Living Life Large

The hectic, busy details of your life can sometimes take away any pleasure you feel from it. Operating on auto-pilot is no way to live; to fully experience life, you must be engaged with it and take every opportunity for happiness that comes by. It takes practice to elevate the everyday to enriching, but these simple tips can help.

Start with a sensual morning

The way your morning starts sets the tone for the rest of your day. Instead of using a blaring, beeping alarm clock, use a clock that plays soft music, or can be preset to your favourite radio channel. Studies show that classical or instrumental music can lower your heart rate and soothe you. Change your music choice every few weeks so that your brain does not get conditioned to it, which will allow you to snooze through the alarm.

Hop into a warm shower when you roll out of bed and use bath products with a citrus scent. Lemon, orange and grapefruit have been proven to energise and invigorate, which will help your mind and body wake up. Just before heading out the door, spend five minutes sitting silently to center yourself. Giving yourself this time will help to focus your day. Turn off your mind and stay in the moment. Being still and silent will calm you and help you to experience your day ahead more fully.

Energize your day

The majority of workers sit in sterile, glass and steel offices for most of their day. Bring the outdoors in by decorating your desk with simple objects from nature such as a bowl filled with rocks, one or two pretty seashells or a plant. Eating lunch on the run, or not at all, can impact the quality of your day and your enjoyment of it. Make the midday meal an event by packing good cheese and some grapes as an appetizer before the main meal. Inject a little luxury with quality paper towels and proper cutlery, even if you are eating at your desk.


Use all your senses, even at the office. Smell can affect our appreciation of the space around us. If you love lighting candles at home, keep a diffuser on your desk during work hours. To energise your brain during that dreaded slump at three in the afternoon, take a music break and listen to some music. Try a genre or artist you are unfamiliar with – since your brain is not used to it, you’ll grow more alert as you process it.

No stress in the sanctuary

Your bedroom is your sanctuary at the end of a long day. Banish the television and draw the curtains close before you head to sleep. Spray your bed linen with lavender – the scent will calm and relax you. Keep a soft throw at the foot of the bed. This will make the room look cosy and feels wonderfully soothing when wrapped around you. Scientific studies have shown that when skin brushes against softness, the brain releases dopamine, the happiness-inducing hormone. Lastly, end your day the way you started, by allowing yourself the luxury of five minutes of silent, still meditation. 

THE "M" FACTOR

By Lisa Johnson, Julie Dickison, Melea Fisher and Natalie Krause

Our Mother turns 80 tomorrow November 14^th and we four daughters have gathered to celebrate with her (but, shhh . it's a surprise . she is still in transit and doesn't know we've traveled from across the country)!

Meanwhile, we are lounging on our first day together, still in our PJs and naturally we started to reminisce . like most everyone, we think our Mother is pretty indescribable! She has what we like to call, 'the M Factor'.

Mother started life on a 14,000 acre ranch in Montana. Her work ethic was formed and has been more than replicated in all of her girls! The "M" factor: Complete the job and don't be a half done Polly!

Mother has an intense fear of water, developed as a young girl after her brother tragically drowned. She has worked hard to conquer her fear, and wasn't going to accept it in any of her daughters. Our parents required each of us (there was no discussion) to complete lifeguard certification.The "M" factor: Don't pass on to your children your own fears.

When Mother became a Christian as a teenager she found her real passion in life and we are forever thankful for the love of Christ she has shared with us. Inscribed in our parents' wedding bands is their personal motto "Each for the other, both for Christ". The "M" factor: Our marriages must be caught up in a purpose larger than itself.

As we grew into adults, we discovered that our Mother had been a 'cougar' and 'feminist' without even realizing it! She married in 1955 at the age of 26 (considered old at the time) to a 21 year old! Mother, a nurse, was the primary provider for the family of three once Lisa arrived on the scene, working nights while Daddy finished college. The "M" Factor: There is no such thing as 'woman's work' or 'man's work'.

When our Daddy started his own business, Mother happily became a stay at home Mom. As each of us grew up, she determined to teach us what she considered were three essential life skills: how to make a quilt, how to cut up a whole chicken, and how to can fresh produce. The "M" Factor: While we may laugh at these skills now, we have since discovered that what we really gained was the ability to be creative, frugal, and self-sufficient.

Mother was often at the forefront of what would much later be an accepted trend. Before it was popular, we ate unprocessed foods, made our own bread, used environmentally friendly laundry detergents, and took whole food supplements! The "M" Factor: Don't be afraid to question the 'norm', to lead even if no one is following.

Our greatest joy has been to be present while our parents have achieved some of their dreams. Mother always wanted to live in Australia, and the opportunity presented itself when she was 55 years old! They didn't hesitate to take the risk. The "M" Factor: Dreams come true only as you work towards them.

Retirement for Mother has yet to happen. She still runs a business with our Daddy, providing endless nutritional advice. At the age of 70, she took a class to conquer the Internet and Power Point. At age 79 she was introduced to Facebook and keeps in touch with her grandchildren and is considering whether she should start a blog! The "M" Factor: Learning never stops.

We admire our Mother for everything she has taught us. For all that makes her who she is . the "M" factor: our model, our mentor, and best of all, our Mother.

Happy 80^th Birthday Mother, we love you!

Your Darling Daughters,

Julie, Lisa, Natalie and Melea

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Lisa Johnson is the wife of Vic Johnson, mother to Joseph, chosen mom to Tyler & wife Savanah, Victoria & husband Drew, and Carter. Mama Lisa to Dylan, Tommy, Hannah, Mason, Austin and soon to arrive Nathan.  Julie Dickison is the wife of Ron Dickison, mother to Natalie and husband Shaun, Jessica, Philip, Michael and Hope.  Melea Fisher is the wife of Andrew Fisher, mother to Laura, Emma and James.   Natalie Krause is Auntie Extraordinaire to all nine of her nieces and nephews.

Building Your House

An elderly carpenter was ready to retire. He told his employer-contractor of his plans to leave the house-building business to live a more leisurely life with his wife and enjoy his extended family. He would miss the paycheck each week, but he wanted to retire. They could get by.

The contractor was sorry to see his good worker go & asked if he could build just one more house as a personal favor. The carpenter said yes, but over time it was easy to see that his heart was not in his work. He resorted to shoddy workmanship and used inferior materials. It was an unfortunate way to end a dedicated career.

When the carpenter finished his work, his employer came to inspect the house. Then he handed the front-door key to the carpenter and said, "This is your house... my gift to you."

The carpenter was shocked!

What a shame! If he had only known he was building his own house, he would have done it all so differently.

So it is with us. We build our lives, a day at a time, often putting less than our best into the building. Then, with a shock, we realize we have to live in the house we have built. If we could do it over, we would do it much differently.

But, you cannot go back. You are the carpenter, and every day you hammer a nail, place a board, or erect a wall. Someone once said, "Life is a do-it-yourself project." Your attitude, and the choices you make today, help build the "house" you will live in tomorrow. Therefore, Build wisely!

Never lose hope ...

Every Warrior of the Light has felt afraid of going into battle.

Every Warrior of the Light has, at some time in the past, lied or betrayed someone.

Every Warrior of the Light has trodden a path that was not his.

Every Warrior of the Light has suffered for the most trivial of reasons.

Every Warrior of the Light has, at least once, believed he was ...

The Little Man at Home Depot

by Jared Yellin

During the evening of August 3, 2009, a legend in my world departed this earth and only left his soul behind. This man is my Papa Mark and he has exposed me to lessons that cannot be learned in school or by reading a book, but rather through experiencing and witnessing an individual who had an insatiable desire to serve.

My papa worked until the day that he died, as he was the number one salesman at Home Depot, (in the entire country for appliances), but this honor shies in comparison to the number of lives that he has impacted as a result of the Act of Contribution.

My grandfather defined the concept of giving for the sake of giving and this is a lesson that all of us need to adopt into our lives. The Act of Contribution is what kept him alive because it enabled him to serve his purpose on earth.

I am going to ask all of you to take a moment and answer this question honestly: When was the last time that you performed the Act of Contribution and gave for the sake of giving?

The reason that I pose this question is because I believe that we live in a country that is consistently dialed into the radio station WIFM or in other words, WHAT'S IN IT FOR ME! Many of us simply care about giving for the sake of receiving, or even worse, needing to receive first before we give. We look to see how other people can benefit us, prior to even considering how we can positively impact their lives.

I believe that we live in a sick country and the infection is greed and an unappeasable craving to benefit ourselves. There have been countless studies associated with the power of contribution and how it can eliminate depression, emptiness, and lack of self worth. It is important to realize that money is not the only contribution, and in my opinion, it should be the last.

People yearn to experience what love is all about, and this is not necessarily intimacy, but rather knowing that someone will be in their life and guide them on their journey. We live in a world where children are growing up and never experiencing a hug, where teenagers lack mentors, and adults make poor choices for relationships. These people need our help, and what they need has nothing to do with money, and everything to do with an ear to listen and a shoulder to cry on.

Papa Mark was the person that I described in the last sentence because people felt connected to him on a number of different levels because their world changed when he entered their lives. There is a quote that I read a number of years ago that epitomizes my Papa Mark: People enter your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime.

My Papa Mark was the later for every single person who was fortunate enough to spend a moment with him. Although his life came to an end only a couple of days ago, his presence will never be lost and his insatiable desire to serve will go on forever.

One of my goals with this message is to acknowledge my Papa for everything that he stood for in my world and his authenticity in others as well. My other motive was to open all of your eyes and encourage you to realize that the Act of Contribution is an essential component to living a life worth living.

So keep your money in your pocket, reveal your heart to the world, and take time today, and everyday going forward, to give for the sake of giving and become a Papa Mark in someone else's world.

PS: RIP Papa. I love you with everything that I have inside. You are part ofmy drive!

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jared Yellin is a motivational speaker, writer, and the founder of Brandentity, which focuses on creating a BRAND + IDENTITY for each individual who participates in one of his programs. Jared is on a quest to start an Identity Revolution, which will enable people to reach their full potential in all aspects of their life and to help you realize what makes you . YOU!  Jared can be reached via email yellin@gmail.com or visit his websitewww.jaredyellin.com

Negative People Think Negative

There was a hunter who bought a bird dog, the only one of its kind in the world. That could walk on water. He couldn't believe his eyes when he saw this miracle.

At the same time, he was very pleased that he could show off his new acquisition to his friends. He invited a friend to go duck hunting.

After some time, they shot a few ducks and the man ordered his dog to run and fetch the birds. All day-long, the dog ran on water and kept fetching the birds. The owner was expecting a comment or a compliment about his amazing dog, but never got one.

As they were returning home, he asked his friend if he had noticed anything unusual about his dog.

The friend replied, "Yes, in fact, I did notice something unusual. Your dog can't swim."

Some people always look at negative side.

Gandhi's 7 Dangers to Human Virtue:

1 - Wealth Without Work
2 - Pleasure Without Conscience
3 - Knowledge Without Character
4 - Business Without Ethics
5 - Science Without Humanity
6 - Religion Without Sacrifice
7 - Politics Without Principle

Do you have your Nikes on?

By Darcy Keith

When running in the race of life, what kind of shoes is on your feet? Are they high-heeled stilettos, loafers, house slippers, or tennis shoes? While we may be concerned with what is on our feet and how comfortable they are in the situation, if we don't have the right type of shoes on, we may not succeed.

I mean, a runner doesn't wear a pair of wrestling shoes if he is running a marathon. He wears the most appropriate running shoe that will go the distance. When you prepare to run, one of the first things you do is stretch to warm your muscles. If not, your body isn't prepared for what you are about to do.

But what about the race of life? There are many things, which come up for which we may not be prepared. You may be stressed out, suffering, and not know how to handle the situation. But, there is HOPE. Hope that you can overcome whatever you are facing and be victorious.

As my pastor, Randy Gilmore, says, "Hope is confidence in present resources and ultimate good." The word, Nike, is Greek for 'victory' or 'overcoming'. In the race of life, I want to have my Nikes on. For those of you who have heard one of my motivational presentations and me talk about my "shoe issues", when I tried out for the girls' basketball team in eighth grade (I couldn't find shoes big enough to fit me in the women's section, so I had to go the men's shoe area to find a pair), guess what tennis shoes I picked out? A new white pair of Nike hightops with a red swoosh. Though I didn't know if I would make the team, I had hope in wearing my Nike tennis shoes as I was prepared to do my best.

In the middle of life's storms where you may feel stretched, stressed out, are suffering, or something else may be going on in your life, Hope lifts our spirits as we go though the storm. God has generously provided a way to carry you through it. Having hope protects our minds, like a helmet.

Hope provides us a way out of our struggle and shields us, like an umbrella. Hope lifts our spirits from the storms in life, which may be dampened. Hope is having your Nikes on when facing your situation, as we are overcomers and victorious. There is power in hope!

Here are three thoughts to keep in mind when running in the race of life:

1. Look for hope in your present resources.

2. Surround yourself with friends and family who support you.

3. Seek guidance and assistance from others who can help you along your journey to reach the finish line.

Be victorious and have your Nikes on!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Darcy Keith is a national award-winning professional speaker and author, and is an expert on overcoming challenges. She has presented before various corporations, associations, service organizations, churches, and universities, as well as being featured on various television and radio venues including ABC, CBS, and FOX. Visit her website,www.DarcyKeith.com, or to contact Darcy, eMail her atDarcy@DarcyKeith.com

Think about.....

The most effective way to do it, is to do it.

-Amelia Earhart

On tithing....

tithing is only one of the keys to prosperity. There are other practical keys that one has to do to become prosperous. Like what? Like living simply; And saving regularly; And learning how to invest and knowing where to invest....

~ Bo Sanchez

Mentor, Teacher, Friend and a Jedi Warrior

By Rosie Johnson-Tsosie

 

Once upon a time not far away lived a young boy named, Gary. Now this young boy dreamed of being a Jedi Warrior just like in the Star War Movies. He was not aware of his own powers within himself nor was he aware that later on in years he would be transformed and mentored by many worthy elders as a young child and adult. Oh how he dreamed of using his "light-saver" to fight for his honor and help the various Galactic Republics here on earth.

The quiet and somewhat shy Gary watched many Star War movies and collected various memorabilia throughout his younger years. His great challenge was collecting all of the Star War hero autographs and photos. He accomplished his feat all but one, Luke Skywalker played by Mark Hamill.

After 20 years, Gary finally received his most beloved autograph. As Garywaited in line for Mark's autograph the announcement that no more autographs would be taken. Gary leaped to the head of the line and placed photo of young Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker in the hands of Mark Hamill. "Please sign this as I've been waiting years for this!" Mark looked surprised and said, "Is this for your son?" Gary replied, "No, it's for me, I've been waiting 20 years."

Photos were taken of Gary and Mark to confirm that he did sign the photo.Gary so rejoiced in this goal. His patience, ability to continue his dream helped him obtain the dream come true. Was it worth it? Definitely yes! As a youth Gary dreamed and hoped of becoming a Jedi Warrior. His dream has come true.

Gary is a now Toastmaster International First Vice President. The powers within himself have developed throughout the years of developing leadership skills and being mentored along the way by many fine leaders. He has fought one of the greatest battles within himself and that is of shyness. As the story goes, Luke Skywalker becomes a stronger because of his faithful friends and leaders throughout the galaxy; so did Gary. They saw something that Gary couldn't immediately see, a potential leader.

Yes, Gary is one of my cherished friends. He shares his knowledge and leadership skills with all that wants to know develop their leadership talents. I've known Gary since 1999 when we were in the Toastmaster International District Officer Training, as I call it "young Jedi's in training." Like Gary, through our own ambitious talents and leadership apprenticeship we are becoming the leaders for tomorrow. We need more individuals like Gary to be committed and be a visionary dreamer that makes dreams come alive.

Gary's skills as a district leader and then two years as an International Director have given him the opportunities of a life time. Yet, Gary now continues dream beyond his own dreams as a young child. He is now in line for one of the highest achievements within Toastmasters, the title of President of Toastmasters International. I see Gary leading and mentoring new leaders worldwide. I do know Gary's leadership goes far beyond Toastmasters! I'm so proud of my friend Gary! For myself, I see another side of Gary, and that is one of honor and respect. Though shy, he is respected for his wisdom.

What can I say, but, "May the Force Be With You!"

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Born on the Navajo Indian Reservation, Rose W. Johnson-Tsosie was born a twin. Both were adopted and raised in northern Utah by the Johnson family. Returning to Arizona 33 years later and while serving a mission she found her mother and 14 other siblings. She has now many life experiences that are being told as award-winning stories that are heart-warming, humorous and inspirational. Her latest book, "Finding Helen," was published in May 2008 which tells of her Navajo mother and the painful mistake she made at the age of 13; her adopted "white" family; and the miracle of how Rose was able to reunite with her natural family.

For more than 20 years both in California and Utah Ms. Johnson-Tsosie is also an active member and leader of Toastmaster's International. She is the recipient of many Toastmaster awards the most recent her second Distinguished Toastmaster Awards (DTM) which is the highest award in Toastmasters.

Rose is now legally blind due to Glaucoma complications of Diabetes II. After 6 surgeries, she now is an advocate for Diabetes. She can be reached atblindnavajo@hotmail.com

Give thanks always.

The reason why some people are not happy and not enjoying life is because they have trained their minds to complain, to worry and to see the negative.  


Renew your mind according to the Word of God.  Have a positive attitude and be grateful.  Live with an attitude of praise and thanksgiving.  The seeds of ingratitude, bitterness, envy nor strife cannot take root in a grateful heart.


Give thanks always.

Thoughts to Ponder

The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance; the wise grows it under his feet.

~James Oppenheim