Give Us This Day

Long ago, during a particular period in time man was created.  He was granted all of the wonderful things this earth had to offer.  He had food in abundance, shelter when he needed it, water when he became thirsty and as if that wasn't enough, he was given a mate so he would not be alone.  He was also given certain restrictions so he could be held accoutable and learn to make good decisions which would always result in positive outcomes. 

But, something went wrong and we as a race of humans have never been able to get back on track... or so it seems that way to me.

Today, we wrestle relentlessly with simple things. Simple things like the pleasantries used in saying hello or goodmorning. Heck we can't even find a way to just look another person in the eye and crack a fake smile.

Look, I'm not perfect and I too have violated some of the aforementioned from time to time, but we must bring an end to these atrocities or there will be a payment demanded at our end, and if that should happen, hopefully it won't be like writing a check we can't cash.

Still puzzled?  Here are some additional pieces to the puzzle.

Well, just a couple of days ago, a professional baseball team in my neck of the woods got into a total bench clearing brawl, over pretty much nothing.  These "professionals" who we adore and pay handsomely, literally erased every single parent's speech to their kids about getting along, fair play and having respect for each other.  Some may say who cares... but I say, remember there were thousands of kids in attendance at that game; television and via the all powerful internet, watching and absorbing it all. This discounted behavior will become more than a fairy tale, it will be recreated and played out line by line, by one of our sweet and innocent little ones on the soccer, baseball, fields at parks and playgrounds worldwide.  Seeing is Believing!

I also remember when people would stop their busy day and come together for justice and everything that represented what was right.  They could actually sit down at the table and hold a discussion about unpopular issues and then somehow miraculously agree to disagree and even shake hands before departing.

Wow, talk about setting and being an example of maturity and wisdom. 

So... what went wrong with those of whom, we the people elected?  Those who swore to represent you and I in our cities, towns, states and congress?  Now, they publicly argue almost to the point of violence and lie, cheat and scheme their way back into re-election.  Or, did they just, NOT get that particular memo?

Just a few years ago, on the eve of one of America's greatest tragedies (9-11), we're faced with dealing worldwide with one single, little known man in Florida, who has decided to burn the Quran in front of the world to make his point.  This situation has and still effects everyone from the "Whitehouse, to your house".  This could possibly have brought an end to all the hard work and dedication we all have invested to make this world a better place live. 

Maybe these things tend to reopen the spiritual portals of our concerns about why, what and how man's existence will impact on this world's demise.  Perhaps this is just another one of those daily reminders or wakeup calls, as we like to call them.

Listen..., lets not ponder on just the what, how, when or if...  it will happen.  Let's focus perhaps on change.

Although, some are saying it will happen this year or later. 

Maybe so..... 

But please remember and consider this... This world came to an end, for everyone who died today.

Be and make the very best of each and everyday you have and live each and everyday you have, as though it will your last......

* This special nugget is a REPOST from my archives dated September 2010



            

Signs, signs...everywhere!

 There once was a favorite song of mine that had this very same title.  I really didn't think much about understanding the songs lyrics back then, but I sure do now.

There have been signs since the beginning of time, telling and fore-telling events to come and those forgotten.  For example, when a you plant a seed into the ground and it sprouts a twig or plant, the signs are good that the plant will probably succeed in growing a tree. Or, when the clouds outside are dark and gray accompanied with lightening and thunder.. its a very good sign that the weather is about to get very ugly and the plans to take the family to the beach may have to be canceled. 

I remember some time ago, when I looked into the mirror my face was clear, smooth and soft to the touch.  But I failed to notice that my parents are grandparents who viewed themselves in that same mirror saw themselves the total opposite. As a youngster I didn't understand that this was a sign that I too would grow and look older.

The point is, there are positive and negative signs around us daily.

Here's another example. Its no secret that our society has become an unruly and violent one.  We can think, say and act on every single negative emotion we are big enough to feel. This behavior in most cases will lead some to believe that they are entitled, invincible and untouchable by any and everyone who courageously questions their intentions.  The order of the day is that its my business and no one else has the right to challenge it.  Take notice how our leaders, bicker and fight openly and boldly rationalize or pass it off as its just a healthy debate about the issues. Then, before the camera's stop rolling,  they throw out a disclaimer by saying, " I'm not responsible if some quack takes it upon themselves to do something stupid."

Sadly though, when people are left to interpret the meanings of those hateful, spiteful words that sometimes promote violence, the troubled and uninformed person is moved to act.

Sometimes that action, results in the lost of innocent lives.

Not long ago in Arizona, a U.S. Congresswoman and several other individuals were shot  by a 21 year old male, who for whatever reason only known to himself, also took the life of a nine year old child, who was also in attendance at that scheduled event.

Were there signs?  Of course, there were signs..., there's always signs.  Were the signs clear ones and could it be that they were just simply ignored by observers who resolved that, it was none of my business.

So, where does it end, can we or will we ever be able to fix this problem that affects us all?

I don't know, nor do I have all the answers, but its clear to me that perhaps the answer lies within the..SIGNS!
                  

What Goes Around....

I've heard this phrase said on multiple occassions.  Sometimes its stated during positive situations and sometimes its stated direct and straight at you in a negative fashion. Either way, from my personal experience and in most cases, this statement has turned out to be quite truthful.

There are millions of example I can recall and talk about, although there are just as many times I'm inclined to just forget and hope they never ever resurface.

It's always been strange to me how people who proclaim to the masses about their undying love for another will take any and all steps necessary to demean, verbally abuse, physically assault or kill because they felt they were rejected or emotionally hurt in a relationship that was probably destined for failure from the beginning.  In some of the cases, the perpetrator(s) of all this devastation are the guilty parties.

I guess they have never put much faith in the statement, "YOU REAP, WHAT YOU SOW".

So, please hear my plea....

Let's stop the madness. Let's exercise what we all know to be factual... that all of us have faults and come up short in many areas of our human lives. None of us are perfect, yet we should strive diligently to work towards perfection. Understanding that it's not merely practice that makes one perfect, but perfect practice each and every consistent time, that makes perfect.

It starts with me first, then you and then the next. Until, that loving link reaches every single human being who breathes air, we're in trouble as a people.

When we learn to resist the desire to be judgemental, we simply learn how to Just Love unconditionally.

Let the next time you hear the words, "What goes around, comes around".... result in a positive outcome for you and the special people you truly love.

* This is a REPOST from my archives section, dated 8/14/10.

Getting Out Of My Own Way

* Enjoy this REPOST from my archives. (dated: 8/31/10)

Today interestingly enough, I awakened with my usual practice of observing the incredible majesty and beautiful wonders of the world in which I lovingly reside. As I began to reflect on these things I was motivated to share those thoughts with my friends via my social networking media.  My message was short and fashioned in both a question and a statement.  It went something like this; If you woke up this morning and are able to read this, while living in the land of the free and the home of the brave... need I say more?

Thank you Lord, for the freedom to do what I want today, I said to myself.

Later on, I wondered outside towards my backyard and gazed wearily at all the unfinished work that still needed to be done. My initial response to this visually mountainous feat was a simple and resounding....Uggh!  Lord, give me the strength.

I considered taking the easy route out by turning around and going back to bed, but a few favorite words of wisdom echoed in my mind, hitting me like a ton of bricks.

The first words of wisdom was a quote by Thomas Edison, which states, "Opportunities are missed by most people because they are dressed in overalls and often looks like work".  I remember this statement helping me to avoid procrastination, when I considered starting my at home business.

The next wise words showed up in the form of a larger brick, quoted by J.G. Holland which stated, "God gives every bird its food, but he does not throw it into the nest.  This reminded me that although gifts are nice to get, some gifts are better appreciated when they are earned.

Then just as I was filtering through all of this, suddenly there it was, another brick of wisdom was hurling itself rapidly in my direction. This time it came from my friend Marty, who faithfully authors a blog titled, Aphorisms of the day.  This particular aphorism was quite appropriately stating that, " Suppose Hercules had thought about his labors first.... Fortunately, for him, he just went out and did them.

So, I blinked, cleared my head, sent up some more praise, got busy and went in believing that if this task was worth me doing, it would definitely be worth me doing... RIGHT the first time.

Now, I don't have to ponder on it anymore...

Besides, blessed is the person who is too busy to worry in the daytime and too sleepy to worry at night.

DO YOU SEE WHAT I SEE

* This is a REPOST from my archive (9/11/11 @10:32 a.m.)


It's a proven fact that time is valuable, essential and most importantly waits for no one. With each day that passes, there is beauty and at the same time ugliness all around us. That's why I love and hold true to the phrase that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Here's what I see....

Everyone of us has the ability to partake of all the positive things this life has to offer, especially when we position ourselves correctly to receive them. Sometimes because of our negative mindset, we fail to see these opportunities that are literally right in front of us, which result in reinforcing a life filled with loses, failure and hopelessness. 

In contrast, I personally choose to see things differently. Today I awakened to see a glorious sun rise high in the skies, and then I saw and heard birds singing in the trees. Unfortunately, I didn't know or understand what they were saying, but it appeared to me, that they were just being thankful for another day. As I looked at my own reflection in the mirror I saw a positive, energetic and excited person ready to take on the days challenges, one by one.  Later as turned and looked around, I saw young school children playing and laughing together without prejudice, malice or restraint.  I movingly saw and met a stranger who took the time to smile and say, "good morning". You know, I truly have to honestly admit, that I probably would have missed out on his incredible greeting, if I had been walking around with my head down, filled with doom and gloom.

I know in my heart and soul that I'm not alone...... but do you see what I see?

Fishing for... LOVE

Growing up in Miami for me was great. Perhaps if you were like me, you had everything imaginable and available around you to keep you amused. As the years came and went, I started to wonder what it would be like to have a relationship of my very own and most importantly, what the heck was a "relationship" and then, how to accomplish or get one.

I began to closely observe the personal relationalship behavior of my parents which was slow paced and to me, not very exciting to watch as far as I was concerned. Don't get me wrong or become perplexed about my reality, its just that I was only about age 7 then.  Now, I don't know about you, but seeing my parents kissing was like..... auggh!

Thank you God, that I was blessed with not one, but two older brothers who, unbeknown to them, were instrumental in, lets just say uh.. they opened my eyes.  I was watching every move, stance and gesture they made.  I even went as far as to memorize their special brew or blend of how to 'RAP'. Ha, Ha, Ha!!. I had no clue of what I was saying or what it all meant, but when I opened my mouth and uttered the words, it sounded smooooooth. So, fake it if you must, but look good doing it.  Either way, through the magic of trial and error, I like many other inspiting "Don Juan's",  sometimes got it right.

I am by no means an expert of this topic but, if you've found yourself in what I call a relationship disaster, better known as an absolute NIGHTMARE that just won't go away, then its possible that some or all of the blame starts with the man in the mirror.

Sometimes when we think of starting a relationship, we fail to seek out or simply do not care about gaining any real understanding of its true meaning.

Webster says a relationship is a state of connectedness between people (especially an emotional connection).  Its a state involving mutual dealings between them. (making all parties accountable)

There is one group of individuals that just drive me nuts. These relationship geniuses are of the ever present, fast paced, pain in the butt group of people who blantantly start relationships based on, "I'm with you only for the moment or until I get bored with you or simply my dear,What have you done for me lately".

Trust me, they're out there, everywhere, at work, school, the mall, the movies, your favorite restaurant, at church and even in your cell phone's contact list.

Scary isn't it.

What's even scarier, is that there are some who know this is a bad deal and instead of running away as fast as they can, they get involved or settle for this form of punishment, in spite of the reality. Perhaps the vilian within is a lack of self esteem, or some form of co-dependency, which without indepth examination can sometimes create an illussion of looking like the real thing thats being search for...,True Love.

Think back and remember the last time you were out and was just minding your own business, when suddenly you glanced up and met the attractive and pleasing eyes of another. Your inner voice tells you to ignore it and move on, but that other inner voice shouts louder and makes you take a second look only this time you smile or wriggle your nose or even send a wink. Then suddenly, in the next breath your brain turns to mush and you can't speak or articulate and you're left with the abnormal ability to immediately resort to acronyms like .... OMG!!! or just... OOOOOH. Your entire body language is focused and sending strong impulsing messages of "Yeah baby, I'm the one, so lets get it on"!

OK, Calm down, you can stop now..., it was only an illusion.

So was it fate, or chance that you met? Or should I ask myself..., did you pick them or did they pick you?

I would suggest that we all spend the time needed to acquire long and lasting relationships built on common sense values. Such as, do I need or do I merely just want a relationship?

As the the picture above may indicate... He or She are exactly who they are. You can't change them, nor should you seek to. Plain and simply my friends.. It is what it is and they are who you thought they were.

Perhaps if your luck continues to run out and you're tired of falling in love, when the true goal needed to be, growing in love. Consider this the next time, you cast a line in the sea of romance to hook... "the one".

Maybe, just maybe its a real good time to also practice, "CATCH and RELEASE"!

No Rain In Sight

Opportunities and positive events are always present, provided we look for them and place ourselves in position to receive them. Although it somehow seems easier to fixate on the negatives or the short term "I want it now", craze in our lives, just remember this type of mentality oftentimes will result in more crash events like... sadness, dismay, disbelief, unfulfilled, defeat, and panic.

A friend shared this statement with me once, she said that "In the absence of faith, doubt and fear are present".  After considering this profound statement, I also surmised that, Fear and Faith would be find difficulty to coexist at the same time, but if somehow it does, which of these two factors would ultimately prevail in my life?

I believe that we all want to take advantage of positive opportunities that come our way, but sometimes we allow that other inner voice between your ears to scream out... "This one is not for you; you can't do it and you don't deserve it... Or what you seek, is simply meant for someone else".

The problem as I see it is somehow, some way we have chosen to allow others to speak negatively into your lives, and depending on that individuals personal status level or influence on us, we've literally excepted whole heartily their opinionated filled speech to us as the truth and sadly without any further investigation on our part.

 No one has the right to speak negatively into our existence and we just except it.... NO ONE. Period!

Here's my personal solution or affirmation:

STARTING RIGHT NOW, each and everyday, as I look at my reflection in the mirror, I will no longer view that image as a stranger. I will no longer see a small or insignificant me. For, everyday that I breathe oxygen on this earth, I will always strive to grow and move forward in life, because the huge impact and influence that I may personally have on others is needed, required and valid. I will become stronger and stronger in self confidence to Live and Love unconditionally. If I sincerely help and invest quality time in those that I know and love, as well as all the others I will encounter... then I can expect and look forward to all my impossibles becoming all of my desired possibles.

Life is a JOURNEY, and every curve, valley, hill, mountain, river, dead end, etc., should be enjoyed and appreciated immensely without reservations. I will work diligently not to focus solely on the DESTINATION!

Believers know this to be true..

If through the rain (hard times), we continue to have faith and unwavering belief in that faith then...

All our days will become Diamonds and none of those days... Stones.

BRAIN FOOD

Most people think of fish when the phrase, "Brain Food" is mentioned in a conversation.  Actually that's what I've been told and based on some research studies (keyword studies) fish can be very good for your brain.

Food is defined as any nourishing substance that is taken into the body to sustain life, promote growth, etc. But before we go any further, I think I'd better clarify this topic and let you in on a secret.., this post is NOT about fish, steak, chicken, veggies etc.

Have you ever wondered why you have a certain belief on or about something, but don't really understand why you believe it?  Or why you may dislike certain people/cultures or certain places, etc?

Well don't feel like the lone ranger, because some of these things have probably happen to lots of people, including yours truly.

In some respects, its almost as if we've been Brainwashed, and like the food we eat, these thoughts have been introduced inside our bodies, with an honest attempt at promoting growth mentally, physically, spiritually and financially.

During my younger years growing up, I can remember my parents who loved and cared for me, and who wouldn't consciously mislead or misguide me, nourishingly fed me their own personal fearful thoughts about  going to or near the ocean.  Until now, I have never really given those tidbits of information much thought, or questioned why I don't particularly enjoy the ocean.

After inspecting some of these injected thoughts a little closer, it reminds me of how a virus attacks you. The main goal of any virus is to inhabit or get inside you, so it can do a couple of things, like incubate or get busy and do damage.

Have you ever heard about people who have told young girls that, "you can't do this or that, because.. you're a girl".   Perhaps their intent was harmless and more about some unfounded safety issue. The problem lies in the fact that any girl being told this by someone she respects, is apt to retain this type of "brainfood" as gospel, and may grow up actually believing that none of the things she aspires to do or become is possible.  All based of the premise that she happens to be a girl and girls can't.

Personally speaking, I found myself staying away from swimming pools and water events, because I had people in my life who didn't swim and were very uncomfortable around anything wet and or anything splashing creating waves higher than their belly button. 

Remember its like getting a virus, because the next major thing a virus does is become lonely and then they multiply, multiply and multiply. Interestingly enough, a mental suggestive virus, just like any real virus, also becomes bored with its initial host and decides ummm...I want more. It genuinely wants to infect as many others as it possibly can. So guess what happen next with the phobia's I have about water stuff?

Simply put... I've attempted to pass it on to my own kids.  But thank goodness I found  a CURE or at least in my case an incredible and inexpensive form of preventative medicine...., introducing my wife...., The ANTI-VIRUS!

She decided that my raw and uncooked phobia's needed to stay with me and not be passed on to our youngest daughter Taylor.  My effective antivirus protection plan had Taylor swimming like a fish at age 3. Ironically, being a girl she has never been told that because she was "a girl"; soccer, basketball, football, or sports in general was only for boys. The best part is that she's very atheletic and actually excels at sports.

It was less about words of fear and doubt and more about exposure and positive reinforcement.

So if you're infected and are NOT being all that you could be or you have been told that you will never amount to anything and your life will always be limited and unfulfilled.

STOP!! GO IMMEDIATELY on a diet serving LIFE as the main course.

Then take a good look at the Brain Food you've been fed or are allowing yourself to mentally consume and then go on that diet and ..... LIVE!

        

I SAW WHAT YOU DID

Ever wondered as you were growing up, whether you would get caught do the unthinkable?  I use to think that my mom had eyes in the back of her head.  After all, I just knew I had planned everything correctly and covered all the bases,  Right?... but if thats the case, then why was I in trouble; she's pissed and yelling at me, and why dId I get the feeling that I was about to meet my maker?..  BUSTED AGAIN!

Well, as time passed and I grew older and a little wiser. I've come to understand that nothing really occurs and then goes unseen. It does not matter whether its done indoors, outdoors or behind doors, sooner or later it will be seen, heard, or talked about and ultimately exposed to all.

The reality of it all, is everyone of us should make decisions based on the fact that our lives are like that of the "fish in a bowl".  Everything said or done is never a secret, but just simply transparent.

If you're still doubting or think I'm blowing smoke, let's together look at a few examples of people or circumstances that have occured. Especially, the ones that nobody was supposed to find out about.

I can recall a particular situation (prior to my retirement), involving some of my coworkers, who normally performed their duties with nothing less than professionalism. Yet, on one particular shift under the "cloak of darkness", a motorist was stopped and instead of a possible warning; citation issuance etc., it resulted in a beating, injuries, death, lies, falsification of official documents, civil unrest, resulting in a costly riot.

Perhaps there's this person you know who always never gets in trouble or causes trouble, then for reasons known only to them, they decide that its easier today, to just take a few items that in their mind, nobody will miss, know about or even care about.  Of course, they probably would have been successful, had it not been for the store's hidden video camera... Darn it, hate when that happens!!!

To some people, thinking about and or committing the limitless list of unthinkables, is very adventuresous or just a mere game of cat and mouse.  To others, it an all out attack on their enlarged ego that says, "I can do anything I want and you can't stop me or catch me if you can".  Either way, with every choice there's always consequences. Some are unforgiving as well as irreversible.

The forever exisiting and all seeing eye phenomina is a huge reality. It sees those who sit high and those who sit low. 

I'm surely not blameless; pointing my finger at or attempting to justifiably sit in a position of judgement or anything like that. God knows I surely have a few skeletons in my own closet, but.... "I'M JUST SAYING"        

2010 and Beyond

Lately we've all been tied up with decorating, wrapping, giving and receiving. There's nothing wrong with any of this, unless you're part of the group who only waits until Xmas or a specific occasion to do these things.

Well, its no better time like the present to address what I call lifestyles of an empty vessel.

In a few short days, it will be a brand spanking new.., New Year.  Another year filled with possibilities and an abundance of opportunities to be had.  Surprisingly, all of the aforementioned were available and ripe for the taking this year and last year. Yet, so many of us limit ourselves from reaping a harvest full of these needs and wants. We tend to follow through with old and familiar bad habits, that block or stop us from having success and being successful.  I've heard it said that, "should one seek success; make sure you take advise from or at least start hanging out with successful people".  By doing this, we're assured to spend much more of our time talking about ideas, rather than spending it, talking about other people. 

It's really not rocket science, to get these valuable essentials done. Again and I repeat, there's no better time than right now, to make the decision to clean up our act and get our head in the game.

One of the very first things to do is to start dreaming huge, gigantic, enormous, monumental, earth shattering and life-changing dreams. Set realistic goals and take the time to write them down. Just remember that any goal worth setting is worth writing down. Any unwritten goal, is nothing more than a mere dream.

I'm quite sure there are some dreams and goals that were not accomplished this year or during the last one. Reach back and assess whether or not they are still important enough, for you to revisit and bring back into your present or your future life.

As with every incoming New Year, millions will be making new resolutions to accomplish. Amazingly, many will make them, but only a few will actually achieve them.  Hopefully, one of your goals will be to help as many people as you can to reach their goals. That's one of the many things I'm personally going to be doing.

Here's one of my diamond nuggets for any year.  Someone said, "Aspire to Inspire, before you Expire"!

It's all a choice of course, but..... what will you do?

Oops... Did I Do That?

It seems funny and somewhat puzzling to me, but  when ever I decide on a task, that's deemed important enough for me to do, my family members tell me that I act as though, I'm possessed my some ridiculous spell or some evil demonic creature.  Of course, I tend to disagree with their assessment, because I would call my driven and unrelenting state of mind, as simply being focused. 

I'm not sure why, but its just that whenever I'm undertaking any project, it immediately falls under my personal book of  rules. Rules like this one, which is found in, volume18, chapter 28, verse 17, which states, " Since its my project, I can do it however and whenever I say so".  

Right??? 

Well since you've decided to take the 5th, I'll take your silence as a yes and that you also agree, that I'm right! 

Anyway, today it all started after an incredible breakfast and two cups of caffeine, or maybe it was three.  I walked into our home office and started up the computer. While waiting for the startup, I heard this screeching voice way in the distant downstairs, yelling something about a problem they encountered earlier with the computer.

I did not reply or ask them for clarification, because this would have distracted me from the mission unfolding right in front of me.

Great, no problems encountered with the startup.

The mission I accepted, was to install a new piece of  hardware, which would allow me to project any image from the computer to an external monitor. So, as I'm following along with the provided directions, it says to tap on the FN 8 key.

Sounds easy and no real big deal.... right??

Then why, oh why,  has my entire screen turned blueeeeee..... What the heck is or has gone wrong, and why, oh why, are there multiple error messages everywhere?

The next frantic words out of my mouth was, Oh No... Did I Do That???

As if that wasn't enough punishment. Do you remember, the screeching voice I told you about earlier? Well now she was standing behind me, screeching again and again, while giving me an unsolicited answer, to the question that I thought, I had uttered in total secrecy.  She boldly  stated, "Yes, you did do that and thank GOD, it wasn't me, and you know what else, I think you fried the hard drive too! I told you that you should have waited on the repairman".

Uggh!!!!

Turns out that, instead of tapping the Fn 8 key, I...., I hate to say it, but I.... well, I mistakenly tapped on the Ctrl (control) and #8 key... continuosly. So there,  I confess.

Here's the moral of the story and what I have learned.

If only I had remembered to look in the front portion of my rule book, under, Chapter 1, sectiion 1, verse 1; which states: "Anything worth doing, is worth doing right, the first time".

Oh and by the way, in addition to the above rule, with an astrix attached to it, is this one; Hope you remember the next time,  you knuckle head that..., Haste makes Waste!!  


  

The Devil Made Me Do It

Today, was to be a day of goodwill, calmness, and some personal time to reflect on all of the great things that last week had produced. I sincerely don't mean to complain again, because I'm actually still estactic and somewhat overhelmed with joy, regarding all the limited and shared time with my eldest son, who was home for a week from the navy. With that said, on today..... (scratch that), this entire day in my mind, was to be nothing short of incredible.

The morning started out with a beautiful warm and glowing sunrise. The kind that just takes your breath away. I got dressed and headed out to first and foremost, take care of a major prioity of mine... FINDING FOOD. I've got to have it or no one is safe around me until I get it. I would love to describe the feast for you but....., let's just say it was ridiculously outside of your normal two eggs, bacon, toast and coffee.

Everything was going great until......., well until, he showed up. Yea, thats right, that evil disgusting, no good, dirty, low down......, see that's what I mean. This cruel being will do anything to control you, your thoughts, your words and deeds.... if you let him.  Of course, this time he showed up in the strangest way.  He didn't openly speak to me, but he somehow positioned me so that as I started to get into my car, I found myself focused on the left front tire.  There it was, shining brightly for all to see.  I quietly said to myself, what the heck is that?  Then while examining it closer, I realized that the brightly shining object was in fact a large nail that had embedded itself in my expensive and brand new tire.  At first, I wanted to scream and curse at the nail; then the tire and lastly that evil demon on my shoulder, who of course was urging me to do and say all of the.... !!%**#, wrong things and much more toward the nearest and available ear.

That's when I somehow, shook him off and took a deep and needed breath of O2.  Finally, I felt a little better and made the decision to not remove my punctured and suffering tire at this location, but instead I chose to drive it gentlely to the nearest tire center for the required and unscheduled repair. After realizing that I had handled this situation with the upmost of southern class, I headed home and felt totally convence that I was back in control, of having the sort of day I envisioned earlier.

Thinking back, and while reliving the conversation I had with the tire repair guy, I suddenly began to laugh out loud. He told me, that I needed to relax because this type of thing happens to everybody.  I curiously replied, "Oh really, you don't say".  He firmly said yes, it could even happen to Santa Clause.  Suddenly, my warped sense of humor kicked in and I immediately thought about what that must look like..... ummm.

Gee.. hope Santa has OnStar.




Once I arrived at the house, I went straight upstairs to do some needed work on the home computer.  I was just as busy as a beaver, when I saw this little flashing icon appear, that read... click here for some needed updates. Part of me said ignore it, stay on task, but guess who showed up again, sticking me over and over with that fork thingy, and then he proceeded to force my humble little right index finger, to click the mouse on the update tab.  You're probably thinking by now and asking... "What are you smoking"?  Maybe I should have been...Nahh!!, but there he was, standing right in front of me.  Thats when everything just went crazy. The download turned out wack and obviously not capatible with my present operating system (what ever that is).  It was like I was being transformed into that Dorothy girl who realized that she was not in Kansas anymore, and causing me to shout out words like... "Lions, Tigers and Bears..Oh My!!

Whew!!..., luckily I had the phone number to my computer hero (who lives in another time zone) and a warranty that was still valid. Fortunately for me and after 2 plus hours of patience, reassurance and customer care romancing, I got exactly what I deserved....         

Tic, Toc, Tic....

If you're like me, living and striving everyday to do great things, I know you've had these or similar thoughts. As the days and weeks come and go, do you find yourself working harder and harder to just keep up. It is by no means a secret that time is a factor we can't control.  As I look around and face the person staring back at me in the mirror, I see lots of changes as a result of the ole'clock on the wall. For example, there was a time when my hair line was further towards the front of my head, as opposed to its current location (don't laugh, if you're a guy, just stick around, your time is coming too).  

I can remember sitting and watching one of my favorite cartoons, which at the time made me laugh and laugh. It was all over something he constantly said... something about whether or not he had or did not see a... "Putti Cat".

Yes!, I'm talking about TWEETY.

I can't find very many people who have forgotten him, and amazingly they all are still quite fond on the little yellow bird in the cage who just drove Sylvester the cat crazy.

Ok sorry, I got a little carried away. Here's my point. Time was just as much a factor when I was younger and its still very much a factor as I grow older today.

Two days ago I was browsing the enternet and came across this photo of my favorite childhood cartoon character who, to my disbelief was pictured at age 60.

Noooo!! say it isn't so. Where has the time gone. I mean he still favors TWEETY, but oh how he's changed.

I wonder what the heck, Sylvester looks like these days...ummm.

If The Shoe Fits...

Growing up in South Florida, I have had a lot of people watching experience and I've enjoyed every minute of it. There are coutless numbers of tourist here each year. Of course, some stay and some go. Whats interesting though, is how we all sometimes can parallel our customs, lifestyles and behavior to practical all types of things around us. Think about it for a second, have you ever been outside, perhaps at a park and noticed people walking with their pets and how amazingly they have managed to match their pet in some way or another to themselves. Maybe its just me, but I see it all the time.

A few days ago, I was sitting and just people watching and suddenly, I began to focus on the types of shoes they were wearing. Believe me when I say, there were people with big shoes and small shoes. There were white shoes and black shoes, and shoes with different colors. some had stripes and some of them, well I still can't identify.  Anyway, I began to think deeper and this is what I thought......

Each shoe has a name or brand that best descibes what type of shoe it is and what it is capable of providing.

So if I were to parallel shoes and people... ummmm.

Take for instance, this particular shoe, its known in familiar circles as the "Sneaker"

Now the sneaker, is like some people I know. They make you feel secure and comfortable, but true to its name, since they don't make a lot of noise, they'll sneak up on and around you, when you're not looking, then without warning, they'll NAIL you. They kind of remind me of those people who throw rocks and hide their hands.

Now the next shoe by design should tell you right away what kind of personality you're going to get. I mean, if you're looking for a hard working, non-stopping, task oriented, pick em up and lay it down kind of guy, then avoid this one at all cost. They are like your broke brother-in-law, who just sleeps and sleeps on your couch. Ladies beware, this guy is really NOT the perfect mate, especially for a lifetime.  Lets just get on with it and call him what he is.

Introducing the.......... "LOAFER"

Well, lets look at another fellow. Sometimes I think this one and the loafer are related, heck they may even be cousins. I would best describe this personality, compatible to one who is always in the back, always left behind; tends to be a follower rather than stepping up and taking the lead on most anything.  They are sometimes shabby and will talk to you in a dead on pointy, point of view (no pun intended), but  generally they spend a lot of their time frolicing and being totally irresponsible. So if all of this even peeks your curiousity and this is the type you gravitate to, then by all means the "HEEL" is definetly for you.

Hang in there, I'm almost done. This one is easy, they can't hide their identity at all. As soon as you lay eyes on them you know what you're getting. It is what it is and they are who the are. They are indecisive, and sometimes clueless. They don't offer any support, so if you really need dependablity, start looking somewhere else. On a day when you're having a little rain in your life... you're going to get wet!!  If you're needing someone to hold and warm you.. forget it. It's not happening. Today they love you, tonight they don't. So, so...ever so sad but true.

Perhaps this last one is a no brainer. It not perfect, but at least it provides you a lot more than those guys up top. This one is sturdy, strong, durable, reliable and can provide you comfort up hills, mountains and valleys as they spill or come into your life. It's a great supporter and functions well under some of the harshest conditions. They come in various sizes, shapes, colors and texures. They will fortify and reinforce your weaknesses and fight off all who oppose you. Without further a due, if I were you I would look for a partner who posses some of if not all of the qualities of the........ "BOOT".

So in closing, as the titled implies, "If The Shoe Fits.. Wear It!

     

         

The Prediction

A few days ago while dining out and waiting for the server to take my order, I became infatuated with all the noise and chattering going on around me. As I subconsciously summoned the fine tuning knob of my audio and visual skill levels, it somehow managed to exclude all the single party customers in the room. Of course that left me with only the couples, which was not a bad thing because, there were couples of all sizes, shapes, and cultural backgrounds. I saw couples who were talking so much, they were actually flapping their lips at the same time. Then there were some who merely just stared at each other; some who held hands; some old and some young; some who laughed together and even some who actually ignored each other. Either way it was a rather interesting event to observe.

In Contrast, I'm sure there had to be some other bright intelligent observer(s) in the room who were also caught up in conducting their own people watching experiment, but only focusing on the single parties, which of course would include yours truly.

So what is the glue that will hold it all together? How does one stay true to the other over time?

Yes, the obvious answer is LOVE. But, is there something more?

Lots of people I know, have offered a universe full of thoughts and prescriptions for staying together through thick and thin or the ultimate.. until death do us part.

Suddenly, the waitress appeared and broke my trance like state of mind. I shared with her my vision and we agreed on the following:

Couples have to see their lives together ultimately from a long range perspective. Starting and applying the same skills you would when planning objectives and setting goals. For example, setting mini; maxi goals ect.

In comparison, remember what it was like the first time you started dating....

The short answer is those dates were absolutely INCREDIBLE!!

Later at some point you started seeing yourselves as husbands and wives. Then finally came the visions of having kids and making the union a family.

Enter problem numeral UNO.....

By that I mean, should you Forget, drop or forsake these lovely principles, by excluding them out of the equation, the results could become a life-changing mistake.

My advise from the onset is to NEVER stop dating each other. If its humanly possible, keep planning and having those date nights/weekends etc.

WARNING: Discontinuation of the below could be hazardous to your overall relationship's health (physically, morally, spiritually and financially).

1st. Be a LOVER

2nd. Be a WIFE/HUSBAND

3rd. Be a FATHER/MOTHER

What you really mean is.....

Ever wonder why sometimes, after talking with someone, you end up saying to yourself... ummm, I have no clue as to what they really meant by that comment. Its not just happening to you, because it happens to all of us at one time or another. Lets together travel back a little bit in visual time... (drum roll please).

On the floor jumping around, barking and running back and forth toward the front door is our Jack Russell terrier. To my visiting guest at the house, he is just acting weird or excited and just wanted to play. Of course, as this all plays out in mind, my dog is remembering that time to him is becoming a major priority. I had several options available to me, one being to ignore the true signals flashing in front of me or listen to my uninformed guest. My friends are now laughing out loud and saying, "wow what a cute dog, what energy that breed has." I can now see that my dog has lost is humorous side and has this clear expression on his face that says, "You idiot, if only I had the time, I'd show you energy". Anyway, because I have learned through past experience, that this behavior being displayed means something totally different from that of my guest, I immediately took the correct and appropriate action and let man's best friend do his thing.





Now let's travel to say, your favorite mall, and suddenly you realize that there's some new construction to the roadway and to some of the buildings within the mall parking lot going on. Just up a head is a uniformed police officer directing traffic around the construction site, but for some reason the traffic flow has stopped. You are close enough to hear an elderly couple asking the officer for directions to the mall. Of course you find this somewhat strange because they are actually in and at the mall. As the conversation continues, the officer who is now standing erect, and pointing upward, adjusts his dark mirrored colored sunglasses and replies to her question in a firm voice saying, "Lady, can you read the sign!!" The woman is now so upset and panicky, that she tells the officer's supervisor that she was disrespected, yelled at and called stupid, blind, old and the list goes on and on. Although you never heard the officer used those terms, its conceivable that from her perspective all those things actually occurred.


Finally, I'm sure this has never happen...right?

You're home having an incredible day off and spending some time with your significant other. There's time spent laughing about the weeks craziness, and the interesting things on the tv. Your significant other, states that suddenly she's bored and wants to go shopping and further more wants you to give up the couch and tv and accompany her to the stores. You pause, take a deep breath and image feeling the despair and burning sensation rumbling around in the pit of your gut. Then you see yourself, going from peace and tranquility to noise, traffic, people, walking from store to store and more noise, awwwww!! S0, you stand up, look her straight in the eyes, and with a pointing finger, you say, "Look, I love you very much and I'm willing to do that, but not today, now tell me you're listening and you love me too and that you understand?"

Her response is pictured above.

In all of these cases there is obviously a teachable moment. Communication whether spoken or not has meaning. The hardest part may lie in our recognition of how we deal with what we personally interpret as a true meaning. Each and every word we utter has a meaning. Sometimes people don't or can't always filter through their own issues i.e. drugs; anxiety; fear, etc., at the time to adequately decode our message to them. It's YOUR responsibility to ensure they properly understand the message.

On the other hand, if you're the receiver of the message, try paraphrasing back the message you've received. Perhaps saying, " So what I understand you to mean is..". This is just one of the many resolutions to avoid a total misunderstanding. The next element to making the conversation positive is to learn how to RESPOND to a statement verses REACTING to it. Trust me there is a distinct difference, because YOUR delivery style does matters.

From the receivers perspective:

The majority of conversation taken in is in the TONE;

Next, OTHER NON-VERBALS, are taken in at a high percent;

Lastly, the remaining and least values are placed on CONTENT

Ensure that all your verbals and non-verbals match and remember...

Always leave a person feeling better than when you first encountered them.

You Can do It!

Being retired, can and should be one of those wonderful special places, to find yourself in this life. Especially, if you're ending your responsibility to the workforce, on your own terms and most importantly you're leaving in good health. At least that's the way it was for me, (Thank You God).

Of course, there may be some newly acquired stresses that come with this monumental event. Like the stress of wondering, what am I going to do differently everyday, with all this uncharted free time? This was my response to that question. I would say, "Remember, I have the rest of my life, to do whatever I want to do, with the rest of my life.

First of all, if you haven't left yet, take the time now to put somethings in order. Start by sitting down and putting your thoughts about what it will mean to YOU to retire. If you're starting to feel some anxiety over just the mere thought of this topic, then examine the what and why, that maybe fueling this emotion. Next, maybe you may want to sit down with a professional to talk about future health insurance and additional financial matters that are not provided by your pension.

Then, I suggest you focus on obligating yourself to doing and achieving all those incredible FUN things, you never had the time to take advantage of, when you where a slave to the J.O.B., which really should have stood for the place that caused you to be, "Just above BROKE" ummmm.

I discovered, that I could now spend the entire day at the gym if I choose to. It was the place that I encountered, countless numbers of people, whom I'd never met before. This was naturally a good thing, because it kept me from becoming a hermit, or acquiring that strange feeling of becoming isolated or lonesome during the day. I personally chose a fitness company that would allow my membership to used at facilities both near and far. So, if I did get bored with all those new faces; personalities; the equipment, or if I just wanted to change my surroundings, I would just go to one of the other gym locations provided by my contract. Then, I would have a whole new and different experience, discussing why this exercise is better suited for developing this particular body part and learning about some new supplement that everybody was raving about, and why you need to eat multiple meals during the day and then the importance of taking in the right amount of protein for muscle growth, etc, etc. Whew!

Suddenly, one day I also realized, that as much as I thought I hated the mere mentioning of playing golf (I'm a contact sport kind of guy), I was magically and mysteriously drawn to it. In fact, I signed up to take lessons from a Certified Professional Instructor, and I even went to a local bookstore and purchased a book called golf for people like me.....'dummies". Humbly, I had to accept the fact that, this game proved to be very challenging and it required a whole lot of patience and patience and some more patience. Get my drift?

There's things like addressing the ball; stance; etc., and that's before actually hitting the darn ball. There's learning about each club and what they're capable of doing, as well as gripping them correctly, and still I didn't really get to hit that little dimpled round and sometimes invisible sphere, that sits on its own throne (actually known as a "tee").

Oh but, when I finally did got that chance. The instructor gave me a green light. I put on my best golf face, grabbed a club, stepped up, squared my shoulders, planted my feet, took a deep breath, waggled a little ( I thought I saw Tiger do this once on TV), and then, I got so excited about the opportunity to show it who was the boss that..... well lets just say, it was a kodak moment and you've got to get out there and try it yourself. I'll leave it at that!

Bottom line:

There's so many things to do with your time, you don't have to do it all in one day. Life is awesome, but it is also short.

Day dream about tomorrow but, Thrive and Live in the moment of Today; Laugh a lot, Sing and Shout out loud, because you've really got something to Shout about; Love Unconditionally; Think, Sleep, Breathe, Walk, Talk, Exhibit and Share, Life to the fullest.

It's all up to you, if I can do it.. You Can Do It!!

Time For A Change

Just the other day, while browsing the Internet, I came across some fascinating points of interest. People everywhere in and out of corporate America are unable to meet payroll demands and masses are losing their jobs. Yet, there is still success flourishing in and at small home businesses.

Luckily, there is a company that is different! We have not needed to borrow money to pay our distributors. We interactively generate cash flow volume by sharing our incredible life changing product to everyone, while still achieving profits. In spite of whats negatively going on in the rest of the world's business industry, my company is debt free!