In this episode of "No Opportunity Wasted," we talk about the importance of self-knowledge and self-leadership, emphasizing that we are the architects of our own lives. I kick off the episode with a powerful quote from Daisaku Ikeda's "Buddhism Day by Day," which highlights the significance of knowing oneself as a foundation for human dignity. Later we welcome back Renita Shannon, a former Georgia state representative and activist as we tackle the pressing issues surrounding the current political landscape, particularly the frustrations with the Democratic Party's complacency and the ongoing political challenges, including tariff wars with Canada, Mexico, and China. Renita breaks down the complexities of tariffs, explaining how they impact not just foreign countries but also American consumers, leading to increased costs for everyday goods. We explore the broader implications of these political decisions, including how they affect jobs and the economy. Renita passionately critiques the motivations behind voting for Trump, asserting that many voters were driven by bigotry rather than economic concerns. We discuss the need for accountability within the Democratic Party and the importance of resistance, even when it comes from within the party itself. The conversation shifts to the ballroom culture, where I introduce our next guest, Dashaun Wesley, a legendary figure in the ballroom scene. Dashaun shares his experiences of navigating the complexities of identity and acceptance within both the ballroom community and mainstream society. He reflects on the evolution of ballroom culture, highlighting the importance of self-expression and the need for education about the roots of our community. Throughout the episode, we emphasize the necessity of community support and resilience in the face of adversity. We discuss how the personal is political, and how our individual journeys of self-knowledge can lead to collective empowerment. As we wrap up, I encourage listeners to embrace their own narratives and seize opportunities, reminding them that waiting for someone else to create change is a losing game. Join us for this very enlightening conversation that challenges the status quo and hopefully inspires us all to take action in our lives and communities.