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



            

MY PERSONAL THANKS TO EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU!

Hello, usually I love to begin my day with starring out the window to greet the mornings magnificent sunrise. As I listen to the little birds singing cheerfully in the distant trees, I reflect back on the weeks blessed opportunities. Not only am I appreciative or speak of the ones I've reached out to and took hold of, but also those very special ones I missed because I did not recognize them or because I may not have positioned myself accordingly to recieve them.

Afterwhich, I then find a quiet corner and offer the inspired thoughts of my heart, mind and soul, in the numerous pages of this blog.

Today, I wish to say, "Thank You", to all of you that have visited this blog site and without reservation, went a step further to introduce it to the others within your influence.

Below is a list of what I and others like yourselves have considered the Best of "JUST LOVE". They can be accessed simply by clicking on any of the below selected "Top Ten" titles.

Join me to discover and rediscover them again...... THANKING EACH AND EVERYONE YOU!!

"JUST LOVE's" TOP TEN Selections:

Life's evening sun
How can I help
Shout while you still can
The devil made me do it
Keeper
Brain Food
Tic Toc Tic
If the shoe fits
Love is in the air
The winter Will Come

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.

Discovering a New You

Ever wonder why sometimes, you beat yourself up in disgust and frustration, after trying to figure out what went wrong with your fitness goals in the gym?

Well don't feel like the "Lone Ranger", its happen to me too. It took me a whole lot of countless hours of hard work through trial and error, before I stumbled on an article written by fitness guru, Phil Kaplan. The article was titled "The 3 Body Types". As I read the information, I began to have an inner sensation, that reminded of what it must feel like to grow a set of donkey ears and the pain of kicking yourself right square in the... well I'm sure you know what I mean. I continued to read and learn more. Of course, this revelation is not to be classified as the cure all for why I was not progressing in the gym, but it surely helped put some vital training issues in perspective.

I discovered that, although I was training with dedication and consistency, I had failed to realize or take into consideration, that every one's body and physical genetic makeups are different.

Here's a brief synopsis of the article:

The Ectomorph is long and lean. They fall into a category widely known by weightlifters as "hard gainers" or the 98 pound weaklings. In other words, they have a difficult time beefing up. As with most things, there is a good side to this body type in that, although they usually are not gifted with a lot of natural huge muscles, their bodies carry very little fat. This gives their body type an advantage. They actually with proper training and diet they can put on muscle without worrying about gaining FAT. They must train intensely, but relatively infrequently, to avoid over training. This group should stay with basic compound movements like, squats, bench presses etc. Everyone can benefit from aerobic exercise, but this group must keep that part of their training in moderation. Caloric in take should be high with adequate protein, carbs, and essential fat intake. (hopefully the good fats).

The Mesomorph is the athletic prototype. They show off the V-shape back, wide shoulders, little narrow hips and great muscular legs (hate those guys!). They're often natural athletes and are the ones usually with "healthy" body fat levels. They add muscle easily, even if they make a few errors in their training regime, they still gain muscle. Their metabolisms are usually sufficient enough to handle "less than ideal" nutrition provided they get adequate calories to meet their energy needs.

The Endomorph is usually a bit rounder in appearance. They appear to have a softer look, which is probably due to the higher proportion of overall body fat, mostly carried around the hips and stomach areas. Some people have called or stereotyped them as having a "pear shape". Technically, they have to really focus on their diet, especially those high in sugar and fat. Their aerobic training should be at least 4-5 days per week.

OK, now that you know what I know, DO NOT PANIC, there is after all some good news!!

Very few of us rarely fall cleanly into just ONE category. There are people who are actually a combination of the above body types. For example, some can be deemed, endo-mesomorph and ecto-mesomorphs. Sounds complex, doesn't it? For most people, a simple glance in the mirror, may be of some service to them in determining where you fit.

Remember this information is merely a tip to help you make a few adjustments in your training regimen.

It was an incredible and rewarding tip for me, because that year after reading and learning more about this information, I made some adjustments to my mental and physical training regime and then I decided to compete in a local all natural body building contest and as a result, I won 1st place in the masters division.

Hey, its a New Year, its out with the old and in with the new...., so let's get started!

Stay safe, be patient and never give up on yourself or your training!

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.

This Magic Moment

As the song's lyrics suggest...., "Magic Moments" experienced each and every single day, are all at times vastly different and new; they're really unlike any other, and once they are gone you'll never see or live another one exactly like it again.

Looking back, over my life I can remember taking a lot for granted. Things like thinking I would stay young, smart and or even living forever.  Obviously forgetting that life disguised as time, would eventually change myself and everyone else too.  Not only in the way we physically felt and looked, but most importantly the way we think.

These days, I get up feeling and acknowledging how truly blessed we all are. Thank god, I'm personally not awaken to the sounds and smells of war and the countless numbers of deaths that are part of its results.  In some places around the world its all some people know, breathe and live constantly.  Lately though, some have begun to stand up and fight back against the insanity of their dictators, who for whatever reason believe that an oppressed nation is a happy nation. Surely, I sympathize with them for having to exist under these conditions, but unfortunately, if I were asked to  change places with them for a moment or a day, my answer would be simple and clear.

In a word...NO!

Although, I sincerely do wish that they could experience the peace and tranquility, I sometimes take for granted in this country, at least for just a moment in their time.  In comparison to their everyday world, I guess my life here on this side of the fence... really is paradise. 

So, here's some thoughts on what I'm doing to sow and reap Magic Moments...

I've got to continue to enjoy this life that I have by first recognizing that I must first begin to live it, love it and share it.  Understanding that everything that exists, happens for a reason; That every thing is not all about me and that somethings do take time, and in fact there is more to life than just sitting around and contemplating on how to speed it up, while forgetting that without a plan to where I'm going, I'm destined to end up some place else.

I must strive to be steadfast in gaining a better appreciation for the people, places and things that impact my love for life.  I have discovered, that it may be as simple as looking up and instantly being overwhelmed by a beautiful sunrise or sunset or hearing and listening to the birds that sing, or caressing the flow of air that I'm able to breathe even though I can't literally see it, yet knowing that its there in abundance every time I arise to see a new day.

Remembering the experience and answers I searched for, on one occasion as I looked down on the remains of a loved and respected family member, who had lived her life on earth for 94 blessed  years.  As the feelings of hopelessness and pain raced through my core, I suddenly realized that through all the sadness and heartbreak displayed in that building, my subconscious senses were now being repeatedly bombarded with the awesome and awakening sounds from none other than a newborn in attendance three rows behind me. Their tiny and incredible utterances of love, joy and happiness, miraculously drowned out my selfish tears of sorrow and woe.

The rewarding results of that small "Magic Moment", was huge and gave me reassurance that life will continue to go on with or without me, but while I'm still here, its a responsibility of mine to give back into that which I partake of.


Mark Twain said once that, "Kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see".  In like manner, I've heard it said that, negative thoughts create negative beliefs which govern our attitudes and actions to create negative beliefs.  So if this is a true statement, can you imagine what impact positive thoughts will and would have on ourselves and those we have influence on?

Just Live, Love and Share life. Strive without regret to give these intricate and important factors your very very best each day.   

   

YOUTH SPORTS

It was not to very long ago, I wrote a post about the athletic attributes of my youngest daughter Taylor.  Well that was just about a year ago, (July 25, 2009).  Of course, you may wonder why or think that I'm bragging about my kid again and If that's what you're thinking, I must admit that you're absolutely right.

Sports has always been and probably will always be significant in our families lives.  My wife and I both participated in sports and found it very rewarding. There are just so many amazing advantages to kids and their parents when sports are included in their daily activities.  For one thing there are both mental and physical benefits as it relates to overall health.  Our daughter has a difficult time with seasonal allergies. Thanks to sports she has responded quite well when she's dealing with the wheezing and sneezing etc., because it forces her to breathe deeply and the air she's intaking is fresh and outdoors vs. being stuck indoors sucking on a humidifier.

Sports have also become a very positive distraction for her and it seems to actually enhance her competitive nature during these most difficult times.

Speaking of distractions, youth sports have in my experience, proven to help kids focus and most importantly it has kept a boatload of kids off the streets and out of trouble.  Being a retired law enforcement professional, I have personally witnessed troubled kids turn their lives around and become viable and outstanding law abidding citizens due to their involvement in sports.  Of course, there are a few who fall off the wagon and become involved with the wrong crowd or group, leading them to crime, but those aren't the ones I'm talking about. There are tons of documented success stories, than those of the failures.

Sports has a way of turning intraverted kids into excited outgoing communicating team builders and leaders.... YEAH!!

This phenomena is especially helpful when its time for them to grow up and get out into the job market(s). The beautiful results are that these kids are usually no longer insecure, but confident individuals who are driven.  They tend to look you in the eye and state exactly what it is they want and why. Sports has assisted with the development of  recognizing and enjoying the sweetness of victory, as well as shielding them against the depressive state of dealing with the agony of defeat. So if they don't win today so be it. Thankfully, it becomes somewhat of a motivator, because they've learned that you can't win by merely be comfortable to sitting on the sideline. You've got to get in the game!  The kids I'm talking about know how to do just that.

We are just so very proud of Taylor.  Although she loves practically any sport, she's really dialed into soccer and basketball.  This year she was selected to participate in a State wide soccer event called, ODP, which is an acroynm for Olympic Development Program. This was and is an incredible achievement, because you have to tryout/compete, in order to be selected.  This program, trains and prepares kids for State, Nationals, College and olympic level competitions in soccer.  She really enjoyed it and I sure she'll tryout again next year too. This year's season ending basketball playoffs, she was just short of a triple double.

"You Go GIRL!!"

So, if your brother, sister, son, daughter, niece or nehew etc. is willing to except the challenge to having absolutely incredible fun and the possibility of achieving greatness.... Please don't just point them to it, but get up and literally get involved and take them to the nearest youth sports entity and... GET IN THE GAME!        

No Reason To Quit

Seven years ago, in the fall of 2003, I turned the eager and energetic age of 50. Wow, I had hit the top of the hill according to a few of my closest friends. Soooo.... what are you going to do different they ask?  Of course I was still caught up in the fact that I was blessed to even see 50 years of life, especially with practically everything from all my physical and mental aspects in tact.

After several minutes of beinng in my own little world, the voices around began to get louder and more direct. I guess I spaced out a little.  I only remember saying yes I can and yes I will!  After high fiving everyone, I discovered that I had agreed to enter a local bodybuilding contest.

YIPES!

Anyway, through all the 24 weeks of training and grueling dieting regimine, I guess I shocked some of those doubting friends, when I delivered a FIRST PLACE trophy in the masters division.

Since that time, I started to seriouly train again, only this time just to duplicate and or simulate that bodybuilders look, without the stresses of actually doing the show.  My problem this time is that, I'm seven years older and believe it or not, I'm convinced that things really do change.  This old body constantly reminds me that I need to make new mental and physical adjustments.

Interestingly enough life is, has and can have a strange sense of humor. It also has the tendency to every once in awhile.. throw you a curve ball.

My curve ball came fast and hard. Initially, I took a mighty swing at it, but I really should have ducked. There it was flying toward me as if it was shot out of a cannon. The final result of the umpire's (surgeons) call was... A HERNIATED DISK.

No way, I said. Yes it is, he replied.

It's now been seven to eight months of every pain pill the doctors could prescribe. Then came the echoing advise of trying acupunture; chiropractic; deep tissue massages; decompression therapy; hot and cold compresses; crutches; limping and finally, "Why don't you just stay in bed"!

Last resort.. SURGERY.  YIPES!! AGAIN.

Through it all, thanks to my strong faith in sincere prayer.  Everything turned out just fine. 

The hills of life are still present and will be for as long as we are alive and breathe air. A positive mindset and the willingness to forge forward and never give up is vital to a positive outcome.  Here's what I thought of most and I truly hope that this statement will help you when you're standing at the plate of life's challenges and the next pitch you're thrown is a curve ball.

When God leads you to the edge of the cliff, trust him fully and let go, only 1 of  2 things will happen; either he'll catch you when you fall, or.. he'll teach you how to fly!




    

IN CAPABLE HANDS

There are just those incredible times when things that were heading towards a path of success, somehow and without reason appear to eludes us.  What happen, what went wrong, who do I and what can I blame for this new stumble in my business; my relationship; my life?

The answer we seek is discoverable and easy to pinpoint.  Sometimes the answer is as close as the man/woman in the mirror.  But, can we honestly except this new clear discovery? 

I personally have found it a great resolve to be able to hold myself accountable for my own failures as well as my own successes, even if its somewhat of a bitter cup at times to swallow. 

I remember a few months ago, when a friend approached me with a business opportunity.  After listening intently to his bid, a few things he said stuck out.  One was his overwhelming enthusiasm about all the money he was going to make.  He basically shouted out that, it was a brand new concept in an industry that was going to change the way everyone was looking at going 'Green".  Then he carried on about how, I should get in right now, at the ground level and at the beginning and most importantly I needed to dump whatever I was presently involved in and get signed up. Well, true it did all sound incredible and exciting.  So, not meaning to burst his bubble and because he was my friend, I felt compelled to remind him of a few things I thought was cruicial to our conversation.

I looked him square in the eye and said Jack, all of this sounds and appears to be the "ONE", but remember successful businesses have taken time and work to be and maintain tenure in any industry.

The bottom line is.. YOU still have to build it!

I say this because no matter what the goal, dream or venture we connect ourselves to, we are the main spoke in the wheel that will move the many missions we take on daily. WE are the real reasons of make it or break it.  Of course, others situations encountered do factor in as contributors to the overall outcome, but its us; the we; the YOU, who decided to turn left vs right,; to say no verses yes; the one who chose to guess about it, rather than to actually know about it.

It's on me, its on you, so the question is.....

ARE YOU IN GOOD HANDS?  

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!

        

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?

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.

A Life Lesson From The Kitchen

Some time ago, I came across this incredible piece written by an anonymous author, and because it has helped to change my outlook on life, I felt it fitting to bless you with it too.  As you read this inspiring piece, my wish is two-folded. First and foremost, that it moves and motivates you (as it has me), to reflect and improve yourself, and secondly, lets you and I together give credit to whoever is the incredible person who is responsible for authoring and sharing this written blessing with all of us.

A carrot, an egg, and a cup of coffee…You will never look at a cup of coffee the same way again.

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved, a new one arose.

Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire Soon the pots came to boil. In the first she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil; without saying a word.

In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl.

Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl. Turning to her daughter, she asked, “Tell me what you see.”

“Carrots, eggs, and coffee,” she replied.

Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard boiled egg.

Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma The daughter then asked, “What does it mean, mother?”

Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water. Each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water , they had changed the water.

“Which are you?” she asked her daughter. “When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

Think of this: Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength?

Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart?

Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest, do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human and enough hope to make you happy.

The happiest of people don’t necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way. The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can’t go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.

When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling.

Live your life so at the end, you’re the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying.

*anonymous author

Sing A Simple Song

Have you ever noticed how beautiful and glorious a brand new day starts. Of course, its especially breathtaking when you realize that you are blessed to be alive and well.  My mornings really seem to get off to a great start when I take in the view of the sun rising from the east. There are mornings when you can actually see the clouds part, as if they are announcing and preparing to introduce the brilliance of this massive sphere of heavenly brightness. Some people have told me that they prefer to witness a beautiful sunset, and that's ok too, but for me personally, I tend to get a little extraordinary stuff with the incoming mornings.

Now that my eyes have adjusted to "Ole' Mr. Sun", all of my other senses are also beginning to kick in.  As, I yawn and let out a mighty roar, my arms automatically reach out to embrace the warmth rushing into my window. 

But, wait a minute. What's that I hear ? The sound is so very familiar... It's the same loud and clear sound I recognize from my childhhood; my adolesence years and even throughout my adulthood. There are no words or lyrics that I can understand or interpret.  There's not even any background music or vocalist, yet it is so, so beautiful.

It's the sound of birds singing.. and they're singing the same ole songs.

As this particular sunrise and future sunrise's come and go, I'm reminded daily, that life's ever ticking time clock, does not wait for me or anyone and that no matter what I think or do, it will continue to wind down.  Fortunately, there is peace in knowing that with each beautiful sunrise and sunset; and as each of these sweet and gentle young soliders also begin to age. I know they will never forsake; abandon or forget to herald the new day with a song........Songs that will never, never grow old. 

Keep on TRUCKIN'

As I lay in bed resting today, my mind wondered back on a recent business trip. My thoughts were not so much about the long and seemingly endless terrain, surrounded on both sides by various plants and tall trees. I was also dealing with the on and on miles of the tarred asphalt roadway, which appeared to at any moment would burst into huge glowing flames, ignited by the heated rays of the sun above. Either way, I did not despair, because I would just choose to lose myself in thoughts about how incredibly beautiful it all was.

This road trip probably would have seemed shorter provided I knew exactly where I was going. I mean, heck I had a written map and my handy GPS system, but with all of those conveniences, for some reason part of my focused thoughts would get penetrated by that demon called "FEAR". Not the panicky type or the type that brings about total mental shut down, but the one that seeps and oozes its other demon cousin, called doubt.

Oh crap!! then it happen. I missed my exit.

It didn't help a whole lot that I was also moving along at a.... lets just say that, red and blue flashing lights to the rear of me would have been justified and warranted. Now that my exit (state rd 82) was in the far and distant past, I kept in mind that I did have options.

Option #1; Yell loudly with excessive repetition this phrase... !%^**!*#

Option#2; STOP, TURN AROUND and GO BACK

Option#3; Repeat option#1, as you proceed to carryout option#2

OR

Remember that this trips consequences was no different in how I've succeeded in other life missions before. So, I just simply implemented the following belief system:

Should I ever miss or bypass an OPPORTUNITY... never turn around and go back. Keep going on and moving forward; it will always take you to where you need to be.

* Ask any trucker!

Yes She Can

During the summer months, when all the local schools are closed for a recess and the traveling all Girls Soccer Team is taking a break, my beautiful, smart and athletic daughter Taylor, chooses basketball to keep herself fired up. Its not as though we as a family are just sitting around doing nothing and getting bored, its just that she has so much competitive desire to achieve, that I would literally have to physically restrain her to keep her still. God knows its a blessing that her mom does most of the going here and there, while I the other parent... well, lets just leave it at that.

It all started way back when she started to learn how to walk. The next question should be, how fast did it take? Try fast.......real fast. This incredible feat didn't last to long either, because before I could get the hang of the video camera, she was up and running. Soon after the toddler track meet, swimming lessons started which required her to wear those plastic arm floatation thinga-ma-jigs. Personally, I thought this would slow things down a bit, but I was wrong again. She soon ripped those arm things off and to my surprise, was swimming like a fish.

This brings me to what she calls her featured event, "Basketball".

This is probably her true "I LOVE THIS GAME" sport. Of course, I assume this because, she talks about it, dreams about it and plays very well at it. She presently plays the point guard position and really has great ball handling skills.

This school year, she'll more than likely play both soccer and basketball, providing she can keep pace with her academics.

Who knows, perhaps in a few years, high school MVP; Then collegiate player of the year; and ultimately... the WNBA!

Sunshine on a cloudy day

The weather man had been going on and on for several days now about all the rain and thunderstorms expected through the week. My first thought was "BUMMER!!, there goes all the wonderful plans for the weekend. Of course, all of this would be true, if I had really made plans. Thank goodness for retirement. But, when I'm faced with adversities and negativity's, my options are calculated and clear. I always look for the positives or better yet, I look for all those wonderful opportunities.

So I did. Instead of thinking about gloom and doom, I began to be thankful for being among the living. Next, instead of feeling low and lethargic, I simply reached in my refrigerator for 2-4 ounces of the most incredible life changing, anti-oxidant, energy boosting, cold and delicious purple acai blended juice in the world, and drank it. AWESOME!!

Well, now I was ready to go outside, except that I suddenly looked up and saw the depressing sight of all those huge clouds up above, that were hanging low; dark grey and full of massive droplets of wet misery. But, I quickly realized that the trees and grass around me, were very happy. I would have ventured out further, but my wife and daughter had taken the family car out of town for a soccer tournament. So, I decided to rent a car, and not just any car. I chose the brightest, most uplifting, inspiring, gossip provoking car in the lot. It was so loud in color even I needed a pair of sunglasses to approach it.

So I guess the Temptations are not the only ones who can sing "I've got sunshine, on a cloudy day"