Join Forces to Bring Christmas Cheer to Needy Kids
Section 1: Understanding the Need
Just imagine the disappointment on a child's face when they realize they might not receive a Christmas gift. In our county, there are over 1,000 such children. This is not just a statistic; it's a human story that touches our hearts. These kids deserve to have a Christmas filled with love and presents.
Many factors contribute to this need. Some families face financial hardships, while others have unexpected emergencies. Whatever the reason, these children need our help. By understanding the depth of the problem, we can better prepare to take action.
Section 2: Ways to Help
There are numerous ways we can assist these children. One option is to donate to local charities that specifically focus on helping families during the holiday season. These charities work tirelessly to ensure that every child has a present under the tree.
Another way is to volunteer your time. You can help with gift-wrapping, sorting donations, or even organizing toy drives. Your presence and effort can make a significant impact on these children's lives.
Section 3: The Impact of Our Actions
When we come together to help these children, the impact is truly remarkable. Not only do we give them a Christmas to remember, but we also instill a sense of hope and kindness in them. These children will carry the memories of our generosity with them for a lifetime.
Moreover, by helping these children, we create a stronger community. We show that we care about one another and are willing to go the extra mile to make a difference. This sense of unity is what makes our community special.
Unlock Unbeatable Black Friday Deals for Swifties!
BaubleBar: Friendship Bracelet Stack
During BaubleBar's big Black Friday event, beef up your friendship bracelet stack. Custom pieces like the brand's bestselling Pisa styles are 20% off, and a selection of beaded baubles are just $10. It's the perfect time to add some sparkle to your wrist.There's a wide variety of options available, allowing you to create a unique and personalized bracelet stack that reflects your style. Whether you prefer simple or more elaborate designs, BaubleBar has you covered.Guest in Residence: BFF Gigi Hadid's Cashmere
Swift is often seen in splurge-worthy pieces from Gigi Hadid's cashmere label. Currently, it's offering 25% off sitewide. One of our favorites is the timeless cherry-colored crewneck she wore to a Chiefs game last season.The quality of the cashmere is exceptional, providing warmth and comfort. It's a piece that you'll want to wear again and again, and with the discount, it's an even better deal.MAC Cosmetics: Ruby Woo Lipstick
For that red lip classic that Swift loves, MAC's bestselling matte blue-red shade Ruby Woo is a must-have. Right now, you can score it for a whopping 30% off.It's a staple in many makeup collections and loved by fellow A-listers like Rihanna, Janet Jackson, and Angelina Jolie. The formula is long-lasting and gives a bold, beautiful look.Reformation: Checked Minidress and Footwear
Reformation is offering shoppers 25% off sitewide through Dec. 2. It's a great time to snag the checked minidress Swift wore to the US Open with Travis Kelce or something from their fantastic footwear department, which is another favorite of hers.The checked minidress is a trendy and versatile piece that can be dressed up or down. And the footwear selection offers a variety of styles to choose from, ensuring you find the perfect pair to complete your look.EF Collection: Stunning Style
The 14-time Grammy winner has been wearing this stunning style on repeat all season. You can score your own for 25% off by entering the code GOLDEN at checkout.It's a unique and eye-catching piece that adds a touch of elegance to any outfit. With the discount, it's an affordable way to incorporate this style into your wardrobe.Nars: Lip Colors
Enter the code CYBER at checkout to score 20% off the warm cinnamon lip color Swift's been reaching for nonstop lately. Or go for Dragon Girl, a siren red she's name-checked in the past.Nars' lip colors are known for their quality and long-lasting wear. These shades are perfect for adding a pop of color to your look and can be worn for any occasion.Sheertex: Sturdy Patterned Tights
The sturdy patterned tights Swift swears by are 25% off right now. Along with the rest of Sheertex's editor-approved offerings, it's a great time to upgrade your tights collection.These tights are not only stylish but also provide warmth and coverage. They're a must-have for the colder months and can be paired with a variety of outfits.Mazin Jewels: Sparkly Snake Ring
Anxiously awaiting "Reputation (Taylor's Version)"? Slip on this sparkly snake ring Swift herself owns. It's 30% off as part of Mazin Jewels' sitewide Black Friday sale when you use code BF30.The ring is a statement piece that adds a touch of glamour to any outfit. With the discount, it's an affordable way to own a piece of Taylor Swift's jewelry collection.Amazon: Lush Lashes and More
Eyeing the icon's lush lashes? She's a big fan of this award-winning volumizing formula. She's swiped it on in her "Miss Americana" documentary and even sent it to a fan for "Swiftmas" years ago. With over 13,000 five-star ratings on Amazon to date, it's clear that others agree.This mascara gives your lashes a voluminous and beautiful look. It's a must-have for any makeup lover and now available at a great price.Amazon: Taylor Swift Style Book
Written by the blogger behind Taylor Swift Style, this New York Times bestseller explores Swift's fashion evolution over the course of her career. From the curls and cowboy boots of her 2006 debut album to her sparkling Eras Tour outfits, it's a perfect present for any style-minded Swiftie.It's a detailed look at Swift's fashion journey and provides inspiration for your own style. It's a must-have for any fan who wants to learn more about her fashion choices.Mejuri: Gorgeous Garnet Ring
Swift has worn this gorgeous garnet ring to three Chiefs games so far. And when you spend a minimum of $150, it's 25% off like everything else on Mejuri's site.The garnet ring is a beautiful and unique piece that adds a touch of elegance to your look. With the discount, it's an even better value.Popflex: Pickleball Skort and Corset Bra
If you've been waiting to pull the trigger on Swift's viral pickleball skort, now's the time to strike. It's 10% off. Make it a matching set with the lavender Corset Bra, which is 15% off.The pickleball skort is both stylish and functional, perfect for your active lifestyle. And the Corset Bra adds a touch of femininity to the set.Amazon: Bold Bomber Jacket
Rep Swift's guy on the Chiefs in the bold bomber jacket the songwriter wore to the Super Bowl. It celebrates the team's founding year and is 30% off with the code BLACKFRIDAY.This jacket is a great way to show your support for the Chiefs and add a stylish element to your wardrobe. With the discount, it's a steal.Saks Fifth Avenue: Signature Scent
Rumored to be Swift's signature scent, this sandalwood-forward blend rarely goes on sale. But now's your chance to snag a bottle for less.The scent is unique and long-lasting, leaving you feeling confident and refreshed. It's a must-have for any Swiftie who wants to smell like their favorite star.Amazon: Viral Tank
Swift was spotted wearing this viral tank in a Polaroid, and select colors are a whopping 30% off for Black Friday on Amazon. Shoppers praise it as "cute and flattering," "perfection," and "super stretchy."It's a versatile tank that can be dressed up or down and is a great addition to any wardrobe. With the discount, it's an even better deal.Unmasking the Deceptive Tactics of Gaslighting
What is Gaslighting?
Gaslighting involves making statements or taking actions to make someone question their reality. This behavior is commonly seen in abusive romantic partnerships but can also occur in various relationships, including familial and workplace ones. As mentioned, it's about gaining control and avoiding accountability.For example, in a romantic relationship, a gaslighter might make their partner question their own memories or perceptions. In a workplace setting, women, especially those of color, are vulnerable to being gaslit by superiors who dismiss their complaints. It's not just about lying; it's a deliberate attempt to confuse and manipulate.
Chandler Chang, a clinical psychologist, explains that gaslighting is a defense strategy used by the gaslighter to protect their ego. Their intention is to make the other person feel bad and avoid facing criticism.
What are some common examples of gaslighting?
1. **Dismissing needs**: In any relationship, it's important for both parties to have their needs met. But a gaslighter will often accuse their partner of being "needy" or "clingy" when they ask for support.At work, this might show up as a superior denying a raise request even when the employee has proven themselves worthy.
2. **Withholding information**: A gaslighter will pretend not to understand the reason for a conversation or refuse to talk about it, then change the subject.This tactic is a form of dismissal that leaves the other person feeling unheard.
3. **Denying harm**: When a gaslighter denies hurting someone and refuses to take accountability, it's a clear sign of gaslighting.They might blame others or make the victim feel like they are the ones at fault.
4. **Forgetting events**: A gaslighter might deny entire events or statements they made just minutes ago, making the other person question their own memory.This is a way to distort the truth and make the victim doubt themselves.
5. **Weaponizing love**: Gaslighters will use love as a weapon, claiming that their actions are because they love the other person too much.They might use this to avoid accountability and get the victim to agree to their demands.
6. **Shifting blame**: Gaslighters will often divert the conversation to something the victim has done to shift blame away from themselves.This can deal a blow to the victim's self-esteem and make them feel like they are always at fault.
7. **Using vulnerabilities**: A gaslighter will find a victim's vulnerability and use it against them to make them feel guilty.For example, using a person's mental illness medication as a way to invalidate their concerns.
8. **Constant criticism**: By constantly criticizing, a gaslighter shifts blame onto the victim and keeps them in an unhealthy cycle.The victim's focus becomes getting the gaslighter's approval instead of advocating for themselves.
What are some common phrases gaslighters might use?
"If that's not what happened, then you must be crazy.""They might say, 'I never said that. You're making it up.' ""They'll often use phrases like, 'Are you being overly sensitive? It was just a joke.' ""When confronted, they might respond with, 'If you really loved me, you wouldn't be saying this.' ""They'll also say, 'I'm the only one who stands by you. Everyone else thinks you're crazy.' ""And, 'My only fault is loving you too much.' ""They might use phrases like, 'You're just trying to make me look bad.' "What do I do if I'm being gaslit?
1. **Consult a friend**: Trust your intuition and talk to a trusted confidant about how you're feeling.They can validate your experience and help you see the reality of the situation.
2. **Determine safety**: Consider whether it's safe to confront the gaslighter. Confrontation might trigger more gaslighting.If you do decide to confront, be clear about your goal and remember that you can't make someone understand.
3. **Have a conversation**: If you want to resolve things, find a calm time to discuss the issue with the gaslighter.Describe specific examples of gaslighting and use "I statements" to express how you feel.
4. **Check-in**: After the conversation, check in with the gaslighter to see how things are progressing.Agree to work on improving trust and closeness together.
5. **Cut ties if necessary**: If the gaslighter's behavior doesn't change or you feel unsafe, it might be best to end the relationship.Use a firm statement to express how their behavior has affected you and that you need to move on.
If you're being gaslit, remember that you're not alone. There are resources and hotlines available for professional assistance.