Welcome to VAYA's Official Blog. This exciting new blog provides an opportunity for VAYA to engage in a dialogue with our members, the community, and those interested in our organization. This blog will feature commentary and observations from VAYA Executive Board Members, contributions by VAYA Staff and members, as well as approved guest bloggers from outside of VAYA. This blog will only be a true community if you participate, so please send your thoughts to eboard@vayasd.org. Please be respectful and considerate when posting comments and thoughts. All comments will be reviewed and approved prior to publication. Thank you for visiting this blog!

Friday, January 16, 2009

Thou Shalt Not Get Sick!

Dear VAYAnese,

As we move toward the "point of no return" for Tet, I am "feeling" the intensity of every one's passion and dedication. By getting this far, we have already succeeded in unifying scores of San Diego youths toward a common cause. Please take a moment to reflect upon all that you have accomplished --- feel proud, and KNOW that you stand among the best that San Diego has to offer in terms of service and leadership. I am humbled by your level of commitment --- from Cultural Village work parties to Street Squad flyering; from nightly meetings to weekly dance practices, each and every one of you embodies VAYA's Mission of Youth Empowerment for the Community Services and Development of San Diego. I have no greater words to praise every one for your hard work and commitment. I do, however, have some brotherly advices to offer:
  1. RELAX: When things get hot, don't let your temper heat up as well. The cooler you keep your head, the better you will be at making good decisions at critical moments.
  2. SLEEP: No matter how many things are on your plate, you will NEVER be able to accomplish them all. However, if you are well-rested you will be able to do the MOST IMPORTANT things, MOST effectively. So no matter how busy your schedule is, make sure you set aside time for SLEEP. Everyone including yourself will benefit from your good sleep.
  3. TAKE CARE OF YOUR HEALTH: DO NOT GET SICK! I cannot emphasize this enough. Eat well, eat many times a day, and eat healthy food. Drink plenty of water and juices. Take a regular doze of multi-vitamins. And wash your hands regularly. We cannot afford any one of you getting sick, so please take good care of yourself.
  4. SMILE: Research shows that by smiling (even fake smile) you tell your brain to release positive chemicals that helps you function better. So the next time you feel frustrated or sad or tired. Stop and stretch those facial muscles. Pull the corner of your mouth up to your ears. Smile with your whole body. I promise you, if you do this for 1 minute, you will feel A LOT BETTER!

Take care, and I'll see every one in the trenches (healthy and strong of course).

About the Author: Frank H. Vuong serves as President for VAYA.

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