My family recently went to New York City on vacation. Although I had visited NYC on 3 or 4 previous occasions, Yvonne, Aaron, nor my mother-in-law had ever visited; so needless to say, I was excited for them to experience the Big Apple for the first time.
I was equally excited due in part we had made arrangements to stay in Lower Manhattan – enabling us to visit Wall Street, Battery Park and of course Ground Zero.
On the website for the hotel where we planned to stay, it described the closeness in proximity to Ground Zero and other landmarks of interest….I had no clue….the Hotel was DIRECTLY across the street from Ground Zero!
Upon our arrival to the Millennium Hilton, it was so surreal to have seen the twin towers once upon a time – and now seeing onlookers galore looking through a fenced-in four-story gaping hole covering approximately 2 city blocks….wow.
Once we were settled in our room, we began to map out our week; although I had made an itinerary weeks prior…lol. I of course had to remind Yvonne and my mother-in-law of the frequent purse snatches that occur - instructing them how to hold their purses as we journeyed about. Once we were on our way, I wish you could have seen their eyes as we walked the streets of NYC and every, I mean every female that passed, was clutching their purses as I had described. The light bulb definitely turned on brightly at that point!
Although very hot and humid, we absolutely had a great time! We visited Harlem, Madison Avenue, Central Park, Grand Central Station, Rockefeller Plaza – observatory, Century 21, SoHo, Chinatown, Alvin Ailey Dance Theater, took in a Broadway Show (The Color Purple) and of course visited on numerous occasions, Times Square.
All the while, we realized we were out of our normal element, so during the entire trip there was much prayer for our safety….and I have to say, the Lord kept his hedge of protection around us!
One evening, which would make our third visit, Yvonne and I decided to visit Times Square in the evening to get a true picture of what it was like, so we took the subway uptown (another first). We made the interesting subway ride to our destination at about 9:00 pm. We walked about moving in and out of various shops, eateries, etc. The place was an absolute madhouse for what we thought was supposed to be a slow evening. It reminded me of the familiar scenes of the New Year’s Ball drop – it was that packed!
As we were walking, Yvonne said “If it gets too late, I don’t know if I feel comfortable riding the subway back to the hotel”. I replied, “I think we will be okay”. We were hesitant in taking a cab because the cab rides before were less than desirable, nasty, stinky, and the drivers drove crazily. Although I had made the statement, “we will be okay” I immediately began to pray. I asked the Lord to protect us, and if it is not safe to ride the subway back to the hotel, I asked the Lord to show me a sign.
It was a little bit past the hour of 11:00 pm, hot and tired, we both decided to call it a night. As we were walking towards the 42nd street subway stop I noticed a lady sitting on a store-front ledge approximately 30 feet passed the stairway we needed to take underground to catch the subway. The lady ever-so-slightly nodded her head and from across the street a man with a cup in is hand appeared, coming towards us, the lady nodded again, and another man from the same side of the street we were on appeared walking towards us…..this was the sign….all of this seemed to have developed in slow motion, in order for me to see it happen….the setup was happening….if we would have taken those stairs underground, who knows what would have happened….Yvonne and I were literally at the top of the stairs leading to the underground subway….I snapped my fingers – as a gesture of forgetting something – and I said aloud, “dog gone it, I forgot it”, immediately taking Yvonne’s arm we turned and moved the opposite direction towards traffic – as we did this, the two men vanished as quickly as they appeared. I motioned for a cab at the corner, and instantaneously, our chariot arrived (smile) a brand new Toyota Van with paper plates on it - cut across two lanes of traffic and took me and my queen back to our hotel. Did I mention the driver was the nicest person we had met in NYC the entire week, and that he actually drove the speed limit……..God is so good!!
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Monday, July 30, 2007
Don’t Just Keep the Faith, Live it
There are lots and lots of things going on in the world, and even much closer to each of us – the question is; how are you / we handling it?
Despite the seemingly ever-changing vicissitudes of life, it is important not to be overcome or consumed by what is happening around you; keep the faith, and more importantly live the faith.
It is your / our choice to either be overcome, or to be an over-comer!
Understand man’s knowledge is finite, while God is infinite
Romans 12:2 KJV
Despite the seemingly ever-changing vicissitudes of life, it is important not to be overcome or consumed by what is happening around you; keep the faith, and more importantly live the faith.
It is your / our choice to either be overcome, or to be an over-comer!
Understand man’s knowledge is finite, while God is infinite
Romans 12:2 KJV
Monday, May 14, 2007
Go Fish
Several weeks ago, the Men’s Ministry from my church decided to go on a fishing trip. It wasn’t until very late the night before that I finally decided to commit to join the group. (I am still working on that slow-commit thing).
We were to meet at the church at 8:00 am, so this meant I would have to rise pretty early in time to shower, dress, get my fishing supplies, and drive to the church which is about a forty minute drive from my home.
Shower….done. Dress…..done. Get fishing supplies….not so smooth.
Some of my fishing equipment, namely my fishing net was in my attic. As I prepared to go into the attic quickly deciding I was not going to use my very nice fifteen-foot extension ladder; instead, do to time constraints, I chose to use the fold out six-foot ladder. I climbed the ladder moving up to the second-to-last step into the attic with about half of my body extended through the opening. I grabbed the fishing net, turned and gently tossed the net out of the attic onto the garage floor - then it happened. I shifted my weight a second time in preparation of descending….and boy did I start descending.
To give you a bit more perspective of the descent, I was standing about 5 ½ feet up the ladder as I stand 6’7” tall.
As I turned again to balance myself, the ladder tipped-over. As I began to fall out of the attic I attempted to grab the wood framing, I grabbed it partially but could not hold on; I heard the ladder crashing over then saw myself coming down towards the ground. Luckily I fell partially on my feet….I immediately said aloud “Thank you Lord.” I then felt a burning sensation in my left hand, looked at my hand and saw blood dripping onto the concrete floor from my 3rd finger, pinky, and down the outside of my hand – a diagonal cut about 7 inches in length. I then said aloud “I think I need stitches.”
After my head cleared I finally thought better of getting stitches because I had committed to go on the fishing trip and did not want to break that commitment. So I went back into the house applied lots of pressure to the gash hoping to stop the bleeding, then in as casual of a voice that I could muster – I asked my wife if we had a bandage (thank goodness she was still groggy and in bed). I poured peroxide on my hand then applied six bandages, told my wife I loved her, grabbed some Tylenol and left quietly.
Although grossly behind schedule I managed to make it to the church only nine minutes late, at 8:09 am; as cars were filing out of the parking lot I joined the caravan as the final car!
There were 30 men in all, and I have to say we had a great time:
Good fellowship
Good food
Good laughs
In all of the fun, believe it or not, out of 30 fishing lines in the water, not a single one of us caught a single fish!! I can’t remember ever going fishing and not catching even the smallest of fish.
As I was driving home, reflecting upon the days events it struck me that the reason none of us caught any fish was because we were being prepared to be fishers of men.
Matthew 4:19
We were to meet at the church at 8:00 am, so this meant I would have to rise pretty early in time to shower, dress, get my fishing supplies, and drive to the church which is about a forty minute drive from my home.
Shower….done. Dress…..done. Get fishing supplies….not so smooth.
Some of my fishing equipment, namely my fishing net was in my attic. As I prepared to go into the attic quickly deciding I was not going to use my very nice fifteen-foot extension ladder; instead, do to time constraints, I chose to use the fold out six-foot ladder. I climbed the ladder moving up to the second-to-last step into the attic with about half of my body extended through the opening. I grabbed the fishing net, turned and gently tossed the net out of the attic onto the garage floor - then it happened. I shifted my weight a second time in preparation of descending….and boy did I start descending.
To give you a bit more perspective of the descent, I was standing about 5 ½ feet up the ladder as I stand 6’7” tall.
As I turned again to balance myself, the ladder tipped-over. As I began to fall out of the attic I attempted to grab the wood framing, I grabbed it partially but could not hold on; I heard the ladder crashing over then saw myself coming down towards the ground. Luckily I fell partially on my feet….I immediately said aloud “Thank you Lord.” I then felt a burning sensation in my left hand, looked at my hand and saw blood dripping onto the concrete floor from my 3rd finger, pinky, and down the outside of my hand – a diagonal cut about 7 inches in length. I then said aloud “I think I need stitches.”
After my head cleared I finally thought better of getting stitches because I had committed to go on the fishing trip and did not want to break that commitment. So I went back into the house applied lots of pressure to the gash hoping to stop the bleeding, then in as casual of a voice that I could muster – I asked my wife if we had a bandage (thank goodness she was still groggy and in bed). I poured peroxide on my hand then applied six bandages, told my wife I loved her, grabbed some Tylenol and left quietly.
Although grossly behind schedule I managed to make it to the church only nine minutes late, at 8:09 am; as cars were filing out of the parking lot I joined the caravan as the final car!
There were 30 men in all, and I have to say we had a great time:
Good fellowship
Good food
Good laughs
In all of the fun, believe it or not, out of 30 fishing lines in the water, not a single one of us caught a single fish!! I can’t remember ever going fishing and not catching even the smallest of fish.
As I was driving home, reflecting upon the days events it struck me that the reason none of us caught any fish was because we were being prepared to be fishers of men.
Matthew 4:19
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Quality Time
I had a conversation with my wife about a month ago about quality time, and I have been thinking about our conversation ever since that conversation took place. Both of us ironically had different views of its varied definition. My wife’s perspective is: Time is time; therefore you can’t quantify it by determining its degree or measurement. My perspective is time is time; however, it can be delineated into sub categories to include degrees and measurements as in some of the examples that follow:
Occasion – A period in which an action or process exists or continues.
Leisure – Found time to do something.
A Set Moment – Arrived on time.
Age or Era
Condition – Hard times, good times
Rate of Speed
Determined by a Clock or Calendar
A system of reckoning time – Solar time
A series of recurring instances
and especially as a 10th example where time can be defined by a person’s experience(s) – experience being the key word. Further, I am of the opinion that by definition of quality – being both a degree of excellence and a distinguishing attribute, further (modifies) or (contributes) to how the “time” spent is utilized.
For the sake of debate, I would like to site an example of the difference of time and quality time.
Example: Mother’s Day is upon us. It is appropriate for me to take “time” to acknowledge my in-laws day. I can call via telephone with well-wishes. I could purchase a card or gift and mail it. I could do any of the above and physically visit and drop-off the card, gift or the like and move on. Or lastly, I could do any of the above in her presence, spending “time” with her. I trust you would agree that each choice is acceptable however due to the effort necessary to carry-out the last choice (with sincerity) and the willingness to carve time out of my schedule in order to share my time - yielding (our time) I believe equates to “quality time.”
In a world where seemingly everything moves at the speed of light, in this me society, where immediate gratification takes too long it is extremely critical to spend some quality moments with your loved ones and not mistake quality time with courtesy time.
I would love to hear your perspective!
Occasion – A period in which an action or process exists or continues.
Leisure – Found time to do something.
A Set Moment – Arrived on time.
Age or Era
Condition – Hard times, good times
Rate of Speed
Determined by a Clock or Calendar
A system of reckoning time – Solar time
A series of recurring instances
and especially as a 10th example where time can be defined by a person’s experience(s) – experience being the key word. Further, I am of the opinion that by definition of quality – being both a degree of excellence and a distinguishing attribute, further (modifies) or (contributes) to how the “time” spent is utilized.
For the sake of debate, I would like to site an example of the difference of time and quality time.
Example: Mother’s Day is upon us. It is appropriate for me to take “time” to acknowledge my in-laws day. I can call via telephone with well-wishes. I could purchase a card or gift and mail it. I could do any of the above and physically visit and drop-off the card, gift or the like and move on. Or lastly, I could do any of the above in her presence, spending “time” with her. I trust you would agree that each choice is acceptable however due to the effort necessary to carry-out the last choice (with sincerity) and the willingness to carve time out of my schedule in order to share my time - yielding (our time) I believe equates to “quality time.”
In a world where seemingly everything moves at the speed of light, in this me society, where immediate gratification takes too long it is extremely critical to spend some quality moments with your loved ones and not mistake quality time with courtesy time.
I would love to hear your perspective!
Monday, May 7, 2007
5 Tips to Becoming More Positive
Have you ever wondered why it seems negativity most always accentuates the positive? This has really been on my mind as of late due in part to my more recent communication with several negative-minded individuals in the last couple of weeks. The odd thing about it is when I asked one of the individuals to look at this particular situation in a more positive light (with examples), they not only refused to shift their thinking, this person then got upset with me….huh!
I am absolutely certain if one thinks they can’t….they can’t; if one thinks they won’t…..they won’t.
The following is a short non-exhaustive list of ways to begin thinking more positively.
#1. Love yourself! Simply put, one cannot love anyone else if one does not have self-acceptance or love for oneself.
#2. Fully understand and act upon what makes “you” happy or what you love to do, or what you want to achieve; then go for it! No goals, no glory.
#3. Take ownership and responsibility for your actions. (Negative-thinkers very seldom - if at all - hold themselves to the same standard as they hold others).
#4. Tell someone you love them! Kindness is always reciprocated.
#5. Don’t wait for people, things, situations, etc. to fall from the sky. It doesn’t work that way. Take action, action, action for it is written:
But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? James 2:20 KJV
I am absolutely certain if one thinks they can’t….they can’t; if one thinks they won’t…..they won’t.
The following is a short non-exhaustive list of ways to begin thinking more positively.
#1. Love yourself! Simply put, one cannot love anyone else if one does not have self-acceptance or love for oneself.
#2. Fully understand and act upon what makes “you” happy or what you love to do, or what you want to achieve; then go for it! No goals, no glory.
#3. Take ownership and responsibility for your actions. (Negative-thinkers very seldom - if at all - hold themselves to the same standard as they hold others).
#4. Tell someone you love them! Kindness is always reciprocated.
#5. Don’t wait for people, things, situations, etc. to fall from the sky. It doesn’t work that way. Take action, action, action for it is written:
But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? James 2:20 KJV
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
A Lifeguard
This moment for me is sort of bitter, yet sweet. I am both happy yet sad…because….I just received my Tee-shirt that reads LIFEGUARD Give Blood ~ Save Lives.
I won’t tell you my age, but I will say I have been living for some time now, and I have donated blood for the very first time-ever in my life! There has been no real reason to speak of why I have not donated blood before – I just haven’t.
This epiphany to donate is not new, earth-shattering, nor will it make the six o’clock news however I have finally taken the step and placed trust in the work of the health professionals to make use of this donation and treat it as a gift to someone else.
Although I do not have an answer as to why I have not taken the time to donate before, I will tell you I found myself in the midst of a campaign where I took part in promoting an effort to donate blood; then it hit me – I took a brief moment to self-evaluate and decided my campaigning to others to donate blood made little sense when I had not taken the same step I was heavily promoting!
So there you have it. Donating one pint of blood can help save as many as three people’s lives.
So, help save a life, or three.
This fact courtesy of Blood Centers of the Pacific
I won’t tell you my age, but I will say I have been living for some time now, and I have donated blood for the very first time-ever in my life! There has been no real reason to speak of why I have not donated blood before – I just haven’t.
This epiphany to donate is not new, earth-shattering, nor will it make the six o’clock news however I have finally taken the step and placed trust in the work of the health professionals to make use of this donation and treat it as a gift to someone else.
Although I do not have an answer as to why I have not taken the time to donate before, I will tell you I found myself in the midst of a campaign where I took part in promoting an effort to donate blood; then it hit me – I took a brief moment to self-evaluate and decided my campaigning to others to donate blood made little sense when I had not taken the same step I was heavily promoting!
So there you have it. Donating one pint of blood can help save as many as three people’s lives.
So, help save a life, or three.
This fact courtesy of Blood Centers of the Pacific
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
"Thinking" Is Fundamental
If you stop for a moment and (critically analyze) how the News is presented – I believe you will conclude there is a pattern whereby most news stories are communicated with a refined subtleness of coercion. This is very disturbing because it is indicative that “we” want the news outlets to make decisions for us rather than independently arriving to a conclusion for ourselves; if there is a conclusion at all.
After all, if you are honest with yourself-first, then with others, you will probably realize some of your stereotypes, perceptions, insensitivity's, and prejudices are derived in part by the depiction of society as a whole through the eyes of the media. Further, for some odd reason we live in a society that feels there is a conclusive-result to anything and everything….and quite frankly, this just isn’t so.
There are a plethora of media - examples to make my point; however, I will use just one and quickly touch on the recent horrific tragedy at Virginia Tech.
The collective media shoved down our throats, distastefully I may add, over and over and over again the question of (WHY). To make matters worse, it then provided (REASONS)?
The fact is: We will NEVER know (WHY) one human being made the decision to take the lives of 32 innocent human beings lives, then ultimately his own life. Another fact is; lives were taken, and lives were ruined – oh how my heart goes out to the victims, family members and friends of this senseless and dreadful disaster.
In all of this I have used my best critical thinking techniques and have concluded that the media will fill-us-in on what it wants us to be filled-in-on.
It has been said: “If you don’t stand for something, you will fall for anything.”
After all, if you are honest with yourself-first, then with others, you will probably realize some of your stereotypes, perceptions, insensitivity's, and prejudices are derived in part by the depiction of society as a whole through the eyes of the media. Further, for some odd reason we live in a society that feels there is a conclusive-result to anything and everything….and quite frankly, this just isn’t so.
There are a plethora of media - examples to make my point; however, I will use just one and quickly touch on the recent horrific tragedy at Virginia Tech.
The collective media shoved down our throats, distastefully I may add, over and over and over again the question of (WHY). To make matters worse, it then provided (REASONS)?
The fact is: We will NEVER know (WHY) one human being made the decision to take the lives of 32 innocent human beings lives, then ultimately his own life. Another fact is; lives were taken, and lives were ruined – oh how my heart goes out to the victims, family members and friends of this senseless and dreadful disaster.
In all of this I have used my best critical thinking techniques and have concluded that the media will fill-us-in on what it wants us to be filled-in-on.
It has been said: “If you don’t stand for something, you will fall for anything.”
Monday, April 16, 2007
Are “You” In the Way?
I am discovering more and more that people who are slow to change, reluctant to change, or just down-right against change encompass a much larger and diverse group of individuals than once thought.
It is funny - although there are advances in capitulating the routine or sticking with what works; those advances ironically aide only in the advancement of time, not in the advancement of the system or process. So can this truly be considered advancement? I think not.
People have a myriad of reasons why and how one approaches change, unfortunately those who are in one of the three categories above more often than not, hold on to reasons that are (personal)…which should not be a part of the equation in the first place. Why? Because when one is working within that (system or process) the proposed change will have an effect on the entire system which encompasses more than “you.” Before one can be honest with others, one has to first be honest with oneself.
The status quo is only effective today. True change equates to true advancement of the system or process. Without change, “you” are just in the way.
It is funny - although there are advances in capitulating the routine or sticking with what works; those advances ironically aide only in the advancement of time, not in the advancement of the system or process. So can this truly be considered advancement? I think not.
People have a myriad of reasons why and how one approaches change, unfortunately those who are in one of the three categories above more often than not, hold on to reasons that are (personal)…which should not be a part of the equation in the first place. Why? Because when one is working within that (system or process) the proposed change will have an effect on the entire system which encompasses more than “you.” Before one can be honest with others, one has to first be honest with oneself.
The status quo is only effective today. True change equates to true advancement of the system or process. Without change, “you” are just in the way.
Friday, April 13, 2007
What Motivates You?
It continues to intrigue and quite frankly baffle me to learn how people become motivated to do something positive, resulting from learning of something not-so-positive.
I have to be the first to admit that I too fall into this category, but I am striving feverishly to change my mode of thinking – to simply motivate myself through a “quality of life” mindset.
For the sake of perspective, here is an example:
It is difficult for me to exercise within a regular and consistent routine, not because I dislike exercise or because it is difficult for me to perform a workout routine, but instead, my inconsistency comes from me knowing that I can lose a large amount of weight or a significant number of inches around the belt in a relatively short period of time; therefore, if I gain 10-15 pounds or have to extend the belt to the last loop – I can reverse these two evils in a couple of weeks. In short, I am taking advantage of being able to greatly increase my already high metabolic rate, by eating all the bad stuff.
The positive results of getting back into some semblance of shape in this roller coaster scenario is precipitated (only) by the not-so-positive reflection in the mirror and more importantly not feeling (well) physically.
From a quality of life perspective, it would make much more sense to maintain an exercise regimen, understanding the benefits would be looked upon as “a way of life” thus eliminating the unhealthy up-and-down diet/exercise process. Sadly enough, I can recall hearing story after story of individuals who have been given, for lack of a better term, an ultimatum by ones physician to walk daily; quit smoking; eat a low fat diet, etc. and remarkably achieving these goals when a healthier lifestyle and/or regimen could have and should have been implemented initially.
Beginning January of this year, I made-up my mind (healthy thinking) to incorporate into my lifestyle an exercise regimen of at least four 30 minute aerobic sessions per week…and have maintained this regimen!
I refuse to be given an ultimatum to improve my quality of life by someone else. I equate this thinking to solving the clue that the knife in (your) back, has (your) fingerprints on it.
I am of the belief that the mind and heart are truly interrelated first incorporating healthy thoughts that translate into healthy action, and a healthy heart yielding a healthy lifestyle.
I have to be the first to admit that I too fall into this category, but I am striving feverishly to change my mode of thinking – to simply motivate myself through a “quality of life” mindset.
For the sake of perspective, here is an example:
It is difficult for me to exercise within a regular and consistent routine, not because I dislike exercise or because it is difficult for me to perform a workout routine, but instead, my inconsistency comes from me knowing that I can lose a large amount of weight or a significant number of inches around the belt in a relatively short period of time; therefore, if I gain 10-15 pounds or have to extend the belt to the last loop – I can reverse these two evils in a couple of weeks. In short, I am taking advantage of being able to greatly increase my already high metabolic rate, by eating all the bad stuff.
The positive results of getting back into some semblance of shape in this roller coaster scenario is precipitated (only) by the not-so-positive reflection in the mirror and more importantly not feeling (well) physically.
From a quality of life perspective, it would make much more sense to maintain an exercise regimen, understanding the benefits would be looked upon as “a way of life” thus eliminating the unhealthy up-and-down diet/exercise process. Sadly enough, I can recall hearing story after story of individuals who have been given, for lack of a better term, an ultimatum by ones physician to walk daily; quit smoking; eat a low fat diet, etc. and remarkably achieving these goals when a healthier lifestyle and/or regimen could have and should have been implemented initially.
Beginning January of this year, I made-up my mind (healthy thinking) to incorporate into my lifestyle an exercise regimen of at least four 30 minute aerobic sessions per week…and have maintained this regimen!
I refuse to be given an ultimatum to improve my quality of life by someone else. I equate this thinking to solving the clue that the knife in (your) back, has (your) fingerprints on it.
I am of the belief that the mind and heart are truly interrelated first incorporating healthy thoughts that translate into healthy action, and a healthy heart yielding a healthy lifestyle.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Wealthy Living
I obviously can only speak for myself; however it appears more and more people in general tend to focus a great deal of time and attention on wealth…that is, how one can increase ones financial position.
Case and point: Take a brief moment and think about your current financial position or salary, then determine if you feel you are being compensated fairly? I have never asked this very question and gotten a response of “I feel I am being compensated fairly” from anyone.
The bigger question is…how much is enough? How wealthy is wealthy?
As I stated in previous posts, wealth can be defined in many different ways. I too, once upon a time before understanding the more universal meaning of wealth sadly fell directly into the mindset illustrated above.
As my spirituality manifested, unconsciously, I began to develop a more significant understanding but did not truly understand the significance of wealth until my understanding rose above the threshold of consciousness.
Six years ago, my wife and I started what we now know as a family tradition which is to invite family and friends over for Christmas dinner. Although this was a fairly normal occurrence, the difference was - my wife and I decided we were not going to waste time and energy purchasing gifts for each other; instead, we were going to confirm the dinner list and purchase gifts for all of our guests. You see, in our discussion, we had determined we had been and remain truly blessed and were able to make all necessary purchases throughout the year, so needless to say the exchange of gifts during Christmas was a “want” thing and not a “need” thing.
At this point in our planning, the understanding of wealth still remained in the subconscious. Before blessing the food, I made a few remarks explaining this newfound tradition of sharing gifts with our guests, and then the wealth-understanding hit my consciousness when I explained verbally that Yvonne and I were “in need of nothing!” Although we had many wants and desires, we were graciously blessed. I don’t know about you, but that is a wealthy lifestyle!
For it is said that a rich man is not one who has the most, but one who is in need of the least.
What do you think?
Case and point: Take a brief moment and think about your current financial position or salary, then determine if you feel you are being compensated fairly? I have never asked this very question and gotten a response of “I feel I am being compensated fairly” from anyone.
The bigger question is…how much is enough? How wealthy is wealthy?
As I stated in previous posts, wealth can be defined in many different ways. I too, once upon a time before understanding the more universal meaning of wealth sadly fell directly into the mindset illustrated above.
As my spirituality manifested, unconsciously, I began to develop a more significant understanding but did not truly understand the significance of wealth until my understanding rose above the threshold of consciousness.
Six years ago, my wife and I started what we now know as a family tradition which is to invite family and friends over for Christmas dinner. Although this was a fairly normal occurrence, the difference was - my wife and I decided we were not going to waste time and energy purchasing gifts for each other; instead, we were going to confirm the dinner list and purchase gifts for all of our guests. You see, in our discussion, we had determined we had been and remain truly blessed and were able to make all necessary purchases throughout the year, so needless to say the exchange of gifts during Christmas was a “want” thing and not a “need” thing.
At this point in our planning, the understanding of wealth still remained in the subconscious. Before blessing the food, I made a few remarks explaining this newfound tradition of sharing gifts with our guests, and then the wealth-understanding hit my consciousness when I explained verbally that Yvonne and I were “in need of nothing!” Although we had many wants and desires, we were graciously blessed. I don’t know about you, but that is a wealthy lifestyle!
For it is said that a rich man is not one who has the most, but one who is in need of the least.
What do you think?
Monday, April 2, 2007
Give Credit Where It Is Due
It is due to human condition that "progress" of science advances. As we continue to explore new opportunities from ideals that currently exist, make advancements through mere accident, or invent from unforeseen circumstances-it is the formula that generates technological advances that man strive on daily. These breakthroughs or technological advances are derived from science. Wherefore through methods of science does the technology, as we know it, progress.
I hold the position that the negative side in the progression of technological advancement is within the many failed attempts, and the lives lost in an effort to-create. Additionally, history books speak relentlessly of the triumphs of the many innovators, inventors, and or pioneers while never touching on the dark side of the numerous individuals who are unnamed who played significant roles in the development of modern science.
On the positive side, one should be thankful for the innovativeness, due diligence and persistence of those who were part in discovering what was intended, but more importantly, those who discovered something that was ultimately different from what was originally intended. This example speaks to a greater degree of innovativeness and critical thinking because it is more difficult to discover, invent or develop something not intended based upon the thought and natural instinct for one to be reluctant to make a paradigm shift.
As this reluctance to make a paradigm shift relates to modern day society, one can think of example after example of individuals - Christians, non-Christians, fathers, mothers or co-workers who fall into the trap of (complacency) with ones perceived success, which unfortunately often becomes the demise of that success due to (stagnation) which cripples the innovative spirit of relational advances and breakthroughs to a higher level. Conversely, those who understand and demonstrate the on-going and spirited pursuit of progressive-change (where needed) could very well be the innovators, inventors and pioneers for the future.
I'd like to hear your thoughts!
I hold the position that the negative side in the progression of technological advancement is within the many failed attempts, and the lives lost in an effort to-create. Additionally, history books speak relentlessly of the triumphs of the many innovators, inventors, and or pioneers while never touching on the dark side of the numerous individuals who are unnamed who played significant roles in the development of modern science.
On the positive side, one should be thankful for the innovativeness, due diligence and persistence of those who were part in discovering what was intended, but more importantly, those who discovered something that was ultimately different from what was originally intended. This example speaks to a greater degree of innovativeness and critical thinking because it is more difficult to discover, invent or develop something not intended based upon the thought and natural instinct for one to be reluctant to make a paradigm shift.
As this reluctance to make a paradigm shift relates to modern day society, one can think of example after example of individuals - Christians, non-Christians, fathers, mothers or co-workers who fall into the trap of (complacency) with ones perceived success, which unfortunately often becomes the demise of that success due to (stagnation) which cripples the innovative spirit of relational advances and breakthroughs to a higher level. Conversely, those who understand and demonstrate the on-going and spirited pursuit of progressive-change (where needed) could very well be the innovators, inventors and pioneers for the future.
I'd like to hear your thoughts!
Friday, March 30, 2007
A Deliberate Mind Turned Spontaneous For A Day
I continue my attempt to convince my wife the longer we stay married the more her thinking will be transformed to my likeness in thought. I don’t think I am doing a very good job at convincing her of this, but that’s our secret (shhhhhh).
I mentioned in previous posts that I am a left-brain thinker – as my wife is totally, right brained! I have to admit, I have struggled for years trying to keep-up because my wife can drop (anything) nearly instantaneously and change directions without the slightest hesitation. For those of you who are also left-brain thinkers – you know this drives you crazy. Whether the change in direction is large or small, there are adjustments to be made…..right?
Well, before I go on, I would like to confess to three things right here and now:
I mentioned in previous posts that I am a left-brain thinker – as my wife is totally, right brained! I have to admit, I have struggled for years trying to keep-up because my wife can drop (anything) nearly instantaneously and change directions without the slightest hesitation. For those of you who are also left-brain thinkers – you know this drives you crazy. Whether the change in direction is large or small, there are adjustments to be made…..right?
Well, before I go on, I would like to confess to three things right here and now:
- It is becoming increasingly obvious I have not convinced my wife of anything...
- I am convinced she will not ever be convinced to think like a L.B.....
- I can't believe I actually did something spontaneous, pretty major at that.
Just recently, both my wife and I were getting a bit stir-crazy from the unusual winter we've had and decided to take a week and go to Florida. Although we have traveled to Florida on many occasions, we had never traveled during the winter, so we felt this trip would be a nice respite and a beta test of sorts. Additionally, we planned for this trip to be fairly inexpensive due in part to the three days remaining on our Disney Passes from two years prior.
As I began to plan the travel arrangements (2 months) prior to our departure date, things seemed to have fallen into place. I need to mention however, my Mother-In-Law and a family friend also traveled with the three of us.
Sidenote: Some of you are probably thinking horrible things by now regarding In-Laws...stop it....I love my Mother-In-Law as we have gotten along from day one, over 23 years ago. She travels frequently with my family...it's cool.
We fly to Orlando, by the way, we departed from 27 degree temperatures - arriving in 83 degree weather...you see why we were stir-crazy? We settled in, got the lay of the land then on the fourth day my deliberate life as it were, took a dramatic change!
While in Florida in a casual conversation at dinner, I mentioned I would love to visit Miami one day. For in all of our visits to Florida, we had never been to Miami. Quickly, all of the right-brain thinkers in the room said "let's go"! I quickly replied that it would not work because a trip to Miami was not a part of our scheduled itinerary and we can not fit it into the schedule. On the fourth day of our trip, a visit that was in fact on our itinerary was to visit friends in Port St. Lucie, Florida.
At approximately 8:00 pm Wednesday evening we decided to travel back to Orlando. For some odd reason, a trip to Miami resurfaced once we loaded back into the car. This time I was absolutely, positively against going to Miami for the following reasons:
- A trip to Miami was not scheduled
- It was 8:00 pm and my Mapquest directions were to lead us back to Orlando
- I didn't have a change of clothes, to include a change of underwear (yikes)
- I wear contacts, with no cleaning / soaking solution nor a contact case
- We have no place to stay for the night
- and lastly, I didn't know where the heck I was going
As this conversation kept going and going, I, at the same time, was trying to navigate to the correct exit which was the Florida Turnpike North exit. As I pulled away from paying the toll, while talk of Miami had persisted, I mistakenly got on the Florida Turnpike South exit. Immediately all of the right-brain thinkers in the car burst into a euphoric laugh....including my son, who before that point, I thought was on my side.
Everyone was chanting, "keep going, keep going" as I was saying "where is the next exit"? With no exits in sight for what seemed an eternity - we finally see a mile marker indicating Miami was 101 miles - if I were a balloon, I would have been bursted!
The long of it is, I had no choice but to succumb to the pressures of continuing on to Miami while thinking, "this is absolutely crazy." After rehearsing all of the above reasons why we should not have done this, my wife is telling me, not asking me, to give her my Hilton Honors card so she can find us a hotel....but boy am I glad she did! And boy did we find a hotel!!!
We arrived in Miami at approximately 10:15 pm. The reservations were for the Grand Miami overlooking Biscayne Bay! But there is more. Because there were 5 in our party the only accommodations the hotel had was a simple two bedroom 2000 square feet condominium (LOL). Absolutely wonderful!
Early the next day my wife and I went shopping (to take care of the underwear and clothing thing), we then headed for South Beach.
I have to be honest and say that this epiphany to go to Miami was one of the best times I have every had...and it wasn't planned - imagine that.
I took lots and lots of photos while on our trip. In my About Me posting is one of the many sunrise photos. Embedded below are several other original photos. This trip afforded me both a wealth of experience and was truly good for my health.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Say What You Mean and Mean What You Say....
To be honest with you, I do not know where or when I first heard this statement, but I will tell you, it is as profound now as it was when I heard it for the first time.
I cease to be amazed at the nonchalance and cavalier approach to the conversations, commitments, and would-be arrangements that quickly go-bust. Why do we say things we don't mean or intend to follow through with? Is it merely a lack of commitment; difficulty telling the truth; protecting the feelings of others; or is there just not much thought at all to what we say?
One thing I am confident - and that is there are a myriad of reasons, depending upon whom you speak with.
Personally, I have always been the type of guy who has been and remain to be slow to commit. If you ask my wife, she would tell you that I am extremely slow to commit. Now, before you begin to judge me (smile), my slow to commit persona is based upon me being an analytical and pragmatic thinker.....it all has to have a purpose, make sense, and be to the good of the process; simply put in my wife's terms....left brained!
In part, I attribute making a conscious effort to holding-true to my commitments to being left brained; however, I must say my primary reason is because it simply is the right thing to do! It's all about Integrity.
Over fifteen years ago, I saw a picture that really spoke to my heart as I felt this picture truly described who I am and what I believe.
The setting: In the foreground is a huge oak tree with its roots exposed standing tall immediately adjacent to a river. In the background there is a mountainous landscape. The title is THE ROOTS OF CHARACTER and it reads..
I cease to be amazed at the nonchalance and cavalier approach to the conversations, commitments, and would-be arrangements that quickly go-bust. Why do we say things we don't mean or intend to follow through with? Is it merely a lack of commitment; difficulty telling the truth; protecting the feelings of others; or is there just not much thought at all to what we say?
One thing I am confident - and that is there are a myriad of reasons, depending upon whom you speak with.
Personally, I have always been the type of guy who has been and remain to be slow to commit. If you ask my wife, she would tell you that I am extremely slow to commit. Now, before you begin to judge me (smile), my slow to commit persona is based upon me being an analytical and pragmatic thinker.....it all has to have a purpose, make sense, and be to the good of the process; simply put in my wife's terms....left brained!
In part, I attribute making a conscious effort to holding-true to my commitments to being left brained; however, I must say my primary reason is because it simply is the right thing to do! It's all about Integrity.
Over fifteen years ago, I saw a picture that really spoke to my heart as I felt this picture truly described who I am and what I believe.
The setting: In the foreground is a huge oak tree with its roots exposed standing tall immediately adjacent to a river. In the background there is a mountainous landscape. The title is THE ROOTS OF CHARACTER and it reads..
THOSE WHO PRESERVE THEIR INTEGRITY REMAIN UNSHAKEN BY THE STORMS OF DAILY LIFE. THEY DO NOT STIR LIKE LEAVES ON A TREE OR FOLLOW THE HERD WHERE IT RUNS. IN THEIR MIND REMAINS THE IDEAL ATTITUDE AND CONDUCT OF LIVING. THIS IS NOT SOMETHING GIVEN TO THEM BY OTHERS. IT IS THEIR ROOTS....IT IS A STRENGTH THAT EXISTS DEEP WITHIN THEM
-ANONYMOUS NATIVE AMERICAN
Recently I had a conversation with my 7 year old son about this very topic of: saying what you mean and meaning what you say - this subject came up because he had asked if we could go out and get a pizza - I told him I would think about it and get back to him at a later time. As he persisted, he then said to me that I had (promised) him we would get pizza. I told him two things:
- Not only did I not promise him we would go out to get pizza, I had not committed at all at that point.
- I then told my son I had not used the word "promise" for over twenty years.
Aaron asked me "why not"? I replied by telling him if you truly commit yourself to something and more importantly follow through with that commitment, you have already made a pledge or promise. Once that pledge has been made, there is little need to reaffirm it.
I look forward to hearing your thoughts!
Monday, March 26, 2007
Reflections, Part 2: Listening Is Good For Ones Health
Most everyone has heard the old adage, “God gave us two ears and one mouth for a particular reason” however, how many of us actively practice listening twice as much as we speak?
For me, this has been an ongoing struggle that I continually strive (daily), to improve upon. Admittedly part of my problem with this issue, as I described in my About Me piece is that I have a lot to say. Quite frankly, if you have a lot to say….you should be able to say it, right?
In my continued quest to overcome this flaw of mine – I have recently noticed something interesting that you as the reader probably already knew…call me slow, but I recently realized when two people are (listening or not speaking) at the same time, there is no exchange of information; similarly if two people attempt to talk at the same time, again there is very little to no information exchange. So why do we try to talk at the same time? I asked my wife this very question – after about 2 minutes of laughter, she agreed that I have a lot to say, she then walked away from me (sigh). But, there is hope ladies and gentlemen.
About two years ago, I was introduced to a strategy that has been extremely helpful due in part this strategy takes a lot of discipline in order for it to be effective.
The Strategy: A piece of paper that has the words – “I (person name) promise to listen to your words intently and without interruption for 2o minutes or when you yield the floor, whichever occurs first.”
The listener must sign the agreement and honor it. At which time the speaker yields, the speaker then becomes the listener following the same instructions as above.
The results have been amazing, especially with regard to the time in which resolution is achieved. No more long drawn-out disagreements seemingly lasting forever when half the battle was ones attempt to be heard due to both parties speaking at the same time.
Not only will your two ears aide in listening twice as much as you speak, your ears will also aide in resolving a disagreement twice as fast…what a bargain, huh?
For me, this has been an ongoing struggle that I continually strive (daily), to improve upon. Admittedly part of my problem with this issue, as I described in my About Me piece is that I have a lot to say. Quite frankly, if you have a lot to say….you should be able to say it, right?
In my continued quest to overcome this flaw of mine – I have recently noticed something interesting that you as the reader probably already knew…call me slow, but I recently realized when two people are (listening or not speaking) at the same time, there is no exchange of information; similarly if two people attempt to talk at the same time, again there is very little to no information exchange. So why do we try to talk at the same time? I asked my wife this very question – after about 2 minutes of laughter, she agreed that I have a lot to say, she then walked away from me (sigh). But, there is hope ladies and gentlemen.
About two years ago, I was introduced to a strategy that has been extremely helpful due in part this strategy takes a lot of discipline in order for it to be effective.
The Strategy: A piece of paper that has the words – “I (person name) promise to listen to your words intently and without interruption for 2o minutes or when you yield the floor, whichever occurs first.”
The listener must sign the agreement and honor it. At which time the speaker yields, the speaker then becomes the listener following the same instructions as above.
The results have been amazing, especially with regard to the time in which resolution is achieved. No more long drawn-out disagreements seemingly lasting forever when half the battle was ones attempt to be heard due to both parties speaking at the same time.
Not only will your two ears aide in listening twice as much as you speak, your ears will also aide in resolving a disagreement twice as fast…what a bargain, huh?
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Reflections, Part 1: What Do "You" See
More and more it appears this society we live in has regrettably propagated the mind-set of extreme competitiveness, peer pressure and an overall environment of (keeping pace with the Jones’).
In reading many accounts and perspectives calling this a “Me” society; I beg to differ – instead calling this a “Them” society. You see, the mindset of keeping-up with…, having more than…, wanting more than…and beating the competition focuses more attention on others than oneself.
This phenomenon reaches many levels, from the very simplistic to the intensely complex. Why is it we are so compelled to stay ahead of the competition? Do we really know who the competition is? Please allow me to cite a few examples that you may or may not have noticed.
Have you ever noticed when one of the neighbors begins to cut the lawn after a few days of rain? You guessed it; several of the other neighbors begin cutting their lawns. (Not in your wildest dream would you allow their lawn to look better than your own). Or, there has been a three or four day drought, everyone’s lawn is getting brown and crunchy and one person drags the water hose out – then the chain reaction begins. This (competitive edge syndrome) will even drive one to unnecessary debt such as in the case where someone purchases a new vehicle, within weeks; you notice temporary license plates throughout the entire neighborhood?
Further, I have seen colleagues purchase or build a new home and shortly thereafter the rebound effect occurs – other colleagues will follow suit by purchasing or building larger homes just to stay ahead.
This is a first installment of a series of thoughts; and hopefully dialogue with you surrounding Reflections. The above examples are defined patterns of (reactive) reflections based upon consideration and contemplation of what others are doing around us. In this case “You” see others advancing, thus propelling “You” into a reactive state of competition.
The keeping pace with the Jones’ mindset would come to an abrupt stop if the Reflections “You” saw / see appeared in a mirror or other reflecting surface thus focusing the attention to oneself, ones capabilities, aspirations, etc.
To this end, “You” would drive ones energies and direction on self development and determination resulting in a more productive and less competitive frame of mind. Keep in mind however one can compete with oneself; this is simply called “drive.”
If the person “You” see in the mirror conducts oneself with uprightness, while working within a self-driven structure and framework, I am of the opinion “You” would be much happier….and less stressed!
Some people truly believe “The grass is greener on the other side.” I leave you for now to contemplate this thought; and please respond by sharing your thoughts.
“The grass may in fact be greener on the other side” but as you are tempted to (keep pace with the Jones’) please consider “If the grass is in fact greener on the other side, understand the water bill is much higher as well.”
Please tell me what you think! I look forward to hearing from you.
In reading many accounts and perspectives calling this a “Me” society; I beg to differ – instead calling this a “Them” society. You see, the mindset of keeping-up with…, having more than…, wanting more than…and beating the competition focuses more attention on others than oneself.
This phenomenon reaches many levels, from the very simplistic to the intensely complex. Why is it we are so compelled to stay ahead of the competition? Do we really know who the competition is? Please allow me to cite a few examples that you may or may not have noticed.
Have you ever noticed when one of the neighbors begins to cut the lawn after a few days of rain? You guessed it; several of the other neighbors begin cutting their lawns. (Not in your wildest dream would you allow their lawn to look better than your own). Or, there has been a three or four day drought, everyone’s lawn is getting brown and crunchy and one person drags the water hose out – then the chain reaction begins. This (competitive edge syndrome) will even drive one to unnecessary debt such as in the case where someone purchases a new vehicle, within weeks; you notice temporary license plates throughout the entire neighborhood?
Further, I have seen colleagues purchase or build a new home and shortly thereafter the rebound effect occurs – other colleagues will follow suit by purchasing or building larger homes just to stay ahead.
This is a first installment of a series of thoughts; and hopefully dialogue with you surrounding Reflections. The above examples are defined patterns of (reactive) reflections based upon consideration and contemplation of what others are doing around us. In this case “You” see others advancing, thus propelling “You” into a reactive state of competition.
The keeping pace with the Jones’ mindset would come to an abrupt stop if the Reflections “You” saw / see appeared in a mirror or other reflecting surface thus focusing the attention to oneself, ones capabilities, aspirations, etc.
To this end, “You” would drive ones energies and direction on self development and determination resulting in a more productive and less competitive frame of mind. Keep in mind however one can compete with oneself; this is simply called “drive.”
If the person “You” see in the mirror conducts oneself with uprightness, while working within a self-driven structure and framework, I am of the opinion “You” would be much happier….and less stressed!
Some people truly believe “The grass is greener on the other side.” I leave you for now to contemplate this thought; and please respond by sharing your thoughts.
“The grass may in fact be greener on the other side” but as you are tempted to (keep pace with the Jones’) please consider “If the grass is in fact greener on the other side, understand the water bill is much higher as well.”
Please tell me what you think! I look forward to hearing from you.
Monday, March 19, 2007
About Me
Hello, my name is Keith Battle and I welcome you to my newly created blog....Mere Utterance! I am a simple yet complex type of guy who has a driving - passion for personal health, family wealth, consumer protection and uprightness.
It is my "hope" I will stay-on-task, writing on topics surrounding each of the aforementioned topics; however, I may stray a bit from time to time but ask you stay with me because I have a lot to say!
Generally speaking when one hears the word (health) one typically equates this word with the physical. I am of the strong opinion the true connotation of (health) includes mental, emotional, spiritual and social relationships. Further, when (wealth) is mentioned one typically equates this word with finances. Again, the augmented definition of (wealth) in my opinion would include mental, emotional, spiritual and social relationships.
I could go on and on but think you see the synergistic theme.
In closing, I ask that you respond, give opinion, agree, or disagree with my content, but ask that you do it with professionalism.
I look forward to hearing from each of you.
It is my "hope" I will stay-on-task, writing on topics surrounding each of the aforementioned topics; however, I may stray a bit from time to time but ask you stay with me because I have a lot to say!
Generally speaking when one hears the word (health) one typically equates this word with the physical. I am of the strong opinion the true connotation of (health) includes mental, emotional, spiritual and social relationships. Further, when (wealth) is mentioned one typically equates this word with finances. Again, the augmented definition of (wealth) in my opinion would include mental, emotional, spiritual and social relationships.
I could go on and on but think you see the synergistic theme.
In closing, I ask that you respond, give opinion, agree, or disagree with my content, but ask that you do it with professionalism.
I look forward to hearing from each of you.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
