handed presentation is a grateful motion of introduction or inclusion. When writing or introducing oneself the last name is presented first as family names are held in high esteem honoring the family lineage.
The three-foot personal space may not always apply, as Korea is a large crowded city. Men and women who are close will walk arm in arm or holding hands.
Show respectful emotions
Asians, as many other languages, change verbs, use polite mannered titles, and refer to people in their status order. We often will show a higher respect to the elderly and leaders in professional positions. Quietness is a sign of serious thought or reflection and respect to those in authority, trusting their judgment without question.
Koreans answer the phone with the phrase: Yobosayo for hello. Yobo is an affectionate term of endearment meaning my love, honey, or sweetheart. Say yo or Yo is a polite ending phrase with questions or statements. So if you think about it, it can be translated to saying in British- Hello, love! This phrase can be used when trying to get someone’s attention rather than viewed as the rude, bold western phrase of Hey you.
Although western societies encourages people to look into another person’s eyes as a sign of confidence, many Asian cultures and occasionally African Americans will find it rude to look at an authority figure in the eye especially while getting a scolding lecture. It is better to look down to the floor. Body language readers view this as an emotional angle of the eyes. A direct long gaze in the eyes appears defiant and challenging. It is also acceptable to be harshly insulted personally and beg sincerely for forgiveness.
Giggling or briefly smiling is often a misunderstood sign. It can be an expression of embarrassment. Like if being put on the spot, making a small mistake such as being corrected on how to say something or forgetting a detail. Don’t take it offensively or lack of valued importance to the situation. Girls will cover their mouths while laughing, in an effort to not show their wide mouths open such as a cough, sneeze or yawn. It may also muffle the laughter as girls, or kids in general, are not expected to be loud. There may be some Asians who will purposely provoke embarrassment of others to appear comical to try to induce a smile.
The lower the bow the higher the respect is being shown. The further farther back a few steps the higher the respect you are showing the leader.
Dining
Tipping is not common. It is usually a part of the bill such as when you book a party of six or more in some restaurants and gratuity is already factored in.
As in the traditional etiquette style of being invited to a dinner party, bring a small appropriate gift.
Do not be alarmed if when entering a Korean shop or restaurant you are personally greeted with a human voice expressing welcome. Many times it is expected in the home environment too with phrases: “Glad you’re home!” “I am here for you!” Or “I’ve returned”
As in many Asian cultures, remove your shoes and leave them by the door when entering a home and yes sometimes some restaurants. This can be a sign of a level of welcomed comfort and cleanliness. Traditional or economically poorer Koreans will sleep on rolled out bedding on the floor. Plus, it minimizes outside dirt from trailing in the home.
One person pays for everyone’s meals. It is tradition to take turns during the subsequent outings. Or the head of the household provider will insist on paying, usually a male or elder will exhibit their image of strength and financial capability. Remember to try to turn it down three times.
When drinking be sure to keep your hosts or elders glasses full at all times. Ask politely if you may pour for them and hold your glass with both hands as well as when you receive the poured glass. Almost like a child being encouraged to hold the glass with both hands when you pour it for them for stability.
Don’t hold your bowl or plate up to your mouth. Don’t blow your nose at the table.
Don’t leave your chopsticks in your bowl or plate. It looks like incense sticks, a tradition of offering to dead ancestors. Finish all that is on your plate that you take from the communal table. Let elders or persons of higher status sit and eat first. Reject the first offering of a second helping. Compliment the chef a few times. He or she may reject it three times.
Recommended video clip of Korean Hand gestures on utube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JuajQLuW9Lk&feature=related
August 25th, 2009
More companies are hiring more employees speaking more than one language, or at home phone representatives or outsourcers that are non-English speaking natives. We may spend more time struggling with combined factors of language barriers, poor quality cell phones, VOIPs, long distance phone carriers, and possibly delayed satellite transmission. To ease the pain of communication when trying to spell names, emails, or street addresses consider the following confusing similar sounding letters and tips to improve being understood.
Even at times when you aren’t speaking to a foreigner over the phone and experienced hissing static, getting cut off, loud puffs of air, a fast talker and speaker phone delay sounding like you’re in the distance – you can relate. Or how about talking to someone on a cell phone driving or walking and losing signal?
Tidbit: A new learned language may will reveal an accent if the person learns a new language after the age of twelve. Former habitual training will take time to switch a learned comfortable position of the mouth, lips, teeth and tongue to be performed correctly to express articulately and almost accent free.
Tidbit: Adult learning new languages use assimilation methods to do their best to try to mimic a corresponding sound. Some sounds do not match perfectly. It is a fine line to try to correct them, as they may feel embarrassed. Keep in mind, it is not unusual for a foreigner to smile and giggle when they are feeling uncomfortable or embarrassment.
Letters, alphabets, phonetics, and pronunciation vary across all languages and regions within countries known as dialects. Similarly to the difference between a northeastern U.S. accent trying to say wash and it comes out warsh.
A tip to use when trying to understand the specific following letters is to use it in a word to spell. Just like contestants in a Spelling Bee – For example, A as in apple, B as in boy, or C as in Cat. When speaking to non-native speakers use smaller simpler elementary positive words to be more understood and save time. Avoid negative connotations of the pairing of the word with letters, as analytical minds will try to decipher if you are being rude. For example, don’t use the letter S for Silent as this gives off a bad sarcastic message to have the person talking to you to shut up.
C, T, E, V, B, Z, P, D and sometimes I
The commonality between all of these letters is the last sound they make that sound like the English letter E. Coupled with what seems like the second language of the United States – Spanish. In Spanish, the English letter I is actually pronounced like the English word E and the letter E sounds like the word A. A note to remember, many Asian or Eastern language alphabets don’t even include the phonetic difference between B, V, D, T, and P. Even amongst our American culture TH can sound like D.
M, N, F, S, X
Try to say M or N fast on the phone and its difficult to tell the difference. Plus, exotic societies and mommies may have deliberately spelled a name differently in order to create a uniqueness associated with their child. There had been a time while I worked on the customer service phone line; I spelled the name Naomi the most common spelling I knew. I spent ten minutes searching and sparing the poor woman from talking as she had congestion and a hoarse voice. Meanwhile the computer kept beeping: no record found. I, like many of our new generations, spell our names differently. My own first name is spelled with an E and not an I. In fact this was the case, her name actually has two N’s and not an M. The customer explained her mother was from West Africa.
S, F, X isn’t initials for a super graphic show, they’re letters that really sound the same especially over the phone or when you can’t see the person’s lips. X is a challenging word to find a word for as most of us instantly think of a Xylophone but stick with X-Ray as a shorter word. F for flower not fight and S for super not stupid. In French the S is often silent. Be careful of also the prolonged hiss of an S on a phone with a lot of static, as this is unpleasant against the ears.
Tidbit: Consider this, when in a loud environment don’t raise your voice volume as you get closer to another person’s ears. This can damage the eardrum. The closer in distance people are, the less necessary it is to raise your volume.
Q, U, G, J, H
The first two are usually always used together in English words, the U always after the Q. If cut off or lack of emphasis on the k sound in the Q, they sound the same. In some languages there is not a way to similarly associate the specific letter of Q but speakers match the sound more closely with the letter K. The three letters, G, J, and H are commonly spoken the same in Latin languages as they may say all of them with a breathy H in the beginning like saying Hey, Jose or even pronounced like a Y. In Spanish the H may sound silent and sometimes in Asian languages too. Many non-native English speakers may misunderstand the true pronunciation of G and J with words as the beginning sound sounds the same to them when learning the alphabet. J as in Japan and G as in Great are pretty understood simplified English words to connect with. Notice the two words matched with the letter has different sounds.
Tidbit: It is also thought of as rude in non-western cultures to call out Hey to get people’s attentions.
A, K, L, R
The first two letters listed above are A and K which ends the same -an open mouth syllable, but if the first part of the K is possibly cut off, you’re left to guess it’s an A. And as mentioned before the letter A actually sounds like the proper pronunciation of the letter E in Spanish. Also, In Spanish the word that sounds like K, spelled like Que means what. Don’t be alarmed if the Latin speaker will just repeat themselves back after you say that.
Asian cultures may typically use the letter L and R interchangeably even in their own language. In Korean it’s the same character or letter that represent both sounds. That is why the running joke showing Asians speak words starting with L as a R- Lee, Yee, Lucy, and you been Toe rather than Told.
-Lenda Hand
August 20th, 2009
From the moment we are born we are exposed to all sorts of groups of society. Constantly positioned throughout hierarchy levels of powers from our parents to our bosses. There will always be someone in a position of authority over us. As we gradually grow into one or two higher areas we start to see the new perspective below. Each diverse group brings challenges yet discoveries of how we can work on getting along. Following are words, ones we may have used, we begin to realize what the messages are truly meaning. Yes, factor in tone of voice and body language, but let’s just try to eliminate them out of fear of presenting a negative image.
1. NO
No one likes to hear the word No. Often times, no is an automatic response from the moment we are taught to talk. It’s a one syllable empowering yet defiant appearing word. Take notice of two-year-olds who seem to have discovered their new favorite word. Now speed up to ten years later in the teen years to recognize the independence seeking nature repeating the same behavior- starting sentences with No again. As we progress with age, live through disappointing broken promises, we develop a hardened heart for protection. We build up a shield. Set up an almost involuntary conditioned first word is no response, rather than give the impression of willing open mindedness. As we recall subconsciously emotionally, it also sets up a thought that you are telling the person they are acting wrong. Similarly, like scolding a two year old or a teen not allowed to finish a sentence or action because we are assuming what they will be saying or doing. And no one likes to hear they’re wrong or cut off and shot down so instantly.
2. YOU KNOW, I KNOW
Those of us that have taken public speaking classes know that the phrases ‘I know’ and ‘you know’ can kill your credibility. As someone asks you a question and all you can reply with is “well, you know” without backing it up with any other info leaves a void of interaction connection. These filler killer phrases can be used as tactics of escape or to gain support. Sometimes, used out of nervousness or a blank mind of thought. You know how it goes. Be careful and don’t be surprised with the replies, “No! I don’t know! That’s why I’m asking!” On the flip side, the other phrase ‘I know’ used by the independent seeking bunches like tweens, teens, and stereotypical valley girls, gives an impression of disrespectful arrogance. Minimize the use of these phrases and you’ll actually give an air of humble intelligence. It is okay to use it with positive supportive remarks such as ‘you know all about that, I didn’t have to tell you twice. You got it, you know. Or how about when you hear someone agreeing with a comment: “ I know! Can you believe that?”
3. YOU
Ever notice in a moment of fighting frustration we tend to blame others by saying things like: “YOU did it! Not me” “YOU made me…but YOU said”. “YOU didn’t tell me that!” “But YOU didn’t ask” with the emphasis on YOU? Turn on tabloid reality fighting tension court TV and daytime talk shows and you’ll notice the tendency clearly. Observe playful parents blaming the other, denying any personal claim, if their child does something wrong with remarks: “YOU must have taught him that”. No one likes to be accused of wrong doing, even if they did it intentionally or unintentionally. We have lived in an automatic blaming society pushed to suing quickly for a long time. Flooded with mystery cop and interrogating lawyer shows. We seek out fair justice, feel owed, desire compensation if we feel victimized in some way and may blame others for misfortunate happenings we are personally experiencing. Denying the personal claim. Its no wonder our auto response is in defense mode when we hear the emphasized word YOU in the beginning of the sentence.
4. LIKE I SAID or AS I SAID
“Like I said” or “as I said” before are phrases of annoyance. After awhile of doing the same thing or saying the same information, it can get irritating from answering the same questions. Try to have patience, avoid repeating the same exact words and try a new approach of an explanation if they sound confused. Years of living with a non-native English speaker has shown me how complicated and confusing language can be, so try to use different words to get your message across. It may be just as frustrating to the receiver to try to get what you’re saying. Plus living in a fast paced world with our instant gratification, information overloaded society, want it now, got it, let’s move on, over it, massively stimulated changing daily progressing messages- it can get confusing over what is really the right answer anymore. Another thing to consider is, the human brain may take up to six times of exposure before it becomes more of a habit or retained for possible recall. It helps to understand or pretend to consider the challenge of possibly explaining it like you’re talking to someone suffering from the following: OCD, ADHD, ADD, Alzheimer’s or dementia, Autism, or mixed cultures of new generations speaking at least two languages by the age of two.
5. BASICALLY and IT’S REALLY SIMPLE
Let’s go back to sounding arrogant. If an insecure type, who probably self-talk coached courage, receives these responses when they ask for help, it can trigger an image within themselves that they are not smart enough to get it. If it was so basic and simple then they could do it, but in their perceived reality they are not. It can evoke offense reinforcing their own doubts. Many non-westernized suppressed societies discourage students from asking questions in the classroom to avoid showing signs of weakness. If responded with these phrases, it may discourage people from approaching you again for help. Basically, it’s really simple, remember, they came to you for assistance as they respect your intelligence.
tolendahand
August 19th, 2009
Thank you for showing interest about me:
For more detail info: http://www.tolendahand.com/
EDUCATION
Intermediate language of Spanish, Sign Language (SEE), and Korean
Associate’s Degree in Electronic Imaging Multi-Media Graphic Design
Bachelor’s in Journalism emphasis in Advertising/Public Relations -Mass Media Communications
Extensive formal business training and courses attended with or outside of direct employers such as Small Business Administration, Attendance of AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Artist) functions, Marketing Expos Meet the Pros hosted by Omaha Federation of Advertising, Budwieser beer school, John Casablanca’s Modeling, White Glove fine dining catering food service. Nebraska state Alcohol awareness for restaurant personell provided by restaurant, Art Director for UNO magazine production class assisting with CFAM dept, PR group campaign for Nebraska Aids Project, video production director for group dynamic class, and more.
TRAINING:
20+years sales/service
20+years coaching/tutoring
10+ years Design/Advertising/Marketing/PR
10+years Administrative/Clerical/Personal Assistant/Office set up organizing
10+years Palm Reading /Metaphysical & Natural Healing studies
7+years Event/Film/TV/Radio/Internet Production, Writing Assistance, Modeling/acting
7+years Bartender/Waitress
EXPERIENCE WITH in Los Angeles, CA and Omaha, NE
20th Century Fox, Amblin Entertainment, Ameritrade, Aramark, Artist Rights Foundation/Director’s Guild of America, CBS studios, Cenex Casting, Clancy’s Pub, Clear Channel Radio, Dicobe Tapes Digital Duplication, Gordman’s employee party, Flixx Club, Harvell’s Blues club, Heartland Publishing, Icehouse club, Ikon home graphics, Jammer’s Pub, KETV/ABC, Kmart Photography, Loess Hills Motorcycle Rally Event, Loyola Marymount University, Metropolitan Community College, Mick’s Music and Bar, Mid America Center Arena, Mustang Sally’s Bar, Nebraska Aids Project, Omaha Film Commission -Omaha Visitor’s BureauOmaha Steaks, River City Roundup/Pace ProRodeo, PayPal, Pinkie’s pool hall, RedNeck’s Saloon, Saddle Creek Bar, Senior Resource Guide, Shooting Star Photo Agency, Sitel and West Corp, Sony Pictures, Steven Spielberg dedication dinner event, TBA/Romeo Entertainment, The Kat 103 FM, The Reader Newspaper, The Roxy Theatre L.A., The Woods Florist, Thrifty Nickel Newspaper, UCLA, University of Nebraska, Werner Enterprises and more.TV/FILM work: The other side, In the house, The Net, To Wong Foo thanks for everything, Picket Fences, Chess Wars, Irresistible Impulse, The O life public access -Produced, Directed, edited, acted and videography a 5 minute video for Omaha Film Commission, PSA Anti-Meth/project, assisted fellow students with student film production, Production Asst. MCC’s Adotas public access art and entertainment show, assisted publcity PR with Under the Willow tree life coach, Fox Pilot Psych Files, Nightstand, MTV talk show pilot, Old Home Bread training video, event info and product booth rep experience.
Tidbits about me:
Korean American
Graphic Designer
Communication Specialist
Writer
Artist
Psychic/Palm Reader
Natural Health advocate
Language and culture studier
August 18th, 2009
