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Over the last 5 years or so, I have been witness to the rebooting of American values.  Yes, greed is still readily accessible and a path that many still choose.  However, the downturn in the economy has forced, side-lined, crashed, and dashed so the dreams of so many people, that it has given rise to the abandonment of that focus and slowly returned us to the values of love, family, and helping others.  

How many of you have been changed into the person you were meant (and always desired) to be?

That's truly where the wealth is my friends.

 

The Non-Conformist

When I say non-conformist, to some, it has a negative connotation, to others it is a way to embrace their individual uniqueness, to me it is knowing that my Don Quixote nature is just who I am.  Championing causes, rescuing those that need help, being of service, and not being afraid of my emotions is not necessarily a unique trait, but somehow, this combination of macho and nurturing does seem to be at odds with the socialized norm. 

Even as a child I was "different", and that sense of being different runs true to this day. Is my feeling of difference literal or is it subjective?  Big question this early in the morning, have some coffee and think about it from your point of view.  Being different does not equate to being on the fringe of society, nor does it inherently allow you to force people to accept your oddities. 

What I'm really trying to you is this; "You are you and I like that."  You should like you too!  You are a marvelous creature destined for greatness.

 

Super Sunday Edition!!!

I've been thinking, yes it's a never ending thing that swirls in my head, that most people that I'm acquainted with are striving to make a better life.  Whether that be through education, a better paying job, working less, or getting involved with a charity that makes their heart swell, made me wonder if all of this for which we strive is causing us to not live where we are.  Not in a geographical sense, but in a living in the moment sense.  One of the greatest lessons I learned was being truly thankful for a situation I was in.  I wasn't happy.  I prayed hard for things to change instead of altering my attitude.  Once I changed my perspective and became thankful for what I have, and truly lived it, life got better. 

I have been guilty of always being on the go, trying to do more with the same amount of time in the day and, quite frankly, the traction I've gotten is slower than desired.  So, I challenge you to live where you live, be genuinely thankful for what you have, and if you want more for your life, find that ONE thing that will get you there.

 

Life is calling you

Today marks the 34th anniversary of the day I joined the Navy and swore to uphold The Constitution and protect our country from all enemies.  I don't mention that for any applause or accolades.  Please don't respond and say thanks for serving, it was my calling. 

I've had many conversations in the past 14 years about if I would serve again.  The answer is, and always has been, yes.  I would do it out of a sense of duty greater than myself.  The sacrifices made by being away from my family were never pleasant, and many times, I regret not having been home for so many things I missed.  I served for the greater good of not just my family, but for every person in this country that has freedom.  For the dreams of freedom for those in oppressed nations.  This is still the greatest nation on the face of the earth.  If you don't believe that, travel the world and then come back and prove me wrong.

The same thing can be said for your calling.  You don't always know why you're called to do something, (Nature vs nurture) yet you do it for a reason so compelling that words serve no justice in an explanation. It just is.

OK, so all of that long-winded background to ask you these simple questions:  What is your calling?  Are you doing it now?  If not, why not?  If not, step it up and do it.

For the record, it was an honor serving you and this nation.

Finding a spark on a rainy day.

There are highs and lows in any endeavor.  Yes, that is a Captain Obvious statement, yet there is purpose to making that statement.  It is in the lows of reaching your goals where the true determination of your spirit is revealed.  I have some goals, yet recently, haven't been focused on them.  I've been lazy and I need that spark on this rainy day in Kentucky. 

The spark is just this, sending my thoughts out for others, re-motivating myself to keep going, keep reaching for the stars, and keep trying to help others see their own spark. 

I have decided that no matter the weather, my attitude will bring the sunshine.  Get out your shades, because I'm igniting the afterburners. 

How do you know?

Is it age, or an awakening, that makes us realize that what we are doing in life seem suddenly lackluster?  The paradigm shifts that are occurring around us are rooted in the deep seated desire to do more for people, and less for money.  Money is a necessary tool, yet it seems that fulfilling our innate desire to reach out to those in need is spreading through generations.  In the past year, I have had the great pleasure of meeting many people, in many age groups, with a focused desire to help others.  They help others financially, spiritually, emotionally, and without holding a return favor in the balance. 

It is in that place where the connection of human spirits causes us to rise above the clamor of the world, that gives us opportunity to not only experience the joy of giving, but the growth of our spirit. 

I think it a return to the true normal.

Discombobulation

What's your brand? What's your style?  At what are you an expert?  The speed of life isn't slowing down in the world that surrounds us.  We are constantly bombarded by sound bites, 30 second news stories, 15 second commercials, brief opinions, and the ever increasing demands of doing more at our workplace. 

Has the world gone mad, or am I the only person that thinks that long gone are the experts in many fields?  We have non-versations (thanks to the person that coined that term) in texts and emails, many have forgotten the art of conversation (and listening), and we are all too focused on getting to the end without putting in the time to fully understand a situation.

This weekend's challenge...put down your phone, turn off your computer and go have a conversation with someone.  Share a drink, share a laugh, and reconnect with the human race.

It is in that connection where our humanity lies.  It is in that connection where you can open your heart and mind and share time just being human.

The Reflection

Did you wake up this morning, look in the mirror and say, "I am awesome!" ?

There is nothing on this earth as magnificent as you.  You are royalty, the king/queen of your empire, ready to take charge, change a life, change the world. 

What are you waiting for?  The only thing keeping you from what you desire is that one step.  I believe, to the depths of my heart that absolutely nothing can stop you.   Go move that mountain, change the flow of the river of life and let the world see how truly wondrous you are.  I've seen the fire in your eyes when you talk about the things in life that inspire you.

The world is waiting for you, and the world needs you.

The Power of You

I think it only fitting that today's writing is about you.  Perhaps you underestimate the power that you have to change lives.  

A kind word, a simple touch, an honest compliment, or even a small act of kindness can be the difference maker in a life.  

When you give freely, and without expectation of getting something in return, the benefit is for everyone involved in your kind act.  You immediately receive the inherent joy of giving.  Admit it, giving your time, a smile, or a kind word, makes you feel better.  The receiver of your giving gets a gift that is unexpected, not asked for, and validation as a valuable person on this planet.

I know that when I have the opportunity to share, it invigorates me, brings a huge smile to my face, and makes me feel like I have everything I would ever need.

Give a smile, give your time, give yourself and reap benefits that have no monetary value.

A Healthy Dose

While having a conversation about finding happiness in your life, the subject of selfishness came up.  The question was if you continually seek happiness for yourself, while removing the things in your life that are cause for pain or drama, is that selfishness? 

To an extent it is. A healthy dose of selfishness is necessary.  Healthy dose, not an overdose!!!  Keeping yourself emotionally happy and content will lead to a point where you want to share the joy you have found. You cannot tend for others unless you tend to your needs as well.  At times, it is a delicate balance.

Misery loves company, but company loves happiness!  

Go out and share your joy today.

Hit for the cycle

The question to you is this: When life throws you a curve, do you bail out hoping to not get hit by the pitch, or do you stand your ground ready to swing for the fences?

A victim?

I read this morning that if you put all your hope into a circumstance, you will always be disappointed.  When events occur in your life that get you down, are you more focused on the situation, or are you focusing beyond this temporary obstacle?  Life moves forward and if you find yourself stuck with something in your path, change direction, change your focus. 

Things that make you go hmmm...

Once you've experienced the joy of shedding the things in your life that have weighed you down, or stopped you from pursuing your dreams, there may be some confusion of what to do with your "new" freedom.  For me, it was difficult to accept that I am good at making a difference in peoples lives.  Not that I didn't want that, I just had a hard time acknowledging that I am that guy that will build people, find the humanity in the individual, and be the cheerleader/coach that many people need.  That's my success. 

I used to wonder if I was making an impact (read positive difference) with anyone.  Coming to terms (yeah, that sounds a bit on the dark side) with who I am, has opened my eyes to a world of possibility.  I know that what I do, whether it's in this email, personal interaction, or living by example, that I am making a difference. That's my success.

You do as well.  Take pride in that light that shines through you...everybody sees it, you may as well just polish the glass and let it shine brighter.  That's your success!