Marc's Random Ramblings

Over the Rainbow: wanna go?

2012-01-23T20:51:00.000-06:00

For me, music is the most subtle, yet powerful of the arts. More quickly than any other form it will raise the hair on my arms, bring me to my feet, or to tears. Take a moment and listen to this incredible talent and see if you agree. Come with me...Over the Rainbow. http://youtu.be/-ubVGiyAhkY

Thought provocation

2012-01-08T11:45:00.000-06:00

"The chief cause of failure and unhappiness
is trading what we want most, for what we want at the moment."

~Author Unknown

Simple

2011-12-27T08:23:00.000-06:00

"Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow."
~ Albert Einstein

Learn, Live, Hope.
Yesterday, today, tomorrow.
Sometimes, simple is best.

To Appreciate Old Things

2011-09-08T12:32:00.000-05:00

"Will this be for here or to go?" :she asked.
"Here please. I'll have a broccoli/cheese potato, the chicken sandwich with no mayo and a water." :was my reply.
beep, beep, beep..... "And I'll put your discount on here....." beep. "That will be"......
well, I don't remember exactly how much it totaled as my mind was struggling with the discount. Of what discount did she speak? Had I ordered a daily special?
I gathered my purchase along with the essential plastic eating instruments, a couple of napkins and a straw.
Discount?? Hum...?
I chose a seat near a window with a view and sat down to enjoy my meal. There on the tray was my reciept. I adjusted my bi-focals and read,
Senior discount 10%! (exclamation point added for effect)
It seems only yesterday that I was asked for my ID when making a purchase at an adult entertainment center. Yet here I was the reciepient of a 10% discount which I had not requested.

Just recently, on one of my walks, I had been thinking that, 'to appreciate old things, perhaps one must be old.'
I had seen a date that had been stamped in the sidewalk, 9-'39. How many thousands of people had this side walk seen and helped along on their journeys? It was in remarkable condition for all the years of weather, walking and wear it has endured. And to the craftsman...what skill and dedication to his trade to have created a work that would last and serve all these years. Just a few steps further and I watched as an older couple slowly, oh so slowly, made their way along another section of this pathway. He with a cane, she with a supporting arm. When did their rolls change? I'm certain he was once young, strong and verile, the one upon whom she relied. Time has taken a toll and yet they press on, together.

When I was younger, these things would not have occured to me. I was much too consumed by my own agenda. However as we age we begin to understand what it takes to become old. The trials, the weather, the miles, the wins and the losses. And with time comes patience ( I wish this one would hurry up), understanding, compassion and appreciation. In a word....love. "The greatest of these!"

And now I smile, as I remember these things. I hope you smile too.

As I left the dining establishment, I noticed an older gentleman in a booth near the door. He was alone and had fallen asleep. I felt a kinship, with him.
I was smiling then too, wondering if he got his discount.

Drag your thoughts...

2011-09-08T11:14:00.000-05:00

"Drag your thoughts away from your troubles...by the ears,
by the heels or any other way you can manage it."
~ Mark Twain

Somewhere in America

2011-08-26T16:40:00.000-05:00

"Charlie, is that you?"
Sweat in my eyes and running off my nose, I was stopped cold in my tracks. I was out for what has become a pleasant ritual of walking several mornings each week, schedule allowing, when out of the blue..."Charlie is that you?"
It was a handsome couple about my age that were certain they had found 'Charlie'. A quick conversation ensued with me assuring them that 'I' was not who they thought. I so hated to disappoint, they seemed like such nice people. For a second the thought of confessing to be Charlie crossed my mind, but the details would have been very stressful, so that quickly passed.
According to them I was not only an exact copy of the now famed Charlie, but that I even walked like him. My response was something to the effect of, 'You know they say everyone has a twin'. They agreed and once again we were off in opposite directions around the mile long circumference of the park.
Then my mind began to ramble, as it often does. I wonder if Charles really does look like me? Lucky dog.
On my final lap as I approached Charlies friends I heard myself say....
"You know I'm going to call my wife today, and tell her about Charlie. She's not going to believe there's another guy as good looking as me, somewhere in America."

More alike than different

2011-07-09T11:11:00.006-05:00

One had a small load of laundry to do. Three others were headed to Kalamazoo. An older gentleman teased the young waitress.
The randomness of life delivered me to Salem in the land of Lincoln, for breakfast, this morning. I had no plans or idea that I would be present for these conversations at Denny's. But as I eavesdropped it occurred to me that this scenario was most likely playing out across this country. And with that thought, it became clear that we really are all, quite similar. Each with our own hopes and dreams, heartaches and challenges. Some taking for granted the fact that the ones they love are sitting right next to them, me much to far from those closest to my heart. Have a listen for yourself. See if the voices you hear sound familiar in their content. Each are unique yet alike, simultaneously. Deep down the majority all want the same thing. In spite of our differences in politics, religion, philosophy...we want the best for each of us.
So from Abe's backyard I honestly wish for you 'The Best'.

Lean on me...

2011-02-07T21:48:00.000-06:00

We can all use a hand now and then.
And when willing, we can be that helping hand.
Hope you enjoy this very special example.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QK9Xj7eY0UU&feature=youtube_gdata

Molly

2011-01-28T19:59:00.000-06:00

Thirty years past, nearly 400 miles from here, I first saw Molly.
On her trip to her new Missouri home, she spent the night in our back yard.
She was quite a site in our neighborhood.
Today she takes her place of permanent rest in our back yard, here in the Missouri hills.
This spring a blanket of wild flowers will bloom over her.
I'm certain I'll walk among those blooms and once again think of Molly,
back when she and I were young.

Persevere

2011-01-16T13:47:00.000-06:00

Here's a short video that has some good thoughts on 'hangin in there.'
Hope you lke it.

http://www.flickspire.com/m/earlytorise/Persevere

The Journey: 2011

2010-12-27T21:11:00.032-06:00

How many times have we heard, ‘It’s the journey, not the destination that counts’?
How can that be? Surely in the achievement of the goal is where our happiness dwells.
We are, for the most part, a goal driven society.
It is not hard to understand how we have become so destination obsessed.
Goals draw us toward accomplishment and that is a good thing. Much is produced through goal setting.
However we begin to believe that once we drive this, wear that, live in this neighborhood or have $X in the bank that our lives will be complete.
But is that where the real joy is waiting?

I have long tried to comprehend what was meant by the ‘journey’ statement.
I may have, finally, gotten a partial grasp.
I watched a movie called Peaceful Warrior. ( I highly recommend it)
In it a young man, Dan, is taken on a hike up into the hills.
His mentor, Socrates, has promised him ‘the secret of life’ once they arrive at their destination.
For hours they hike and climb, climb and hike all the while conversing, breathing, watching, pushing to the summit.
Laughter, anticipation, joy, weariness, and wonder, absorb the lad as they persist.
Abruptly, Socrates stops and says: “Here it is”, pointing to an ordinary rock at the young man’s feet.
“That’s it? I came all this way for a rock!?”
Bewildered, almost angry Dan questions the significance of the rock.
He learns that the rock, the destination, is of little importance.
“Oh, I never know what I’ll find on these trips.” Socrates interrupts.
”But for hours you have been walking, laughing, guessing and enjoying yourself as we journeyed,
only to be disappointed with what you found, once you ‘arrived.’”

Once we have arrived we may experience less satisfaction than we had imagined.
At times the goal itself holds little contentment, minor reward.
If we take time to reflect on the journey we find that, that is where the real joy resides.
That is where our lives are really spent, in pursuit.
Dan learned that; 'there are no ordinary moments, there is never nothing going on.'
Now, right now, is all we really have, it is a gift; It is called 'the present'.
The most significant purpose of a goal is not what we achieve, rather who we become.
Our goals help us to grow. Choose them with care.
Of course we are pleased with our accomplishments.
Yet that pleasure can be fleeting. The new-ness of 'things' quickly fades.
Our human need is to grow, develop, and become our best and then to use that growth to enrich the lives others.
Whom will you help? What charity do you want to support, what cause to champion?
Perhaps, there is your joy, your continual, growing, living, self-perpetuating delight! Service to others.
We are either growing or dying. We are designed to press forward, to become all we can become.
There is more to do. We can accomplish more, much more. There is more to give, to share. But you can't give what you don't have or share what you don't possess. Through consistent growth we can always become more, so that we may do more.
Somewhere deep inside we recognize this and that yearning, that discontent is our hearts way of saying,
‘Come on; let’s really pour it on this time.’
Those hedonists' in our society who have found fame, only to be lost in drug use, violence and things which sell the
tabloids…..they each were certain that the money, the cars, the jewelry, the celebrity, the destination was where they would find bliss.
They are baffled when they arrive to find emptiness once again and then attempt to fill the void in unhealthy ways. Sadly this path leads to an emotional black hole..
Perhaps this emptiness, this discontent, if understood, could lead to even greater achievements. We each have in us what it takes to be great in our own unique way. Our choices determine which path our Journey will follow.
So, I think I may get it, at least in part.
If we have reached a point, attained a goal, if we have arrived and it’s not as sweet as we had dreamed, maybe, just maybe your heart is saying…
”Come onnnn! You’ve got more than that. That was good, but really….”
If we desire something in this life that we have never had, we are going to have to do something we have never done.
Is it time to pursue some goals that really stretch?
Is a new adventure in your 'present'?
Is someone searching for your inspiration?
In what ways can you enjoy your journey, each day?
How will you share your 'present'?
What’s your heart saying to you?
Mine is saying:
"Keep going. Sure it's hard, I know you want to quit, but you are more than that. You don't yet see all that I have planned for us. Press on. I'll be with you all the way."
I wish, for each of you, a happy, healthy, new year of personal achievement;
A year of contribution of the Gift of You to all your fellow journeymen.

ps: 'Self sacrifice is not noble!'
Be on the watch for:
"Follow Your Heart"
Are you confused? Do you think I may be? ;-)

.....That Remains the Same

2010-11-23T11:10:00.014-06:00

Clustered and crowded into a small home in the damp, dreary November weather an extended family gathers. Scents of turkey, sage dressing and a hint of coal smoke fuse, steamy windows and piles of winter coats on the bed, boots scattered at the door. Laughter and coveys of conversation pause, heads bow and Thanks is given. Family topped the list that day. Health, warmth, safety, sustenance and country were voiced, Amen’s whispered…..

Sound familiar? Many of you were there literally, others in your own childhood homes the scene unfolding in your mind’s eye revealing individual experiences, memories and family.

Many from my reflections are gone, Mom, Dad, Aunts, Uncles. I miss each of them. Yet, another element which may give cause for thanksgiving is our memory, a simply magnificent treasure. With it we do not merely see the sights; we can wear the warmth, sniff the smells and taste the turkey. We can, one more time, experience the love of family and friends of gatherings past.
So what are your recollections, your souvenirs? What gives you cause for Thanks, today?

Did you know that the word gratitude comes from two Greek words that mean great attitude?
Well…not really. I made that up. But I thought it was pretty good. ;-) Don’t you?

How often do you ponder on specifics for which you are appreciative; Daily, weekly, every once in a while?
In her book, The How of Happiness, Sonya Lyubomirsky states that her laboratory results indicate expressing gratitude once a week is most likely to boost happiness. Isn’t that interesting? Her findings also reveal that variety is the spice of life. By varying and not over-practicing, (everyday in the same way) we prevent becoming bored with routine and thus extract more meaning from it. Isn’t that fascinating? That’s fascinating!
Do you believe that expressing gratitude, as I attempt to do with this ‘Rambling’, can actually attract more for which we may be grateful?

A short, unplanned story in this story:
As I typed ‘That’s fascinating’ in the above paragraph I remembered that today is trash day. Aren’t we fortunate to have, for a few bucks a week, someone who comes to the house and takes away all our trash? Oops rambling again. So I pause to take out the trash and while at the end of the driveway, I check the mailbox. I kid you not; a totaly unexpected check for $202.47 was waiting there for me. Coincidence? Perhaps. I am grateful just the same.

I can’t promise you ‘mailbox money.’ However, I do believe we will experience more joy and satisfaction if, say once a week, we reflect on all our blessings, big and small. Bask in all that has been gifted to you. It is a wonderfully warm and comforting setting.

I seldom reveal that I feel I do something well. Gratitude is an exception. I learned it from my Dad.
I have been blessed with more than I could ever deserve. I have friends (more like family) that have been close to my heart for over 30 years. Our good times and bad have all created lifelong bonds that will never be broken. Few people can make that claim.

My birth family is the most wonderful of any. I have looked around and know that to be a fact.

How it ever came to pass that I should have found the love of my life, as she unloaded my work truck, that that union would result in the daughter who is my constant delight, is one I will never fully understand or feel worthy of.
My ‘Thanksgiving’ runs year 'round, how ‘bout yours?

“Clustered and crowded into a small home….family topped the list that day.” And to this very day, that remains the same.

With love and a full heart I wish, for each of you, a blessed Thanksgiving.

Free To Good Home

2010-09-26T14:28:00.005-05:00

We have all seen these ads. I have personally never responded to or placed one. Good for me on the first and why the hell not on the second!?

As I write, a bird squawks in the other room. The thump of cat feet striking the floor, interrupts the rhythmic snoring of an overweight bulldog that could double as a prize sow in a B movie. A cage rattles as the ferret seeks it’s turn at running loose and hauling away anything that has not been nailed to the ceiling or stuffed up my….
Yesterday’s screaming cat fight, in the dining room, produced enough hair to weave a nice pair of winter socks.

A personal review of my creature chronicles has me questioning my sanity.
· There was the dog that ate one of my rodeo plaques.
· An attack rabbit that ate the wiring off of several appliances.
· Another dog that ran around and crapped inside the only new vehicle I have owned.
· Enough cumulative holes in the yard to bury a locomotive.
· Countless books, boots and belts gnawed by eclectic species.
· Trees destroyed.
· Mile after endless mile of pee, poop and puke, all that I paid good money for in its original state.
· Tons of cat, dog, ferret, horse, mouse, hamster, rat, bird, and rabbit feed.
· There is the gaping hole at the bottom of my office door, compliments of the aforementioned B movie star.
· A destroyed $250 money order. (Did get that one replaced..Thanks Sis)
· Debbie’s day planner devoured, gone.
· An historic encounter with a Chupacabra at friend’s house.
· Cat shredded furniture…..the list never-ending, on-going.
Fortunately for each of us my memories have faded and the above is but an inkling of what has transpired.

I do want to say that I am in awe of a cat’s athletic abilities. No, not the landing on the feet thing. It is their phenomenal proficiency at racing backwards and simultaneously barfing endless trails of mice and Meow Mix, which leaves me awestruck.

Feed suppliers around the state love me.
Veterinarians develop goose bumps at the mention of my name.
My Dentist is going to Hawaii….
Oh Yes! The teeth. Did I mention the teeth?
How could I leave out the teeth?
The Animal Keeper of All Time, my wife, has been having some dental work done. A part of the process has involved a temporary, partial. You are way ahead of me aren’t you?
Yes, it is true.
Now speaking with a bit more of an accent, coupled with a greater use of double negatives this incident has left, even, Mrs. Keeper bewildered.

I calculate the current monthly critter costs to equal the payment on a Bentley.

Hey Doc, have a nice time in Honolulu.
Free to Good Home? What do you think?

All said, all done I suppose I would do it all again much the same way.
My Love, loves her animals and truthfully, so do I.
But I do have to add…. about the teeth thing?
I so hope this one bites the dog in the ass. Really.

What Can You Do Really Fast?

2010-06-09T15:25:00.004-05:00

Recently there was a contest online. You were to answer this question:
What can you do really fast?
Here is my non-winning entry.

What can I do really fast is an interesting question and rather easy to answer when you are young. Back in ‘the day’ I could sprint with the best. When working as a rodeo clown & bullfighter being fast and light on your feet was more than just a handy skill. It could be lifesaving. But what about when the speed of youth has faded, what is your claim then?
As a natural progression and with very little special training I have become one of the worlds quickest at (drum roll please) ‘forgetting what I was doing’. (Cymbal crash) Please hold your applause until the end. Yes, it appears that my great talent lay dormant for years only to recently be discovered along with the gray hair that had been hiding, just beneath my scalp. Uses for my new found endowment are currently being researched. Thus far little value has been found in the questions at the bottom of the stairs, ‘Did I just come down or was I going up?’, as with the refrigerator query, ‘Putting something in or taking it out?’ My investigation for methods to successfully apply my new found skill will continue. But please excuse me, I must stop for now. I have to write an article about: What I can do really fast.
Where did I put my pen….?

Quotes: Imagination and Thinking

2010-05-12T21:47:00.004-05:00

“Everything you can imagine is real.” ~Pablo Picasso

“I am enough of an artist to draw freely upon my imagination. Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.” ~Albert Einstein

“Think left and think right and think low and think high. Oh, the thinks you can think up if only you try!” ~Dr. Seuss

The Sky's the Limit

2010-05-02T15:15:00.010-05:00

When I used to think of discipline, it brought up feelings of dread, of punishment. I think most will agree those are also their first thoughts. If we look a little deeper into the definitions in Webster’s we find:
Discipline: self-command, self-control, self-discipline, self-government, self-mastery, self-restraint, willpower.
Notice how many times ‘self’ is used? So discipline then is something that we can have control over, and when we have control over something, that is a very good thing, if we make the very best use of that control.

Discipline, I have come to believe is the master key to what we wish to gain, become and accomplish with our lives.
So what can we do, be, have? Are there limits?

It was a mostly clear day, just a few scattered clouds in the mid-west sky. Chris had never been to this community before. His job had brought him here, and he had to work on Saturday! As he peered out of his office window he noticed a railroad yard. Chris had always loved trains. Perhaps tomorrow before work, (yes, he had to work on Sunday too) he could drive down and check out the rail yards.
And that is where I met Chris.
It turned out this young man was the embodiment of self discipline.

Now here is a guy hundreds of miles from home, in a place he would never have been, had his work not taken him there, and he was working weekends. So how do I figure him to be one of the most disciplined people I may ever meet?
You see when Chris caught sight of our rail yard that Saturday afternoon he was mere feet from his co-workers, but four hundred feet above the city, traveling about 300 miles an hour in his F/A 18 Hornet. Just moments before they had been pulling a little over 7 G’s as they performed as a part of the Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, The Blue Angels!
We spent almost an hour together, talking railroad and (whenever I could get him to stop talking about trains) flying.
What type of self-discipline do you suppose it takes to become one of the nation’s élite pilots?
Were there days when he wanted to quit, times that he was afraid, that it all seemed just too hard?
My guess is yes. But Chris persevered, he did not quit and his self-mastery has taken him to places he would never have gone to meet people (me) he would never have met. The discipline he has employed over the years now pays him dividends beyond what he could have imagined and memories to last, a lifetime. And most important of all is, who he has become, because of all he was willing to do.
So are the struggles worth the effort?
I only spent an hour with Chris, but I’m certain he would smile and say,
‘Yes sir. The sky’s the limit.’

Be safe, Major Collins.
And thank you for your service.

http://www.blueangels.navy.mil/

Come on Cowboy, Let's Ride

2010-04-27T16:22:00.024-05:00

“We are born into greatness, we are conditioned into mediocrity.”

What were your dreams as a child? Did you dream of becoming a Fireman, a Doctor, a Nurse, an Astronaut or a Cowboy? You could be and do anything when you were a child. Then life and all of its advisors began to influence our thoughts and then our beliefs, many of these advisors were well meaning and wanted to save us from disappointment and the harsh realities of life. Slowly we began to subscribe to the idea that life is unfair and we really can’t become any of those terrific things we had so fervently believed in our youthful games.

“Anything the mind can conceive and believe it can achieve.” ~ Napoleon Hill

Hill is one of the most acclaimed success authors of modern day. He spent 20 years studying the lives of the day’s most successful people and this quote is the essence of his findings.
I have a question for you. Actually I have more than one.
What if Hill is right? What if we dream and envision something because we have within us the ability to accomplish exactly that of which we dream? Wow! To me that is exciting stuff, how ‘bout you?
Perhaps our well meaning advisors had just bought into someone else’s lack of belief. There is evidence that life is unfair, if that’s what you look for. However the polar opposite is also true. “If you search you will find...” the ancient text says. So what are you searching for?
Perhaps a better description or definition is that, ‘Life is impartial.’ You see disappointments and difficulties are not reserved just for the poor, or for you.

We all struggle with them from time to time.

Let’s play a game. Like when we were kids. No holds barred, full on, as if anything is possible.
Now with our childlike faith in place, fast forward to today. Life has been wonder-filled and today you are living Your Perfect Day! Remember, everything is possible.
With whom would you share this Perfect Day?

Where would you wake up?
Would you be on an exotic beach by the sea, a crystal clear lake, or high in the mountains?
What is your house like, what and how many vehicles are in the driveway, and what colors are they?
What season is it, sunny or rainy…perhaps you are snuggled in your log cabin, fireplace crackling while the blizzard whistles just outside your window?
Will you be writing a check to your favorite charity, today? If so, to whom and for what amount?
What are the sights the sounds and the smells? Live this day in full color.

So why would I ask you to take this imaginary trip, to Your Perfect Day?
Well you just might be surprised to find that many of the elements of Your Day already exist.

Do we express gratitude for what we already have or do we tend to fo-cuss on what we lack?

"Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it." ~William Arthur Ward

The more we appreciate and express our thankfulness the more we will find to be grateful for. Remember the searching deal? Put the text to the test and see for yourself. Science now supports these findings with what is called the ‘Observer Effect.’ It is a Quantum Physics principle, that states: ‘We find what we look for.’

So it is a choice that we each must make. How do we wish to spend and invest these days which will be called our lives? What do we wish to find?
I invite you to post Your Perfect Day on this blog, as an expression of your gratitude.
As we each share our individual Days we can, collectively, find additional things that we might not have come up with on our own. All of us are better than each of us.
Share your ideas. What do you find exciting and fulfilling? Are there some goals that need to be set to take us closer to the ultimate vision we have for our lives? Get sparkling clear on what Your Perfect Day will look like, so you will recognize it when it arrives.

“If you don’t know where you are going, you might end up someplace else.”
~ Yogi Berra

Crank up the Firemans siren.

Blast off in your rocket ship.
Dream like a kid again…
Come on Cowboy, Let’s ride!!

Our Deepest Fear

2010-04-08T21:40:00.012-05:00

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others." ~ Marianne Williamson
The above is a quote by Marianne Williamson from a movie called 'Akeelah and the Bee'.

"And as we let our own light shine.....as we are liberated from our own fear,
our presence automatically liberates others."

Each of us possess unique talents and abilities, solitary expressions of our individual life experience and personality from which others may draw to live fuller, richer lives. Your gift is yours alone to give. No other human has what you have to share.

"Your playing small does not serve the world..."

We are each meant to light an others way...
Whose life will change because of your influence, whom may you liberate with your courage?
Be bold, shine on.

mj

Which Comes First...?

2010-03-24T15:44:00.002-05:00

The question was: Do your thoughts create your beliefs, or do your beliefs create your thoughts? (See the post 'Your Opine, Please.' just below.)
I shall now attempt to give you my thoughts…beliefs…oh boy here we go! These are merely my viewpoints. Each individuals view on this will be influenced and shaded by personal life experience, environment and association. Therefore I suppose (glad I didn’t say think?) each answer is as special and unique as the person themselves. There never has and never will be another exactly like you! So my answer may not run in the general vein as most of the replies and that is just as it should be….each with his / her own opine.
Perhaps the best way to provide my answer is with a few more questions. Are you up for that?
· Can you believe something without thinking about it?
· How strong could an unthinking belief be?
· From where would we acquire such a belief?
· Can you think something without believing it?
It seems to me that you can have a thought without believing it, but can you really have a belief without thinking about it.
You may think about what you believe, but do you believe every thought?
It is my submission that, as adults, we have to think about something before it becomes a belief. As children our beliefs were instilled, in us, by parents, teachers, preachers and others that were a part of our development. And that guidance is essential to our growth. As thinking adults however we should begin to ask ourselves questions about the beliefs we hold and do we really believe them or are they there by default.
Many of the things of which I was quite certain (beliefs), as a youth, have developed and grown (after personally thinking about them) to support new ideas and philosophies (i.e.: beliefs). I have not abandoned all the teachings of my childhood rather; I have strengthened some and replaced others with more appropriate thoughts and thus beliefs.
So I question again, can you believe something before you think about it? How confident would you be in a belief about which you had not personally contemplated.
Let’s take this exercise for an example.
Are you thinking about your belief…Which comes first?
Well, I hope this has been fun for you. It has been great fun for me.
And now that this reply is complete…
I think I’ll catch a ride with Dee. And you can believe that.

Your opine, Please.

2010-03-19T19:22:00.004-05:00

I have for you, this evening, a question.
I love good questions, don't you?
I think ( oh! a clue to the question already ) I think this is a really good question. One with potential for debate of what you believe (yet another clue?).
Hopefully you will feel inclined to take part in this just for fun, while learning, project.
No answer will be considered wrong. Can't say I will brand any right, either.
Just a terrific opportunity to get your thinker thinking. We really do very little true thinking, you know...or at least that's what I think.
Earl Nightingale thought so too.
" Most people, if they said what they were thinking, would be speechless"; that's what Earl said.
So enough blaa blaa, here's your question.
Do your thoughts create your beliefs, or do your beliefs create your thoughts?
That's it.
So, what do you think and believe, or believe and think?
Perhaps you are thinking...He's really lost it this time, and that's OK.
Believe or think what you will.
I eagerly await your speculation and pontification.
I think ( there I go again ) believe this should be really fun.
So have fun!!
Post your answer in the comment/reply section below.
And as always, sincerely, thanks for reading and now playing along.

'Don't wish things were easier, Wish you were better."

2010-02-14T01:20:00.015-06:00

Today I submit a tribute to the life and teachings of Jim Rohn.
I was fortunate to meet him one time. An extraordinary event for me. His handshake, his words, his eyes all conveyed his belief in me, in my abilities. I will never forget the brief time I spent with him.

Mr. Rohn's time in this system ended December 5th 2009, but his philosophy continues to change lives. The few 'Ramblings' I share are deeply influenced by this uncomplicated man. Outside my own father, he has influenced my philosophy more than any other human who was alive during my lifetime.

One of his teachings was; "Borrow all you can borrow. Give credit but borrow other peoples words." One example he would use was a quote from Winston Churchill. "The truth is incontrovertable. Malace may attack it and ignorance may deride it but in the end, there it is." Mr Rohn would then say..." I could stay up all night and not think of that!"

At the final tribute for Mr. Rohn, Darren Hardy gave these closing comments.
They are here for you to hear, in the link below.
Today I borrow, once again, Mr. Rohn's words through Mr. Hardy.
They are principles I believe in.
I hope they may mean as much to you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VkEkxpIEiHc

Thank you Mr. Rohn.

Try Try Again...

2010-01-26T15:50:00.004-06:00

However keep in mind...

If at first you don't succeed;

Skydiving is probably not for you.

Whats my Potential? Perspective?

2010-01-20T12:59:00.007-06:00

If I were to wander through a cemetery, what undeveloped potential might I pass, on my walk? Dormant words of hope, comedy or challenge, songs unwritten or unsung lying beneath the sod?

You say; 'But you don't don't understand the problems they had the struggles they endured. Life was too cruel, they could barely survive. The benevolent hand of God passed them by, without pausing.'

Life indeed seems unjust at times. I have attended many pity parties, myself the only guest. And then came a change in perspective.

I have learned that it is in our trials, troubles and tribulations that life develops meaning. Now that doesn't mean I like it or wish for more, but if I am paying attention the lesson is there. In times of illness, love will abound from places untold. In other difficulties, help springs.

We all have our burdens to bear and with some educated perspective our journey may reveal unprecedented joy, fulfilment and spirit.

Take a moment to get a tissue...

Got it?

Watch the video below and be filled with encouragement.

It has been said; "Most people are buried with their music still in them."

What is your potential?

How is your perspective?

Why are you waiting?

Patrick isn't.

www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=9xwCG0Ey2Mg

The Best 10 Years of Your Life

2010-01-17T13:20:00.008-06:00

Anytime I run across something really good, I like to share it.
Here is one.
http://darrenhardy.success.com/

I heard Darren speak last year and I can tell you, first hand, He has it going on!
Check out the program he has made available for free. The only cost is the time you invest in yourself. Hey there is some work here, but living an unplanned life can be much more difficult. This is also first hand wisdom.
Hope you take the valuable time and design your next ten years.
Let's make it an exciting ride.

To becoming your best,
mj

The Balance of Life or It's Scary Up Here

2009-12-14T18:22:00.006-06:00

We hear a lot these days about getting our lives balanced.
Balancing time, energy and money between all the things we each need to accomplish, daily, weekly…..
When I visualize balance, two pictures come to my mind.
First is a tightrope walker, perilously inching from one skyscraper to another.
Now my wife will attest to the fact that any home projects requiring the use of more than a, two step, stepladder, will be performed by someone other than me. I’m just not good with heights. So this first example leaves me uncomfortable. It also appears to be a strenuous task, one requiring physical skill, strength and extreme concentration: Wiggling, leaning, shaking… whew….definitely not my deal.
The second image is of Lady Justice, scales perfectly balanced. A much more serene feeling is enjoyed with this visual. What I notice however is that nothing is happening, no movement in either direction, therefore no growth.
Using these examples and many things I have read, I personally have replaced the word balance with harmony.
It seems to me that a vigil to keep our lives in balance will result in a life time of hard work and juggling each area: physical, financial, spiritual, emotional and relationships. How long can we keep all these in the air?
My life has never been balanced, at least not for any length of time. Has yours? There are times when major attention is placed on a work project, in a time of illness our focus is on healing and the other areas take a back burner. Use your own example, but you get my thought.
There are going to be times when it is critical that we be out of balance. Sometimes we need to step off the wire and lay down some of our juggling act. And I believe that is ok, if we are in harmony! Isn’t that a beautiful word? Harmony is an effect produced when different things come together without clashing, different things, yet they are in accord and agreement.
When the orchestra plays, it is the harmony of all the instruments that moves us.
Perhaps the horns take the lead, loud and proud, next the strings forte`. Can you hear the violins? Then the timpani drums crescendo carrying us to heights we had not dreamed possible! Our hearts racing, our beings filled with emotions…we simply can’t find words to express.
What if all they played were booming base notes, or the same notes again and again? That would get old rather quickly I would imagine. If each section played with equal intensity, if there were no variations, where would that leave our emotions? I can’t feature being moved to tears or leaping to my feet in ovation. It is in the harmony, the complimentary modification in rhythm, tune and key, that we find fulfillment, joy, peace, life.
Which sounds best to you? Do you want to spend your days juggling, struggling to balance ‘on the wire’, or to embrace a harmonic arrangement of life?
So what do you think?
Have I made a good case?
Personally…..
I’m calling someone to clean the gutters and I’m going to the concert.
Want to come along? There is room on the front row.

Writing

2009-12-14T18:16:00.001-06:00

"There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and open a vein." ~Red Smith

H1N1: The Swine Flu

2009-12-07T18:25:00.004-06:00

The headlines cover it daily, H1N1. Case numbers, vaccine availability, death tolls. It is a legitimate concern.
But did you know that there is a more rampant disease plaguing the planet? It is a malady which affects millions of victims, daily, one which the mainstream media chooses to ignore. I have seen nothing on this from the World Health Org. The health and financial effects of this contagious virus are immeasurable. You may catch it anywhere, at work, in the market place, even in your home.
Are you at risk? You may be, and not even realize it.
So what is this threat?
It is: The Whine Flu!
Epidemic in scale, Whine Flu has invaded our society with little notice. It has quietly crept in and infected us, spawning the carrier gene. Word by word, thought by thought, action after action we unwittingly propagate more and more of this insidious affliction.
It is more deeply ingrained than one might believe, at first observation.
Brain researchers say that we have about 60 thousand thoughts per day. Or approx one thought every 1.5 seconds. Wow! No wonder we’re tired! These scientists also believe that about 95% of those thoughts are the same ones that we had the day before. And finally 80% ( 39,000*) of all those are negative. These are referred to as ANTS: Automatic Negative Thoughts. As these ANTS persevere in their daily tasks (you know how persistent ants are) the affliction becomes deeply rooted. It, I believe, becomes a habit.
“Spend five minutes complaining and you have wasted five. Continue this and they will soon haul you off to a financial desert and there let you choke on the dust of your own regret.” ~ Jim Rohn
Is there a remedy for this scourge, this habit? Thankfully, yes there is. And that, in itself, is the cure.
Thankfulness and Gratitude:
If we were to take those 60 K thoughts per day and begin to replace them with Positive thoughts, thoughts of the innumerable advantages and benefits we each posses, we will have revealed the antidote. We will not only embark on our personal journey of healing we will simultaneously acquire the marvelous carrier gene of joy.
We must also limit our exposure to the Whine Flu virus. You see, these carriers won’t be wearing white medical masks so:
Ask yourself these questions that Mr. Rohn has provided.
· Who am I around?
· What have they got me saying, doing, reading?
· Where have they got me going?
· Who do they have me becoming?
· And finally, Is that OK?

I am delighted to announce that my personal case of Whine Flu is in remission. I was at one point a deadly carrier. I am ever on alert for symptoms of its recurrence. Daily doses of the cure are required. Think of it as bathing. Once in a while just don’t cut it.
Attitudes are contagious. Is yours worth catching?
Personally and collectively we can defeat this foe.
Are you up to the challenge?
I believe you are.
I believe in you.
Do you?

That's good, No that's Bad....

2009-11-24T13:23:00.005-06:00

Have you ever heard this little tale? Think I first heard it on Hee Haw!

One guy states something, the next guy says That's good. And tells him WHY it is good. Then the first guy says No that's Bad. And gives a reason that it could be bad. Back and forth, on and on it goes. This clever narrative actually, I believe, reveals a handy tool on this Thanksgiving week. The other side of the coin.

We always hear to count our blessings and that we should. But what about those things that are just not good? Could we discover something great in them? If we tried? OK you say no way I could do that. But just pretend that you could...we are just pretending. So I know you really can't, but if you could what would you find?

Bills! There's a good one we can all relate too. Those lousy, stinking, never ending, ever increasing bills.

Electric bill is to high. But isn't it something we rely on most everyday with very few failures?

With the touch of a button we control the comfort of our homes. Another touch and and we have entertainment from around the world in our living rooms, in color.

Did you every notice how dead a house feels when the power is out. Electricity seem to bring a house to life, to me.

Well then the water bill!

"Never miss the water till the well runs dry." I have heard that since a kid and have found it to very true. How about you? We enjoy clean, pure, drinkable water in several rooms and never give it a thought. In third world countries they may have to walk for miles, carrying it home in pots, pans and plastic bags.

Well times are tough! There just isn't enough money to go around!

Here's a fact that may have gotten past you.

If you live in the U.S.A. , on welfare, you are in the top 10% income bracket in the world.

How's your health? Terrific I hope.

"Health is the greatest wealth." ~Emerson

We are more fortunate than we realize.

Play the That's Good That's bad game. See what you actually have that you can give thanks for...not just this week, not just Thursday, but the other 364 days as well.

I'm personally thankfull for each of you... and I'm sure you are for me too. See there, your list has already started. ;-)

I wish each of you a healthy and happy Thanksgiving.

Snow

2009-11-20T05:18:00.012-06:00

Having just experienced our first snowfall of the '09-'10 season, my thoughts returned to last December .

A Californian for the past few decades, my sister has lost actual remembrance of what winter is like. She relishes the rare snow flurry they get in the high desert.

Back to Christmas lights and carols, Currier and Ives scenes and the Noelco guy riding the electric razor over the snow covered hills, her memories blissfully drift.

Last December she took pen and recorded one of these varnished memories during a California snow.

Following is her account of this event. Below that, is my mid-western rebuttal.

Guess it is one of those things we will have to agree to disagree....

Love you Sis!

The Snow Fell

by: Alana Pratt

The snow fell
and it was magical…
I felt like a child again.
I ran from window to window
Wanting to take it all in.

The snow fell
and it was magical…
Flakes so lovely and white,
I awoke to the wonder of it,
It continued into the night.

The snow fell
and it was magical…
It took me to days long passed,
of growing up in a simpler time,
when the pace was not so fast.

The snow fell
and it was magical…
But what about those without mirth,
whose lives are affected by hatred and war?
I prayed for peace on earth.

******************************

The Snow Fell

a rebuttal from the mid-west.
by Marc Johnson

Then snow fell
it was tragical
Oh no, not this shit again.
I ran from window to window.
Why did it have to begin?

The snow fell
it was tragical
Flakes and drifts, what a fright.
I awoke to the plight if it.
It must have snowed all damned night.

The snow fell
it was tragical.
It took me to days long since passed.
When I was a but little guy
with snow clear up to my ass.

The snow fell
it was tragical.
And what about those without mirth?
I figure they're getting this same shitty storm.
What a vacation down south would be worth.

Permanent Purpose: The Butterfly Effect

2009-11-03T09:43:00.008-06:00

“When you know that everything matters—that every move counts as much as any other—you will begin living a life of permanent purpose. A life of permanent purpose will make you a better parent, a better spouse and a more valuable friend. Your productivity and financial success will soar to new heights while the old days of uncertainty, doubt, and depression fade into the past.” Andy Andrews

This morning I read this quote for the very first time. It is from the new book:
The Butterfly Effect by Andy Andrews.

Today I am inspired, filled with spirit.
Like many of you, I have long wondered what my purpose in life is. What am I to do or share that could possibly, positively, affect my family, my friends, co-workers and even the world? What special talent do I possess? What gift do I have to share? And then in Andy's few simple words it all became radiantly clear.
Life is my purpose! Every moment, every breath, thought and action are my purpose, my gift. Each equally important for me and those with whom I share this world, for the generations to come.
In just the last 30 minutes, since reading this quote, I have accomplished several mundane tasks, things that normally fulfill my identity of Chief Procrastinator. But that was changed, like turning on a light, instant revelation. Each task was performed with love and thoughts of how it affects my wife and our relationship, how that affects our children, our friends and now you.
You see I almost did not write this 'Rambling'. Doubt was creeping in, as it often does. Should I share and expose my feelings, my thoughts. And now I have my answer.
Of course.
This, and every choice I make, is my purpose, my Permanent Purpose.
I, for one, will now choose more wisely. For I now know that every choice matters, for all of us.
Here now come the gentle waves from the Butterflies wings, from me to you.
What will be your choice today, tomorrow....?
What will you give to all of us?
What will your purpose mean, to the world?

When Things Go Wrong

2009-10-29T14:51:00.024-05:00

Stumbling, staggering and with one mighty crash, she hit the dirt.
Whisky bottle still clutched in her hand, there she lay.
She was a short but large woman donning a misshapen felt hat, long yellow yarn wig stringing from beneath it.
We knew we were in trouble.
Only moments before all had seemed well. We had our rodeo ambulance prepared, last minute details were covered, and our guest helper for this evening’s performance had been instructed and given a western hat to wear. Where had he gone? Had he stolen our hat? The announcer was giving us our cue to enter the arena and begin the clown act. Hundreds of thoughts and scenarios rushed my brain when the horrible truth was recognized. We had, once again, been set up.
A rodeo clown’s job can be very lonely. Even while surrounded by hundreds of spectators and cowboys it is an extremely solitary feeling when you are one on one with a fighting bull. A much worse feeling is when your clown act is falling apart before your eyes, and it hasn’t even started. I always 'sweat' the clown acts more than the bull riding. You see the crowd expects the bull riding to be unpredictable.

The acts are to be funny and entertaining. Hard to do when your plan is in shambles, and it was! The saboteurs? The stock contractor (our boss) and a handful of his agents. Hard to figure, isn’t it?
The usual plan was to have a guest assistant go into the arena, fall down and need medical attention. Our choice was always slight of stature for reasons that will become apparent. We would then come in to save the day in our rodeo ambulance.
This evening our victim, a 100 pound lad, had been kidnapped and replaced by the above mentioned, yarn haired, immovable 300 pound lass.
Red lights flashing, siren wailing we circled the arena and the rotund casualty.
The first couple of gags went OK.

As the fire crackers died down and the smoke cleared, Dave, the announcer questioned:
“Are you qualified to do this?”
“Of Course” was my reply. “I’m a member of the AMA, The American Malpractice Assoc.”

Dr. Marcus Welfare was my name. My able partner, Dr. Ben Krazy.
Shortly after our arrival I discovered that the driver’s door would not open. Screaming kicking and jerking I tore the door off its hinges and threw it away.
Dr. Ben then carried the ambulance door around with him as a preventative measure. If he got too hot he could roll down his window.
I had retrieved my Dr.’s Bag ( IE: golf) and was driving a few golf balls when we were reminded of the seriousness of the situation.
Rushing to her aid I attempted to straddle and administer artificial respiration.
Straddling was not working so I draped one leg over and did my best.

It became apparent, in our professional diagnosis that, she would need transported for additional care. This is when the real problems started.
In a sprint to the ambulance we retrieved our stretcher and placed it beside the patient.
The first and second attempt to pick up this creature proved futile. Our unrestrainable laughter was not an asset. After a quick physics calculation I determined that she should be rolled onto the gurney.
A slight mis-calculation rendered her face down and after rolling her back to the arena floor we adjusted the distance by half a roll and there she

was, face up! A triumph which we briefly

celebrated.

We then realized that she and the stretcher would need to be loaded into the back of our transport. Efforts to drag the two in that direction were met with dismal consequence.
Then we had an ah ha moment! We would drive the vehicle within hoisting range.
At full speed the ambulance approached and with a thunk thunk ran over the patient and stretcher. (Not to worry that was part of the original plan)

“Oh my God” Dave screamed!
I calmly surveyed the results and proclaimed; “She don’t look so good.” Looks like she was run over by a truck.”

The valiant struggle to load would now begin.

Grunts and groans were to little avail. After several ardent tries our best endeavors had achieved in barely placing one end of the bulging stretcher on the tailgate. Our energy levels nearing absolute zero, we be began to flog our yellow yarned victim with our hats until she finally crawled in, under her own power.
While catching our breath we scrambled back into the vehicle for our exit and…
“It won’t start!” I proclaimed.
“What do you mean it won’t start? We have an emergency here.” Dave scolded.
“It won’t turn over” was my reply.
And with that Dr. Ben proceeded to jack up the vehicle to perform repairs.
‘A loose nut’ was his analysis. Dave had some disparaging remark about more than one loose nut, or something to that effect
All the while I am explaining what a professional and a master of many arts Dr Ben claims to be.
When at that exact moment the car, patient inside, rolls over onto its side.
“Now look what he’s done.” Dave criticizes.
In my ever optimistic view I respond;

“Things are looking better! He’s got it turning over.”
And with the very last ounce of strength and determination we had, the ambulance and extra 200 pounds of cargo was rolled back to its wheels.

Physicians back in the cockpit.... one spark from the ignition, an explosion of a 3 inch bomb, fireworks rocketing out of the roof and overloaded tires rubbing the fenders…Dr's Welfare and Krazy and the best sport I have ever met exited the arena to the cheers of an entertained crowd, rodeo cowboys on their hands and knees in front of the bucking chutes and the smiles of a few satisfied saboteurs.

So are we able to glean a lesson from our ‘Medical Malady’?

· Things don’t always go as planned… go on anyway.
· Change from the routine can be good.
· And picking up some girls may be more difficult than you might think.

The Goose with the Golden Egg

2009-09-07T11:18:00.014-05:00

September 7th 2009. Another Labor Day has arrived, a day to honor the American Worker.

The individual citizen, each laboring at their chosen task is the very fiber of this of this place we call America. We have rolled along here for 233 years, growing, expanding, developing and sharing, unprecedented in recorded history.

Building on the beliefs and values of the founding fathers We The People, have raised and nurtured our very own Golden Goose. And what a Goose she is!!
I do not submit that she is perfect, for that is not the case. You may think that the goose eats too much. That may be true. But compare her to the other geese in the barnyard and she still looks pretty good to me.

Alas, as in the tale of old, our goose is being asked to produce more than she can. She is being starved and yet asked to give more and more to those who do less and less. They threaten to cut her open and redistribute her golden eggs. Then what? Her very survival is at stake. And with that our freedoms are also on the block.

“The way to empower a family, a business or a nation is to empower the individual.” –mj

It is through our combined personal strengths, efforts and contributions that we can keep our goose healthy, to make her even more bountiful and able to provide for ourselves and those who truthfully need help. The more we give to those that refuse to feed the goose, with reasonable taxes or personal service, the weaker she becomes.

We are a diverse country, comprised of cultures and histories from around the globe. That is an elemental factor that makes us strong. Those people came through Ellis Island, from all countries of the world, down through the years, to become Americans, to live the American dream, not to make Her into what they had just escaped. Why would they want to do that?

Each person must give of their portion to tend the goose,
to feed, care for and steel her for the years to come.

It is unreasonable to think that she can do it on her own.

Everyone who wishes to partake must contribute.

Celebrate today! Celebrate the American Worker.

Celebrate what has become the greatest nation on earth.

Our ancestors were key players in her rise. We must make certain to do our part to prevent her fall.

We are her caretakers.

It is up to us;

We The People.

"Brevity is the soul of wit." - Shakespeare

2009-08-15T10:30:00.006-05:00

Ah, Brevity.
What a treat, a cool drink on a stifling August day.
We each have endured sermons that dragged on and on, the classroom lecture from which only the bell could rescue and meetings without structure or end. Whew!

I was first introduced to the above quote by my high school English teacher, Mr. Baker. He signed my year book with Shakespeare’s quote and added: “you are brief.” I attempt to
apply those words in many aspects. Thank you Mr. B.

Clown acts, speeches, writings all were/are revised and trimmed, only the essentials to remain. A distillation of ideas, an economy of words, is the goal.

Jim Rohn says it best of all: “Jesus the master teacher said: 'Follow me.' That's brief! And He was able to do that because of all that He was that He didn't have to say."

Many times we listen to someone’s babbling, telling us much more than they know.
If I catch myself trying to make up for, in words, what I lack in being I know it’s time to get back to work on me.

In giving advice on public speaking, F.D.R., our 32nd President, applying his own council said:
“Be sincere, be brief, be seated.”

I’ll sit down now.

I would love to hear your thoughts.
mj

My Cinderella

2009-08-11T08:31:00.008-05:00

Piercing deep blue eyes. Waist length, golden locks draping her shoulders, and cascading down the pale pink gown.
She could have been an angel.

Her name was Cindy. Could it be short for Cinderella?
Was Walt right? Dreams really DO come true? Was I to be her Prince Charming?
My heart had stopped! (That can’t be good for you.) Then, just as quickly, it began to ascend out of my chest, ears drumming with each passionate thump. I had never experienced such depth of emotion.
It had to be love. First sight too.
My life was complete. We should certainly spend eternity together.

I approached…. Hesitated….”Come on P.C. go for it!” It was Walt.
Courage bolstered, my advance resumed. I stood face to face with magnificence.
Gasping for breath, bumbling for words, I croaked out “Hi.”
And this skank she was with said ‘Cu mon Cindy, let’s go.’ Real snotty like you know?!
They left me there, all alone.
She would not even give me the time of day. Well, maybe she couldn't.
That was something we were going to learn how to do that year in Kindergarten,
you know, tell time.

Be advised that ol’ P.C. was not deterred after that first dismal encounter. That had to have been the skanks fault, I rationalized.
Courage, determination, and perseverance were traits that Walt championed.
I would have my Princess.

Then one day at nap time I could not believe my good fortune. There, on the classroom floor, was an open spot next to my goddess.
Slyly, avoiding eye contact, I casually spread my magic carpet (Mom’s old bathroom rug) next to my fair-haired vision. I instantly laid down, being sure to face away in an effort to not look obvious or seem too pushy.
What peace, what joy, what exhilaration flooded my little being.
At last, we were together.
Oh for just one look.
Would she be looking at me? Would she be smiling? Would we talk?
With my sweetest smile I slowly turned to face her and….
She was gone!!
The little witch was gone!
She had up and moved her rug across the room leaving me there all alone, once again.
So what’s a guy to do?

What do you have to say about that one, Mr.D?

It is said: ‘It’s nice to be the King!’ That may be true.
But from my experience, Prince Charmings gig is highly overrated.

Genius, Power & Magic

2009-08-07T22:17:00.003-05:00

"Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way.
I learned a deep respect for one of Goethe's couplets:
Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it.
Boldness has genius, power and magic in it!"

W. H. Murray in The Scottish Himalaya Expedition, 1951.

Silent Heros

2009-07-30T02:08:00.001-05:00

Today the media is intoxicated with the news of Michael Jackson’s death.
They have and will continue to milk this for all they can squeeze. Michael led a controversial life. He was, some think, larger than life and may be considered larger than that in death.
So, then why did I choose the title, ‘Silent Heroes’?
Michael has been placed in hero status. He was far from silent. So is ‘hero’ a good fit?
I looked up ‘hero’ in Merriam’s. Sure enough there it was: ‘An object of extreme admiration and devotion.’ That does seem to apply. It is hard to ignore the effects his music and performances have had on millions of fans, worldwide. Their admiration and devotion is undeniable.
Hey, even I would love the ability to weightlessly moonwalk, fedora shading my eyes in the spot light. ;-)
Then there are ones who judge. Not much middle of the road in this incident. God himself reserves decree until judgment day. I feel much less qualified.
So do you personally know any Silent Heroes? I think you might be surprised.
Merriam also defined hero as: 'A man admired for his achievements and noble qualities.'
I think of those who volunteer at local animal shelters. Hearts breaking, each time they invest pieces of their personal lives that some fury souls might know the feeling of being held, cherished and loved, their sad eyes looking, perhaps for the first time, into tender eyes that deeply care.
The single mother who works two maybe three jobs that her children may have a better life, education and future than she.
He volunteers in a soup kitchen, handing out nourishment, comfort and hope.
Feet and back aching, in a darkened hospital room, a nurse comforts a homesick, frightened child.
Gazing into the brimming eyes of her student the teacher celebrates his success with him. "Remember this great feeling" she encourages, "Goals like this are SO possible, if you put forth the effort."
Those are what I call heroes!
Add your Silent Heroes to my list. Seek them and let them know how much they mean to you.
What an improved place our world would be if the headlines screamed the wonderful works of our Silent Heroes, if we thanked them for their quiet service.
Recently, a Viet Nam Vet was privately thanked for his service to his country and told ‘Welcome home soldier.’
A choked “Thank you” and tear filled eyes said it all.
So who are your Silent Heroes?
Will you let them know?
It’s never too late.
Would love to hear your thoughts.
mj

Why Personal Development?

2009-07-29T21:46:00.005-05:00

I have been a student of life and personal development for a long, long time.
If I would have made the progress that I desire, I should not have to verbalize that.
But alas, my development is painfully slow.
When I share a Philosophical Meandering it is more for my growth and contemplation than yours. I, in no way consider myself a teacher. When I share my thoughts on paper it forces me to clarify and distill my ideas. To use an economy of words is my goal. My thoughts are just that, my thoughts, nothing more.
So why bother with personal growth? Why do I personally choose to spend my time in this venture?
We each have plenty to keep us busy, without adding to our list. We have gutters falling off the house, the car breaks down, the dog needs to go to the vet, again, the ferret is trying to eat the bird, and the grass needs cut. The bills have to be paid, more time needs paid to the family, trash pickup is on Tuesday, the mail box is falling off the post, Oops, time to go to work, and on and on life goes. (Deep sigh)
Why, on earth, would we try to squeeze in one more task?
For me it is a choice. Hey for each of us it is.
Life is packed full of negatives. Often they are likened to weeds in a garden. Without care and attention (disguised as work and dressed in overalls) the weeds overtake the garden in rather short order. Doesn’t seem fair, does it? But that’s the way it is. So our choice is to cuss the weeds and their choking effect on our lives, or we can go to work to make our lives the beautiful gardens there are meant to be.
I have enough natural negative so to cuss the weeds would only add to my lengthy list.
I have found when in the dirt wrestling those weeds that I am much happier than when lounging around allowing them to grow.
You see I can belly ache and complain with the best.
How unfair life is, how lousy my work can be, the bills, the traffic, the state of the economy, the corrupt government, the criminal element and much of this is brought to me free of charge, in the daily news. When I allow myself to fall in this pit, I feel weak, vulnerable, and small, like a victim, helpless and trapped. Sometimes I think I could walk under a snake with my hat on. Does any of this ring a bell or strike a chord, with you?
However when I’m digging for those positive thoughts, when I’m reading the inspiring story of one who took his/her garden to the limit, then I too am filled with spirit, encouraged and powerful.
The more we look for the good stuff the more we find. That is also true of the bad. Each camp can provide endless examples proving their point. And I guess that is my point. What do you want to find?
This by the way is a Quantum Physics principal, called The Observer Effect.
Years ago in Brussels, Belgium scientists were having a little get together to discuss whether energy manifest itself as waves or particles. As they looked through high powered microscopes the wavers would see waves, the particlers, particles. Finally one of the wavers talked a particler into looking for waves. And as he began to look for waves, where he had just seen particles, the waves appeared to him. The result is the QP principal of The Observer Effect. We get what we look for! What do you want to find?
To have a beautiful garden we must do more than just root out the weeds (turn off the news). Our garden needs fed and fertilized, with great books and audios, with the encouragement of those who strive for their own exquisite life. The late Charlie “Tremendous” Jones said: “In five years you will be the same person you are today, except for the books you read and the people you meet.” That statement made me take a look.
Hey I am not advising the ‘Ostrich approach’ to life. We can stay informed without being inundated.
I believe, however, that all my worrying, cussing and handwringing, will not improve the condition of a child half way around the world. It only serves to make me less in the moment. If, in this case you choose to make a donation to help in such cause that wonderful. It’s the emotional drain of which I speak.
Let me be clear. I do care about the children of this world, the crime and violence, but the majority of that is outside my realm of influence. I can have little, to no, effect on those situations. But through my personal growth my circle of influence will expand and in turn I will be in a position of strength to help and serve more and more people.
So how do you want to feel each day? Shall we spend our limited days mired, wallowing in the stress of the world, or basking in the warm sun light as we tend to this spectacular garden we call life?
Changing the direction of our lives will happen in an instant. Deciding to change can take years.
It is simply our choice.

I would love to hear your thoughts.
mj

Cock-a-Doodle-Do

2009-07-29T21:32:00.004-05:00

When I sit down to write one of my Philosophical Meanderings, a sense of unworthiness most times engulfs me. Who am I to be spouting all this positive stuff? You see I know me better than anyone, and sometimes it just ain’t pretty. Then I find myself at the keyboard, once again, attempting to put my rambling thoughts on paper.
I have hidden, or at least think I have, the depth of my feelings of lack. There were times in my life when I would find it hard to address someone by their first name if it was the same as mine. Man could a shrink have a hay day with that one. So you see these ‘meanderings’ really put me on the spot, in the spot light. That can be a pretty hot and revealing locale. It is much easier to live life in the shadows, just off stage, but we don’t grow much in the dark.
So here I am again, hat in hand.

I think there is a difference between self-esteem and self-worth.
To me self esteem is our belief in our ability to perform a certain task, that we are intelligent, or that we are attractive. Get the idea?

Self worth is coming to the place where we sincerely like ourselves, and where we believe we are good people who deserve love. Now I said good not perfect. That’s not happenin’. We’re not talking about bragging or becoming egotistical, rather a healthy sense of worth.

At times it may seem like things are actually getting worse on our journey.
That may be a good sign.

“Just when our lives are starting to get better, we may feel things are getting worse, because for the first time we see clearly what needs to be done.” –Dan Millman

Dan goes on to say that the irony of self worth is that those who are sincerely trying to improve may feel less worthy because of the high standards to which they hold themselves. Those with lower standards, less vision or sensitivity don’t have to measure up to much. They may even seem to manifest more self-esteem.
Those on the journey will recognize their faults and short comings and may have difficulty in understanding it is an important part of their growth.

So when it seems the harder you try the worse it gets, If you see more wrong now than you did last week, Hang in there baby. Great things may be just over this next hill. Who knows what magnificent view may be waiting for you, just around the corner.

‘It's always darkest just before the dawn.’
Is that a rooster I hear?

As always, I would love to hear your thoughts.
mj

In the Beat of a Tiny Heart

2009-07-29T20:41:00.002-05:00

Habits; they shape our lives.
If we develop good ones, life tends to run somewhat smoother. Or so I’m told.
Bad habits can make for a little more interesting and challenging existence.
In a hell of a mess, that’s where they can get you. Read on.
Of all the bad habits (plural, I know it’s hard to believe) I have cultivated over the years, one towers over the others.
It only stands to reason and I’m not trying to anal-lies or justify, but having spent the larger years of my life in the company of truck drivers, rodeo cowboys and railroaders it should be understandable that colorful language has been a vice of choice.
This was a habit at which I had become quite proficient, eloquent and fluent, my 2nd language. In younger days I had actually taken great pride at the effortless and entertaining manner of my banter.
Alas, as I have aged (Oh how I wanted to say matured) I have lost my zeal for this ally of old. The pleasure, the satisfaction, of a well-crafted spew of goo has faded.
If I had a magic wand or perhaps ‘thee three wishes’ this would be my 1st correction.
I was given fair warning…many years ago, a warning that my oratory skills might not always be appreciated. If only I had heeded that warning. But then what would I be writing about this evening? So, what the hell! ;-)
The event of record is from my ‘rodeo era.’ The specifics escape me, but something had triggered one of my frequent ventures into the arena of ‘colorful language expertise’.
My audience that day consisted of (I hate to admit this one) my brother’s youngest daughter, my 4 year old niece. Our habits become so strong that they sometimes, most times, are not a matter of our choosing, in the moment. Could sure have used that magic wand!
So…something happened and my 2nd language sprang to life.
The exact verbiage I cannot recall, only that the ambient air was a stormy shade of violet.
You know how good 4 yr olds are at questions? Why this? How come that? Are we there yet? This child was no exception, yet exceptional.
“Uncle Moik? How come you cuss so much?” her innocent voice etched forever on my memory.
Quick on my feet, I was a bullfighter you know. I had the answer to this one. She was only 4. The power of reason was my angle.
“Well you see Rebecca my cussing has become a habit.” using my best ‘uncle in a jam’ voice.
Man this kid has got some eye contact.
I dug the hole deeper as I continued to ramble in my ignorance. (Note to self: Never reason with a 4yr old)
“And you see a habit is like breathing. You do it without thinking. You can’t stop breathing now, can you?”
There that should do it!!
Then with only a moment of hesitation, in the beat of a tiny heart, she replied:
“You can hold your breff sometimes.”

‘This one’s for you, Rebecca.’