Inspirations for life

Thought for Today

2012-02-01T07:00:00.000+08:00

Each morning when I open my eyes I say to myself: I, not events, have the power to make me happy or unhappy today. I can choose which it shall be. Yesterday is dead, tomorrow hasn’t arrived yet. I have just one day, today, and I’m going to be happy in it.

~ Groucho Marx

Quotable Quote

2012-01-30T07:00:00.000+08:00

I can accept failure. Everyone fails at

something. But I can't accept not trying.

- Michael Jordan

Thought for Today

2012-01-28T07:00:00.000+08:00

Men do less than they ought, unless they do all they can.

~Thomas Carlyle

CELEBRATE LIFE NOW: How to Enjoy Life to the Fullest

2012-01-27T07:00:00.000+08:00

By Darcy Keith

As I'm typing my thoughts, I am watching my daughter play outside games with her neighborhood friends. First, they played a made-up game of throwing a ball though hula-hoops. Next, it was bouncing a ball in the middle of the hula-hoop, which had a number point value scribbled with pink sidewalk chalk in the center. How fun it is to watch the girls, aged five to eleven, improvise with the items they have, which were six hula-hoops and five balls of various sizes. I'm amazed at how quickly the girls can switch from game to game, making new rules, and having fun.

Watching their excitement, giggles, and negotiation skills reminds me of some of the aspects of life that we sometimes don't. We don't celebrate life. Each day, we should celebrate life. No, I'm not talking about living irresponsibly, but enjoy every day given to us. For the past week, mydaughter asks me what special thing we are going to do that day. Sometimes, she just wants to go outside and play catch or take a family bike ride to the park. Other times, it's just sitting down to watch a movie with hot, buttered popcorn, and a glass of soda.

My husband and I try our best to enjoy every day with her by celebrating life and the time we have together. I remember when our daughter was born. Family and friends visited us to celebrate her birth and see our new family addition. Because in the first year of life she changed physically so much, we celebrated each stage by having her picture taken every month. Videos and pictures were taken at holidays, special events, family gatherings, and various times to capture her innocent, curious, happy personality.

I must admit, however, that sometimes I wish life away. One of the bedtime rituals that I do every night when I put my daughter to bed is that we pray together, I sing a bedtime lullaby that I have sung every night since she was born, we tell each other "I love you", and I start playing her favorite CD as she drifts off to sleep. There are several times that I would have liked to just kiss her goodnight after we prayed and go back to whatever I was doing.

But when I hesitate, I remind myself of the joy I get from celebrating her life and how, when she gets older, I won't be needed as much to tuck her in. I celebrate the moment, right here and now. Though there are things in our life to make it easier, how it is that we are busier than ever? Why do we jam-pack our lives with more activities? What are you doing in your life that will cause you to stop and celebrate it? Is it reading that book for the tenth time to your child so that they can enjoy the story? Is it taking time to read a book that you've put off and say that you'll get to it later? What about that diet that you promised yourself that you would start today?

Here are five thoughts to help you celebrate life now:

1. Start everyday with a positive attitude.

2. Take a moment to notice the vibrant color of flowers, the colorful fall leaves, the glistening white snow, or enjoy the sound of the rain while you doze off to sleep in your warm bed.

3. Reflect on the positive things in your life.

4. Tell that special person you love them.

5. Find joy in the everyday things that we take for granted.

Celebrate life to the fullest...now!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Darcy Keith is a professional speaker and an expert on overcoming challenges. She has presented before various corporations, associations, churches, high schools, and universities across the country. To sign up for Darcy's FREE newsletter on "Living the Life You Really Want", visit her website, http://www.DarcyKeith.com or to contact Darcy, e-mail her at Darcy@DarcyKeith.com

Thought for Today

2012-01-23T13:58:00.003+08:00

Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.

~Robert Louis Stevenson

Thought for Today

2012-01-22T07:00:00.000+08:00

I find it fascinating that most people plan their vacation with better care than they do their lives. Perhaps that is because escape is easier than change.

~Jim Rohn

THE LIGHT BULB

2012-01-20T07:00:00.000+08:00

By Jose Smitha 

My Dad could fix anything, cars, houses, airplanes name it.

Over the years my Dad's memory started to go and he started doing strange things. Like the time he bought a bunch of boxes of light bulbs because he got a good deal. The strange thing was they were special light bulbs, an indoor flood light bulb that nobody in our family's homes could use.

In the next few years my Dad's memory and behavior got worse and I used a few of the light bulbs in places they did not belong as outdoor flood lights and such. My Dad was diagnosed with Alzheimer'' disease and after about five years, one day he forgot how to walk and he was confined to a nursing home. 

In the meantime, due to a new job I had to move away. I bought a new house and what do you know, my new house has the indoor floodlights recessed in the ceiling. I finally found a use for the light bulbs. My dad never got to see our new house, although I told him about it when I visited him in the nursing home, I'm not sure if he understood.  

After a couple of years in the home my Dad took a turn for the worse and he forgot how to swallow food. Early one September morning my Dad died.

The night after my Dad's funeral, I came home exhausted and when I turned on the lights, one of the bulbs blew out. Needless to say I had plenty of spare bulbs.  

A sign from my Dad maybe.

I miss him a lot.

Thought for Today

2012-01-19T07:00:00.000+08:00

Goals allow you to control the direction of change in your favor.

~Brian Tracy

Three things in life that, once gone, never come back

2012-01-17T07:00:00.000+08:00

Time

Words

Opportunity

Three things in life that are most valuable -

Love

Self-confidence

Friends

Three things in life that are never certain -

Dreams

Success

Fortune

Three things that make a man/woman -

Hard work

Sincerity

Commitment

Three things in life that can destroy a man/woman -

Alcohol

Pride

Anger

Three things in life that, once lost, hard to build-up -

Respect

Trust

Friendship

P..-----pray
U.----until
S.----something
H.---- happens

When there is nothing left but God, that is when you find out that God is all you need.

Father,
God bless all my friends in whatever it is that You know they may be needing this day!
And may their life be full of your peace, prosperity and power as he/she seeks to have
a closer relationship with you. Amen.

MEN ARE JUST HAPPIER PEOPLE

2012-01-15T07:00:00.000+08:00

NICKNAMES

If Laura, Kate and Sarah go out for lunch, they will call each other Laura, Kate and Sarah.
If Mike, Dave and John go out, they will affectionately refer to each other as Fat Boy, Godzilla and Four-eyes.

EATING OUT

When the bill arrives, Mike, Dave and John will each throw in $20, even though it's only for $32.50. None of them will have anything smaller and none will actually admit they want change back.
When the girls get their bill, out come the pocket calculators.

MONEY

A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he needs.
A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item that she doesn't need, but it's on sale.

BATHROOMS

A man has 6 items in his bathroom: toothbrush and toothpaste, shaving cream, razor, a bar of soap, and a towel .
The average number of items in the typical woman's bathroom is 337. A man would not be able to identify more than 20 of these items.

ARGUMENTS

A woman has the last word in any argument.
Anything a man says after that is the beginning of a new argument.

FUTURE

A woman worries about the future until she gets a husband.
A man never worries about the future until he gets a wife.

SUCCESS

A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend.
A successful woman is one who can find such a man.

MARRIAGE

A woman marries a man expecting he will change, but he doesn't.
A man marries a woman expecting that she won't change, but she does.

DRESSING UP

A woman will dress up to go shopping, water the plants, empty the bin, answer the phone, read a book, and get the mail.
A man will dress up for weddings and funerals.

NATURAL

Men wake up as good-looking as they went to bed.
Women somehow deteriorate during the night.

OFFSPRING

Ah, children. A woman knows all about her children. She knows about dentist appointments and romances, best friends, favourite foods, secret fears and hopes and dreams.
A man is vaguely aware of some short people living in the house.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
A married man should forget his mistakes. There's no use in two people remembering the same thing!

Thought for Today

2012-01-14T07:00:00.000+08:00

Happy are those who dream dreams and are ready to pay the price to make them come true. 

~Leon J. Sue

FORGETTING THE BASICS

2012-01-13T07:00:00.000+08:00

It was one week before Christmas in 2001. My son Benjamin was five years old at the time. He seemed healthy, but he had large lumps on the side of his neck; the doctor had been running blood and ultrasound tests on them, trying to determine a diagnosis. I was on a morning commuter train heading downtown for a rather important meeting about a company merger that had just been announced. My wife Toni called on my cell. I could tell immediately something was wrong. The doctor, not the doctor's office, had called. He needed to see both of us immediately. He would not tell Toni why. We both started thinking the worst.

As soon as I was off the train I arranged for a rental car and headed straight back home. Toni and I met at the doctor's office within an hour of the phone call. He informed us that Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto did not have any available beds. He had already made arrangements for us to attend a similar hospital in Kingston. This was two hours east of us. He informed us they had a concern that Ben had lymphoma. We would be meeting a pediatric oncologist in Kingston and we should pack for staying overnight. We walked out of the doctor's office and to our separate cars to head home and pack.

Dad and Linda had been making arrangements to purchase our family a membership at a private alpine ski club as a Christmas present. The first thing I thought of was the need to call them and tell them not to. We wouldn't be available to go skiing this year due to the news about Ben. I called and Linda answered the phone.

I remember sitting in this unknown car and the emotion of the moment hitting me like a brick wall. I told Linda the news and told her to cancel the ski membership plans. Shortly after I hung up with Linda, Dad phoned me back. He was compassionate but firm. He told me they were going ahead with the membership and for me to get my thinking straight. He said Ben is fine and not to give energy to any thought but that. He had been teaching me that my whole life, but it can be so easy to forget in the moment. He was even more emphatic that we not show any emotional weakness in front of Ben. The last thing we should do was to make him fearful.

We arrived at the Kingston hospital and as we walked through the front doors the doctor came up to us and asked if we were the Proctors. Myimmediate thought was "it's bad." When do you ever get greeted like that at a hospital? I stopped my thought and pictured Ben healthy and skiing. Ben had a CT scan that evening then a biopsy the next morning. We waited patiently for the results from the pathologist. They came back negative for cancer. We were incredibly relieved and exhausted. The entire experience left me in awe as to the personal character of the pediatric nurses. What incredible interpersonal skills they have to do what they do every day. Dad's words, of putting my thoughts on the right track, were all the easier with the wonderful support of the nursing staff.

I realized that day the importance of positive thinking. Whether or not it made a difference in my son's diagnosis I will never truly know. However, I know it made a difference for my son. Being strong for Ben allowed me to properly address my concerns for his well being. My first thought had been one of emotion and worry. Imagine the damaging impression I would have made on Ben, had I expressed my fear and worry in front of him. Those emotions really would not have been about his well being, but my own. If I had taken a moment to reflect, I would have realized that positive thoughts and attitude are the only things that would express my concern for his well being. I appreciate the fact that dad called back that day to remind me what I needed to do: Think positive.

Five days later we had the most grateful Christmas we had ever had and started skiing as a family the next week. We ski as a family today.

Ray Proctor
Excerpt from Inspired: The Secret of Bob Proctor

We read what motivational speakers teach us, but what do they teach their families behind closed doors?

The Proctor family shares what they have learned from the Godfather of motivation, Bob Proctor. From his 9-year-old grandson relaying how Bob gently explained the meaning of death, to his son's view of money, the Proctor family relay what they have learned from living with Bob Proctor.

The chapters are honest, emotional and funny. They expose Bob Proctor's traits as a dad, husband, grandfather and much more! You may have experienced Bob Proctor in a business environment..this book gives you the personal application of his teachings.a must for every family!

The HR Manager

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000+08:00

One day while walking down the street a highly successful Human Resources Manager was tragically hit by a bus and she died. Her soul arrived up in heaven where she was met at the Pearly Gates by St. Peter himself.

"Welcome to Heaven," said St. Peter. "Before you get settled in though, it seems we have a problem. You see, strangely enough, we've never once had a Human Resources Manager make it this far and we're not really sure what to do with you."

"No problem, just let me in," said the woman.

"Well, I'd like to, but I have higher orders. What we're going to do is let you have a day in Hell and a day in Heaven and then you can choose whichever one you want to spend an eternity in."

"Actually, I think I've made up my mind, I prefer to stay in Heaven", said the woman

"Sorry, we have rules..."

And with that St. Peter put the executive in an elevator and it went down-down-down to hell.
The doors opened and she found herself stepping out onto the putting green of a beautiful golf course. In the distance was a country club and standing in front of her were all her friends - fellow executives that she had worked with and they were well dressed in evening gowns and cheering for her. They ran up and kissed her on both cheeks and they talked about old times. They played an excellent round of golf and at night went to the country club where she enjoyed an excellent steak and lobster dinner.

She met the Devil who was actually a really nice guy (kind of cute) and she had a great time telling jokes and dancing. She was having such a good time that before she knew it, it was time to leave.

Everybody shook her hand and waved goodbye as she got on the elevator.

The elevator went up-up-up and opened back up at the Pearly Gates and found St. Peter waiting for her.

"Now it's time to spend a day in heaven," he said.
So she spent the next 24 hours lounging around on clouds and playing the harp and
singing. She had great time and before she knew it her 24 hours were up and St. Peter came and got her.

"So, you've spent a day in hell and you've spent a day in heaven. Now you must choose your eternity,"

The woman paused for a second and then replied,"Well, I never thought I'd say this, I mean, Heaven has been really great and all, but I think I had a better time in Hell."

So St. Peter escorted her to the elevator and again she went down-down-down back to Hell. When the doors of the elevator opened she found herself standing in a desolate wasteland covered in garbage and filth. She saw her friends were dressed in rags and were picking up the garbage and putting it in sacks.

The Devil came up to her and put his arm around her.

"I don't understand," stammered the woman, "yesterday I was here and there was a golf course and a country club and we ate lobster and we danced and had a great time. Now all there is a wasteland of garbage and all my friends look miserable."

The Devil looked at her smiled and told.

"Yesterday we were recruiting you, today you're an Employee.."

Thought for Today

2012-01-11T07:00:00.000+08:00

I am thankful to all those who said NO to me. It's because of them I did it myself.

~Albert Einstein

Church Bullentins

2012-01-10T07:00:00.000+08:00

Thank God for the church ladies who type the church bullentins. These sentences actually appeared in church bulletins and were announced in church services.

The Fasting & Prayer conference includes meals.

The sermon this morning:"Jesus walks on the water."

The sermon tonight."searching for Jesus.

Our youth basketball team is back in action Wednesday at 8 pm in the recreation hall. Come out and watch us kill Christ the King

Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Bring your husbands.

The peacemaking meeting scheduled for today has been canceled due to a conflict.

Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our community. Smile at someone who is hard to love. Say "Hell" to someone who doesn't care much about you.

Dont let worry kill you off-let the church help.

Miss Charlene Mason sang "I will not pass this way again," giving obvious pleasure to the congregation.

For those of you who have children and don't know it,we have a nursery downstairs.

Next Thursday there will be tryouts for the choir.They need all the help they can get.

The Rector will preach his farewell message after which the choir will sing:" Break Forth Into Joy."

Irving Benson and Jessie Carter were married on October 24 in the church. So ends a friendship that began in their school days.

A bean supper will be held on Tuesday evening in the church hall. Music will follow.

At the evening service tonight, the sermon topic will be "What is Hell?" Come early and listen to the choir practice.

Eight new choir robes are currently needed due to the addition of several new members and to the deterioration of some older ones.

Scouts are saving aluminum cans,bottles and other items to be cycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children.

Please place your donation in the envelope along with the deceased person you want remembered.

The church will host an evening of fine dining,super entertainment and gracious hostility.

Potluck supper Sunday at 5:00 PM-prayer and medication to follow.

The ladies of the church have cast off clothing of every kind. They may be seen in the basement on Friday afternoon.

This evening at 7PM there will be a hymn singing in the park across from the church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.

Ladies Bible Study will be held Thursday morning at 10 AM. All ladies are invited to lunch in the Fellowship Hall after the B.S. is done.

The pastor would appreciate it if the ladies of the congregation would lend him their electric girdles for the pancake breakfast next Sunday.

Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7PM. Please use back door.

The eighth-graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the Church basement Friday at 7PM. The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy.

Weight watchers will meet at 7PM at the First Presbyterian Church. Please use large double doors at the side entrance.

The Associate Minister unveiled the church's new tithing campaign slogan last Sunday: "I Upped My Pledge - Up Yours"

Funny Quotes

2012-01-08T07:00:00.000+08:00

Regular naps prevent old age... especially if you take them while driving.
Having one child makes you a parent; having two makes you a referee.
Marriage is a relationship in which one person is always right and the other is the husband!
They said we should all pay our tax with a smile. I tried - but they wanted cash.
A child's greatest period of growth is the month after you've purchased new school uniforms.
Don't feel bad. A lot of people have no talent.
Don't marry the person you want to live with, marry the one you cannot live without... but whatever you do, you'll regret it later.
You can't buy love but you pay heavily for it.
True friends stab you in the front.
Forgiveness is giving up my right to hate you for hurting me.
Bad officials are elected by good citizens who do not vote.
Laziness is nothing more than the habit of resting before you get tired.
My wife and I always compromise. I admit I'm wrong and she agrees with me.
Those who can't laugh at themselves leave the job to others.
Ladies first, pretty ladies sooner.
It doesn't matter how often a married man changes his job, he still ends up with the same boss.
They call our language the mother tongue because the father seldom gets to speak.
Saving is the best thing, especially when your parents have done it for you.
Wise men talk because they have something to say; fools talk because they have to say something.
Real friends are the ones who survive transitions between address books.

Never miss an opportunity to make others happy, even if you have to leave them alone in order to do it.

BULLISH ON LIFE

2012-01-06T07:00:00.000+08:00

Kathleene S. Baker

"A beautiful new longhorn bull was born in the pre-dawn hours this morning. He's one mighty handsome fella from championship bloodlines!" Rock's proud voice sounded as if another grandchild had made a spectacular entrance into the world.

Jerry had phoned to report the death of their mutual friend, Foy; he had passed away in the pre-dawn hours that same morning. Now he and Rock were attempting to end their conversation with a few words on a lighter note. Nonetheless, their voices broke with the pain coursing through them and they both fought back tears as they spoke.

They reminisced briefly about college years, fraternity pranks, marriages, raising families, and growing older. After forty years, the bond of friendship never wavered for Jerry, Rock, and Foy-or Folo as his friends affectionately called him.

One never knows how long they will be on this earth and Foy indicated he'd hoped to have a little more time. Although, he could only agree when Jerry reminded him, "You've somehow jam-packed the equivalent of 99 years into 64!"

Foy's eyes lit up and he smiled, "I really did, didn't I?" A look of satisfaction flashed across his ailing face.

In remembering Foy, one could only recall that he lived each day to the fullest- a lesson he demonstrated with flair.

Now Foy was gone, but he'd left behind a multitude of unforgettable memories for friends and family. His wit was beyond compare and his mind as quick as a lightening bolt. Quite possibly he could have made it into the "big time" as a comedian. Perhaps he missed his calling, although he continually entertained those close to him-even in his final days.

Thoughts of the newborn bull brought to mind similarities of the life it would lead, and the life Foy had relished. It could be said that Foy was bullish on life! Fences could not, and did not contain this feisty fellow. He viewed life as a lush, green pasture for running, romping, and kicking up his heels. Yet when provoked, he could compete with any snorting, head-tossing old bull. Having spent many years as a bachelor, he delighted in the company of female companions-just as this young bull would learn in years to come. And, to the dismay of his friends, Foy had the strength of a bull whether he chose to exercise or not.

As per Merriam Webster, part of the longhorn's description is: Having a highly variable color pattern. Amazingly, there couldn't be a more perfect depiction of Foy and the life he led! It was abundant with splashes of color and excitement.

Maybe it was happenstance that a new baby bull entered the world as Foy departed for pastures greener than mortals can fathom. Nonetheless, the newborn Texas Longhorn now carries the name Folo. Foy would be proud of his rowdy, rambunctious namesake-there's no doubt about it! What could be more fitting for a man who was absolutely "bullish on life".

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kathleene, and husband, Jerry, reside in Plano, Texas. Pets have always been a passion and a precious schnauzer named Josey Lane inspired Kathy's first piece of work. As a freelancer, she has contributed to newspapers, anthologies, magazines, online ezines and writes a weekly column entitled "Heart of Texas" for Frank Talk Magazine. She is Editor for Starfish and Sand Dollar, both being inspirational ezines. Kathy's website can be viewed at: YELLOW ROSE (www.txyellowrose.com) or email your comments on thisstory to: lnstrlady@aol.com

Thought for Today

2012-01-05T15:51:00.002+08:00

It always seems impossible until it's done.

~Nelson Mandela

I Promise Myself...

2012-01-03T08:57:00.000+08:00

Christian D. Larson

To be so strong that nothing can disturb my peace of mind.

To talk health, happiness, and prosperity to every person I meet.

To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them.

To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true.

To think only of the best, to work only for the best and to expect only the best.

To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own.

To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.

To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet.

To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others.

To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.

To think well of myself and to proclaim this fact to the world, not in loud words, but in great deeds.

To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side, so long as I am true to the best that is in me.

Happy New Year 2012!

JOY JUICE

2011-12-30T07:00:00.000+08:00

by Linda Davenport

Six Words That Changed a Life Six words - "Smile...it can't be that bad." - changed Judy's life. Judy is a young woman I worked with some years ago. She was in her late twenties, maybe early thirties, more than a little overweight, and not the most stylish dresser. What was most striking about her appearance was her smile; it was always there. Anyone passing Judy in the hallway was greeted with that smile and a soft, "Hello," or, "Good morning," in her gentle, Minnesota accent.

I happened to be with Judy one day when she had her driver's license out of her purse. The photograph on her license showed a face that looked like it had never smiled! The corners of her mouth were turned down, her face looked slack, and the eyes were dark and troubled. The overall impression was anger and deep grief. "Whoa! Judy...is that really you? What in the world was going on? You look like you're mad at the world!" Judy giggled. "Yes, it's me. I used to look like that all the time."

She then shared with me her story and the six words that changed her life. Judy had moved to Tennessee to care for an invalid uncle. Her life revolved around caring for this much older and very ill man who, though grateful, offered little in the way of good company for a shy young woman.

When he died, Judy realized for the first time that she had nothing - no job skills no education, no experience with which to support herself, and no friends. Lonely, grieving, and terrified, she took a big step and enrolled in a community college CAD/CAM program. The Judy that walked the halls between classes was the Judy captured in her driver's license photo. She didn't talk, didn't smile, didn't make eye contact.

One day, however, she met an instructor in the hallway who, in passing, said, "Smile...it can't be that bad." As Judy told me the story, she giggled again. "I was so embarrassed! And I didn't say anything at all. I couldn't. But I started thinking...maybe he was right." Nothing in Judy's life had changed, but she made a decision to smile anyway, to put a smile on her face without waiting for it to spontaneously show up. And so she did.

She would arrive at school and, very self-consciously at first, put a smile on her face as she walked across the parking lot. She forced herself to look up at the people she met, even if only for an instant. Over and over she repeated to herself the six words that started her down the path: "Smile...it can't be that bad." Without realizing it, she said, she had begun to practice "fake it 'till you make it," acting happy even when she wasn't. "And when I did," she said, "things changed.

People stopped avoiding me. Before, people sometimes crossed the halls to walk on the other side, and if they didn't, I did. When I started smiling, even though I didn't really feel it, people reacted differently. It took a little while, but one morning, someone actually said hello to me. And I smiled for real!"

Judy later went to the instructor who had made the comment and thanked him. As you might expect, he was surprised that his almost throwaway comment had that kind of impact. Judy met his family, visited his church, and slowly developed a social network. After living in Tennessee for more than ten years, she made her first friends.

When she told me the story, she finished with, "See? You never know how you might influence someone with what you say. Those six words changedmy life. When I started acting happy, I became happy. I didn't even know it was happening, but it was, and I'm so glad he told me to, 'Smile...it can't be that bad.' He was right...it wasn't that bad...and it won't ever be that bad again."

Today's Joy Juice by Judy - happiness is a choice; fake it 'till you make it if you have to; and pay attention to the words you say...you may change someone's life.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Linda Davenport is a freelance writer and full-time communications professional. She publishes "Joy Juice" every week on her website, Happy By Nature, and blogs her personal journey at http://heartsongshymnal.blogspot.com If you'd like to contact Linda, join the conversation on either website or email her at mntngal@comcast.net

Thoughts to Ponder

2011-12-29T07:00:00.000+08:00

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit.

~Aristotle

Christmas Greetings

2011-12-28T13:34:00.003+08:00

I wish you Christmas greetings, my friend,
abundant blessings without any end,
treasures more precious than silver or gold,
faith that is strong and strength to be bold;
love, laughter, a heart filled with cheer,
and a generous spirit to last you all year.

Health and happiness wishes I send,
for loving family, the kindest of friends.
May starlight guide you along on your way,
to the Babe, in your heart, asleep on the hay.
There hope will find you and worry will cease
as you open His gift, your soul will find peace.
Peace of Christ be with you,
~ Linda Gleason ~

Thoughts to Ponder

2011-12-27T09:28:00.003+08:00

He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.

~ Epictetus

Thoughts to ponder

2011-12-25T12:29:00.003+08:00

‎"There are seven things that will destroy us: Wealth without work; Pleasure without conscience; Knowledge without character; Religion without sacrifice; Politics without principle; Science without humanity; Business without ethics."

~Mahatma Gandhi

FRIENDSHIP

2011-12-23T07:00:00.000+08:00

by Cherri Walston

Friendship is one of the many blessings God has given each one of us. I am so grateful for the lasting friendships I have cultivated through the years. As women, we know that true friendship is a sacred commodity. This is a relationship that is to be cherished and revered for a lifetime. We've experienced friendships that have come and gone because of misunderstandings, differences in lifestyles, spiritual or personal growth. For whatever reasons, they have left a permanent mark on our hearts of what true friendship really is.

I am known to be a very outgoing person and can interact with people from various cultures and backgrounds. I believe this is one of the many gifts God has bestowed upon me. I say this with great humbleness: as a child I was very shy and reserved. During my early years, I longed for friends. I wanted people to accept and like me. Even in high school, I felt like an outcast because I wasn't chosen to be in what I thought was the "In" group.

Consequently, this had a negative affect on my self-esteem. I placed little value on myself. My self-worth was overshadowed by the quantity of relationships versus the quality of true friendships. As I matured, I learned to filter through those relationships that weren't holding me up in the best light. Sometimes that meant I had to light the path on my own.

Self Acceptance our elite, and not so elite, society would have you believe that it is about who you know or who you are connected to. There is nothing wrong with having well-known friends or being in the circle of connected people. However, it becomes a problem when your self-worth is based on whom you know.

Be you - love you! Wherever you think you aren't in life yet, should never be an indication of where you are headed. Accept your shortcomings, mistakes; accept that some people won't like you and some you don't need to be connected to anyway. You can receive all the accolades you can stand, but until you can accept and love yourself, they are only a clanging cymbal.

The Key is Quality Not Quantity Networking is one of the hottest concepts in building relationships in the professional and entrepreneurial world. We are taught to meet and connect with as many individuals as we can. Whether it is to find a new career/job, build your business or build future relationships down the road.

When I was starting my career in training and development and my business as a coach, I was meeting people and collecting a lot of business cards. I would have a handful of cards, but no connections that related to myspecific needs. I soon realized that the quantity of cards never measured up to the value of networking. I quickly learned that I needed to position myself where my target audience gathered; a place that supported myvision. Many times that meant a smaller and more intimate gathering.

Isn't it funny how sometimes we enter into relationships the same way? We get sucked into a lot of drama and no substance. Then we scratch our heads trying to figure out how we got ourselves into this situation. You will later realize that sometimes less is more. For me, a quality relationship whether it is personal/professional is one based on character, excellence, and standards I set for my own life. Not perfection, but one of value that adds to not distracts from.

There Is Joy In Being Your Own Best Friend. A true friend is someone who accepts you as you are, feels those fears and anxieties with you, and sees your limitations. A true friend will celebrate you, cry with you, and reason with you for your own good. I can truly say that I have a small, yet valuable set of sister friends who have helped me to be the best I can be. However, I am learning to be my own best friend too.

When I feel like I'm not where I need to be, I smile and remember where I came from. When I fear stepping out of my comfort zone, I feel the fear and say, "go for it girl". And when I am confronted with my limitations, I tell myself to do what I can. A way will be made because God never fails. I find pure joy in laughing at my quirkiness, the silly things I say and do. When you become comfortable with yourself, you'll realize you don't need a crowd to feel good.

Just be YOU!

You are your own best friend!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Cherri Walston, M.S. is a certified Professional Coach, trainer and speaker. She is the president and CEO of The Coach Jazzy, LLC, a coaching practice for women going through some type of transition in their life: career, separation, divorce or a physical challenge, who are committed to cause something new in their life. Cherri coaches women on how to move beyond their limitations to get want they want in life. Website: http//:www.coachcherri.com Email: jazzyc@coachcherri.com

"A New Beginning"

2011-12-21T08:43:00.001+08:00

REFLECTION BY HENRI NUOWEN

We must learn to live each day, each hour, yes, each minute as a new beginning, a unique opportunity to make everything new.. Imagine that we could live each moment as a moment filled with new life. Imagine that we could live each day as a day full of promises. Imagine that we could walk through the new year listening to a voice saying to us "I have a gift for you and can't wait for you to see it." Imagine.

Is it possible that our imagination can lead us to the truth of our lives: Yes, it can! The problem is that we allow our past to say to us :You know it all, you have seen it all, be realistic; the future will be just another repeat of the past. Try to survive it as best you can"

There are many cunning foxes jumping on our shoulders and whispering in our ears the great lie "There is nothing new under the sun ... don't let yourself be fooled."

So what are we to do? First, we must send the foxes back to where they belong - their foxholes. And then we must open our minds and our hearts to the voice that resounds through the valleys and hills of our life saying "Let me show you where I live among my people. My name is God-with-you."

CHRISTMAS IS FOR LOVE

2011-12-19T07:00:00.000+08:00

Author Unknown

Christmas is for love. It is for joy, for giving and sharing, for laughter, for reuniting with family and friends, for tinsel and brightly decorated packages. But mostly, Christmas is for love. I had not believed this until a small elf-like student with wide-eyed innocent eyes and soft rosy cheeks gave me a wondrous gift one Christmas.

Mark was an 11 year old orphan who lived with his aunt, a bitter middle aged woman greatly annoyed with the burden of caring for her dead sister's son. She never failed to remind young Mark, if it hadn't been for her generosity, he would be a vagrant, homeless waif. Still, with all the scolding and chilliness at home, he was a sweet and gentle child.

I had not noticed Mark particularly until he began staying after class each day (at the risk of arousing his aunt's anger, I later found) to help me straighten up the room. We did this quietly and comfortably, not speaking much, but enjoying the solitude of that hour of the day. When we did talk, Mark spoke mostly of his mother. Though he was quite small when she died, he remembered a kind, gentle, loving woman, who always spent much time with him.

As Christmas drew near however, Mark failed to stay after school each day. I looked forward to his coming, and when the days passed and he continued to scamper hurriedly from the room after class, I stopped him one afternoon and asked why he no longer helped me in the room. I told him how I had missed him, and his large gray eyes lit up eagerly as he replied, "Did you really miss me?"

I explained how he had been my best helper. "I was making you a surprise," he whispered confidentially. "It's for Christmas." With that, he became embarrassed and dashed from the room. He didn't stay after school any more after that.

Finally came the last school day before Christmas. Mark crept slowly into the room late that afternoon with his hands concealing something behind his back. "I have your present," he said timidly when I looked up. "I hope you like it." He held out his hands, and there lying in his small palms was a tiny wooden box.

"Its beautiful, Mark. Is there something in it?" I asked opening the top to look inside. "

"Oh you can't see what's in it," He replied, "and you can't touch it, or taste it or feel it, but mother always said it makes you feel good all the time, warm on cold nights, and safe when you're all alone."

I gazed into the empty box. "What is it Mark," I asked gently, "that will make me feel so good?" "It's love," he whispered softly, "and mother always said it's best when you give it away." And he turned and quietly left the room.

So now I keep a small box crudely made of scraps of wood on the piano in my living room and only smile as inquiring friends raise quizzical eyebrows when I explain to them that there is love in it.

Yes, Christmas is for gaiety, mirth and song, for good and wondrous gifts. But mostly, Christmas is for love.

BATTING MY EYELASHES AT YOU

2011-12-16T18:00:00.000+08:00

By Janet Perez Eckles

A baby camel asked his mother, "Why do we have such large hoofs on our feet?"

She turned to him. "God made us that way for a very special reason," and she began her explanation. "The big hoofs are to keep us from sinking into the sand."

"Oh! So why do we have long eyelashes?"

"It's to protect our eyes from the sand."

"Why the big humps?"

"That is to store fat and have enough energy to go long distances in the hot desert!"

"I see!" the baby camel stretched his neck and looked up at his mother, "The big hoofs are to keep from sinking into the sand, the long eyelashes are to keep the sand out of our eyes, and the humps are to store energy to travel long distances.then what are we doing in this cage in the middle of a zoo?"

Like the camel, I had asked the same kind of questions. When my blindness set in, I initially locked myself in a cage of self-pity and bitterness.

Weary from pacing within that gloomy cage, something nudged me to see beyond my circumstance and unfortunate plight.

Heavens! What was I thinking? Those bars were self-imposed. But worst of all, I'd supported them with the cold metal of my negative attitude.

Eventually, eagerness to leave my stuffy cell of discontent prompted me to open my ears to hear a reassuring whisper--God had created me for much more.

Itching to break free, I broke down those bars and stepped out into the desert of life. I trudged through the heat with determination and drive. I endured the blistering sun with perseverance and tenacity. I quenched mythirst with fresh inspiration and encouragement. And the hooves of confidence kept me from sinking into the sand of insecurity.

Thinking ahead, I made sure I'd stored a healthy supply of wisdom and positive attitude to take me through the long haul.

Goodness gracious. Each time I reached another point in my journey, myeyes saw a whole new world with opportunities to make a difference. Best of all, I was delighted with the affirmation that I was indeed created for much more!

Bars come in all sizes and shapes. Some are physical; others are emotional or even mental. But none can withstand the force of determination that breaks them down. The effort is worth it and the results, simply amazing!

So, batting my long eyelashes to keep out the sand of discouragement, I challenge you: Step back and peek at what bars limit you. Take a deep breath, Break them down, and emerge into the freshness of a new life.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Janet Perez Eckles lacks physical sight, but uses her insight to impart inspirational messages across the country. She's a freelance writer, and contributor to seven books including the Chicken Soup for the Soul series. She authored "Trials of Today, Treasures For Tomorrow: Overcoming Adversities in Life."

She offers encouragement to splash joy into your day at: http://www.janetperezeckles.com

A Police officer wrote this! Please read coz it may save your life or your love ones

2011-12-16T09:00:00.000+08:00

--- This is good for for you who are driving

Crucial…Because of recent abductions

In daylight hours, refresh yourself of these things to do in an emergency situation...
This is for you & for you to share with your wife, husband, your children & everyone you know.
After reading these 9 crucial tips, forward/share them to someone you care about.
It never hurts to be careful in this crazy world we live in.

1. Tip from Tae Kwon Do:
The elbow is the strongest point on your body. If you are close enough to use it, do it!

2. Learned this from a tourist guide.
If a robber asks for your wallet or purse, DO NOT HAND IT TO HIM.
Toss it away from you.... Chances are that he is more interested
in your wallet or purse than you & he will go for the wallet/purse.
RUN LIKE MAD IN THE OTHER DIRECTION!

3. If you are ever thrown into the trunk of a car, kick out the back tail lights and stick your arm out the hole & start waving like crazy. The driver won't see you, but everybody else will. This has saved lives.

4. Women have a tendency to get into their cars after shopping, eating, working, etc., & just sit
(doing their cheque book, or making a list, etc. (DON'T DO THIS!)
The predator may be watching you,  & this is the perfect opportunity for him to get in on the passenger side, put a gun to your head, and tell you where to go.
AS SOON AS YOU GET INTO YOUR CAR, LOCK THE DOORS AND LEAVE....
If someone is in the car with a gun to your head
DO NOT DRIVE OFF,
Repeat:
DO NOT DRIVE OFF!
Instead run the engine and speed into anything, wrecking the car.
Your Air Bag will save you. If the person is in the back seat they will get the worst of it.
As soon as the car crashes bail out and run. It is better than having your body found in a remote location.

5. A few notes about getting into your car in a parking lot or parking garage:
A.)   Be Aware:
look around you, look into your car, at the passenger side floor, and in the back seat
B.)   If you are parked next to a big van,
enter your car from the passenger door. Most serial killers attack their female victims
by pulling them into their vans while the women are attempting to get into their cars.
C.)   Look at the car parked on the driver's side of your vehicle, & on the passenger side.... if a male is sitting alone in the seat nearest your car, you may want to walk back into the mall, or work & get a guard/policeman to walk you back out.
IT IS ALWAYS BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY.
(And better paranoid than dead.)

6. ALWAYS take the elevator instead of the stairs. Stairwells are horrible places to be alone,
& the perfect crime spot. This is especially true at NIGHT!

7. If the predator has a gun & you are not under his control, ALWAYS RUN!
The predator will only hit you (a running target) 4 in 100 times, & even then, it most likely WILL NOT be a vital organ. RUN, preferably in a zig -zag pattern!

8. As women, we are always trying to be sympathetic:
STOP!! It may get you raped, or killed. Ted Bundy, the serial killer, was a good-looking,
well educated man,  who ALWAYS played on the sympathies of unsuspecting women.
He walked with a cane, or a limp,  & often asked 'for help' into his vehicle or with his vehicle,
which is when he abducted his next victim.

9. Another Safety Point:
Someone just told me that her friend heard a crying baby on her porch the night before last
& she called the police because it was late & she thought it was weird... The police told her
'Whatever you do, DO NOT open the door..'
The lady then said that it sounded like the baby had crawled near a window & she was worried
that it would crawl to the street & get run over. The policeman said, 'We already have a unit on the way, whatever you do, DO NOT open the door.' He told her that they think a serial killer
has a baby's cry recorded & uses it to coax women out of their homes, thinking that someone
dropped off a baby. He said they have not verified it, but have had several calls by women saying that they hear baby's cries outside their doors when they're home alone at night.

10. Water Scam!
If you wake up in the middle of the night to hear all your taps outside running, or what you think is a burst pipe, DO NOT GO OUT TO INVESTIGATE! These people turn on all your outside taps full bore so that you will go out to investigate  & then they attack.

Stay alert, keep safe, and look out for your neighbours!
Please pass this on.
This e-mail should probably be taken seriously because the Crying Baby Theory was mentioned on America 's Most Wanted when they profiled the serial killer in Louisiana

I'd like you to forward this to all the women you know. It may save a life.
A candle is not dimmed by lighting another candle..
I was going to send this to the ladies only, but guys,  if you love your mothers, wives,sisters,daughters, etc., you may want to pass it onto them, as well.

Send this to any woman you know that may need to be reminded that the world we live in
has a lot of crazies in it, & it's better to be safe than sorry..
Everyone should take 5 minutes to read this. It may save your life or
a loved one's life

Thought for Today

2011-12-14T08:54:00.004+08:00

Christmas is love in action. Every time we love, every time we give, it's Christmas.

~Dale Evans

FEARLESS IN DIFFICULT TIMES.

2011-12-09T07:00:00.000+08:00

By Ton Pascal

Am I making the right choice? Should I change directions and line of work, or should I look for another job? When things are not what you used to know, and difficult times surround you at every turn, it is normal that you start questioning yourself and your motivation. BUT it is then that you need to see YOU for who you really are.

First of all, you need to believe in yourself 100%. You will also need a good dose of strong motivation, lots of positive thinking and positive attitude. Simple no? Yes, very much so, if you have, or are willing to learn how to put the above prerequisites to work.

This task can be very intimidating for people who are not very organized or detail oriented. If this is your case, talk to your friends and family about your situation. They can be a positive support. Or, it may be time to think about bringing in a life coach. Your fear and resistance will try to push you back and a strong supporter will make a huge difference in achieving your goals. This much talk about spiritual evolution didn't start for nothing. Like it or not, we do live in a very physical, ordinary and dirty world.

If we look at statistics from the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, Ca., 37,000 Americans die by their own hand each year, one every 16 minutes. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S.A. and the third ranking killer of young people. People aged 65 and older accounted for 16% of suicide deaths in 2004 alone. Of nearly 16,000 violent deaths occurring in 16 states, 56% were suicides.

The difficult times we are facing in our world right now require a more spiritual approach to our everyday lives, I cannot emphasize it enough. More then ever, we need to assert ourselves and find our inner peace. When some people tell you "don't be a cry baby, life is good," what you really want to do is to slap them. You have a mortgage, or a payment due, taxes, the wife's card, kid's school, and God knows what, and there is no money in the bank. And life is good? It sucks!!!

"There are three ingredients in the good life: learning, earning and yearning," said Christopher Morley. Being a spiritual self help advocate doesn't mean I disagree with you. We are on the same reality page.

Here are a few easy and practical things I suggest you can do to make it through these difficult times:

1- Gratitude. Use this simple formula of Positive Attitude and gratitude. You know what it means, this positive thinking and attitude jargon. You are not a moron, but what we often forget is to give thanks for all that we have in life. Don't resist changes and situations, it only brings anxiety and pain. Each time you are thankful, you transform that moment into positive energy, which then will transform your life.

2- Positive Affirmations. Use positive affirmations as much as possible. Do them from getting up to when you go to bed. It will imprint in your brain a new 'positive attitude route' to follow. You may encounter resistance from your old self to this new path, but don't resist, and be thankful that you have these choices, and it is you who designs and creates your own reality. Make a selection of positive affirmations and paste them around your house. I have a list of them on my blog, Dream Your Life Positively, feel free to copy it. You can start with these: I am good, I am beautiful and I am successful. I am grateful for my life. I am grateful for myself. I accept only what is good and positive.

3- Visualize. Visualize your life and everything you want in a perfect state of completion. Sounds, smells, tastes, bring all these sensations into your dream. The richer and more vivid your visualizations, the sooner you will experience them in your real life. Breathe deeply and rhythmically when doing your visualizations. Deep breathing is like a deep inner cleansing. It purifies your body and your mind of all negative thoughts and feelings.

4- Meditate. In a state of relaxation, slowly bring up your problems. Learn how to look into them as a spectator. Again, don't resist. Let them come and go without being emotionally involved with them. Don't judge the scenarios and action playing in your mind. They are neither good nor bad. Observe them, you don't want to control what is happening. They are situations and different options that make life interesting as it is. Your mortgage, your overdue bills, family problems will be there tomorrow, but you are now able to look at them from a different angle. Your newly learned unemotional focus allows your mind to be clear of despairing thoughts and emotions.

The above exercises have the power to move things around and these desperate challenges become positive opportunities for learning. You now welcome and give thanks for this new opening in your life. It may seem a little simplistic, the above steps, but your challenge is to do it time after time and every day of your life. There are no easy answers or quick fixes for difficult situations, but with this understanding you are a step closer to inner peace. You were created with wonderful qualities. You are star stuff, pure energy, and a divine creation. Open yourself up and let this positive energy flow free.

Have a great journey,

Ton Pascal

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ton Pascal is a self-thought, spiritual self-help advocate and author. "Being responsible for your thoughts and actions is what I call spirituality." He believes that the times we are facing in our world require a more spiritual approach to our everyday lives. Dream Your Life Positively. This is what Ton Pascal's book is all about. It is not just being alive that makes life worth living, but the depth and sense you bring to your life. Your thoughts and dreams will provide for you a rich, meaningful and abundant life. Ton can be reached at tonpascal@dreamyourlifepositively.com

Thought for Today

2011-12-08T09:27:00.001+08:00

In life, as in football, you won’t go far unless you know where the goalposts are.

~Arnold H. Glasgow

A CHANCE TO LIVE

2011-12-02T07:00:00.000+08:00

By Ed Mitchell

Your choice to donate was so right.  Written to honor the unknown family from Arizona who in December 2000 donated the gift of life in a time of grief -upon the death of a child.  

My first kidney transplant was in July 1991 and ended in just 3 months. After serious infections a donated kidney showed signs of failure, its removal was inevitable to save my life. As signs of rejection occurred it brought all kinds of actions by my transplant team. Next as I slip into a coma my family was given little hope I would live. God would intervene and use the skills provided by the team to bring back my life and avoid death at the age of 37. At one point, I was given no hope of survival, but I did, despite all odds. Although all this happened it was still the best course of action because it allowed me an opportunity to prevent the dreaded alternative of dialysis 3 times a week. During those months, I learned that an organ transplant is a treatment and not a cure and comes with many pitfalls.  

After 10 years on dialysis a true miracle occurred when on December 6, 2000. I received a call from the transplant team that a possible match was available. Transplantation is so unlike other surgery or hospital stays. First the long awaited call comes without warning telling me that a kidney is available. In moments, by my acceptance I implied my willingness to do everything possible to keep as healthy as possible in preparation for the major operation the following day. Also I knew this time by my acceptance that it would bring daily activities, sinceas I would have to constantly be diligent to follow my doctor's advice and follow endless preventative measures to insure that "Nick", my donated kidney would work long and give me a more productive life.

Please know that I will always remember my donor's sacrifice and my donor family's special love, and that while I am not keeping your child alive, by your choice I am keeping your gift of life, the kidney alive. Please know that it is a most humbling experience to get a donation from an unanticipated death of a child, your most precious possession. I knew it took all of your own inward courage to donate while still grieving and to give to me a stranger the gift of life.

By making the choice to accept the kidney I have learned in time to deal with the sometimes-overwhelming feelings and found the inward strength needed to conquer those feelings. In part that has happened due to your love, which has helped me, deal with all the feelings that come from just being so grateful to receive this kidney and end my many years of weekly dialysis.

Since 2000 Nick has worked great and while I have often faced additional problems over the years I have been able to start working again. I have also discovered that what is most important is that I continue to know where my true confidence and strength lies and that it's not within myself but in my strong belief and faith in God that has helped me to a greater understanding of situations, and to get through whatever happens in mylife's journey as well as my final destination.

I close with my prayer for you, and all organ donors that you too will also find a joy and peace from God by knowing you made the right choice when you gave the gift of life.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Ed Mitchell, 53 divorced and lives in Orlando, Florida. He enjoys swimming, camping, and RV. He is an Eagle and Moose and active in church and the transplant community having received 2 kidney transplants.  

Thought for Today

2011-11-30T20:30:00.001+08:00

It doesn’t matter where you are, you are nowhere compared to where you can go.

~ Bob Proctor

Thought for the Day

2011-11-29T09:16:00.001+08:00

The consequences of today are determined by the actions of the past. To change your future, alter your decisions today.

~ Anonymous

SOMETHING FOR YOU TO KNOW

2011-11-27T21:25:00.001+08:00

SOMETHING FOR YOU TO KNOW & THEN PASS IT ON TO YOUR FRIENDS

Ants Problem:Ants hate cucumbers.
Keep the skin of cucumbers near the place or ant hole.

To get pure and clean ice :

Boil water first before freezing.

To make the mirror shine: Clean with sprite

To remove chewing gum from clothes:

Keep the cloth in the freezer for an hour.

To whiten white clothes: Soak white clothes in hot water with
A slice of lemon for 10 minutes

To give a shine to hair : Add one teaspoon of vinegar to hair, then wash hair.

To get maximum juice out of lemons : Soak lemons in hot water for one hour,
And then juice them.

To avoid smell of cabbage while cooking: Keep a piece of bread on the cabbage
In the vessel while cooking.

To avoid tears while cutting onions: Chew gum.

To boil potatoes quickly: Skin one potato from one side only before boiling.

To remove ink from clothes : Put toothpaste on the ink spots generously and let it dry completely,
Then wash.

To skin sweet potatoes quickly : Soak in cold water immediately after boiling.

To get rid of mice or rats : Sprinkle black pepper in places where you find mice or rats.
They will run away.

Chinese Proverb:
'When someone shares something of value with you and you benefit from it,
You have a moral obligation to share it with others.'
So..., DO as I have done!

GIVE

2011-11-25T07:00:00.000+08:00

By Dr. Tim Wright

There is a body of water in Israel that is actually below sea level. Water constantly trickles INTO it, but, because of the law of gravity, nothing can flow OUT of it. Do you know the name of this famous lake? It's called the Dead Sea. It's called this because the mineral deposits have accumulated to such an extent that no living thing could survive in this water. The water is literally dead.

Contrast this to what happens with "living water." When you think of the term living water" the image that comes to mind is a rushing river or bubbling spring that is FLOWING. It's filled with life and movement. It doesn't just "receive," but is also giving" simultaneously. There is LIFE there.

There's a valuable illustration here. Many of us believe that we need to RECEIVE more of something in order to be happy. Whether what we desire is money or love or something else, we think that we need MORE of it in order to be fulfilled. As a result of this, we begin to operate in fear and therefore don't GIVE anything because we're afraid that we won't have enough. The result? Like the Dead Sea, we become lifeless.

When we don't GIVE, we die.

Life is meant to flow. When a pool of anything stops flowing (giving), it becomes stagnant. Stagnant water breeds disease and death. It can't breathe. It can't receive any more. If nothing is flowing OUT, there's no room for anything else to come IN.

The solution? Give.

As you give, you WILL receive. It's a universal law. You see it at work in nature. You see it at work in the economy. You see it at work everywhere, because it's true.

We've somehow been deceived into believing that if we DON'T give, we'll have MORE. Or we're afraid that if we DO give, that we won't have anything left. On one hand, this seems to make sense. But it doesn't work. Because when we don't give, we shut off the flow of what's coming in.   

If you truly desire to receive more of something, start giving it away. I know this sounds crazy, but it works. If you want someone to be kind to you, be kind to them. If you want love in your life, love someone. If you want money, give some money away. If you want joy in your life, give joy to someone else.

The universe only responds when we act. Take the first step and watch miracles begin to happen. Too often we're waiting for something to come to us first. Take the initiative. Give and you WILL receive.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Tim Wright is a freelance writer and communications consultant working out of his home in Norfolk, Virginia. He is the author and distributor of the book "Changing Your Emotions, Changing Your Life. You can contact him atwww.changingyouremothions.com

The Holstee Manifesto

2011-11-24T07:00:00.000+08:00

Thought for Today

2011-11-23T07:00:00.000+08:00

If we all worked on the assumption that what is accepted as true were really true,  there would be little hope of advance. 

~Orville Wright

The Blind Boy

2011-11-20T07:00:00.000+08:00

A blind boy sat on the steps of a building with a hat by his feet. He held up a sign which said: "I am blind, please help." There were only a few coins in the hat.

A man was walking by. He took a few coins from his pocket and dropped them into the hat. He then took the sign, turned it around, and wrote some words. He put the sign back so that everyone who walked by would see the new words.

Soon the hat began to fill up. A lot more people were giving money to the blind boy. That afternoon the man who had changed the sign came to see how things were. The boy recognized his footsteps and asked, "Were you the one who changed my sign this morning? What did you write?"

The man said, "I only wrote the truth. I said what you said but in a different way." I wrote: "Today is a beautiful day but I cannot see it."

Both signs told people that the boy was blind. But the first sign simply said the boy was blind. The second sign told people that they were so lucky that they were not blind. Should we be surprised that the second sign was more effective?

Moral of the Story: Be thankful for what you have. Be creative. Be innovative.. Think differently and positively.

When life gives you a 100 reasons to cry, show life that you have 1000 reasons to smile. Face your past without regret. Handle your present with confidence. Prepare for the future without fear. Keep the faith and drop the fear..
Just think God is Near! God Bless you and your family. From a friend to a friend.

The most beautiful thing is to see a person smiling¦
And even more beautiful is, knowing that you are the reason behind it!!!

Thought for Today

2011-11-19T09:48:00.001+08:00

Everyone wants to be appreciated.

So, if you appreciate someone, don't keep it a secret.

~Mary Kay Ash

BLESSINGS IN DISGUISE

2011-11-18T07:00:00.000+08:00

"My green slacks are hanging on the bottom rack on the right side of the closet. I want the forest green ones; not the brownish green or light green. And, the flowered silk blouse that goes with them is on the top rack hanging towards the middle. You'll know which one it is when you see it. Just pick out whatever flat shoes you think will look best." Mom was smiling as she planned her wardrobe for Thanksgiving Day.

I was nearly out the door when she stopped me. "One more thing, you know those gold drop earrings you gave me years ago? I'll need those, too. And, if you don't mind could you come early enough to make sure mymakeup and hair look nice?" I walked back to give her a hug, kiss, and told her not to give it another thought, "You'll look just beautiful! See you about 11 a.m. tomorrow. I love you, Mom."

The short two-block drive to my parent's home was somber. We'd traveled to Kansas to spend the holiday with them but it would not be celebrated as in years past; Mother had been in a nursing home for several months. The many fractures in her spine from osteoporosis were inoperable; Mother would remain there permanently.

We mustered all our strength to be positive and keep her spirits up as she adjusted to the one thing she'd always feared most-being confined to a nursing home. The only tiny, tarnished, silver cloud to be found was that the home she'd never return to could actually be seen from the facility. I prayed it made her feel like she was only down the street having coffee with a friend.

Always able to hide her feelings so as not to upset her loved ones, Mother appeared to be handling her situation well, although I knew down deep that in a matter of time she'd not be able to keep up the charade. The following morning I arrived with the items Mom had requested and we went to work dressing and primping. She looked beautiful even with the oxygen tubing draped across her cheeks.

With Mom situated in her wheelchair, we made our way to gather with family awaiting our arrival near the foyer. As we neared, I noted instantly that Dad's blue eyes, which had lost their luster in recent months, instantly came to life and regained their brilliance, for he'd not seen the love of his life "dolled-up" in quite some time. It warmed my heart to view the change.

Our linen-dressed table in the formal dining room was near the fireplace, a pianist played quietly in the background, and the meal was delicious. Everyone at the table was on stage like actors in a play; we struggled to feign jovial attitudes, not only for Mom's sake, but to prop one another up as we experienced a sorrowful and drastic change in a lifetime of family Thanksgiving traditions.

Still, there was much to be thankful for when I forced myself to see beyond the darkness that tried to encompass me. Mother had enjoyed a healthy life of independence for 83 years with a man she loved dearly. She suffered no pain with her condition and she was still as sharp as a tack!

I was fortunate in having my mom to share the holiday with although it wasn't at "home" and was missing favorite family dishes as only she could prepare. None of us knew it would be the last Thanksgiving we'd spend with Mother.

Eight holidays later I realize what a true gift the day was. Each cherished moment is remembered as if it were yesterday. My emotions that holiday were intermingled with love and grief. And, to this day they remain the same.

Remember when you count all you are thankful for. Often what seems less than ideal may be your most valuable blessing. Hidden in disguise.

May you all have a lovely Thanksgiving filled with love and many blessings!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kathleene and husband, Jerry, reside in Plano, Texas. They share their home with two terribly spoiled schnauzers. A freelancer, she has contributed to newspapers, anthologies, magazines, online ezines, and writes a weekly column entitled "Heart of Texas." She is Editor for Starfish, a daily inspiration ezine. Visit Kathy's website at: www.txyellowrose.comor feel free to email her at: Lnstrlady@aol.com

Thought for Today

2011-11-14T07:00:00.000+08:00

You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you.

--John Wooden

Thought for Today

2011-11-13T08:00:00.000+08:00

Anyone who has never made a mistake  has never tried anything new. 

~Albert Einstein

Changing Lives

2011-11-11T17:33:00.001+08:00

By Duane Spears

Some years ago I attended a self-improvement seminar and the speaker was Jim Rohn. He said, "Everything matters in life, some things a little and some things a lot, we just don't know which is which." And I believed him.

Now if I may, I would like to relate a personal experience which occurred when I was a motorcycle officer that strengthened this belief and taught a young man that everything in life does indeed matter.

I was a motorcycle officer with the Los Angeles Police Department and I was working speed complaints out of West Traffic Division. On the 6th of January, 1986, I was working a speed complaint on one of the streets in the hills of Bel Air. It was around 9:30 in the morning. I was stopped at the base of a hill and had set up my radar on the handlebar of my motorcycle and was watching the traffic coming down the hill.

This was a residential area and the road was narrow with numerous curves and was posted at 25 miles per hour. I had just finished writing a couple of tickets when I heard the audio on the radar, looked up the road and saw a small sports car coming down the hill. I glanced at the digital readout on the radar unit and saw that the car was traveling close to 50 miles per hour. I stepped out into the street and waved the driver over to the curb.

The driver was a young man in his early 20's on his way to UCLA for a morning class. I told him why I had stopped him and started to write him a ticket. He, of course, didn't want the ticket and tried to talk me out of it. His name was Christopher and he was a good kid. But he was trying his best to get me to not write him a ticket. Never rude, always polite, but determined to convince me to let him go.

We bantered back and forth, he would raise his voice in support of his position, but I calmly explained why he should get the ticket. When he saw I was still going to write him the ticket, he asked me, "What If I had not stopped, you were not on your motorcycle, would you have chased me?" I replied, "Most likely not".

About this time, I heard the audio on the radar and noticed that the digital readout registered 52 miles per hour. I looked up and saw a young man coming down the hill on a motorcycle. I stepped out in front of him and waved him into the curb. He was going too fast and passed us, but he was slowing down. I walked towards the motorcycle rider and my back was to Christopher.

The motorcyclist had turned around and was coming back to me. The he suddenly made a quick U-turn and sped down the hill. I turned around and walked back to Christopher and said, "Well, one got away."

He said, "I waved him on".

I said, "What?"

He said, "I waved him on."

I replied, "Oh, no! You should not have done that."

He had a puzzled look on his face and asked, "Why not, it won't matter?"

I told him everything in life matters, some things a little and some things a lot. We just don't know which is which. The look on Christopher's face clearly indicated to me that he did not believe me. I finished the ticket and we talked a little more about life and philosophy, then Christopher went to class and I went to court.

Three days later, I was back working that same area and had three cars stopped. While I was writing the tickets, I noticed that a car coming up the hill had stopped across from me. There were three or four guys in the car. It was obvious to me that they were waiting to talk to me.

I finished the last ticket and the driver of the car got out and walked over to me. He had a very sad look about him. I could tell something was bothering him. As he approached me, he asked, "Do you remember me?"

"Yes," I replied, "you are Christopher."

He then said, "You taught me a valuable lesson the other day when you told me that everything in life matters. I didn't believe you then, but now I do."

"How do you mean?" I asked.

"Do you remember the boy on the motorcycle?" he asked.

"Yes," I replied, "I do remember him."

"Well," he said, "he was my roommate and that is why I waved him on. I thought I was helping him. After he turned around he made a wrong turn and went down a street, which ended in a cul-de-sac and hit a large planter in the center of the cul-de-sac. He died instantly. You were right when you said everything in life matters."

I was shocked and found it hard to believe, even though I had been with LAPD for 18 ½ years. We talked for a few more minutes. I expressed mysorrow, we shook hands and then we both left.

I rode to the station in Venice and looked up the traffic reports for the 6th of January and sure enough there it was. I still could not believe it. I mentioned what had happened to another officer whose was in the station at the time. His response was that the kid deserved to die for fleeing the scene; I thought this cannot be happening; I don't want to be like him.

As police officers and especially motor officers we are suppose to be saving lives, not pleased because some kid made a bad decision and died. Over the next several days I gave a lot of thought to this situation and my life in general. I decided I didn't want to be a police officer anymore and I needed a change. So I resigned in February 1986 after 18 ½ years with LAPD to pursue my passion, network marketing.

I thought that I should listen to my own advice about how everything matters and look at this situation as an opportunity to make some serious changes in my life. I've never regretted leaving LAPD even though mybusiness plans didn't quite work the way I had hoped back in 1986. But over the years they have and I have had a successful network marketing business since 1995.

Could now be the time for you to make a life change? If it is, I would encourage you to do so. Based on my experience you will not be sorry. I will be 67 in September, I'm in great health and could not be happier.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Duane Spears was born and raised in Osawatomie, Kansas. He graduated from high school in 1961 and joined the US Army. After 3 years with the Army, he went to Los Angeles in 1966 and joined the Los Angeles Police Department. Duane quit LAPD after 18½ years to work a network marketing business. That company went bankrupt after 6 months. Duane then learned the mortgage business opened his own office on Hollywood Beach in Oxnard, CA in 1989. Later in 1995 he joined another network marketing company, left the mortgage business and has been with them for the past 13 years. In 2000, Duane moved back to Osawatomie to be near his son. You can reach Duane at duane@duanespears.com

HIT BY AN ANGEL

2011-11-04T09:25:00.003+08:00

By Timothy Kendrick

Have you ever wondered why you are here on this planet? Sounds like a simple enough question almost foolish. Everyday in someway angels bring us messages. You might be thinking I just left Starbucks with my Venti Latte and I did not see or feel any angels hovering about. Look back and think did you put a tip in the tip jar? Giving is living.

For me the more I give the more I get to keep. How about when someone cuts you off in traffic? Do you feel violated and angry? How could they do that to me? Or do you just let it go and realize that this person driving that vehicle is like many in our world just rushing, rushing, and rushing to where? The grave of course. Be grateful that the driver did not hit you and you had the mental faculties and maybe a guardian angel to adapt to the situation and maintain control of your vehicle.

Negative co-workers are angels also. They can knock you flat on your butt if you let them. What can I learn from their actions? How can I heal or help them without them knowing.

Negative co-workers are like angry customers if you run a business. They are gifts from the angels.

Or a better way to say it is these can be tools to improve yourself, your business, or your performance. What we learn from them may enhance our own lives. How I see people is how I treat them and how I treat them is how they become.

As far as Starbucks, I personally have never had a negative experience with them. Maybe that is because I NEVER EXPECTED TO. The last time I left Iraq in 2004 it was all I could do to keep from getting locked up or as they say in L.A. 5150 which means you are nuts.

On the flight out of Kuwait the attendants knew I was a bit stressed and I was talking to one of them and she took me in the back of the aircraft where they all where staying. They nurtured me and never left me alone. Maybe they were afraid, I doubt it, and I think they saw a wounded soul hurting like I had never hurt before. Yes I should've been evacuated to Landstuhl in Germany but I disliked hospitals because they always want to keep me for further evaluation. Besides I was a civilian now and I don't even know how I got on that flight to the U.S. but I did and I resigned as soon as I got home. So no psych ward for me.

What did I learn? There are angels everywhere. We can be angels if we choose to. Life is a gift, a great blessing. There are many stories I could tell about getting hit by angels from Africa, Germany and even my own house.

Have I seen real angels? Yes. I mean really felt the presence of and seen real angels? Yes. Did I think I was out of my mind? Yes.

Do you believe in angels? I have found that I like to have faith in angels. It feels better than no faith at all.

Look for your angels.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Timothy Kendrick is a retired U.S. Army veteran who served in Panama, Somalia, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and various other places in the world. Timothy's first book 'PTSD: Pathways Through the Secret Door' is widely used throughout the Veterans Administration to help returning veterans cope with the emotional scars of war.

Timothy currently lives in Tampa Florida with his wife Brenda. Timothy's new book "Wide Asleep Slumber No More" is available online and bookstores everywhere. Included is an MP3 audio download for free! To find out more about Tim you can reach him at http://www.timothykendrick.org

YOU CAN BEGIN AGAIN

2011-10-28T07:00:00.000+08:00

By Bill Baldwin

I have never heard anyone say, "I hate springtime." Well.okay, maybe those who suffer from allergies-but even they dislike the pollen, not the season. Flowers begin blooming; trees budding; grass growing; birds start singing. All of creation announces, "We're alive again!"

This year was a long, cold winter. Winter always seems long to me-too long, sometimes. But winter is necessary. In the economy of the climate, winter kills and then makes way for something new. During winter creation loses its sparkle. A once luscious, green forest becomes dismal gray. Most flowers die while others crawl back under the soil to hide from the wintry elements. Color, for a season, vanishes, and it seems, so does all of life. To add to the drab surroundings, the song of nature is stilled as birds take their song to a warmer environment. Is it any wonder that a greater percentage of people suffer from depression during winter?

Like all creation, we too experience seasons in our life. Without exception, no one can live without going through personal winters. Most of them are cold and drab. Personal winters can be dead, gray, and colorless. It is easy to lose your song during these days. Like the people referred to in the Bible, during our winters we weep a lot and set beside "the rivers of Babylon" thinking of the good ole days. Scripture says they put away their musical instruments, "hanging them upon the branches of the willow trees" (see Psalm 137:1-2).

The recession, job losses, depression, home foreclosure, rejection, death of a loved one, abuse, sickness, marriage problems, divorce, addictions, loneliness, failures-these and more are the gray circumstances of a personal winter. During winter "something dies" so to speak. I don't like winter. However, it's necessary. Winter always precedes spring and every living thing must pass through a winter to enter spring. This is a spiritual principle of life that applies to everyone and everything.

The cross is the Lord's symbol that reminds us that Jesus experienced a personal winter, too. Like all winters, dying was part of it. First, His winter was for His Father and then for us. The cross was ugly. The Lord's death on the cross was even more repulsive. The only color that splashed across the backdrop of Jesus' crucifixion was red-His blood. Other than that, like all winters, it was gray, bleak, and dreary. But it was necessary for what was to come.

One would hardly recognize Jesus during His winter. Bruised, beaten, and bloody, only the inward charm remained. His outer shell was not recognizable. Finally, winter took its toll and He died. I'm not surprised. Winter was only doing its job

The story goes that winter passed and springtime came. Like a tulip lying dormant under the soil, the earth gave way to a greater power and promise. What everyone thought to be gone forever burst forth from a wintry grave. Flowers bloomed (lilies, I suppose), skies turned blue, warm days emerged, and birds sang again. This time they sang a new song-"He has risen!" In Jesus' resurrection God declares that our personal winters are only for a season. In the Bible a man named Paul wrote to a group of people faced with winter, "I want you to know about the great and mighty power that God has for us followers. It is the same wonderful power he used when he raised Christ from death." (Ephesians 1:19-20). Now that's some more serious power we have been given!

Easter is not only an event in Christian history-Easter is a person. Jesus said, "I am the resurrection" (John 11:25). Though we celebrate Jesus' birth in December, isn't it strange that historians cannot pinpoint when He was born? However, we're certain about the time of His resurrection-springtime, right after the Jewish Passover.

Springtime and resurrection go together like (as Forrest Gump says) "Peas and carrots." When Jesus resurrected from His grave God was declaring, "Your winters are limited!" Your personal winter may be long and hard but it will come to an end. This is the message of the season. Jesus never interpreted His future glory by the dismal winter of His cross. Neither should you.

Like daffodils that suddenly appear after a long cold season, the resurrection declares that your winter season is not the end of your story. I love springtime don't you? It's bursting with the resurrection of Jesus. And the resurrection is not just a good story-it's a life principle that God infused in the season itself.

Now, as I observe the flowers blooming, trees blossoming, and birds singing, I am reminded that winters, like the cross, do not last forever. Jesus has risen! Springtime is here. Now you can begin again.

ABOUT THE AUTHORBill Baldwin is a Pastor, motivational speaker, husband, and father. He received his Masters and doctoral work from Emory University, Atlanta, Ga. Currently lives in North Carolina where he is a pastor. Bill can be reached at billbaldwin@ctc.net

Thought for Today

2011-10-27T17:20:00.003+08:00

Crisis breeds opportunity. Look for something positive, take your broken wings and learn to fly again.

~Orrin Checkmate Hudson

Thought for Today

2011-10-25T17:46:00.003+08:00

Small is the number of people who see with their eyes and think with their minds.

~Albert Einstein

Thought for Today

2011-10-24T17:29:00.004+08:00

It had long since come to my attention that people of accomplishment rarely sat back and let things happen to them. They went out and happened to things.

~Elinor Smith

Thought for Today

2011-10-22T08:00:00.000+08:00

Everybody talks about wanting to change things and help and fix, but ultimately all you can do is fix yourself. And that's a lot. Because if you can fix yourself, it has a ripple effect.

~Rob Reiner
Director

Thought for Today

2011-10-21T08:00:00.000+08:00

The real measure of our wealth is how much we'd be worth if we lost all our money.

~Benjamin Jowett
1817-1893, English Scholar, Classicist and Theologian

Gratitude

2011-10-21T07:00:00.000+08:00

By Wallace D. Wattles

The first step toward getting rich is to convey the idea of your wants to the formless substance.

This is true, and you will see that in order to do so it becomes necessary to relate yourself to the formless intelligence in a harmonious way.

To secure this harmonious relationship is a matter of such primary and vital importance that I will give some space to its discussion here. I will give you instructions, which, if you follow them, will be certain to bring you into a perfect unity of mind with God.

The whole process of mental adjustment and attunement can be summed up in one word: gratitude.

First, you believe that there is one intelligent substance from which all things proceed.
Secondly, you believe that this substance gives you everything you desire.
And, thirdly, you relate yourself to it through a feeling of deep and profound gratitude.
Many people who order their lives rightly in all other ways are kept in poverty by their lack of gratitude. Having received one gift from God, they cut the wires, which connect them with Him by failing to make acknowledgment.

It is easy to understand that the nearer we live to the source of wealth, the more wealth we shall receive. It is also easy to understand that a soul that is always grateful lives in closer touch with God than one who never looks to Him in thankful acknowledgment.

When good things come to us, the more gratefully we fix our mind on the Supreme Power, the more good things we will receive - and the more rapidly they will come. The reason for this is simply that the mental attitude of gratitude draws the mind into closer touch with the source from which the blessings come.

Thought for Today

2011-10-19T17:00:00.000+08:00

An error doesn't become a mistake until you refuse to correct it.

~Orlando A. Battista

The best St. Nicholas Statue ever!

2011-10-19T08:00:00.000+08:00

Now, from the artistic tradition that created the magnificent icons that grace the great cathedrals of Russia (where, for centuries, St. Nicholas has been particularly revered and loved) comes . . .

the best
St. Nicholas Statue
ever:

It's over 12" tall

. . . yet hand-painted, front and back, with loving attention to detail
(Look closely: note the delicate gradation of tones in the blues and greens, and the soft blush on Nicholas's cheeks. See how carefully even his eyes are painted.)

Look closely at
the Nativity Tableau:

With the Star of Bethlehem shining down on the Holy Family (and half-a-dozen other bright stars come down from Heaven to gaze upon them, too) . . .

. . . St. Joseph lifts his hand to bless the Newborn . . .

. . . who Himself blesses His adoring mother as she gazes down upon Him:

Finally, turning His face directly to us, the Baby Jesus blesses you and me, too:

Nowhere else will you find a statue of St. Nicholas as handsome as this, or as well-crafted.
Take it in hand.
Examine it closely.
It's virtually indistinguishable from the lovingly-designed, hand-carved wooden statue from which its mold was made.

Unfortunately, it's mid-October already and I've got only 150 of these St. Nicholas Statues left in stock. I may be able to obtain 100 more between now and Christmas, but that's not certain.

And today, I'm sending this ad to over 20,000, customers, most of whom have children or grandchildren who will be charmed by our St. Nicholas.

So if you want this handsome St. Nicholas Statue to grace your home this Christmas (and for many Christmases to come), click the link below or call our toll-free number right away.

St. Nicholas Statue
12+ inches; hand-painted
sturdy polymer, made
to last for generations
$60.00

(Only available for shipping
within the United States.)

Order online above,or call
1-800-888-9344www.SophiaInstitute.com
Sophia Institute Press
Box 5284, Manchester, NH 03108 USA

We always welcome contributions to our non-profit apostolate. If you would prefer not to use the PayPal button below, you can add a contribution directly to your shopping cart at our on-line store.

Sophia Institute Press
is the publishing division of

Thought for Today

2011-10-18T10:07:00.001+08:00

The world does not pay for what a person knows. But it pays for what a person does with what he knows.

~Laurence Lee

12 Rules of Success by Steve Jobs

2011-10-12T11:11:00.000+08:00

Do what you love to do. Find your true passion. Make a difference. The only way to do great work is to love what you do.

Be different. Think different. Better to be a pirate than to join the navy.

Do your best at every job. Don’t sleep! Success generates more success so be hungry for it. Hire good people with a passion for excellence.

Perform SWOT analysis. As soon as you join/start a company, make a list of strengths and weaknesses of yourself and your company on a piece of paper. Don’t hesitate to throw bad apples out of the company.

Be entrepreneurial. Look for the next big thing. Find a set of ideas that need to be acted upon quickly and decisively and jump through that window. Sometimes the first step is the hardest one. Just take it. Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.

Start small, think big. Don’t worry about too many things at once. Take a handful of simple things to begin with, and then progress to more complex ones. Think about not just tomorrow, but the future. Put a ding in the universe.

Strive to become a market leader. Own and control the primary technology in everything you do. If there’s a better technology available, use it regardless of whether or not anyone else is using it. Be the first, and make it an industry standard.

People judge you by your performance, so focus on the outcome. Be a yardstick of quality. Some people aren’t used to an environment where excellence is expected. Advertise. If they don’t know about it, they won’t buy your product. Pay attention to design. We made the buttons on the screen look so good you’ll want to lick them. Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.

Ask for feedback from people with diverse backgrounds. Each one will tell you one useful thing. If you’re at the top of the chain, sometimes people won’t give you honest feedback because they’re afraid. In this case, disguise yourself, or get feedback from other sources. Focus on those who will use your product – listen to your customers first.

Innovate. Innovation distinguishes a leader from a follower. Delegate. Let other top executives do 50% of your routine work to be able to spend 50% your time on the new stuff. Say no to 1,000 things to make sure you don’t get on the wrong track or try to do too much. Concentrate on really important creations and radical innovation. Hire people who want to make the best things in the world. You need a very product-oriented culture, even in a technology company. Lots of companies have tons of great engineers and smart people. But ultimately, there needs to be some gravitational force that pulls it all together.

Thoughts to ponder!

2011-10-08T10:26:00.003+08:00

Almost everything–all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure–these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.

~Steve Jobs

The Funeral

2011-09-29T09:41:00.002+08:00

No matter what religion or spiritual path you follow (or don't), there's one topic that fascinates us all: What happens after we die?

Reincarnation? Eternal Heaven? Total blackness and non-existence? Something totally different?

Honestly, I don't know. No matter what we believe though, there's a few basic facts about death that we all know to be true.

The first is the obvious: That we're all going to die. Yes, every single person on this planet is going to die someday, somehow, somewhere.

The second fact is less obvious...

After we die, our lives will be etched in the hearts of others. We live eternally. Forever. In other people.

That's what today's video is really about.

It's about the relationships we forge during our lives that are so powerful they impact people even after we die.

Today's movie is called "The Funeral." It starts with a little bit of humor, and it quickly goes deep and gets to the heart of the matter. It's only 3 minutes long, so please watch it until the very end.

Thought for Today

2011-09-25T15:11:00.000+08:00

If you have a great ambition, take as big a step as possible in the direction of fulfilling it. The step may only be a tiny one, but trust that it may be the largest one possible for now.

~Captain Mildred H. McAfee

Thought for Today

2011-09-19T10:47:00.002+08:00

Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.

~Abraham Lincoln

Heart Attack info on New Aspirin

2011-09-16T10:18:00.002+08:00

Read and heed! This can't be read TOO many times!

This is good info. We did not know that you should not lie down while waiting for the EMT Heart attack info NEW ASPIRIN/ Serious stuff, no joke!!
Just a reminder to all: purchase a box, keep one in your car, pocketbook, wallet, bedside, etc. IMPORTANT READ......

Something that we can do to help ourselves. Nice to know.
Bayer is making crystal aspirin to dissolve under the tongue. They work much faster than the tablets.

Why keep aspirin by your bedside?
About Heart Attacks
There are other symptoms of an heart attack besides the pain on the left arm.
One must also be aware of an intense pain on the chin, as well as nausea and lots of sweating,however these symptoms may also occur less frequently.
Note: There may be NO pain in the chest during a heart attack
The majority of people (about 60%) who had a heart attack during their sleep, did not wake up. However, if it occurs, the chest pain may wake you up from your deep sleep. If that happens, immediately dissolve two aspirins in your mouth and swallow them with a bit of water.
Afterwards: CALL 911
- say "heart attack!"
- say that you have taken 2 aspirins..
- phone a neighbor or a family member who lives very close by
- take a seat on a chair or sofa near the front door, and wait for their arrival and...
DO NOT lie down

Thought for Today

2011-09-12T15:29:00.002+08:00

Write a goal every single month to eliminate a mess from your life, and when you do - abundance will come in.

~Raymond Aaron

Thought for Today

2011-09-07T17:23:00.003+08:00

Good humor is a tonic for mind and body.
It is the best antidote for anxiety and depression.
It is a business asset.
It attracts and keep friends.
It lightens human burdens.
It is the direct route to serenity and contentment.

~ Greenville Kleisser

HIGH SCHOOL REUNION

2011-08-26T07:00:00.000+08:00

By Linda Hastings

My 20th high school reunion was next weekend. I had been working on the committee to plan and organize it so I was ready. It was always fun to be on the committee because you sort of had a head start on talking to everyone and getting news about their families, jobs, successes and unfortunately, even some tragedies.

The weekend plans included an informal gathering on Friday night, a family picnic on Saturday along with a friendly game of baseball between our rival high school from back in the day, a dance on Saturday night and a private party afterwards for the committee and select few in the hotel. It would be a busy weekend and there were obviously lots to do, but the expectation of seeing old friends and reminiscing about those days gone by far outweighed the time and energy the committee had invested over the past twelve months.

We arrived early on Saturday to set up for the picnic. After getting the tables ready, organizing the serving line and making sure the drinks were on ice I walked over to the ball field to see what was going on. Our rival team, Irving High School, had not yet arrived. They too were having their reunion that weekend and since some of our older siblings had attended Irving High before they opened the second high school, many of their classmates had attended grade school or junior high with us. I was anxious to see if anyone I knew showed up.

Danny Watkins had not attended any of the prior three reunions and his name appeared on the 'missing' list once again. I hadn't thought much about it, or him for that matter. After all, we only dated for a portion of our junior year and it ended badly. I recalled how I found out he had taken another girl to her band banquet and I had known nothing about it until a week later. I was so hurt and angry.

When he called and I confronted him, he tried to explain, but there was no way I would hear it. He had gone out on me, and I had to hear all about it from my girlfriends - end of story. At school I avoided him. I knew the way he went from class to class so I purposely went the opposite direction. Several times, he tried to find me, going by my locker and waiting. When I saw him, I would dash off down another hall. I even quit going to the baseball field after school to watch him practice and wait for him so we could spend a few minutes together before going home.

It wasn't bad enough that he had taken her to this banquet, but Phyllis was not at all his type. She was rather masculine for one thing, short and overweight - at the time it was humiliating that he had chosen her over me. My thoughts from back then brought a certain amount of embarrassment to me now - how judgmental I was then.

At our last committee meeting, we re-read the list of our missing classmates. Every effort had been taken to find them and many we did find was the result of someone in our group staying in contact with a parent who could give us an address or phone number. But Danny remained on the list each and every time and it seemed as if he has just vanished. As his name was read the guys in charge of putting the baseball team together simultaneously reacted, "Danny, yeah we need Danny for our team." After all, he had played for our high school and he was one of the best players on the team. "Doesn't anyone know how to get in touch with him?"

Discussion flew around the table - "What about his sister?" "Didn't she graduate the year after our class?" "Can someone try to find him?" I secretly knew it was hopeless; we had traveled all avenues to find him in the past and even again this year, and without any luck whatsoever. I kept my thoughts to myself, but I knew it wasn't going to happen.

My thoughts returned to the softball field where it was being readied by park staff, bases were set in place, clean chalk lines drawn. Some of our now 38-year-old players were taking advantage of some last minute practice. The umpires were laughing and collecting the line up from our coach. The opposing team had not yet arrived. They still had a couple of hours before game time.

Seeing that things were under control on the field, I headed back towards the pavilion to take my place at the registration table. Lining up the nametags alphabetically, I wondered just how many we could expect to show up today. After all, we hadn't asked for confirmation from anyone, it was simply, 'show up and bring the family'.

Standing in front of the table still looking over the names, I suddenly got one of those 'someone is watching me' feelings. You know, the one that makes you a little uneasy, but a little anxious too? I ignored it. Another few minutes and somehow it seemed to get stronger. Looking up, I glanced around the pavilion - nothing. I went back to what I was doing, and again I felt those eyes on me - but who?

More determined to shake off that feeling, I looked up again, searching beyond the pavilion and taking a wider sweep of the park. Kids were playing tag; friends were talking, hugging and greeting others as they arrived. A guy leaned against a tree, arms folded, ball cap pulled tightly down around his eyes. He was there before too, just standing there, looking in my direction. I did a double take this time and yes, it was him. It was Danny!

My eyes met his, and a grin came over his entire face and with that, I froze. Standing there, looking right at him, I couldn't move or speak or do anything - it was as if I was standing in concrete. He began walking towards me. I'm sure the look on my face must have been utter astonishment and yet he continued to grin.

As he approached, he looked over the table at the neatly placed rows of nametags and then spoke, "What, none for me?" My mind was reeling. How long had he been standing there? Who had found him? How did he know about the reunion? Thoughts were spinning in my head and yet I couldn't speak a word.

Finally, he looked straight into my eyes and said, "How have you been, Linda?" Catching my breath, I managed to get out, "Good, uh, uh, uh, good I guess." "And you?" "How have you been?" "No, better yet, where have you been?" I managed to say, my mouth suddenly as dry as cotton.

He explained that he had moved near Houston some years earlier and that his sister had seen an article in the local newspaper about the upcoming reunion so she contacted him. When he found out about it, he immediately made plans to attend. There had not been time to preregister or contact the committee about coming so he wondered if he would be able to attend the dance that evening or not.

I looked around him, he appeared to be alone. "Where's your family?" I asked. "They are at my Mom and Dad's house", he replied. My mind was adding up what he said, 'they' - that had to mean a wife and kids. But what on earth was I thinking anyway, I was married, with two daughters of my own and after all, it had been 20 years since I had seen Danny and.and.and. My brain couldn't compute my thoughts fast enough to keep up and carry on a civilized conversation with Danny too, so I changed the subject.

"Here, let me make you a name tag." He stood there while I scribbled his name with a hand shaking so hard I wondered if you could even read it when I finished. Other classmates had started to arrive and wanted to get their nametags as well, he stepped aside for a moment while I tried desperately to remain calm and take care of business.

When the table cleared again I turned to him. "Will you be coming tonight?" I blurted out, trying hard to make it sound like a simple, unassuming question. He grinned again, trying hard not to laugh at me. "Yes, I'd like to, if you think it's OK since we don't have a reservation or anything." Again, computing each word that he said and reading between the lines, I responded, "Sure, it's fine, you can just pay at the door."

Pressing to find out for sure and knowing I had to ask, I just said it, "So, it will be you and your wife?" Detecting a slight sign of disappointment on that glowing face of his, he replied, "Yes, me and my wife." I don't know why I felt the way I did, after all, we were kids - 16 or 17.

We had only been together for a few months, it wasn't like we had planned a future together or anything but somehow I too felt disappointed. Later that afternoon, while I changed and got ready for the party, I addressed my feelings and came to the conclusion that maybe I just wanted to spend some time with him and find out what had happened so long ago - closure if you will.

At the hotel I took my place at the registration table again. My husband didn't care anything about attending. Three prior reunions made him realize that my being on the committee meant I would be running all over the place and making sure everything was perfect. It would not be a fun filled evening for him, so he was relieved when I told him going was optional.

I had spent the afternoon getting ready. Wearing a dress I had borrowed from a friend, I wanted to look my best - after all, I would be confronting 237 high school friends and critics who would be talking tomorrow about everything from dresses to shoes. When I took that last look in the mirror, I told myself, this is as good as it's going to get, then turned and headed out.

Row after row of nametags filled the table. It was a good response this year and as the music belted out the sounds of the 60's the room began to fill. A full hour had passed before I knew it. We were busy helping everyone get their registration forms completed and taking money from those last minute classmates.

I hadn't thought about Danny - after all, there was no chance I'd get to talk to him tonight, at least not about the past and what had happened between us. Maybe it was best, but if the next 20 years were like the last, I would never be able to shake it off and forget it without some sort of explanation from him.

Registration was just about to close and we were gathering the nametags that were left on the table when I saw him walk into the hotel lobby. I pretended not to notice him and in my mind I rehearsed what I would say when I met his wife. Before I knew it he was standing at the table. "Hello again", he said to me. I looked up and replied, "Hello".

He reached for his wallet and asked, "How much are the tickets?" I quoted him the price per couple as I reached for a blank nametag. "What is your wife's name?" I asked, poised with pen in hand. "Her name is Susan, but she didn't come with me" he replied. Stopping what I was doing, I looked up at him, he grinned back at me and handed me his money. "Oh, well you only owe me half that", I replied.

I handed him his change, his nametag and he turned to walk away, then turned back and said to me, "You will save me at least one dance, won't you?" I smiled back at him and replied, "You can count on it".

The evening was filled with fun, laughter, hugs and tears while we relived high school as the kids we once were, remembering the fun times, the practical jokes, the stories, teachers, homework, football games, those we lost along the way and more. It was magical and the committee's hard work paid off by the way everyone was enjoying themselves.

The music blared, and we laughed at those who attempted to make their mark on the dance floor. When Danny wasn't visiting with others in the room, he sat at the table I selected and we talked about our spouses, kids, jobs and hobbies. Idle talk, catching up on the last 20 years, with constant interruptions, neither of us had brought up the past.

At the conclusion of the dance, Danny offered to help us clean up and take down the decorations. The committee was provided a hospitality suite as part of the package of renting the ballroom and it was understood that the party would continue into the night and possibly morning.

Most of the committee members took advantage of the discounted room rate as well, knowing the dangers of driving after an exhilarating evening that involved alcohol. I opted to share a room and the cost with a girlfriend of mine and our room was adjacent to the suite.

As the gang finished picking up the last of the streamers and balloons, someone yelled out, "Let's go party!" Danny looked at me as if to question whether or not the invitation included him and I said, "Yes, that means you too, silly!" He tried to argue, but I stopped him short and said, "It took you 20 years to get here tonight, you may as well make the most of it in case we lose you for another 20." He grinned wide and shook his head to indicate he agreed.

By the time we entered the suite, the party was in full swing. People had filled the room and the bar was busy serving beer and wine. Danny asked me what I wanted to drink and I replied, "Wine, white if they have it". He walked to the bar and suddenly my tired feet and aching back felt new again.

Around me everyone was either talking to someone or laughing out loud. My classmates were pouring in and it brought back memories of those parties we had in school when parents went out of town and left their 'well behaved and trusted' teens to themselves. I smiled at the thought.

Danny returned with my wine. We sat and talked, trying to speak over the loud music but quickly realized it just wasn't going to happen. After a couple of hours, the party began to slow down, the manager returned for the third time to reminded us that other guests in the hotel were not nearly as happy about our party; and those who had rooms filtered out, leaving just a few of us behind.

At last the conversation turned to us, those two kids that met after school and football practice, at our lockers and lunch; who wrote notes in class and passed them in the halls, who spent hours on the phone at night until one of our parents made us get off and that night he took Phyllis to the banquet.

Danny asked in a soft even tone, "Linda, what did I do to make you so angry at me that you broke up?" I looked at him somewhat surprised, "You went out on me!" I answered. "No, I didn't - I took a friend to her banquet, and it wasn't a date - in fact it was anything but a date" he corrected. "What do you mean?" I asked as I searched his eyes for the truth. "Phyllis was my neighbor, we grew up together and her mom and mine were best friends. When her mom realized she wasn't going to the banquet she asked me to go with her just so she would go." "I never had an interest in Phyllis, we were just friends."

How foolish I felt! What did I do? How did I not know this back then? "Danny", I started "you never told me all this, why?" "Linda", came his reply, "You never let me. Each time I tried to catch up with you at school, you went the other way, or avoided me altogether. When I called your house, your folks would tell me you were not there and you would call me back, but you never did. I finally gave up trying to explain." It was true, all of it. To avoid what I thought was him wanting to break up with me for Phyllis was a complete misunderstanding on my part. I never gave him a chance to explain it to me; I had been so irrational at the time, so stubborn. I had hurt him, leaving him to wonder all these years what he had done to deserve my indifference towards him as I too wondered why he went out with Phyllis.

By the time we sorted out what had happened, just the two of us remained awake. The clock registered 5:08 am; people were asleep on the floor and sofas. The music was but a whisper in the background and for the first time in 20 years, my heart was at peace with Danny.

Footnote: It's 2010, our 40th reunion is only 68 days away. Danny is once again on the missing list and has been since that night. I have exhausted all efforts to find him and as I prepare for the next big party, I can only wonder if he will be there. Stay tuned.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR  Linda has been writing for a number of years now and writes about true experiences that are near and dear to her heart. Many of her stories are tributes to family members. In addition to writing, Linda is a full time Executive Assistant, who is married with two grown daughters. She enjoys spending leisure time on the lake or on their Harley Davidson. Linda's love for writing stories began when her children were small; she would create tales to entertain them using their names and their friends as the characters. Linda's stories have been published in Chicken Soup for the Soul, the book and the weekly newspaper syndicate, Fort Worth Business Press and you may recognize her name from other stories she has shared on MyDailyInsights as well. She can be reached at lghastings@embarqmail.com

Motivation for the Day

2011-08-24T20:13:00.000+08:00

Everything you want is out there waiting for you to ask. Everything you want also wants you. But you have to take action to get it.

~Jack Canfield

Author, Chicken Soup for the Soul

Thought for Day

2011-08-24T17:13:00.001+08:00

We have no choice of what color we're born or who our parents are or whether we're rich or poor. What we do have is some choice over what we make of our lives once we're here.

~Mildred Taylor

YOU ARE NO DIFFERENT

2011-08-19T07:00:00.000+08:00

by Bob Perks

Earlier this evening I was inspired by this thought as I  listened to a minister speak at the annual Red Cross  dinner my wife and I attended. As usual I made a few quick notes to keep the thought alive and help me to remember exactly what I wanted to share with you.  I tucked it away in my suit jacket with plans to write this  "tomorrow sometime."

I was driven out of bed. It's 12:23 a.m.

Picture in your mind the most incredible thing designed  by mankind that you have ever seen. Perhaps the Empire  State Building, the Shuttle built by the technicians at NASA,  The Golden Gate Bridge or even the intricate detailing in a  painting you've seen.

What name comes to mind when I say the words "creative genius?"

Who do you think of when I mention God-like compassion,  caring and loving?

What author's name do you think of when I mention "poetry,"  "drama," "mystery," "fiction," and "comedy?"

What do you see when I say "strength," and "stamina?"

Finally "winner," "successful," or "role model?"

I'll bet you a Kids Meal at McDonald's you never saw yourself  in any of those images. And yet...

Look at your hands.  Are they not the same as the hands of the skillful  artist, architect, mason, or technician?

If you were to x-ray your skull, would you not find the same  brain matter that takes up the space between the ears of  Einstein, Plato, and Disney?

Hold your hand to your chest. Can you feel the beat of a  heart capable of paining for the homeless and starving?  Have you not the same heart that beat in the chest of Jesus,  Gandhi, Mohamed or the thousands of missionaries around  the world?

Look at your fingers. Are they not like the fingers of Frost, Churchill, Stevens, Wilder and King that held tightly the pens  that wrote the words that shaped the world?

Look at your feet. Show me the difference between yours and  gold medalists of the Olympics or the rescuers who carried the  people out of the rubble in Taiwan's tragic earthquake.

Finally. Close your eyes as you stand in front of a mirror and  picture in your mind that man or woman who you think of as a  success, a winner and role model. Open your eyes and explain  to me the difference between you and that person.

There is no difference...except in how you perceive yourself.

You have the mind, the hands, the feet, the fingers, the heart to be exactly what you want to be. The only thing that is stopping you is the person you see in the mirror.

You have all that it takes.

It's 1:18 A.M. I can sleep now. The rest is up to you.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Bob's signature story, "I Wish You Enough," has circled the globe via the internet. His inspiring true stories are based on the people he meets in his travels. In the mall, the airport, the park, or sitting in a restaurant, a simple word or phrase will often catch his attention, hook onto his heart—and from it a story blooms. Bob's unique perspective on life makes him "the philosopher of everyday moments."

http://www.IWishYouEnough.com

perksblog@hotmail.com

Thoughts to Ponder

2011-08-15T07:00:00.001+08:00

You have a clean slate every day you wake up. You have a chance every single morning to make that change and be the person you want to be. You just have to decide to do it. Decide today's the day. Say it; This is going to be my day.

~Brendon Burchard

Thoughts to Ponder

2011-08-14T07:00:00.002+08:00

A dream is an inspiring picture of the future that energizes your mind, will, and emotions, empowering you to do everything you can to achieve it. A genuine dream is a picture and blueprint of a person's purpose and potential.

~John Maxwell

EVERYTHING IS RELATIVE

2011-08-13T07:00:00.000+08:00

By Mike Segal

There is a famous saying: "The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence." At times, human beings are not satisfied with what they have. People seem to do well until, unfortunately, they experience a loss. Then, usually, they want to be better - to experience the "green grass." It's human nature to always want to be better, to have more. Isn't that what is meant by the phrase "dream big?" At times, dreaming big might be great; however, at other times one should be thankful for what one has.

Consider the story of the 85 year old grandmother taking her 5 year old grandson, Johnny, to the beach for the first time. She was so excited. She bought Johnny a brand new complete outfit for his first time at the beach: new cap, new swimsuit, new t-shirt, new shoes and a new sand bucket with a shovel.

They walked to the beach holding hands. As they got to the sand, Johnny said, "Grandma, because I can't swim I won't go near the water; so I'll just dig up the sand with my new shovel far from the sea."

However, Johnny had difficulty digging up the hard sand far from the water. Therefore, he said, "Grandma, this sand is too hard. Can I get close to the water where the sand is easier to dig?" Johnny quickly added, "But I promise I won't go in the water."

Hesitantly, the grandmother looked into Johnny's begging big eyes and said, "Okay, but promise you won't go in the water."

Johnny screamed with glee, "I promise." As he was close to the ocean he was having such a good time, digging and digging with ease in the soft sand. Unfortunately, a huge wave came on the shore and swallowed up little Johnny, taking him out to sea.

With her vigilant eyes, watching him from afar, his grandmother screamed, "Oh my God! Oh my God! Help me God!"

Just then, another huge wave thundered onto the beach from the ocean and "spit forth" little Johnny safely back on the shore.

Elated, the grandmother ran toward the boy and tightly hugged her 5 year old grandson. Wiping tears from her eyes she cried out as she looked toward the heavens, "Thank you God! Thank you so much!"

She then looked back down at her little sweet Johnny. She once again quickly looked back at the heavens and screamed, "Hey...Where's his new cap!?"

~~~~~~~~~

Life is full of people who are not satisfied and not thankful for what they have. Many times people are constantly dwelling on what they have lost, rather than being satisfied and thankful for what they still have left. Believe me, I speak from experience.

When I was 19 and well on my way to fulfilling my life-long dream of becoming a surgeon, I walked into a convenience store which was in the process of being robbed. One of the thieves shot me in the back of my head, leaving me for dead. However, I fooled everyone. Sure, I have my disabilities and I used to constantly dwell on the many things I had lost, being negative, saying, "Before I was shot I was athletic, now I can barely walk (with a significant limp), my arm is very weak, I speak somewhat slowly, my voice is hoarse. Before I was shot I could do 500 things really well, after the shooting, I can do only 200 things well. For a long time, I was constantly dwelling on the 300 things I had lost." However, eventually I began focusing on the 200 things I could still do. It wasn't easy and it took me a long time, but refocusing one's attitude is crucial - not merely for people shot in the head, not merely for people who are sick, but for everyone. Having a more positive attitude is vital and essential.

One of my friends had a stroke. I would always try to encourage him by trying to get him to refocus on the positive. It was not easy but it was slowly working and he was improving. He still had a long way to go but he was getting there. He was always asking, "How long did it take you to walk? I hope I will be able to walk again."

I would say to him, "Everyone is different. Even though I have problems walking, my hopes and prayers are that one day you'll be able to walk." With that statement I limped out of the hospital room.

When I visited my friend the next week I immediately asked him to "tell me something good." He started by saying he had walked 60 feet with a cane in therapy, but just then his doctor (whom I knew) came in and asked how he was doing.

"Fine," replied my friend, "but I just want to be able to walk perfectly again - just like Mike." I stood there, a little shocked, but I said to myself, "He's just started on the road to recovery. He's beginning to think positive."

Another friend of mine once told me that he used to feel sorry when he would see people who needed walkers. However, I will never forget what he said after that: "I would give anything if my daughter (diagnosed with a possible brain tumor and currently needing a wheel chair) could progress to the point where she just needed a walker." He prays for that; I pray for that; and many other people are praying for that.

Again, "Be thankful for what you have, and set your goals for higher things." The world is full of many horrible things, as well as many wonderful things. Sometimes a person is constantly looking at the "horrible" things. However, my hopes are that they will be able to find the beauty in life. It's there - if you look for it!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michael Jordan Segal, MSW was shot in the head during a robbery, Michael Jordan Segal defied all odds by first surviving and then returning to college. He then earned two degrees with honors, married his high school sweetheart, Sharon, and became a father to their daughter Shawn. Mike is a social worker at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston and an author (currently he has two book projects he's working on: an autobiography and an anthology of his short stories - as well as very soon he will have a CD of some of his best stories available). He also is a popular inspirational speaker sharing his "recipe" for recovery, happiness, and success. For more information please visit www.InspirationByMike.com