http://stillpointmeditation.weebly.com/

Stillpoint Meditation, Flagstaff, AZ (2026)

10/21/2026

Happy Frog Day! American Frog Day leaps into action on varying dates each year, depending on local hosts across the country. This day aims to celebrate, share information, and organize gatherings for everyone interested in the captive breeding and study of poison dart frogs and other amphibians. Join local events, support conservation efforts, and discover educational opportunities.

History of American Frog Day

American Frog Day is celebrated every year on different dates at different locations throughout the country. Charles ‘Chuck’ Powell started the first American Frog Day in San Jose. Powell and his family hosted the event for about 10 years. The event became an extremely popular and important gathering for hobbyists, conservations, and scientists interested in Dendrobatid frogs, commonly known as poison dart frogs. The focus also widened from frogs to all amphibians and other residents of vivariums.

The event is important for everyone interested in the captive breeding and raising of poison dart frogs and other amphibians because it is a space to exchange information, purchase supplies, and even purchase the frogs themselves.

As the event grew bigger and attracted a wider audience, it became an important space for the exchange of ideas and information about these remarkable animals as well as an opportunity for conservationists to discuss their research.

Today, the event is also a fundraiser for conservation efforts directed towards helping poison dart frogs, which are native to Central and South America.

After the first decade, Powell and his family opened up the opportunity to host the event to enthusiasts across the country so more people could participate and get involved. Today anyone interested in hosting can do so by reaching out to Jeremy Mott, who is one of the main coordinators.

Information by Nationaltoday.com
Photo by David Clode on Unsplash

10/19/2026

Happy Maha Saptami! Maha Saptami marks the official start of the Maha Puja, or Great Ceremony, during the Hindu festival of Durga Puja. Celebrated on the seventh day of the waxing moon in Ashwin, this day honors Goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. Join in the festivities, explore cultural traditions, and reflect on themes of good triumphing over evil.

History of Maha Saptami

India celebrates a 10-day-long Durga Puja festival with great enthusiasm and spirit. Maha Saptami is day seven of that festival, and Saptami means ‘seven’ in Sanskrit. The Maha Puja of the Durga Puja begins on the day of Maha Saptami. It is said that the battle between Goddess Durga and the demon king Mahishasura began on this day and ended on Vijaya Dashami day, the 10th and last day of the Durga Puja festival with the victory of the goddess over the demon.

There is another legend surrounding the celebration of this day. It is believed that Lord Rama prayed to Goddess Durga before his battle with the demon king Ravana, who abducted his wife Sita. This puja had to be done with 100 blue lotus flowers; however, Lord Rama could only find 99. To complete the puja, he plucked out his own blue eye and offered it to the goddess in place of the missing lotus. Goddess Durga was pleased with this devotion and showered him with her blessings, which helped him win against Ravana. This battle happened on day seven of the month of Ashwin.

Durga Puja has traditional rituals associated with it, such as the Navapatrika, where nine plants are bathed in the River Ganges before the sun rises. These nine plants are turmeric, bel, Ashoka, ‘jayanti,’ pomegranate, banana, paddy, colocasia, and arum. The second ritual is the Mahasnan, where a mirror is treated as the personification of the Goddess Durga and is given a ritual bath. The last ritual is the Prana Prathishta, where a pot filled with holy water and covered with a coconut surrounded by five mango leaves is placed in front of the idol of the goddess, followed by chanting divine hymns. In the end, the goddess is worshipped using 16 special items.

Information by Nationaltoday.com
Photo by Sonika Agarwal on Unsplash

10/18/2026

Wolf Awareness Week rallies conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts every third week of October. This week-long observance educates the public on the ecological importance of wolves and advocates for their protection. Learn about conservation efforts, support wolf sanctuaries, and share vital information to safeguard these keystone species.

History of Wolf Awareness Week

Wolves flourished in their natural environments about a century ago, with a population of nearly two million. These highly gregarious animals were hunted in the wild with every weapon available in the early 1900s, and their entire number was reduced by hundreds of thousands. As a result, in 1973, the federal government designated wolves as the most endangered species in the United States. Only tens of thousands of wolves remain in the wild and in captivity today.

Wisconsin’s governor signed a bill in 1990 to commemorate Wisconsin’s National Wolf Awareness Week and to educate the public about how they can assist in ensuring wolf safety. Defenders of Wildlife, a well-known wildlife conservation organization, established every third week of October as National Wolf Awareness Week in 1996. They campaigned for wolf protection, particularly among country ranchers. Defenders worked to bring ranchers and wolves closer together, devising ways for them to coexist or alternative ways for them to pay for their losses when wolves destroy cattle. Their efforts have resulted in the sustained survival of wolves over time. Federal laws enacted by past administrations also assisted in discouraging people from poaching wolves.

The observation of National Wolf Awareness Week has undergone marked development and challenges since its inception. The organizers have seen their efforts almost thwarted. In 2015, several states in the U.S. clamored for the removal of wolves from their protected status of endangered species, and in 2020, the federal government stripped the wild animals of their protection — an act that reenacted the public’s ill activities towards them. Defenders’ are, however, working to see the reinstatement of this wildlife’s protection, to not put their 26 years of hard work into jeopardy.

Information by Nationaltoday.com
Photo by Philipp Pilz on Unsplash

10/16/2026

Did you know? Artes Mundi, Wales’s leading international contemporary art prize, launches its biennial exhibition on the 3rd Friday of October. This prestigious event brings groundbreaking art from around the world to Cardiff, offering a vital platform for artists and engaging audiences with socially relevant themes. Explore the exhibition, attend artist talks, and celebrate global creative expression.

History of Artes Mundi

Artes Mundi (UK) is organized and stays up for about six months in the first half of the year, beginning in either February or March. This exhibition and competition are biennial, which means that it occurs once in two years.

‘Artes Mundi’ is Latin, and the words mean ‘arts of the world.’ The name of the competition and exhibition is also the name of the non-profit arts charity that organizes it.

This contemporary art exhibition and prize is held at the National Museum Cardiff. The focus of the exhibition is on artists with conceptual approaches and practices, presenting the best and latest in contemporary art from around the world. However, there are some artists represented in the exhibition who use traditional ink and other media as well.

Artes Mundi was conceptualized to bring international artists to Wales. So even though the competition is held in Cardiff, primarily international artists are featured in the exhibition.

Apart from the Artes Mundi Prize, the organization uses the exhibition to use the Derek Williams Trust Artes Mundi Purchase Prize to acquire art. The organization works with the National Museum Cardiff to acquire pieces from the exhibition that could become part of the contemporary art collection at the museum.

Artes Mundi was started to bring art to Wales by the cultural entrepreneur and artist William Wilkin CBE.

Information by Nationaltoday.com
Photo by Europena on Unsplash

10/15/2026

Happy Day of Rural Women! International Day of Rural Women champions the essential contributions of women in agriculture and rural development every October 15. This day recognizes their tireless work in food security, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. Join global efforts to empower rural women, advocate for their rights, and support initiatives that foster their growth and well-being.

History of International Day of Rural Women

Since its establishment in 1945, the United Nations (U.N.) has worked towards maintaining peace and friendship among all the countries in the world. The U.N. has carried out several humanitarian projects and passed resolutions and acts for the preservation of the environment. One of the most notable feats of the U.N. is the amount of work it has put into the upliftment and well-being of women, especially rural women.

In 1995, during the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing, China, the idea of empowering and honoring women was put forward. Since October 16 was celebrated as World Food Day, it was suggested that October 15 be celebrated as International Day of Rural Women to appreciate the contribution of rural women in agriculture, food production, and food safety.

In 2003, during the World Summit on the Information Society held in Geneva, a resolution was passed for the commitment to building capacity in information and communication technology for all, including women and indigenous people in remote and rural communities. This resolution was also taken up during the 2005 Tunis Agenda For Information Society in Tunis, Tunisia.

On December 18, 2007, during the United Nations General Assembly, it was declared in its resolution of 62/136 that October 15 would be celebrated annually as International Day of Rural Women worldwide. Since then, International Day of Rural Women is observed in many countries globally and celebrates the strength and achievements of these women in the sustainability of rural households and the general well-being of the community, despite the struggles and the stereotypes.

Information by Nationaltoday.com
Photo by Dibakar Roy on Unsplash

10/12/2026

Indigenous Resistance Day, observed every October 12, shines a light on the often-overlooked history and resilience of native communities. Join us in recognizing their profound cultural contributions, persistent struggles, and ongoing fight for self-determination. Educate yourself, amplify indigenous voices, and support their initiatives.

History of Indigenous Resistance Day

The way to observe October 12 has evolved throughout history. For decades, indigenous groups everywhere have been raising their voices to fight for their rights and for their version of history to be listened to as well. How Latin America and its affected communities see the transition from pre-Hispanic times to the modern era is different from how European countries do. The Americas was once home to over 60 million indigenous people, but by the end of the 15th century, colonization reduced those numbers significantly, and many natives had to suffer through new diseases, forced labor, and persecution.

As a way to rescue its indigenous roots and revisit this dark historical period, many Latin American countries have their own alternatives to what we know as Columbus Day, such as the Day of Respect for Cultural Diversity in Argentina, the Day of Cultures in Costa Rica, the Day of the Multicultural Nation in Mexico, and the Indigenous Resistance Day in Venezuela, among many others.

Although the date was originally deemed Día de la Raza, or Day of the Race, all around, it has since been renamed. In 2002, the Venezuelan President officially first coined Indigenous Resistance Day, and the name has stayed ever since. The holiday redefines the notion that the Americas were discovered, as indigenous people lived and thrived there for millennia until the Europeans arrived. Since 2002, October 12 has been about reclaiming history and dignity for the indigenous people of Venezuela.

Information by Nationaltoday.com
Photo by Helena Pfisterer on Unsplash

10/11/2026

Happy Coming Out Day! National Coming Out Day raises awareness and celebrates individuals within the LGBTQ+ community every October 11. This day champions the idea that homophobia thrives in silence, encouraging people to embrace their authentic selves. Learn about its impactful history, find resources for support, and discover how to be an ally.

History of National Coming Out Day

National Coming Out Day was inspired by a single march. 500,000 people participated in the March on Washington for Le***an and Gay Rights on October 11, 1987, generating momentum to last for 4 months after the march had ended. During this period, over a hundred LGBTQ+ identifying individuals gathered outside Washington, DC, and decided on creating a national day to celebrate coming out – this began on the 1st anniversary of their historic march.

It was Rob Eichberg and Jean O’Leary who first proposed the idea of NCOD. Eichberg founded a person growth workshop, The Experience, and at the time, O’Leary was the head of National Gay Rights Advocates. Eichberg, who would later die in 1995 of complications from AIDS, had said the strongest tool in the human rights movement was to illustrate that most people already know and respect someone in the LGBTQ+ community, and NCOD helps these people come to light.

Over the last 15 years, the Human Rights Campaign has chosen a theme for every National Coming Out Day — 2014 and 2013 were both themed “Coming Out Still Matters,” and the earliest theme (1999) was “Come Out To Congress.” There have also been different spokespeople for each NCOD. Some notable names include “Frasier” actor Dan Butler and Candance Gingrich, half-sister of Newt Gingrich, in the 1990s.

NCOD gains popularity and participants every year. Since its inception, countless public figures and celebrities have openly identified themselves as LGBTQ+, and yearly share messages of support and hope for those still in the closet. Notable celebrities who tweeted in support of NCOD in 2019 include Olympic figure skater Adam Rippon and actress and advocate Sara Ramirez. The event plans to continue its efforts to eradicate hate and homophobia with friends and family coming out to dispel stereotypes.

Information by Nationaltoday.com
Photo by Arthur zKrause on Unsplash

10/09/2026

Happy Pro-Life Cupcake Day! National Pro-Life Cupcake Day arrives every October 9, initiated by Cupcakes for Life to foster open dialogue on abortion through a non-confrontational approach. Sharing cupcakes serves as an ice-breaker, enabling conversations and educating the public. Join the movement by baking, sharing, and discussing this important topic.

History of National Pro-Life Cupcake Day

There is a lot of debate on the origin of cupcakes, especially since food recipes are passed down through families from generation to generation. The first notion of a cupcake was elaborated on in “American Cookery,” a 1796 cookbook compiled by Amelia Simmons, in which a recipe for ‘a light cake to bake in small cups’ was written. But the first reference to a cupcake was made by Eliza Leslie, a 19th-century American author in her book titled “Receipts.”

In the 19th century, the term ‘cupcake’ was used for two different purposes; cakes that were baked in individual pottery cups, ramekins or molds; and recipes for what later became known as 1234- or quarter cakes — a cake for which the ingredients were measured by volume, using a standard-sized cup.

Since then, these delicious small-sized frosted treats have become a favorite in many cultures and countries. Cupcakes have been used during birthdays, showers, anniversaries, and even proposals as a delicious treat to mark a truly remarkable event or feat in a person’s life.

National Pro-Life Cupcake Day was invented by Cupcakes For Life, an organization that started the National holiday. Their aim is to facilitate an open, non-confrontational, non-hostile conversation about abortion. The aim of the holiday is to bring awareness to the issue of abortion and honor the lives of unborn babies. By infusing cupcakes into a difficult and often contentious subject, the organization hopes to bring awareness to the issues surrounding abortion without coming off as hostile.

Information by Nationaltoday.com
Photo by luisana zerpa on Unsplash

10/07/2026

¡Feliz Semana Morazánica! Semana Morazánica honors General Francisco Morazán, beginning the first Wednesday of October each year in Honduras. This week-long observance fosters national unity and economic activity through vibrant celebrations and civic pride. Dive into the rich history, explore local traditions, and learn how Hondurans come together to celebrate their heritage.

History of Semana Morazánica

In Honduras, Semana Morazánica’s marked with considerable zeal. The occasion’s brought on by several observances occurring during the first week of October. Honduras is currently seeing a surge in economic activity. On October 3, the birth anniversary of Morazán, a national hero of Honduras, celebrations get underway. Hondurans honor the hero by attending demonstrations and paying tribute to him. Army Day and Discovery of America Day are celebrated this week. The majority of people organize week-long celebrations with nationalist and Honduran cultural themes.

During the structural overhaul of 2015, the Honduran parliament elected to combine the holidays spread over October into a four/five-day celebration that makes up for a long weekend. The concept resembles the American celebration of Labor Day weekend. Each holiday receives its due this way, and the remainder of the month is free from disruptions.

The long weekend is an opportunity for Hondurans to sit back and relax. Families get in touch during the week of celebration, and multiple generations come together to w**e and dine under one roof. The government also encourages Hondurans to plan intrastate travel and explore the beautiful country. The week’s filled with events organized by community leaders, and local artisans and craftspeople get a chance to showcase their work and earn a living. Santa Morazánica also covers Army Day, a proud day to celebrate the armed forces of Honduras and their contributions towards keeping Honduras a safe and livable country for all Hondurans.

Information by Nationaltoday.com
Photo by Esteban Benites on Unsplash

10/06/2026

Happy Badger day! National Badger Day shines a light on these fascinating and ecologically important animals every October 6. Take action to learn about badger habitats, support conservation efforts, and advocate for their protection in the wild.

History of National Badger Day

National Badger Day is celebrated every year to appreciate the beauty of badgers and to share our love for these amazing animals with each other. The eclectic badger can be found all across the United Kingdom — with most of them being in south England. In North America, they live in the Great Plains region. Most badgers are members of the weasel family, Mustelidae, and mainly live in areas that are a mix of woodland and open country in a network of underground burrows and tunnels called ‘setts.’

The earliest traces of badgers date back several thousands of years. Today, they are almost a living symbol of the beautiful British countryside where they are popularly found. It’s no secret that these mysterious creatures bring massive joy to people lucky enough to encounter them in the wild.

Not just this, but badgers also play an integral part in the U.K’s ecosystems. Their existence contributes heavily to habitat heterogeneity, maintaining and regenerating soil health through foraging, and even helping to disperse seeds through their dung. They are also instrumental in creating new habitats for amphibians, invertebrates, and pollinators. Badgers also love to share and their tunnels even provide refuge for other wildlife.

American badgers are powerful and mostly nocturnal animals that capture their prey by rapid digging. Usually solitary, they feed mainly on rodents, ground squirrels, pocket gophers, mice, and voles. Other prey includes insects, reptiles, and eggs of ground-nesting birds.

Their European counterparts are omnivorous and consume earthworms, insects, small mammals, birds and their eggs, and also fruits and nuts. They are grayish with large black-and-white facial stripes.

Information by Nationaltoday.com
Photo by Vincent van Zalinge on Unsplash

Stillpoint Meditation

10/21/2026

10/19/2026

10/18/2026

10/16/2026

10/15/2026

10/12/2026

10/11/2026

10/09/2026

10/07/2026

10/06/2026

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share

Listing takedown request