In the Ethics For the Practice of Psychology in Canada Truscott asks “What do you think of the relative importance of life experiences versus professional training in order for psychologists to be cross-culturally competent?” (p 126, para 3.) This is the question I will respond to as I reflect on my own cultural background, my travelling experience and being exposed to so many cultural backgrounds. I believed that Toronto was the centre of the universe until I was about twenty two years of age, began my career and travelled. I worked and lived in Europe for four years and spent six months in the Middle East. I also had extensive teaching about cultural diversity as well. I have a European background from two different cultures. I was raised to believe from my schooling and parents that we are all equal and one. What life has taught me though, is that we are different. Yes we do have similarities, and psychology focuses on those similarities. But we cannot fail to recognize our differences, as part of a culture and as individuals within that culture. To do so deprives us from providing the service our client expects from us. I was once taught a long time ago in an undergrad class that prejudice is a derivative of prejudging. As counselors we should not be prejudging. Truscott uses the term “cultural blindness” which prevents one from seeing the world as a person from a particular culture sees it (Truscott, p 113). A woman once told me that she did not want to report a serious incident to the police. “You don’t understand my culture. My father is a powerful man in my country….The police will tell him...” She anxiously told me. She was right. I was raised to trust the police. My father was not powerful. The police from this woman’s country could talk to Canadian police. It could cause harm because of our own culture of police depending and trusting each other, police may reveal information that would eventually be disclosed to this client’s father. Then what? We cannot assume or project our own prejudices. Truscott provides guidelines, “Respect, listen and learn from clients who are different from oneself in order to understand what is in their best interest” (Truscott, p 182). Truscott reveals that we may focus on the culture and miss the “individual characteristics of the person we are counseling” (p 114). I think of the expression of not seeing the trees because of the forest. This is my own spiritual reflection. Psychologists need to ensure that clients who come to them are to be treated justly by the system they are part of (Truscott, p 129). Truscott is depicting social justice and as a Pastoral Counseling student and being placed in various systems, I have already learned that at times our clients are further abused by the systems that are intended to protect them. This awareness has stemmed from my own ethical background experience. As a student, I voiced my concern and remained firm that a client did not “have to go to court” to testify against her abuser, contrary to the wishes of a centre. In another incident, I spoke with a manager from social assistance and wrote a letter regarding an immigrant being cut off from her food supply for not co-operating with her case worker. This action resulted in the procurement of immediate funds for my client to be able to feed herself and her child. These actions demonstrated the Principles of Respect for the Dignity of Persons and Responsible caring (Truscott, p 162). Truscott reveals “Psychologists have an ethical responsibility to try to draw attention to and correct the misuse” (Truscott, p 163). My actions and ethics have demonstrated this even though it may have caused discomfort to myself at the time. What has been enforced is also Principle 1V: Responsibility to Society, in Development of Society, IV 29, “Speak out and/or act,if the policies, practices, laws, or regulations of the social structure…seriously ignore or contradict any of the principles of this Code (Truscott, 167). I have a strong sense of ethics from my previous careers and training. I have a deep caring for the individual where ever he or she is from. Though I have continuously been educated to the changing sensitivities of a growing diverse culture here and abroad, it is the experience of my interactions and visiting various cultures which has provided me with the insight I need to grow and provide the services I do with the different people I counsel.
Wednesday, 8 April 2026
Tuesday, 7 April 2026
Scams - Couldn't seem to share with link so cut and pasted. (FSNA) Be careful out there. Hope you had a nice weekend.
For many Canadians, scams have become an unwelcome part of everyday life. Suspicious phone calls, phishing emails and unexpected text messages can arrive at any time — and often do.
The sheer volume of these messages can be exhausting. In fact, recent surveys suggest most Canadians assume every unexpected touchpoint is a potential threat. Constantly questioning whether a call or message is legitimate can lead to a kind of “fraud fatigue.”
While scams are unlikely to disappear anytime soon, staying safe doesn't mean memorizing every new fraud tactic. Focusing on a few simple habits can help you stay in control and fight fraud fatigue.
One simple rule for spotting scams
Part of the reason scams feel so constant today is straightforward: technology allows fraudsters to contact thousands of people at once through phone calls, emails, text messages and social media. Even if only a small number of people respond, it can still make the scam worthwhile.
The good news is that most scams rely on the same basic tactic — creating a sense of urgency so people act before they have time to think.
That is why the single most effective way to avoid fraud is surprisingly simple: pause before reacting to unexpected messages.
Small habits that make a difference
A text message may say a delivery cannot be completed without payment. An email could appear to come from a familiar organization requesting urgent action. Some scams even involve callers pretending to be a grandchild or loved one in trouble.
When a message arrives that feels unexpected or urgent, always take a moment to slow down and verify the request. Contact the organization directly using a trusted phone number or official website rather than the information provided in the message.
If this feels difficult in the moment, a few simple habits can help:
- Give yourself permission to pause. Scammers often rely on pressure and urgency. Taking time to think, even just a few minutes, can help break that pressure.
- Use a simple rule of thumb. If a message asks for money, personal information or immediate action, it’s worth verifying independently — like double-checking a bill before paying it.
- Be cautious with links and attachments. Emails and text messages that contain unfamiliar links are a common fraud tactic. When there is any doubt, don’t click. Access accounts directly through an organization’s official website or app.
- Keep trusted contact information handy. Saving official phone numbers for your bank or service providers can make it easier to confirm a request quickly.
As a general rule, legitimate organizations will not pressure you to act immediately or ask for sensitive personal information through unexpected messages. Over time, practising “pause and verify” can become a reflex, making suspicious messages easier to recognize without feeling constantly on edge.
Stronger protections against fraud
In Budget 2025, the federal government announced plans to develop a national anti-fraud strategy, along with proposed measures that would require banks to strengthen fraud detection and give customers more control over certain account settings that can be misused by scammers.
Budget 2025 also includes plans to work with financial institutions on a voluntary code of conduct to help identify and prevent economic abuse. This form of financial harm can affect older Canadians, particularly when exploitation occurs within families or caregiving relationships.
If you encounter a scam
Reporting suspicious messages or calls can help authorities track emerging fraud and warn others in your community. In Canada, incidents can be reported to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, which collects information about scams and supports law enforcement investigations. In an emergency, always contact your local police.
Judges and Joshua - Conquests - Story of how Monarchy develops (Theology notes cont...)
Sinai Covenant is engaged in the desert. If Israel becomes settled, they are going to need anew with God. How can they forge an understanding of God in cannon? They respond by choosing King David as King to all Israel - to the service of God as Abraham was, associated with Sinai. Zion Covenant - that of David and Davidic Covenant - when Monarch comes too ends a major conflict. Israel does not know about Sinai Covenant. David, future King. Marvellous text of new David. Jeremiah -3131, I will make a new covenant (only place appears in Old Testament) one written in the heart - Torah written in the heart. Presents both, mixes metaphors. These three prophets all end in disasters. Every form of authority is gone. King is gone - Priest cannot effect ministry temple. Does God continue to have a covenant relationship with Israel? Anything that predates the Babylon Exile is difficult to date. They needed to write down that story which happened in Babylon. The prophets wrote themselves out of a job - they wrote their insights so available to everyone. After the return from exile, two majors when writing prophecy - during when they had a King - writing emerged - a scribed voice. Deirotmous and Priestly. You have two massive crises, land and hope. In order to respond to the crises today a Monarch. Life and death, good and evil - built on Priestly writers. Reached back to the past . Covenant with Noah - promise never again to destroy life by water. Noah left arc and offered sacrifice. God promised without conditions. Creation - look at what Priestly offers to offer hope. Two texts. Why did they insert another covenant? Covenant of Circumcision - sign of hope. Signs are meant to give hope and direction. Rainbow - can look up and appreciate life with rainbow. Sinai Covenant - no Priest, no land and no King. What they can do to know, still belong to God. The Sabbath, you can keep the Sabbath anywhere - the day of rest.
To be continued in theology notes
Wednesday, 1 April 2026
This will have to do, til I get back to you. Home will be fun only. Happy Easter
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/14Z1ohLjpX4/
Connects to my facebook share. Don't worry. Be happy. Have some fun!
Happy Easter Everyone. I have two photos for you. The first is on top of my mantel (for Easter) the second is from the Art Class (also on the mantel)
Last Friday I participated in an Art Class and I loved it. Jenni is the Instructor and she believes anyone can make Art. She loves it when someone says can't. If she was closer to me, I wouldn't hesitate to take a continuous class. She teaches everyone from 9 years old to 109 and that is what gave me hope. I felt like I was nine and I think my art is a reflection of it. The one on the far top and right on the wall is yours truely. I tried to sell it but there were no takers. The Instructor thought I was funny. I suggested a trade half way. Again no takers. I was told that I did everything I was told. I am glad that I am able to follow instructions. She told us we would have fun and though I didn't quite believe her, we all did. I don't think I did too bad for my first time, but I will leave that up to you. If you are interested in taking a class contact Jennie at artwithjenni.ca
She told us that she had an art show and sold half of her art. We all celebrated her victory.
I am making this a short week because give me a reason to celebrate and well, I do. Jennie gave us all a paint brush which she states is expensive and it looks it but I am going to give it to my little niece because she is very creative and smart. I was going to give her my painting, but I didn't want her to feel compelled because she wouldn't want to hurt my feelings. So, I'll hang it up and get used to it and then maybe the wall on the basement. I don't want to throw it out, because I want to see if I improve, if I have the opportunity again.
I wish you all a wonderful Easter.