The Story Of Stone & Sand

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. Here's a quick little story that teaches us to forget the bad times and remember the good. We all go through our difficulties. The things is all happenings come and go. No matter what occurs in our life it will pass, good or bad.

The key is to let the difficult times dissolve into the past. If we continually live that memory, we will experience the same hurt over and over again. This is not a good way to live because you will remain stagnant and frustrated.

Instead savor the good times and keep these memories close to your heart. These experiences will give you courage when times get tough. You can look look back on them and know that you have persevered before and have the ability to do it again.

Share this story with your friends and family. No matter what happens in your life you have control of how you react to it. It is your reaction that prove your true character. Have a great day, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!

STONE & SAND

TWO FRIENDS WERE WALKING
THROUGH THE DESERT.

DURING SOME POINT OF THE JOURNEY,
THEY HAD AN ARGUMENT; AND ONE FRIEND
SLAPPED THE OTHER ONE IN THE FACE.

THE ONE WHO GOT SLAPPED
WAS HURT, BUT WITHOUT
SAYING ANYTHING,
WROTE IN THE SAND,

"TODAY MY BEST FRIEND
SLAPPED ME IN THE FACE."

THEY KEPT ON WALKING,
UNTIL THEY FOUND AN OASIS,
WHERE THEY DECIDED
TO TAKE A BATH

THE ONE WHO HAD BEEN
SLAPPED GOT STUCK IN THE
MIRE AND STARTED DROWNING,
BUT THE FRIEND SAVED HIM.

AFTER HE RECOVERED FROM
THE NEAR DROWNING,
HE WROTE ON A STONE:

"TODAY MY BEST FRIEND
SAVED MY LIFE."

THE FRIEND WHO HAD SLAPPED
AND SAVED HIS BEST FRIEND
ASKED HIM, "AFTER I HURT YOU,
YOU WROTE IN THE SAND AND NOW,
YOU WRITE ON A STONE, WHY?"

THE FRIEND REPLIED
"WHEN SOMEONE HURTS US
WE SHOULD WRITE IT DOWN
IN SAND, WHERE WINDS OF
FORGIVENESS CAN ERASE IT AWAY.

BUT, WHEN SOMEONE DOES
SOMETHING GOOD FOR US,
WE MUST ENGRAVE IT IN STONE
WHERE NO WIND
CAN EVER ERASE IT".

LEARN TO WRITE
YOUR HURTS IN
THE SAND AND TO
CARVE YOUR
BENEFITS IN STONE.

THEY SAY IT TAKES A MINUTE TO
FIND A SPECIAL PERSON,
AN HOUR TO
APPRECIATE THEM,

A DAY TO LOVE THEM,
BUT THEN,
AN ENTIRE LIFE
TO FORGET THEM.
TAKE THE TIME TO LIVE!

DO NOT VALUE THE THINGS
YOU HAVE IN YOUR LIFE, BUT VALUE
WHO YOU HAVE IN YOUR LIFE!

BE KINDER THAN NECESSARY,
FOR EVERYONE YOU MEET IS
FIGHTING SOME KIND OF BATTLE.

Human Nature Presents Itself In The Way We Treat Others

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. I received this story in an email the other day. It is the story of Shay. It's a perfect example of the attitude we should hold towards other people no matter the situation.

I encourage each of you to find ways to help out your fellow man. When we help each other we strengthen the whole. We are all family sharing this space on the planet earth. We should strive to work as a cohesive unit which has compassion for all its members.

Make everyday a Shay Day. Share this story with your friends and family. Just by doing that you will be doing your part to make this world a better place. Many blessings, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!

*SHAY DAY*

At a fundraising dinner for a school that serves learning disabled children, the father of one of the students delivered a speech that would never be forgotten by all who attended. After extolling the school and its dedicated staff, he offered a question:

"When not interfered with outside influences, everything nature does is done with perfection. Yet my son Shay, cannot learn things as other children do. He cannot understand things as other children do. Where is the natural order of things in my son?"

The audience was stilled by the query.

The father continued. "I believe, that when a child like Shay, physically and mentally handicapped comes into the world, an opportunity to realize true human nature presents itself, and comes, in the way other people treat that child." Then he told the following story:

Shay and his father had walked past a park where some boys Shay knew were playing baseball. Shay asked, "Do you think they'll let me play?" Shay's father knew that most of the boys would not want someone like Shay on their team, but the father also understood that if his son were allowed to play, it would give him a much-needed sense of belonging and some confidence to be accepted by others in spite of his handicaps.

Shay's father approached one of the boys on the field and asked if Shay could play, not expecting much. The boy looked around for guidance and said, "We're losing by six runs and the game is in the eighth inning, I guess he can be on our team and we'll try to put him to bat in the ninth inning."

Shay's father approached one of the boys on the field and asked if Shay could play, not expecting much. The boy looked around for guidance and said, "We're losing by six runs and the game is in the eighth inning, I guess he can be on our team and we'll try to put him to bat in the ninth inning."

Shay struggled over to the team's bench, put on a team shirt with a broad smile and his Father had a small tear in his eye and warmth in his heart. The boys saw the father's joy at his son being accepted. In the bottom of the eighth inning, Shay's team scored a few runs but was still behind by three. In the top of the ninth inning, Shay put on a glove and played in the right field. Even though no hits came his way, he was obviously ecstatic just to be in the field, grinning from ear to ear as his father waved to him from the stands. In the bottom of the ninth inning, Shay's team scored again. Now, with two outs and the bases loaded, the potential winning run was on base and Shay was scheduled to be next at bat.

At this juncture, do they let Shay bat and give away their chance to win the game? Surprisingly, Shay was given the bat. Everyone knew that a hit was all but impossible because Shay didn't even know how to hold the bat properly, much less connect with the ball.

However, as Shay stepped up to the plate, the pitcher, recognizing the other team putting winning aside for this moment in Shay's life, moved in a few steps to lob the ball in softly so Shay could at least be able to make contact. The first pitch came and Shay swung clumsily and missed. The pitcher again took a few steps forward to toss the ball softly towards Shay. As the pitch came in, Shay swung at the ball and hit a slow ground ball right back to the pitcher.

The game would now be over, but the pitcher picked up the soft grounder and could have easily thrown the ball to the first baseman. Shay would have been out and that would have been the end of the game.

Instead, the pitcher threw the ball right over the head of the first baseman, out of the reach of all the teammates. Everyone from the stands and both teams started yelling,"Shay, run to first!" Never in his life had Shay ever ran that far but made it to first base. He scampered down the baseline, wide-eyed and startled.

Everyone yelled, "Run to second, run to second!" Catching his breath, Shay awkwardly ran towards second, gleaming and struggling to make it to second base. By this time Shay rounded towards second base. The right fielder had the ball. The smallest guy on their team had a chance to be the hero for his team for the first time in his life. He could have thrown the ball to the second-baseman for the tag, but he understood the pitcher's intentions and he too intentionally threw the ball high and far over the third-baseman's head. Shay ran toward third base deliriously as the runners ahead of him circled the bases toward home. All were screaming, "Shay, Shay, Shay, all the Way Shay"

Shay reached third base, the opposing shortstop ran to help him and turned him the direction of third base, and shouted, "Run to third! Shay, run to third". As Shay rounded third, the boys from both teams and those watching were on their feet screaming, "Shay, run home! Shay ran to home, stepped on the plate, and cheered as the hero who hit the "grand slam" and won the game for his team.



That day, said the father softly with tears now rolling down his face, the boys from both teams helped bring a piece of true love and humanity into this world. Shay didn't make it another summer and died that winter, having never forgotten being the hero and making his Father so happy and coming home and seeing his Mother tearfully embrace her little hero of the day!

May your day be a Shay Day, sunny today, tomorrow, and always!

I'm Thankful For You - A Thanksgiving Poem

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!! Remember to tell that ones close to you that you love them. Then pick a few random people that you haven't talk to in a while and tell them that you are thankful for knowing them. It will make their day and yours.

Have a great day everybody. It is a pleasure and I am thankful to call you family. Many blessings, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!

"I’m Thankful for You"

Thanksgiving is the appointed time
for focusing on the good in our lives.
In each of our days,
we can find small blessings,
but too often we overlook them,
choosing instead to spend our time
paying attention to problems.
We give our energy
to those who cause us trouble
instead of those who bring peace.
Starting now,
let’s be on the lookout
for the bits of pleasure in each hour,
and appreciate the people who
bring love and light to everyone
who is blessed to know them.
You are one of those people.
On Thanksgiving,
I’m thankful for you.
Happy Thanksgiving!

By Joanna Fuchs

I Believe In You Because You're Family


Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. Do you feel like this sometimes? Does it feel like you have the weight the world on your shoulders? You are not alone. We all have days when we feel like it's just not worth it.

I'm here to tell you that it is going to be alright. Whatever you are going through I have complete confidence that you will see it through. This is my personal endorsement in you.

I am proud of who you are. You make this world a better place. You have the amazing ability to make the people around you better. I cannot even express how much I am in awe of what you stand for. Thank you for making my existence that much better.

This message goes out to whom ever reads it. We may not have met in person but we are connected and I consider you family. And family should always looks out for each other. Have a good day. I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate you. Many blessings, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!

P.S. If you allow yourself to feel good, this is what you will look like.

(My niece Leigha-Marie. Isn't she a cutie?)

Make Your Actions Reflect Your Words - The Girl Who Silenced The World For 5 Minutes

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. This video needs no explanation. The message is clear and concise and from the heart of a child. Many Blessings and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!

The Battle Between The Two Wolves In Us All

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. Here's a short story about nurturing the right thoughts. We all have a choice. Which will you choose? Many Blessings, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!


This is probably the best I have ever heard life explained!

One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people.
He said, "My son, the battle is between two wolves inside us all.

"One is Evil - It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.

"The other is Good - It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith."

The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather: "Which wolf wins?"

The old Cherokee simply replied, "The one you feed."

Can You Achieve 101% - I Have The Secret

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. My Dad sent me this email the other day. This is a good one for all you mathematicians that need hardcore numbers to prove the reality or existence of a question.

The question: Can someone give 101%? We have all heard of athletes saying that they gave 110%. But is that possible? Isn't 100% the absolute best one can do?

It turns out that it is indeed possible to give more than 100%. The following equations prove it. There is only one way to give more than 100% and when you discover what it is, there will be no limits to what you cam accomplish.

After reading this you will have the secret. The next move is yours. Many Blessings, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!

1 x 8 + 1 = 9

12 x 8 + 2 = 98

123 x 8 + 3 = 987

1234 x 8 + 4 = 9876

12345 x 8 + 5 = 98765

123456 x 8 + 6 = 987654

1234567 x 8 + 7 = 9876543

12345678 x 8 + 8 = 98765432

123456789 x 8 + 9 = 987654321


1 x 9 + 2 = 11

12 x 9 + 3 = 111

123 x 9 + 4 = 1111

1234 x 9 + 5 = 11111

12345 x 9 + 6 = 111111

123456 x 9 + 7 = 1111111

1234567 x 9 + 8 = 11111111

12345678 x 9 + 9 = 111111111

123456789 x 9 +10= 1111111111


9 x 9 + 7 = 88

98 x 9 + 6 = 888

987 x 9 + 5 = 8888

9876 x 9 + 4 = 88888

98765 x 9 + 3 = 888888

987654 x 9 + 2 = 8888888

9876543 x 9 + 1 = 88888888

98765432 x 9 + 0 = 888888888

Brilliant, isn't it?

And look at this symmetry:

1 x 1 = 1

11 x 11 = 121

111 x 111 = 12321

1111 x 1111 = 1234321

11111 x 11111 = 123454321

111111 x 111111 = 12345654321

1111111 x 1111111 = 1234567654321

11111111 x 11111111 = 123456787654321

111111111 x 111111111 = 12345678987654321

Mind Boggling...

Now, take a look at this...

101%

From a strictly mathematical viewpoint:
What Equals 100%?

What does it mean to give MORE than 100%?

Ever wonder about those people who say they are giving more than 100%?

We have all been in situations where someone wants you to GIVE OVER 100%.

How about ACHIEVING 101%?

What equals 100% in life?

Here's a little mathematical formula that might help answer these questions:

If:
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Is represented as:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26.

Then:

H-A-R-D-W-O- R- K
8+1+18+4+23+15+18+11 = 98%

And:

K-N-O-W-L-E- D-G-E
11+14+15+23+12+5+4+7+ 5 = 96%

But:

A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E
1+20+20+9+20+ 21+4+5 = 100%

THEN, look how far the love of God will take you:

L-O-V-E -O-F- G-O-D
12+15+22+5+15+ 6+7+15+4 = 101%

Therefore, one can conclude with mathematical certainty that:

While Hard Work and Knowledge will get you close, and Attitude will
get you there. It's the *Love of God* that will put you over the top!



A Soldiers Wish: A Home For His Best Friend

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. My girlfriend has two huge Great Danes Tank and Diesel(The Boys). When I say huge. I mean huge. I am 6' 2" and when standing next to me, they are at my waist. They weigh about 200 pounds each and have the equivalent of that in love to give.

Danes are one of the most loyal breeds that one can own. I was reading a book that said that their main goal is to please their owner. It also said that they are very protective yet gentle with children. Nothing could be truer.

This past weekend Gretchen(my girlfriend) had some of her childhood friends visit and they brought their son along for the trip. They have been friends since kindergarten and when they get together it's as if they are little girls again. That in itself is a blessing.

Austin is the cutest little boy ever. He already has so much personality. We're hoping he will be the new face for Baby Gap. The Boys were like little kids around Austin, especially Diesel. He loves children. They were like two peas in a pod. He was so patient with Austin. He would let him climb all over his back never making a fuss. Diesel was just happy to be playing.

Gretchen emailed me the following story. It has special meaning to her as you will see why when you get to the end. It's a bit of a tear jerker, but the message behind it definitely hits home.

Enjoy the following story. Be sure to tell the ones you love whether human or animal how much they mean to you on a daily basis. You never want to have regrets that you wish you had one more chance to say I love you.

Many Blessings, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!









They told me the big black Lab's name was Reggie
as I looked at him lying in his pen. the shelter was
clean, no-kill, and the people really friendly.
I'd only been in the area for six months, but everywhere
I went in the small college town, people were welcoming and
open. Everyone waves when you pass them on the
street.

But something was still missing as I attempted to
settle in to my new life here, and I thought a dog
couldn't hurt. Give me someone to talk to.
And I had just seen Reggie's advertisement on the local
news.. The shelter said they had received numerous
calls right after, but they said the people who had come
down to see him just didn't look like "Lab
people," whatever that meant. They must've
thought I did.

But at first, I thought the shelter had misjudged me
in giving me Reggie and his things, which consisted of a dog
pad, bag of toys almost all of which were brand new tennis
balls, his dishes, and a sealed letter from his previous
owner. See, Reggie and I didn't really hit it off
when we got home. We struggled for two weeks (which is
how long the shelter told me to give him to adjust to his
new home). Maybe it was the fact that I was trying to
adjust, too. Maybe we were too much alike.

For some reason, his stuff (except for the tennis
balls - he wouldn't go anywhere without two stuffed in
his mouth) got tossed in with all of my other unpacked
boxes. I guess I didn't really think he'd need
all his old stuff, that I'd get him new things once he
settled in. but it became pretty clear pretty soon
that he wasn't going to.

I tried the normal commands the shelter told me he
knew, ones like "sit" and "stay" and
"come" and "heel," and he'd follow
them - when he felt like it. He never really seemed to
listen when I called his name - sure, he'd look in my
direction after the fourth of fifth time I said it, but then
he'd just go back to doing whatever. When I'd
ask again, you could almost see him sigh and then grudgingly
obey.

This just wasn't going to work. He chewed a
couple shoes and some unpacked boxes. I was a little
too stern with him and he resented it, I could tell.
The friction got so bad that I couldn't wait for the two
weeks to be up, and when it was, I was in full-on search
mode for my cell phone amid all of my unpacked stuff. I
remembered leaving it on the stack of boxes for the guest
room, but I also mumbled, rather cynically, that the
"dog probably hid it on me."

Finally I found it, but before I could punch up the
shelter's number, I also found his pad and other toys
from the shelter.. I tossed the pad in Reggie's
direction and he snuffed it and wagged, some of the most
enthusiasm I'd seen since bringing him home. But
then I called, "Hey, Reggie, you like that? Come
here and I'll give you a treat." Instead, he
sort of glanced in my direction - maybe "glared"
is more accurate - and then gave a discontented sigh and
flopped down. With his back to me.

Well, that's not going to do it either, I
thought. And I punched the shelter phone number.

But I hung up when I saw the sealed envelope. I
had completely forgotten about that, too.. "Okay,
Reggie," I said out loud, "let's see if
your previous owner has any advice.".........

To
Whoever Gets My Dog:
Well, I can't say that I'm
happy you're reading this, a letter I told the shelter
could only be opened by Reggie's new owner.
I'm not even happy writing it. If you're
reading this, it means I just got back from my last car ride
with my Lab after dropping him off at the shelter. He
knew something was different. I have packed up his pad
and toys before and set them by the back door before a trip,
but this time... it's like he knew something was
wrong. And something is wrong... which is why I have
to go to try to make it right.

So let me tell you about my Lab in
the hopes that it will help you bond with him and he with
you.

First, he loves tennis balls.
the more the merrier. Sometimes I think he's part
squirrel, the way he hordes them. He usually always
has two in his mouth, and he tries to get a third in
there. Hasn't done it yet. Doesn't
matter where you throw them, he'll bound after it, so be
careful - really don't do it by any roads. I made
that mistake once, and it almost cost him
dearly.

Next, commands. Maybe the
shelter staff already told you, but I'll go over them
again: Reggie knows the obvious ones -
"sit," "stay," "come,"
"heel." He knows hand signals:
"back" to turn around and go back when you put
your hand straight up; and "over" if you put your
hand out right or left. "Shake" for shaking
water off, and "paw" for a high-five. He
does "down" when he feels like lying down - I bet
you could work on that with him some more. He knows
"ball" and "food" and "bone"
and "treat" like nobody's
business.

I trained Reggie with small food
treats. Nothing opens his ears like little pieces of
hot dog.

Feeding schedule: twice a
day, once about seven in the morning, and again at six in
the evening. Regular store-bought stuff; the shelter
has the brand.

He's up on his shots.
Call the clinic on 9th Street and update his info with
yours; they'll make sure to send you reminders for when
he's due. Be forewarned: Reggie hates the
vet. Good luck getting him in the car - I don't
know how he knows when it's time to go to the vet, but
he knows.

Finally, give him some time.
I've never been married, so it's only been Reggie
and me for his whole life. He's gone everywhere
with me, so please include him on your daily car rides if
you can. He sits well in the backseat, and he
doesn't bark or complain. He just loves to be
around people, and me most especially.

Which means that this transition is
going to be hard, with him going to live with someone
new.

And that's why I need to share
one more bit of info with you.....

His name's not
Reggie.

I don't know what made me do
it, but when I dropped him off at the shelter, I told them
his name was Reggie. He's a smart dog, he'll
get used to it and will respond to it, of that I have no
doubt. but I just couldn't bear to give them his
real name. For me to do that, it seemed so final, that
handing him over to the shelter was as good as me admitting
that I'd never see him again. And if I end up
coming back, getting him, and tearing up this letter, it
means everything's fine. But if someone else is
reading it, well... well it means that his new owner should
know his real name. It'll help you bond with
him. Who knows, maybe you'll even notice a change
in his demeanor if he's been giving you
problems.

His real name is Tank.

Because that is what I
drive.

Again, if you're reading this
and you're from the area, maybe my name has been on the
news. I told the shelter that they couldn't make
"Reggie" available for adoption until they
received word from my company commander. See, my
parents are gone, I have no siblings, no one I could've
left Tank with... and it was my only real request of the
Army upon my deployment to Iraq , that they make one phone
call the shelter... in the "event"... to tell
them that Tank could be put up for adoption. Luckily,
my colonel is a dog guy, too, and he knew where my platoon
was headed. He said he'd do it
personally. And if you're reading this, then
he made good on his word.

Well, this letter is getting to
downright depressing, even though, frankly, I'm just
writing it for my dog. I couldn't imagine if I was
writing it for a wife and kids and family. but still,
Tank has been my family for the last six years, almost as
long as the Army has been my family.

And now I hope and pray that you
make him part of your family and that he will adjust and
come to love you the same way he loved me.

That unconditional love from a dog
is what I took with me to Iraq as an inspiration to do
something selfless, to protect innocent people from those
who would do terrible things... and to keep those terrible
people from coming over here. If I had to give up Tank
in order to do it, I am glad to have done so. He was
my example of service and of love. I hope I honored
him by my service to my country and comrades.

All right, that's enough.
I deploy this evening and have to drop this letter off at
the shelter. I don't think I'll say another
good-bye to Tank, though. I cried too much the first
time. Maybe I'll peek in on him and see if he
finally got that third tennis ball in his
mouth.

Good luck with Tank. Give him
a good home, and give him an extra kiss goodnight - every
night - from me.

Thank you, Paul
Mallory

________

I folded
the letter and slipped it back in the envelope. Sure I
had heard of Paul Mallory, everyone in town knew him, even
new people like me. Local kid, killed in Iraq a few
months ago and posthumously earning the Silver Star when he
gave his life to save three buddies. Flags had been at
half-mast all summer.

I leaned forward in my chair and rested my elbows on
my knees, staring at the dog.

"Hey, Tank," I said quietly.

The dog's head whipped up, his ears cocked and his
eyes bright.

"C'mere boy."

He was instantly on his feet, his nails clicking on
the hardwood floor. He sat in front of me, his head
tilted, searching for the name he hadn't heard in
months.

"Tank," I whispered.

His tail swished.

I kept whispering his name, over and over, and each
time, his ears lowered, his eyes softened, and his posture
relaxed as a wave of contentment just seemed to flood
him. I stroked his ears, rubbed his shoulders, buried
my face into his scruff and hugged him.

"It's me now, Tank, just you and me.
Your old pal gave you to me." Tank reached up and
licked my cheek. "So whatdaya say we play some
ball? His ears perked again.
"Yeah? Ball? You like that?
Ball?" Tank tore from my hands and
disappeared in the next room.

And when he came back, he had three tennis balls

Let The Children Sing - Singing Twins

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. These two boys are excellent and are on their way to stardom. What I love about them is the passion that comes through there voices. You get a true sense that they believe what they are singing.


Children do everything with passion and newness. Just about every moment is new for them so they don't take anything for granted. We should all have the mindset of a child.

Explore everything as if it were new. Don't be afraid to fall down. A baby always gets up when they fall as they are learning to walk. They never give up. Laugh as much as possible. Laugh until it hurts. We should never forget what it is like smile at the simple things in life.

Enjoy the video. I'm sure we will be hearing more from these guys. I'm looking forward to it. Many blessings, and thanks for listening.

Don't Treasure The Cup...Treasure The Coffee

Hello Friends,



Hope all is well. I came across this video from the good people at Spiritual-Short-Stories.com. What a reminder of where our priorities should lie. I don't want to spoil the story so I'll just sit back and let you push play. Enjoy and be sure to share this very real message. Everyone will be better off for it.

Many Blessings, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!



Discover 11 powerful daily processes to turn yourself into a manifestation magnet!

Are You Up For A Challenge? - Finish The Last 100 Days Of 2009 With A Bang!

Hello Friends.

Hope all is well. Are You Up For a Challenge? It's been a fast, challenging and for some a painful year. Some have struggled with debt. Some have become fearful of the current economic crisis, and as a result become paralyzed by the pace of change. I've come across a great way for you to take control of your future and finish the year off with a bang.



Today, September 23rd is an important date as it marks the 100 day countdown of 2009. With that in mind, I want to throw down a challenge, I want to provide you with an opportunity to redeem yourself and turn things around for the better and I mean much better.

You see, one thing we all have in common is that we all love a challenge! For some it could be a goal that puts you to the test, an obstacle that says you can't beat me, a belief system that is begging for a breakthrough, or even a mountain that just dares you to climb it. Whatever it is, you’re attitude should be BRING IT ON, as there's nothing quite like a good old fashioned challenge to see what you're made, to push the boundaries and tests your limits as it is ONLY when we overcome these trials that we get to reap the sweetest rewards.

Gary Ryan Blair, otherwise know as The Goals Guy has put together what I believe to be the most comprehensive approach to goal setting and performance enhancement. Gary has been working with executives and employees at Coca-Cola, American Express, IBM, Starbucks, Time Warner, Disney, and many more teaching them exactly how set and reach their goals - if he can do it for them, he can do it for you. Many of the top leaders in just about every field call on Gary when trying to develop and execute on certain goals. It is so much easier when you know HOW to create a workable plan, and can create accountability and that is where he excels.

Back to your goals and the challenge. Gary has created a powerful program that will show you how to make maximum performance gains in the shortest time possible. It is very effective and very affordable. I think it is a no brainer. If are serious about making changes and finishing the year strong then you simply must check out this program.

It's called the 100 Day Finish Strong Challenge and it begins today September 23rd, which just so happens to be the final 100 days of the year. Learn more here: http://tinyurl.com/l8qdk7 It is a downloadable video and audio program where Gary literally coaches you towards achieving your goals -- the RIGHT WAY!

I recommend the program, I recommend that you download the Special Report, and more importantly I recommend Gary. So make sure to go to: 100 Day Finish Strong Challenge at http://tinyurl.com/l8qdk7, and put yourself and your family in the best possible position. Make sure to watch this video and start creating the existence you deserve. Many Blessings, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!





Feeling Good With Man's Best Friend

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. Here are a couple of my buddies that will definitely make you feel good. I feel that we should be always trying to find ways to feel good. Feeling good keeps you in a positive mood. And from a positive mood, we are able to create anything.

I encourage you to make an effort to seek those things that have positive impact on yourself and those around you. The best way to feel good is to follow your bliss. When you are doing the thing you love, you move effortlessly with the flow of the Universe.

Enjoy the pictures that follow. They made me smile. I hope they have the same effect on you. Many Blessings, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!

















100 DAY CHALLENGE BEGINS IN 2 DAYS. ARE YOU READY? - 9/23/09
Grab your free report and find out...

• How to experience greater freedom
• How to finish the year with a bang
• 3 things you must avoid doing!




Reflection: Embracing What Is And What Will Be

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. I received this note from one of my college friends. I haven't seen Mariam in years but we have connected again through Facebook and for that I am very thankful.

Mariam has always been full of energy and attracted people to her. I can't remember too many times when she wasn't smiling and making the people around her laugh. It was clear that people liked to be around her.

As I have gotten reacquainted with her through the Internet, I see that nothing has changed. She always has something positive to share and those who read her posts are better for it.

Enjoy the following from Mariam. I view it as a challenge to focus on what will be rather than "what is". Many times we focus on our present situation and only see the negative. As we stress about it, more of the same begins to show up. Soon it seems as though nothing ever goes right.

Dr. Wayne Dyer said that if you change the way you look at thing, the things you look at change. Another words, think about how each situation will make you better. Focus on what could be if you were able to overcome your challenges. This focus will drive you to accomplish anything you put your heart into.

Embrace what is and understand that it will come to pass. How you approach your challenges will determine the outcome. Will you run and hide? Will you sit and complain? Or will you say, "nothing is going to stop me today as I bust down these barriers."

Have fun creating your existence. It's all about how we react to the situations dealt to us. Be a Warrior of the Light(Look up Paulo Coelho) and enjoy all that the Universe has for you. Many blessings, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!

Thanks Mariam.

Reflection
It's funny how God allows us to experience things which we rarely understand in the moment. We may feel abandoned, betrayed, hurt, or otherwise. Then, later...much later, we come to a realization about the beauty of the lesson learned amidst our shortsighted frustration. I truly feel blessed that I, not unlike many of my friends, have learned so many life lessons that have made me stronger and wiser. After all, we are the sum of our experiences. Think of it like this...

If you didn't...
... lose the fight...you wouldn't have had the joy of winning the war
...break up...you might have been either in jail or in an unfortunate predicament
... test the waters...you might have drowned
...get an F...you might not have been able to retake the class and get an A
...flunk ...you wouldn't have been so tenacious about your recovery
...get dumped...you might have married you know who
...lose your job...you would have never found the job of your dreams
...live in unfortunate circumstances...you wouldn't appreciate the magnitude of your current blessings
...get pregnant...that beautiful child would have never been
...have that accident...what the doctors found could not have been treated
...acquire credit card debt in college...you might not have made the adjustments to assure a better credit score as an adult...a REAL adult
...catch you know who doing you know what...you would still be oblivious to his/her madness
...run that day...you might not be alive to read this
... stand up for yourself that day...they would still be taking you for granted
... taste it...you might have gone along thinking that something that was actually nasty was sweet
...lose that friend...you might not be as able to appreciate the ones you hold dear
...endure that situation...you wouldn't be able to empathize with the victims
...leave home...you wouldn't appreciate what you had when you were there
... let go...you might still be holding on to a walking nightmare

Most of you know I'm pretty focused and my humor is rather dry, so take this for what it is and if you like it add your own...

Live, love, laugh,
Mariam






DON'T GET STUCK IN A RUT. FINISH THE YEAR STRONG!

Improving Your Immune System With Acts Of Kindness

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. Here's a short story that reminds us to do something nice for others from time to time. Dr. Wayne Dyer, in his special Power Of Intentions, said that the immune system of three parties are improved as a result of helping someone.

1.)Your immune system.
2.)The receivers immune system.
3.)And I think most amazingly, the observers immune system.

He used some big medical term which I can't remember right now but the point is, doing good for others affects more than we realize. Sure it makes us feel good. And the whole point is to make the other person feel good. But what I didn't think of, is the people that observe that act of kindness. They too are put into a better mood as a result of just seeing the act.

Remember that you never know who might be watching your actions. Your "niceness" may be what someone needs to see to restore their faith in humanity. Challenge yourself to do something nice for someone else at least once a day. It doesn't have to be huge. I could be as simple as just saying to a random stranger, "have a good day." It doesn't take much.

Enjoy the following story. Find a way to help others, and you will be doing your part to making our world a better place. Have a great day, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!


The Sack Lunches

I put my carry-on in the luggage compartment and sat down in my
assigned seat. It was going to be a long flight. 'I'm glad I have a
good book to read. Perhaps I will get a short nap,' I thought.

Just before take-off, a line of soldiers came down the aisle and
filled all the vacant seats, totally surrounding me. I decided to
start a conversation. 'Where are you headed?' I asked the soldier seated nearest to me.

'Petawawa. We'll be there for two weeks for special training, and then we're being deployed to Afghanistan .

After flying for about an hour, an announcement was made that sack lunches were available for five dollars. It would be several hours before we reached the east, and I quickly decided a lunch would help pass the time..

As I reached for my wallet, I overheard a soldier ask his buddy if he planned to buy lunch. 'No, that seems like a lot of money for just a sack lunch. Probably wouldn't be worth five bucks. I'll wait till we get to base.'

His friend agreed.

I looked around at the other soldiers. None were buying lunch. I walked to the back of the plane and handed the flight attendant a fifty dollar bill. 'Take a lunch to all those soldiers.' She grabbed my arms and squeezed tightly. Her eyes wet with tears, she thanked me. 'My son was a soldier in Iraq ; it's almost like you are doing it for him.'

Picking up ten sacks, she headed up the aisle to where the soldiers were seated. She stopped at my seat and asked, 'Which do you like best - beef or chicken?'

'Chicken,' I replied, wondering why she asked. She turned and went to the front of plane, returning a minute later with a dinner plate from first class. 'This is your thanks.'

After we finished eating, I went again to the back of the plane, heading for the rest room. A man stopped me. 'I saw what you did. I want to be part of it. Here, take this.' He handed me twenty-five dollars.

Soon after I returned to my seat, I saw the Flight Captain coming down the aisle, looking at the aisle numbers as he walked, I hoped he was not looking for me, but noticed he was looking at the numbers only on my side of the plane. When he got to my row he stopped, smiled, held out his hand, and said, 'I want to shake your hand.'

Quickly unfastening my seat belt I stood and took the Captain's hand. With a booming voice he said, 'I was a soldier and I was a military pilot. Once, someone bought me a lunch. It was an act of kindness I never forgot.' I was embarrassed when applause was heard from all of the passengers.

Later I walked to the front of the plane so I could stretch my legs. A man who was seated about six rows in front of me reached out his hand, wanting to shake mine. He left another twenty-five dollars in my palm.

When we landed I gathered my belongings and started to deplane. Waiting just inside the airplane door was a man who stopped me, put something in my shirt pocket, turned, and walked away without saying a word. Another twenty-five dollars!

Upon entering the terminal, I saw the soldiers gathering for their trip to the base. I walked over to them and handed them seventy-five dollars. 'It will take you some time to reach the base. It will be about time for a sandwich. God Bless You.'

Ten young men left that flight feeling the love and respect of their fellow travelers. As I walked briskly to my car, I whispered a prayer for their safe return. These soldiers were giving their all for our country. I could only give them a couple of meals.

It seemed so little...

A veteran is someone who, at one point in his life, wrote a blank check made payable to 'The United States of America ' for an amount of 'up to and including my life.'

That is Honor, and there are way too many people in this country who no longer understand it.'

May God give you the strength and courage to pass this along to
everyone on your email buddy list....

I JUST DID

My New Blog - Quotes To Live By

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. This will be a short post. Just wanted to share my new blog with you. It's called Quotes To Live By.

Each blog post will have it's own category for that day. For example today's quotes are about compassion. The previous post quotes were about peace.



The motivation behind this blog is three-fold.

First: I just love inspirational quotes and wanted a fresh platform to share them with my readers. When you visit you can focus on the specific subject. There are days when I don't have time to write a full article, but with the "QTLB" blog I can post my five favorite quotes in particular category in no time.

Second: I wanted to create an archive of quotes by category or theme. This way when someone ask me for quotes in a specific subject, I will be able to find them easily.

Third: Everybody needs a little encouragement from time to time. We need to be compassionate towards others and this is my way of lending a helping hand. I always love when somebody visits and leaves a comment saying, "this is exactly what I needed to hear today." Hopefully that person will be inspired and become stronger as they face their challenges.

Thank you for your continued support on this blog and I hope to see you over at Quotes To Live By very soon. Feel free to leave your favorite quotes and share any ideas that you think might be beneficial to others.

Many Blessings, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!

Patrick Henry Hughes Can't See Adversity

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. I came across this video today and was blown away. This video is a few years old but the story and message remains the same. You can do anything you want to despite your circumstances.

Anytime you feel like you can't go on and you want to give up, remember Patrick. He is living his dream in spite of what has been handed to him. His life is a reminder to us all that if we truly focus we can do anything.

I don't want to say to much because the video does a great job of conveying his message. As you watch the video, I want you to think of two things.

1.) How can reach my dreams?
2.) How can I help someone else reach their dreams?

Helping someone else attain their dreams is just as and sometimes a more fulfilling adventure than being selfish and thinking about yourself all the time.

Enjoy this video and share it with your friends and family. Remember to always tell those close to you how much they mean to you. And always live life to the fullest.

Many blessings, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!



Success Quotes To Live By

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. Here are a few quotes to keep you motivated as you reach for your goals. Success is a state of mind. One way to keep that frame of mind is to read and surround yourself with successful people.



A good tip I received was to start reading the words of the successful. You may not personally have access to these people but you do have access to their books. As you read, their energy will begin to resonate with you. You will begin to have many "aha" moments as my friend Adrienne likes to put it.

Even though they are "aha" moments they will feel strangely familiar. This familiarity comes from the fact that we are all connected. We all have access to that inner consciousness that gives us all knowledge. We just need to be still sometimes and just listen.

The Universe is not talking to some people and not to others. Certain "gifts" are not given to others while others have to state of lack. Success is out there for everyone no matter the situation. Each of can find a way to use our true talents that lend itself to the lifestyle we desire.

Every one has a different definition of success and that is a good thing. We don't all want the same things. We don't all have the same desires. There is more than enough for everyone.

Enjoy the short video. Memorize a few of them and say them to yourself throughout your day. This will keep your focused and motivated on your goals while keeping negatives thoughts away.

Many blessings on your journey, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!



Discover the secrets to manifesting miracles!

Gesto De Amor(Gesture Of Love) How Will You Show Love Today?

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. Here is a touching video that won an award at the Cannes Film Festival. It is a reminder to think of others and to selflessly give of yourself. Sometimes the simplest "gesto de amor"(gesture of love) resonate the strongest with those we come in contact with.

Many blessings and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!



Discover the secrets to manifesting miracles!

A Few Inspirational Quotes For My Friends

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. Just wanted share this short video with you. Be encouraged my friends. All your desires are yours if you allow for it and align yourself with what the Universe has for you.

Have a great day, and ALWAYS FEEL GOOD!


http://www.youtube.com/user/smilesinc


Discover the secrets to manifesting miracles!

Attract What You Want: Love Is All You Need

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. I was talking to my girlfriend and I was asking her what I should write about. There was a moment of silence and then she said, "why don't you write about love. Everybody loves to read about love". I had to agree.

The Beatles wrote a famous song titled "All You Need Is Love" in which they use the word love dozens of times. The hook is simply, "all you need is love, love. Love is all you need."

It may be simple but in reality, that's all that is ever really needed. When you love, you have the courage to do anything. When you love your career, you are happy to get to work. When you love your family, you would do anything fro them no matter what it is.

Love drives you towards your greatest potential. The most successful and happiest people are the ones who engage in what they love on a continual basis. I've been focusing a lot on Will Smith lately, but you can see from some of my others posts that he loves what he does. And it is that love that won't let him settle for anything less than the best.

Love is what helps you manifest the miracles that you want to come into your experience. If you have a deep desire for something let the fuel be the love and the passion for whatever it is.

It may seem like an oversimplified explanation of how to attract your desires, but in reality...Love is all you need.

Enjoy the following "LOVE" quotes. Keep them in your heart and be sure to share them with your friends and family. As always, thanks for listening, and Always Feel Good!

Blessings.


A loving heart is the beginning of all knowledge.
Thomas Carlyle

A very small degree of hope is sufficient to cause the birth of love.
Henri B. Stendhal

I have found the paradox, that if you love until it hurts, there can be no more hurt, only more love.
Mother Teresa

Take away love, and our earth is a tomb.
Robert Browning

In dreams and in love there are no impossibilities.
Janos Arnay

Love comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
Timothy 1:5

If you judge people, you have no time to love them.
Mother Teresa

Do all things with love.
Og Mandino


Discover 11 powerful daily processes to turn yourself into a manifestation magnet!

Here's the Beatles performing "All You Need Is Love" live.

What Makes A good Dad?(Happy Father's Day)

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. Happy Father's Day to all the Dads out there. I am so thankful for my Dad. He has taught me a lot over the years which has made me into the person I am today. Not a day goes by when I don't think of something that he has said in the past that I can drawn on for wisdom.

Words really can't do justice, but the following two poems pretty much sum the way I feel about my father. God has been good to me and that started with allowing me to be born into such a great family.

Enjoy the following poems. Share them with your Dad and friends. Celebrate your time together, and celebrate times past. Every moment is a moment to create new memories. Don't let them slip by. Many blessings, and Always Feel Good!




ME AND DAD AT MY GRADUATION FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI. HE ALWAYS ENCOURAGED ME TO "ALWAYS BE LEARNING". HE TAUGHT ME THAT EDUCATION IN ALL ASPECTS OF LIFE IS VERY IMPORTANT.


Happy Father's Day

A Dad is a person
who is loving and kind,
And often he knows
what you have on your mind.
He's someone who listens,
suggests, and defends.
A dad can be one
of your very best friends!
He's proud of your triumphs,
but when things go wrong,
A dad can be patient
and helpful and strong
In all that you do,
a dad's love plays a part.
There's always a place for him
deep in your heart.
And each year that passes,
you're even more glad,
More grateful and proud
just to call him your dad!
Thank you, Dad...
for listening and caring,
for giving and sharing,
but, especially, for just being you!
Happy Father's Day

~Author Unknown~

What Makes a Dad

God took the strength of a mountain,
The majesty of a tree,
The warmth of a summer sun,
The calm of a quiet sea,
The generous soul of nature,
The comforting arm of night,
The wisdom of the ages,
The power of the eagle's flight,
The joy of a morning in spring,
The faith of a mustard seed,
The patience of eternity,
The depth of a family need,
Then God combined these qualities,
When there was nothing more to add,
He knew His masterpiece was complete,
And so,

He called it ... Dad

~Author Unknown~

How To Have A Happy Ending

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. Just wanted to share this video of an interview with Will Smith. Belief in ones convictions is what brings your dreams into the realm of reality. We have to believe that we can achieve anything that we put our minds to.

The thoughts that we hold are what drive the Universe into action. So if we hold negative thoughts we most certainly will get negative results. We truly have the power to create our existence and we all should be striving towards a happy ending.

The key to having a happy ending, as Smith puts it, is to refuse to give into anything that will stand in the way of our dreams. Our families thoughts can get in the way. Our friends thoughts can get in the way. The medias thoughts can get in the way.

But here is the good thing. Those are their thoughts. Not yours. You are the only one that can control your thoughts. Do not embrace the thoughts of others because they are not yours and they will not work for you. Each of has to decide what we allow into our minds. You can succumb to negativity or you can push right through any challenge that you may face. It is always only up to you.

Hear and listen to what Smith has to say in this video. Begin to understand that you are a unique being with incredible talents ready to blossom. Put yourself into alignment with what the Universe has for you. What you want out of life is just one positive thought away. I'm thinking about a Happy Ending. How about you?

Many blessings and Always Feel Good! Thanks for listening.

Always Be Looking For Ways To Be Happy

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. I'm about to board a plane, but I came across some great quotes about "happiness" and I wanted to share them quickly before I miss my flight.

Happiness is what everyone should be striving. When your happy, life is so much more enjoyable. People will want to be around you because your "happy" vibrations rub off on them. So not only do you improve your life, you are also improving the life of another.

Carry some of the quotes around you as a reminder to always be looking for ways to make yourself happy. Ok gotta go. They just started boarding. Have a great day everybody, and Always Feel Good!

When one door of happiness closes, another opens, but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one that has been opened for us.
Helen Keller

Happiness does not consist in pastimes and amusements but in virtuous activities.
Aristotle

Happiness resides not in posessions and not in gold; the feeling of happiness dwells in the soul.
Democritus

People with many interests live, not only longest, but happiest.
George Matthew Allen

In the hopes of reaching the moon men fail to see the flowers that blossom at their feet.
Albert Schweitzer

Happiness is not achieved by the conscious pursuit of happiness; it is generally the by-product of other activities.
Aldous Huxley

There is only one person who could ever make you happy, and that person is you.
David Burns, Intimate Connections

The happiness of life is made up of minute fractions—the little soon-forgotten charities of a kiss, a smile, a kind look, a heartfelt compliment in the disguise of a playful raillery, and the countless other infinitessimals of pleasurable thought and genial feeling.
Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Men spend their lives in anticipations,—in determining to be vastly happy at some period when they have time. But the present time has one advantage over every other—it is our own. Past opportunities are gone, future have not come. We may lay in a stock of pleasures, as we would lay in a stock of wine; but if we defer the tasting of them too long, we shall find that both are soured by age.
Charles Caleb Colton

Who is the happiest of men? He who values the merits of others, and in their pleasure takes joy, even as though 'twere his own.
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

The chances are that you have already come to believe that happiness is unattainable. But men have attained it. And they have attained it by realising that happiness does not spring from the procuring of physical or mental pleasure, but from the development of reason and the adjustment of conduct to principles.
from How to Live on 24 Hours a Day, by Arnold Bennett

Happiness is not a matter of events, it depends upon the tides of the mind.
Alice Meynell

Fortify yourself with contentment, for this is an impregnable fortress.
Epictetus

Happiness depends more on the inward disposition of mind than on outward circumstances.
Benjamin Franklin

The Radical Power Of Gratitude Challenge

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. My friend Damon shared this with me the other day and I felt compelled to share it with you today. It is an exercise that we should be doing every day of our lives.

Gratitude fuels all of our wants and desires. We live in a Universe in which are reality is a direct response to what we are thinking and feeling. If we keep ourselves in a constant state of gratitude, the Universe will give us more to be grateful for.

I encourage each of you to make a conscious effort to just be thankful in everything you encounter today. The neat thing about gratitude is that you can't be grateful and negative at the same time. Disappointments and failures come from the negativity that we allow into our existence. If you remain thankful you will begin notice that a lot of the negativity that plagued your life will soon disappear. Sure you will be faced with challenges, but you will never let them get you down again.

Have a great day being grateful for EVERYTHING. I am so thankful to have the opportunity to connect with so many unique and wonderful individuals via this blog. I have made a lot of great friends because of this experience, and for that I am truly grateful. Many blessings, and Always Feel Good!


The Radical Power of Gratitude
By Margot Zaher and Jafree Ozwald

For the next 24 hours, we invite you to do something truly radical and out of the ordinary. We want you to explore what it is like to continuously dive into gratitude. Make this day 100% dedicated to thanking the Universe. Give thanks to the sun that shines, the clouds that give you moisture, a friend that you have, your eyes, hands, and your ability to read and learn. You have been blessed with air to breathe and food to keep you alive. Say to yourself or out loud, "I am so thankful for my life!" Let these words sink deeply into the cells of your body. Let them penetrate you to the core. It is truly mind boggling how good it feels just to let in a little bit of gratefulness.

This is a 24 hour experiment, but imagine what miracles you will experience if this was your daily routine.

~Gratitude is the seed miracles are made of~ QuoteGuy

Here's a short video I posted before, but I think this will help to give you a jump start.



http://www.youtube.com/user/ReDEFININGTHEDREAM

Making A Difference In The Life Of A Stranger

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. Here's a short story I received via email that reminds us to always be in a state of compassion. It is easy to get caught up in all that is going on in our own lives. Sometimes we for get that we are not the only person on the planet. But today I want to challenge you to do at least one selfless act per day.

It doesn't have to be anything huge or monumental. It's amazing how far a simple smile can go. Just saying hello and smiling at a stranger may be all it takes to change an individuals life forever.

Enjoy the following story. Remember that you can make a difference on someones life for the better or for the worse. Make sure that you strive for the former. The great thing about this existence is that you get more of what you give. So if you are showing kindness you will experience kindness.

Be sure to share this story with friends and families. This could be your one selfless act for the day. Many blessings, and thanks for listening.

I arrived at the address where someone had requested a taxi. I honked but
no one came out. I honked again, nothing. So I walked to the door and
knocked. 'Just a minute', answered a frail, elderly voice. I could hear
something being dragged across the floor.

After a long pause, the door opened. A small woman in her 90's stood before
me. She was wearing a print dress and a pillbox hat with a veil pinned on
it, like somebody out of a 1940s movie.

By her side was a small nylon suitcase. The apartment looked as if no one
had lived in it for years. All the furniture was covered with sheets.

There were no clocks on the walls, no knickknacks or utensils on the
counters. In the corner was a cardboard box filled with photos and
glassware.

'Would you carry my bag out to the car?' she said. I took the suitcase to
the cab, and then returned to assist the woman.

She took my arm and we walked slowly toward the curb.

She kept thanking me for my kindness. 'It's nothing', I told her. 'I just
try to treat my passengers the way I would want my mother treated'.

'Oh, you're such a good boy', she said. When we got in the cab, she gave me an address, and then asked, 'Could you drive through downtown?'

a taxi cab

'It's not the shortest way,' I answered quickly.
'Oh, I don't mind,' she said. 'I'm in no hurry. I'm on my way to a
hospice'.

I looked in the rear-view mirror. Her eyes were glistening. 'I don't have
any family left,' she continued. 'The doctor says I don't have very long.'
I quietly reached over and shut off the meter.

'What route would you like me to take?' I asked.

For the next two hours, we drove through the city. She showed me the
building where she had once worked as an elevator operator.

We drove through the neighborhood where she and her husband had lived when
they were newlyweds. She had me pull up in front of a furniture warehouse
that had once been a ballroom where she had gone dancing as a girl.

Sometimes she'd ask me to slow in front of a particular building or corner
and would sit staring into the darkness, saying nothing.

As the first hint of sun was creasing the horizon, she suddenly said, 'I'm
tired. Let's go now'

We drove in silence to the address she had given me. It was a low building,
like a small convalescent home, with a driveway that passed under a
portico.

Two orderlies came out to the cab as soon as we pulled up. They were
solicitous and intent, watching her every move. They must have been
expecting her.

I opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to the door. The woman was
already seated in a wheelchair.

'How much do I owe you?' she asked, reaching into her purse.
'Nothing,' I said

'You have to make a living,' she answered.

'There are other passengers,' I responded.

Almost without thinking, I bent and gave her a hug. She held onto me
tightly.

'You gave an old woman a little moment of joy,' she said.

'Thank you.'

I squeezed her hand, and then walked into the dim morning light. Behind me,
a door shut. It was the sound of the closing of a life.

I didn't pick up any more passengers that shift. I drove aimlessly lost in
thought. For the rest of that day, I could hardly talk. What if that woman
had gotten an angry driver, or one who was impatient to end his shift?
What if I had refused to take the run, or had honked once, then driven
away? On a quick review, I don't think that I have done anything more important
in my life.

We're conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments. But great moments often catch us unaware-beautifully wrapped in what others may consider a small one.

PEOPLE MAY NOT REMEMBER EXACTLY WHAT YOU DID, OR WHAT YOU SAID, BUT THEY WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HOW YOU MADE THEM FEEL.

A Mother's Love (Happy Mother's Day)



BEFORE AND AFTER PICTURES OF ME AND MY MOM. SHE HASN'T CHANGED A BIT. I LOVE YOU MOM!!!

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!! Today is a day to celebrate all the mothers out there. I just want to thank you for all the love and care that you show on a daily basis. A mothers love makes all things possible.

Enjoy the following three poems by Karl and Joanna Fuchs. They truly embody what my mother means to me. Make sure to tell your mom that you love her. And continue to do so every opportunity you get from now on. Never let the little precious moments slip by. These are the moments memories are made of. Many blessings, and thanks for listening. Always Feel Good.

Everything Mom

How did you find the energy, Mom
To do all the things you did,
To be teacher, nurse and counselor
To me, when I was a kid.

How did you do it all, Mom,
Be a chauffeur, cook and friend,
Yet find time to be a playmate,
I just can’t comprehend.

I see now it was love, Mom
That made you come whenever I'd call,
Your inexhaustible love, Mom
And I thank you for it all.

By Joanna Fuchs

Super Mom


Mom, you're a wonderful mother,
So gentle, yet so strong.
The many ways you show you care
Always make me feel I belong.

You're patient when I'm foolish;
You give guidance when I ask;
It seems you can do most anything;
You're the master of every task.

You're a dependable source of comfort;
You're my cushion when I fall.
You help in times of trouble;
You support me whenever I call.

I love you more than you know;
You have my total respect.
If I had my choice of mothers,
You'd be the one I'd select!

By Joanna Fuchs

What "Mother" Means

"Mother" is such a simple word,
But to me there’s meaning seldom heard.
For everything I am today,
My mother’s love showed me the way.

I’ll love my mother all my days,
For enriching my life in so many ways.
She set me straight and then set me free,
And that’s what the word "mother" means to me.

Thanks for being a wonderful mother, Mom!

By Karl Fuchs

Taking Time For Self

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. I am just enjoying a relaxing weekend, and I just wanted to say a quick hello. Every now and then, not having to do anything feels really good. Today is me time. I feel that it is very important to separate ourselves from all the background noise that is happening around us.

Take some time each day to just sit and "be". Find a quiet place and just sit in silence and listen to the voice of the Universe. The voice that is in all of us. The voice that tells us that all things are possible.

There are so many distractions that we encounter on a daily basis. It can be easy to forget to take time for self. If you don't take care of self, you can be of no help to anyone else.

The following video is a collection of excellent quotes to meditate on. Memorize a few and start applying them to your life. Be sure to share them with friends and family to. You never know who may really need to hear a positive word today. Have a great day, and thanks for listening. Blessings!

Will Smith's Formula For His Success

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. I came across this video and I wanted to share it with you today. It is a Will Smith interview on the Tavis Smiley show. Smith has become one of the most successful entertainers of our day. He is one of the few actors in the 20 million club(He's paid $20,000,000 per film nowadays). And all of this from his humble beginnings in Philadelphia.

Smith gives us insight into how he has become successful. He says that there is a precise formula that he uses to ensure that whatever he touches turns to gold.

The great thing about Smith's formula is that it is not a secret. It is not something that only he knows about or that only he can perform. This formula is available to everyone at any time. We all have the ability to create favorable situations for ourselves that put us on a path to success.

The key is to pick a target and shoot for it. Set a specific goal. Map out a specific plan to reach those goals. Set a specific date on which want that goal to be met and then most important...GET STARTED! Never let anything stand in your way. The Universe will begin to conspire in your favor and soon you will be wondering why you had not done this sooner.

Enjoy this short but powerful interview. This is the same formula that all successful people use achieve their goals. Now you have it to do whatever your imagination can dream up. I look forward to hearing many success stories. Have fun creating the life that you want. You deserve it. Many blessings, and thanks for listening.


40 Steps To A Better Life

Hello Friends,

Hope all is well. Life is good and life should be good. It can be hard at times to recognize all the good that is around. We are constantly bombarded with all that is wrong our existence on this planet. It seems as though people and the media only focus on doom and destruction. All of these negative influences can affect your life if you allow it to.

It is time to take control of your life. You have the power to think and more importantly feel the way you want to. No one or no thing should be able to dictate your emotions.

The following are 40 things you can do to take back control of your life. These are simple exercises to remind yourself to just slow down and appreciate all the good that is around you.

Make it a point to carry out at least one exercise on a daily basis. Soon the exercises will become routine and when they become routine, your life will be anything but routine.

As you begin to focus on what is good in your life, goodness will continue to be in your experience. Let your focus be on what you truly want and that will become your reality.

The most important thing with these exercises is to have fun with them. Don't make it a chore. Life should be fun so if you have fun with this, the results will be fun as well.

The only one who can determine your happiness is you. Get started today and begin to see major changes in your life. Have a fun life. You deserve it. Many blessings and thanks for listening.


40 Steps to a Better Life - 2009

1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you
walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.

2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.

3. Buy a DVR and record your late night shows and get
more sleep.

4. When you wake up in the morning complete the following
statement: My purpose is to __________ today.

5. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and
Empathy.

6. Play more games and read more books than you did in
2008.

5. Make time to practice meditation, and prayer. They
provide us with daily fuel for our busy lives.

6. Spend time with people over the age of 70 and under
the age of 6.

7. Dream more while you are awake.

8. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat
less food that is manufactured in plants.

9. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries,
wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli, almonds and walnuts.

10. Try to make at least three people smile each day.

11. Clear clutter from your house, your car, your desk and
let new and flowing energy into your life.

12. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, OR
issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot
control.

13. Instead invest your energy in the positive present
moment.

14. Realize that life is a school and you are here to
learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that
appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you
learn will last a lifetime.

15. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and
dinner like a college kid with a maxed out charge card.

16. Smile and laugh more. It will keep the NEGATIVE BLUES
away.

17. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

18. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

19. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else
does.

20. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to
disagree.

21. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the
present.

22. Don't compare your life to others. You have no
idea what their journey is all about.

23. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

24. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: In
five years, will this matter?

25. Forgive everyone for everything.

26. What other people think of you is none of your
business.

27. REMEMBER GOD heals everything.

28. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

29. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick.
Your friends will. Stay in touch.

30. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful
or joyful.

31. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you
need.

32. The best is yet to come.

33. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

34. Do the right thing!

35. Call your friends often. (Or email them to death!!!)

36. Each night before you go to bed complete the following
statements: I am thankful for __________. Today I
accomplished _________.

37. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.

38. Enjoy the ride.

39. Remember this is not Disney World and
you certainly don't want a fast pass. You only have one
ride through life so make the most of it and enjoy the ride.

40. Please Forward this to everyone you care about.