Poet, teacher, author of Life Lines & Spirit Strong on Amazon. Founder of the
#StarfishClub
. I believe in the power of 1 person. I see u. I hear u. You matter!
In 1998 I graduated from Teachers College
@yorkuniversity
believing I had the power to make a difference in the🌎, 1 child at a time. 20 yrs later, still inspired by the starfish story, I wake up every day excited to share a little
#kindness
with the world!
#StarfishClub
#IAM
Today is my 48 birthday!🎊I’m proud of my journey & everything I’ve overcome. My life has not been easy but I’m happy to be here & grateful for all that I have. Please join me in doing a random act of kindness to help me celebrate!🎂
#HappyEaster
#StarfishClub
I have a small backyard. No pool or anything fancy. Just a bird feeder, a bird bath, and one more thing: My grandmother’s tree. I talk to it every time I’m outside. I feel her spirit whenever I’m near it. It may be a simple backyard but it’s still my sanctuary.
#StarfishClub
Someone said to me yesterday, “I wonder what you look like without makeup? I wonder if you are still attractive?” I was a bit taken aback. Whether I choose to wear makeup or not, it doesn’t change who I am on the inside. It doesn’t define my worth. My choice.
#MeWithNoMakeup
Please join me in this positive affirmation. It is one I have said out loud every day since my daughter’s birth almost 12 years ago: I’m a magnet for miracles. Today is my lucky day. I’m surrounded by love and light. I’m protected by angels day and night. I was protected that
I had a student who accidentally spilled food from his thermos all over the floor in my classroom. I immediately went to grab paper towels and cleaning supplies. The student said, “Oh but Ms. K you should call the custodian. That’s not our job.” I stopped for a moment and
Some days you have to make your own sun. You may have to pull from down deep and push yourself into a place of positivity. Some people make it seem easy but that isn’t always the case. Most people would say they have days where it’s very hard to do. Writing down a list of things
Wishing my dad Eli a very
#HappyBirthday
today! He said he is grateful to be 86 years old. My dad’s advice to everyone is to aim high and never doubt your greatness no matter what the world puts in your path. Please join me in doing a random act of kindness today in honour of my
I ran into a friend today who I hadn’t seen in 10 years. She said I’m much too old to be wearing this sundress. I didn’t say anything back. I didn’t think it was worth it. I really like the dress to be honest. I feel good in it. I might even wear it again tomorrow.
#StarfishClub
Today I am officially 2,555 weeks around the sun. How many weeks for you? A student asked me what I want for my birthday this year and I said that I’m grateful I’ve made it to 49 years and that I just want to celebrate the day with people who care about me and have more kindness
Please join me in wishing my mom
Diana a very
#HappyBirthday
today! I’m grateful to my mom for so many things. She was a high school teacher for 30 years and through her stories, purpose and passion, inspired me to be a teacher too. She always believed in me even when I struggled
I was recently asked why I decided to become a teacher. I said, “Do you know the starfish story? If I can make a difference & save just one, then it was worth it.” That’s why I choose to teach in a high needs school and I wouldn’t change it for anything!
#TheKidsAreWorthIt
My day started with someone messaging me to tell me they think I dress “dowdy.” Luckily I don’t dress for them or for anyone other than myself. I’m happy with who I am on the inside & on the outside. Never let someone’s negativity crush your spirit.
#StarfishClub
#mentalhealth
Smile & say hi to people. Let’s bring that back! I won’t walk by anyone without saying hello. It’s something I enjoy. I get surprised looks from some people who may not be used to it but most smile in return. The odd person ignores me but overall it’s worth it!
#StarfishClub
Spent some time at a farm today. Had a coffee outside and walked around. It’s amazing how much beauty there is when you pause long enough to notice it. Don’t forget to stop and smell the roses even if it’s only for a few minutes. Sometimes that’s all you need.
#StarfishClub
I had a wonderful time with my mom
@ParkwoodEstate
yesterday. We saw some beautiful Monarch butterflies, lots of cardinals, bumblebees, and breathtaking views of sprawling gardens that reminded me of fairy tales. We sat and watched people strolling by laughing, talking, and
It is with a heavy heart that I share that my grandmother passed away last night. My heart is broken. My grandmother was a beacon of hope for a better world. She was the change she wished for. She was the light our🌎needs. I will carry her in my heart forever.
#StarfishClub
Someone Special
Treat everyone like
they are someone special.
Like they are someone
worth listening to.
Someone worth acknowledging.
Treat everyone like
they are someone worth
knowing.
For that’s how we would all
like to be treated.
Like someone we are
honoured to know.
Someone said to me, “So how does it feel to be pushing 50?” I explained to them that turning 48 years old last month is something I’m very proud of & grateful for. I have known lots of people who sadly never made it to 48, so honestly I feel quite good about it.
#StarfishClub
Sometimes you have to look at yourself directly in the mirror and repeat these words: I am doing my best. I am worthy of good things in life. My dreams have no expiration date!
#StarfishClub
#X
#mentalhealth
I’m tired of being asked why I’m still a classroom teacher after 22 years. Raise your hand if you think it’s ok to spend your entire career in the frontlines of
#education
! Me first✋
#StarfishClub
Sometimes you have to look at yourself directly in the mirror and repeat these words: I am doing my best. I am worthy of good things in life. My dreams have no expiration date!
#StarfishClub
#X
#mentalhealth
Happy
#LabourDayWeekend
to everyone I know and don’t know. As I prepare to welcome this year’s students on Tuesday morning, my goal for the year is to help every child feel good about themselves. Honestly it’s the most important thing I can do as a teacher. Wishing everyone a
Today on April 22 my late cousin Peter
#Zezel
would have turned 58 years old. Please do a random act of kindness today to honour his life & legacy. It would mean so much to me & my family. Our hearts hurt on this day. He mattered so much to us. Still does.
#LeafsForever
Can everyone please join me in wishing my grandmother a very happy 96th birthday today on
#ChristmasEve
2020. I won’t be able to see my grandmother this
#Christmas
due to
#COVID19
& it breaks my heart. Praying to celebrate with her soon.
#StarfishClub
Someone told me yesterday that being in my 40’s I’m too old to have long hair. I just smiled and walked away. I think I’m going to skip my next few haircuts. I’m not feeling old at all. Feeling rather empowered by my ability to walk away.
#StarfishClub
The best part of life is that every day you have another chance to enjoy it. It could be something as simple as a cup of coffee outside. There is something good to enjoy no matter what you’re going through.
#StarfishClub
Someone messaged me this morning and said to me that although they appreciate my efforts, I’m wasting my time because the world is too damaged & kindness doesn’t matter anymore. I respectfully disagree. I think kindness matters more now than ever.
#StarfishClub
Warrior
Never look to the opinions
of others to determine your
worth.
You will surely be disappointed.
Look instead within your own
heart.
Be proud of the person you
have become.
Be amazed by your own journey.
Be inspired by your own story.
Be impressed by your inner
I said to my 8 year old daughter this morning: “Sweetie you never asked for anything for
#Christmas
this year. Is there anything you really want?” She said, “I know. I don’t really need anything. I want other kids to have stuff instead.”
#StarfishClub
I went for a walk this evening and recited positive affirmations out loud. I thanked my guardian angels for watching over me and protecting me with their love and light. As I walked and enjoyed the beautiful evening, I was greeted by a stunning red cardinal who sang to me from a
The best things in life are free. Kindness is free. Smiles are free. Hugs are free. Laughter is free. Mindfulness is free. Conversations are free. Walks are free. Birdwatching is free. Hugging trees is free. Sitting outside is free. Spending time with those we love is free. There
Today is my birthday. The past year has been challenging but I’m grateful to be here & thankful for all I have. Please celebrate with me by sharing some kindness & checking in on someone u care about. Tell them they matter. Kindness is the greatest gift u can give!
#StarfishClub
Today on April 22 my late cousin Peter
#Zezel
would have turned 56 years old. In honour of his life and legacy please do a random act of
#kindness
today! It would mean so much to me & my family. Our hearts hurt on this day. He mattered so much to us. Still does.
#StarfishClub
Please join me in wishing my youngest daughter a very happy birthday today! It will be a quiet one at home. I know she would appreciate some birthday wishes on her special day. She was a miracle baby & I’m grateful to be her mom. She lights up my life!
#StarfishClub
🎂💫
Can everyone please join me in wishing my dad Eli a very Happy Birthday!🎂My dad said he is grateful to be 83 & that he is lucky to be here. We are lucky to have him! Wishing my dad many more years with all of us. Dad, you matter! 💗Mel
#StarfishClub
Today I woke up and said, “Thank you for this new day.” I drank my coffee with pleasure and enjoyed the sun casting its morning light on the trees in my yard. I smiled at the butterfly that danced happily across the grass, as if to say, “I know my time here is short so I will
On my dad’s birthday he said he was grateful to be 84 as it was a privilege denied to many. Today I’m grateful to be 45. I never thought I would see a pandemic in my liftetime or celebrate my bday during one. But I’m grateful for another day, another year.
#StarfishClub
#COVID19
Make someone smile today but remember that you are someone too. So do something kind for yourself today because you deserve to smile just as much as everyone else.
#StarfishClub
All I’ve Got
I don’t have all the answers.
I know that life is hard.
I’m not sure why the clouds come.
I don’t know why some things
aren’t in the cards.
I don’t know why some people
have to suffer so much.
I don’t know why life can be unfair.
I don’t know why people’s
Stay humble and never think you are better than someone else. We can all learn something from someone. We are all here for a reason and a purpose. Instead of dismissing people, acknowledge them and consider what they have to contribute. They may surprise you. When I look back on
Try your best. It’s all you can do and it’s all you should expect of yourself. No matter what happens, be at peace with it. Let it be enough.
#StarfishClub
#X
#mentalhealth
I asked my 8 yr old what she learned in school today. She said, “I learned that hate cannot drive out hate, only love can. And I learned that Martin Luther King tried to make the world a better place. Mom, it’s important to try to make the🌎a better place.”
#StarfishClub
My beloved cat Sefara has passed away due to long term health issues. I am devastated. She was always by my side and helped me through some tough times. Pets are family. The pain is real. I feel it today in my heart.
#StarfishClub
Someone told me that I should get more sleep as it would make my wrinkles look less pronounced. I was caught off guard and did not know what to say in the moment. Turns out I couldn’t respond. Wondering what an appropriate response would be? To be honest I’m happy with how I look
Please join me in wishing my daughter Olivia a very happy 19th birthday! I’m extremely proud of her & wish her a year ahead filled with lots of love & many blessings. Being a mother was my
#1
dream. Please share a little extra kindness today to help us celebrate!🎉
#StarfishClub
#HappyNewYear2024
! May kindness lead us through another year together! Much love to you all! You matter. I matter. We all matter! Let’s not just imagine a better world, let’s create one together!🎊
#StarfishClub
#X
I came across this photo today of when I was 8 months pregnant with my youngest daughter. My middle daughter in the photo was seven years old at the time. This photo was taken a few days before my daughter’s birth in 2011, when I had surgery for placenta percreta (a life
Love is more important than money. So are friends, family, peace, health, and overall happiness. I would rather live a simple life with a purpose and good people surrounding me than be swallowed up by the vacuum effect of a money trap. Sure it would be nice to have more money at
I treated myself to some turquoise earrings that were on sale for a great price at a country store. I wore them today with one of my favourite sundresses that I was told make me look “frumpy.” Wear what you feel good in & ignore the critics! We all have them!
#StarfishClub
Forever
One of the best things
you can do is share love
with the world.
Like a tree, let the roots of
your love spread joyfully
in all directions.
Travelling steadily across
the world,
may your love continue
to grow and connect people
as it travels.
May it forever
You can actually go for a walk by yourself and have fun! Tonight I went for a walk to pick up my daughter at her friend’s house instead of driving over. On the way I said hi to three people and one said hi back. One is better than none! I saw a cardinal, a red winged black bird,
September is a busy time for many people. Go for a 20-30 min walk after dinner to reduce cortisol levels and improve your mood. While out walking, focus on breathing deeply and pay attention to the things around you that make you feel calm and peaceful. This could be different
We had a huge and unexpected downpour of rain yesterday as I was heading into Walmart. I put on flip flops because of the puddles. As I was leaving Walmart and crossing the parking lot in front of a few cars who were waiting for me to cross, I slipped and fell quite hard with the
If you feel overwhelmed, as we all do at times, a great strategy to help yourself feel better is getting fresh air. It may seem very basic but it works wonders. Sometimes the most simple things in life like a 15 minute walk or a coffee outside can quickly and effectively calm
Simply You
The only person you
have to be in life is
yourself.
It’s unique to be you.
It’s brave.
It’s beautiful.
It’s extraordinarily fine.
You don’t have to
pretend.
You don’t have to be
someone else.
All you need to be is
yourself.
M. Korach
#X
#StarfishClub
Someone Worthy of Love
Speak to yourself the way
you would speak to someone
you love.
Forgive yourself the way you
would forgive someone you love.
Listen to the words whispered to
you from the depths of your soul
as you would listen to the spoken
words of someone who
Make it a daily habit to interact with people. Wave and say, “Good morning” on a walk. Any type of kind acknowledgment is good. When I’m out walking my dog, people will occasionally stop & chat for a bit. When this happens I usually fit “You matter” into the conversation. I’ve
My daughter
@briannarts
turns 19 today! She was born 6 weeks early & not breathing in 2002. We were told she wouldn’t make it but she did. Please celebrate with us by doing a random act of
#kindness
today to honour her life. My life changed when she was born.🎊🎂
#StarfishClub
Some days are happy days. Days where things seem to go right and the world seems to be smiling back at you. But some days may not feel as happy. You may in fact feel sad and low. Everything may seem to be going wrong on days like this and it may even seem like a dark cloud is
Happy birthday to my daughter Briannah
@briannarts
. Today she is 22 yrs old. She came into the world 6 wks early & not breathing in 2002. She was lifted by air ambulance to the NICU in Kingston ON🇨🇦 where we spent two months there and another few wks
@LakeridgeHealth
upon her
I’m thrilled to announce the launch of my new
#mentalhealth
book called Chance to Shine: A guided journal for children's mental health. Chance to Shine is a guided journal/diary with mental health messages, positive affirmations and nearly 200 wellness lessons and activities for
I’m Ok
I’m ok.
I’m feeling stronger.
I’m being kind to myself.
I’m resting longer.
I’m ok.
I’m prioritizing me.
I’m being mindful.
I’m eating healthy.
I’m ok.
I’m feeling grateful.
I’m practicing gratitude.
I’m ignoring those who
are hateful.
I’m ok.
I’m aware of
Today’s
#mentalhealth
message: I will keep going. I will never stop trying. I often say this to myself because I need to hear it too. It’s not silly at all. In fact, I find it incredibly empowering. Positive self-talk is something everyone needs.
#StarfishClub
Always remind yourself that a situation is powerless without your reaction. Take a deep breath, give yourself think time, & remember that simple things like a walk & some down time can put things into perspective. When life overwhelms u, slow things down a little.
#StarfishClub
Steady Rise
Sometimes people will try
to break you.
They may fill you with self doubt.
They may question your very
purpose.
They may even shut you out.
Sometimes people will fear you
and say that you don’t belong.
Because maybe you got through a lot
and maybe you’re
Excited to be at the
@MapleLeafs
game tonight with my youngest daughter. It’s her first
@NHL
game! Proudly wearing our Zezel jerseys in honour of our late cousin Peter.
#LeafsForever
My late and incredibly kind cousin Peter Zezel who was loved by all who knew him. He was my childhood hero. Gone too soon. Missed every day.
#StarfishClub
I have never felt any desire to compete with anyone. I’m happy for people when their dreams come true. I know that everyone will have their chance to shine and I patiently wait for my turn while sharing in the joy of others. I don’t care if my journey is different than other
I had such a peaceful evening tonight walking with my daughter, my dog, & our pacific parrotlet Max (he was in the bonding pouch I’m carrying). My daughter & I had the best conversation & talked non stop for an hour. Life is good. Tonight was a wonderful reminder.
#StarfishClub
I was really happy in this moment. My daughter Briannah graduated from Gr. 12 during covid so there was no prom. We went out for dinner to celebrate when we were able to do so. My first born. Becoming a mother was my dream & it came true!
#StarfishClub
Don’t waste your life with unhappy feelings like grudges, anger, bitterness, jealousy, and regret. Live your life focusing on the things that bring you happiness and joy. The journey is short so enjoy it as best you can. No matter how hard things are, life is still meant to be
Someone You Love
Speak to yourself the way
you would speak to someone
you love.
Look at yourself in the mirror
with eyes of acceptance.
Acknowledge the person looking
back at you.
Admire your own resilience.
Be impressed by your own
strength.
Feel inspired by your own
YES You Are
You are good enough.
You are strong enough.
You are capable enough.
You are beautiful enough.
You are intelligent enough.
You are fun enough.
You are creative enough.
You are cool enough.
You are enough just as you
are now.
Never let insecurity control
The Time Has Come
The time has come for kindness.
The time has come for change.
The time has come for tolerance.
The whole world is the range.
The time has come for action.
The time has come to unite.
The time has come to make
things better.
The time has come to make
Be yourself even if some people dislike you for it. Don’t worry about popularity. All that matters is that you are proud of who you are. This is the most important piece of advice I’ve ever received in my life.
#StarfishClub
#X
#mentalhealth
#MentalHealthWeek
Today’s
#mentalhealth
message: Kindness is the greatest gift you can give. It will always be the greatest gift you can give.
#StarfishClub
#X
More mental health messages and affirmations can be found in my new book Chance to Shine: A Guided Mental Health Journal
Never stop being a good person because of people who have become mean and bitter. I don’t believe they were always this way. The best thing you can do is set an example of kindness, respect, and empathy. I’ve seen a lot of lives turned around through kindness and empathy. Set
Bridge of Life
The darkness you may
experience today is a
bridge for a brighter
tomorrow.
Although the obstacles
may seem large and daunting,
every bridge has an end.
You will get there.
Keep going!
You will cross it.
M. Korach
#StarfishClub
#X
#mentalhealth
#poetry
My 2022-2023 school photo. 25 yrs as a teacher & I’m still happy to go to work every day with a passion to make a difference 1 child at a time. I always wanted to be a teacher. I care about kids & I believe in all of them. Always have. Always will.
#StarfishClub
May kindness be the greatest gift you give this Christmas and all the days after. All I want for Christmas is more kindness in the world.
#StarfishClub
#X
Today I learned that goats are very curious. They are the best animal detectives, next to cats. Goats symbolize health, abundance & sure footedness. Seeing a goat is a reminder to keep going until u reach your goal. As a spirit animal, goats encourage people to maintain balance.
My sister and I at our family
#Christmas
. I hope everyone had a nice day that was filled with love, peace, gratitude, and silver linings. I hope you felt the warmth of your loved ones who are no longer here but still smiling down on you in spirit. I wish for everyone to feel
On April 29, 2002 my oldest daughter was born 6 wks premature & not breathing. I spent 2 months with her in the
#NICU
in Kingston ON🇨🇦where she received outstanding medical care that saved her life. 17 yrs later she thrives. Happy Birthday to my beautiful daughter!
#StarfishClub
I picked up some farm fresh eggs at an
#Ontario
farm. It’s wonderful to buy direct from farms &
#Farmers
markets.
#Farms
make me nostalgic as they were a big part of my childhood.
#StarfishClub
My Prayer for All
I pray that you can look at yourself in the mirror with eyes of love and acceptance. I pray that you can look at yourself with a heart of forgiveness. I pray that you can look at yourself and smile because you made it through each storm. I pray that you can
The Wiser You Become
The wiser you become,
the less time you spend
with people who don’t
deserve your love.
The less time you spend
wondering what’s wrong
with you.
The wiser you become,
the more peaceful you grow.
The less noise you need.
The less desire for more.
Do you ever look up and say, “Thank you for watching over me?” I do this all the time. I speak to my loved ones who have passed. They are always there for me when I need them. Even though I can’t see them I sense their warmth & it keeps me going strong.
#StarfishClub
Like an Oak Tree
The people in your life
who have treated you badly
are in the wrong,
But the silver lining is that
although they hurt you,
they also made you strong.
They helped you figure out
who you are and what you are
made of.
Be proud of how far you
have come.