KUMPULAN MOTIVASI

The 99 Club

2011-01-10T23:14:00.000-08:00

Are You Greedy?

Once upon a time, there lived a King who, despite his luxurious lifestyle, was neither happy nor content.

One day, the King came upon a servant who was singing happily while he worked. This fascinated the King. Why was he, the Supreme Ruler of the Land, unhappy and gloomy, while a lowly servant had so much joy?

The King asked the servant, "Why are you so happy?"

The man replied, "Your Majesty, I am nothing but a servant, but my family and I don't need too much - just a roof over our heads and warm food to fill our tummies."

The king was not satisfied with that reply. Later in the day, he sought the advice of his most trusted advisor.

After hearing the King's woes and the servant's story, the advisor said, "Your Majesty, I believe that the servant has not been made part of The 99 Club."

"The 99 Club? And what exactly is that?" the King inquired.

The advisor replied, "Your Majesty, to truly know what The 99 Club is, place 99 Gold coins in a bag and leave it at this servant's doorstep."

When the servant saw the bag, he took it into his house. When he opened the bag, he let out a great shout of joy... So many gold coins!

He began to count them. After several counts, he was at last convinced that there were 99 coins. He wondered, "What could've happened to that last gold coin? Surely, no one would leave 99 coins!"

He looked everywhere he could, but that final coin was elusive. Finally, exhausted, he decided that he was going to have to work harder than ever to earn that gold coin and complete his collection.

From that day, the servant's life was changed. He was overworked, horribly grumpy, and castigated his family for not helping him make that 100th gold coin. He stopped singing while he worked.

Witnessing this drastic transformation, the King was puzzled. When he sought his advisor's help, the advisor said, "Your Majesty, the servant has now officially joined The 99 Club."

He continued, "The 99 Club is a name given to those people who have enough to be happy but are never content, because they're always yearning and striving for that extra 1 telling to themselves: "Let me get that one final thing and then I will be happy for life."

We can be happy, even with very little in our lives, but the minute we're given something bigger and better, we want even more! We lose our sleep, our happiness, we hurt the people around us; all these as a price for our growing needs and desires.

That's what called joining The 99 Club!

--- Author Unknown --- Submitted by Chithambaran T.S. --- India

What Memorial Day Means To Me

2011-01-10T23:12:00.000-08:00

Thank You For Your Service
Thank You For Your Sacrifices

America: land of opportunity, home of the brave and free.

Where the American flag and eagle fly for one and all to see.

Our nation's flag ripples proudly in the breeze,

From sunny California to the sandy shores of Maine,

All across America up to the ocean seas.

Many of our brave and patriotic sons and daughters, who fought on foreign shores,

Have now gone to their eternal rest.

On Memorial Day, Americans honors our veterans,

They deserve our praise and glory,

For they are truly our nation's best!

Some made the ultimate sacrifice to keep our country safe and free,

They paid our future obligations in the name of liberty.

Please do not take for granted the legacy they bequeath,

For these brave heroes never heard the words: 'run' or 'defeat'.

So always remember and shall we never forget,

To thank our veterans and active service men and women every chance we get.

That's what, Memorial Day means to me.

--- Copyright © 2009 Joseph P. Martino
Joseph P. Martino is an American writer, poet, inventor and motivator from Millburn, New Jersey.

Excess And Excuses: Lest We Forget

2011-01-10T22:54:00.000-08:00

Stand Up For Positive Change
And Do Something For Others

It hurts me to write this article. But I must write it.

I live in Canada, which is seen as a rich country. The country to the south of us, the United States, also falls into this category.

As a writer, I've been blessed that my work has touched so many lives in so many corners of the world. I receive many letters. An enormous amount of them come from places where it isn't as good as we have it here. Yet these letters are filled with hope and optimism.

Terror and fear are daily occurrences in countries like India and [PNG] Papua New Guinea j or in many numerous countries on the continent of Africa. Yet when I read the letters from people living in these and many more places, their passion is overwhelming. You also learn a great respect for their rich, individual heritages.

You look at Papua New Guinea and discover it has over 800 languages. Each province has more than 20 different languages. Not all of them have the same dialect and the only language that they all can speak and understand is called "Pidgin English."

800 languages means that they also have this number of different customs and traditions. All just loaded with culture and character.

North America is the richest of nations, yet, for the most part, our culture is one of excess and excuses.

Excess: We eat too much. We drink too much. We spend far too much.

Excuses: We point fingers. We blame others. We dwell in dysfunction.

We are rich with excess and excuses.

For so many, we have a hard time speaking one language. We have bigger houses and bigger broken homes. Divorce is the norm. We have multiplied our possessions but reduced our values. We've learned how to make a living but not a life.

It's time that we stop our spoiled, self-centered ways. Time we look in the mirror at our fat selves. Weak with character, high with cholesterol.

Time we wake up.

Time we learn that life isn't about 'things'.

Time that we use our rich resources for positive change.

Time we give back.

Help others.

Time our lives are filled with purpose.

We often take for granted our Canadian and American values and institutions, our freedom to participate in cultural and political events, and our right to live under a government of our choice. The Canadians and Americans who went off to war in distant lands went in the belief that the values and beliefs enjoyed by us were being threatened. They truly believed that "Without freedom, there can be no ensuring peace and without peace no enduring freedom."

We must remember what they fought for. If we do not, the sacrifice of those lives will be meaningless. They died for us. For their homes and families and friends. For a collection of traditions they cherished. And a future they believed in. They died for us.

They died for this?

We should be ashamed of ourselves.

Now this is something to tweet about. This is something to post on Facebook.

--- Copyright © 2010 Miles Patrick Yohnke
Widely recognized and award-nominated engineer, producer, writer, poet and founder and C.E.O. of 5 Star Productions, Miles Patrick Yohnke brings many years of experience to the music industry including many awards in sales and marketing.

Miraculous Healing - Part 1

2011-01-10T22:40:00.000-08:00

Power Of The Subconscious Mind

My Miraculous Healing - Part 1

My personal healing will ever be the most convincing evidence of our subconscious powers. Nearly eight years ago, I solved a near death experience by using the healing power of my subconscious mind which created me, and still maintains and governs all my vital functions. And there is more!

At the age of 43 I became a mother. This alone is not very unusual, as many women these days consciously choose to have children at a later stage in life. What made it special in my case was that a year before my child's was born, I was single.

My son's father and I had decided to break up. We loved each other truly from the heart, but our age difference, he is 15 years younger than I am, and the differences in culture, religion and our upbringing seemed too much, and so our convictions won the battle! I felt devastated and couldn't find any reason to continue in life.

I shared my frustration with God in my prayers and begged Him for help. During these prayers I developed the habit of intuitive writing. This is writing without consciously thinking or in other words, I automatically wrote down the words that came up.

In these letters I was told that my lover and I would reunite and I would get pregnant with our son. 42 days later, I received a phone call from my man who asked me to come 'home' and make a child with him. I went and became pregnant. Isn't God's power amazing?

I also want to tell you about my personal healing because I feel sure that it will help others to trust the same Infinite Healing Presence, lodged in the subconscious depths of us all.

In 2002, I was diagnosed with a dangerous virus. This virus called C.M.V., attacked my body in many ways. It infected my brain, paralyzed my arms and infected my liver and kidney. My doctor told me I had only 5 percent chance to survive this ordeal. No medicine existed to cure this virus and I was sent home.

After this experience, and despite all worries around me, I realized that the 'thought' of dying had never entered my mind. I could see myself in the 'future' being healthy and happy, and deep down I 'knew' this to be true!

During the time of my recovery, which took me around two years, I went to see a doctor of homeopathy who subscribed all kinds of 'natural' drops to support and clean my liver and kidney.

Homeopathy is the art and science of healing by safe, gentle, and natural methods; the Homeopathic remedies are derived from raw, natural resources generally from the vegetable and animal kingdoms as well as from minerals. Although some remedies are used in less diluted form, most remedies in general use are highly diluted yet potentized. They are believed to have some, yet unidentified, physical energy that helps to stimulate the body's own healing power.

I realized that my illness came from the way I was thinking about myself and life, and that I needed to change my outlook on things. From this time on, my research started. I wanted to know the opinion from scientists and doctors about 'self healing' and God; about prayer and about the effect thoughts have on one's life. I began reading philosophical /spiritual and scientific books and articles.

After a year of sleep, around May in 2003, I felt strong enough to participate in a three year education in 'Rebalancing' where I was taught that all daily life impressions are stored in the physical body, whether good or bad. As in my case, the 'bad' impressions literally 'banged' on my door.

The thought behind Rebalancing is that all wisdom available lies in one's body and the body is one's home. In order to be able to 'hear' this wisdom, one needs a clean body and mind. It was obvious for me that the contact between my body and my mind needed to be restored, in order to find the root that caused my physical pain and disease.

I learned to meditate, which helped quiet my mind and with massage, yoga and breathing exercises I slowly accepted and entered my home (body). Another very important thing I learned was to deal with and let go of my emotions.

Due to my illness, I found my way back to the voice in my heart, I call 'God'. I integrated praying in my daily routine, which reminded me of the daily conversations I used to have with 'Him' as a child. But as I grew older, I simply 'forgot' about my dearest friend and my fears grew.

More about My Miraculous Healing:

Part 2: The Creative Power of Your Subconscious

Part 3: My Talent Was Revealed In A Dream

Part 4: Scientific Discoveries

--- Copyright © 2010 Marijke Verkerk
About the author: Marijke Verkerk is a Mother & Wife, Master of Metaphysical science Msc, Certified Rebalancer, Artist, and a National speaker in the Netherlands/Europe.

Life's Journey... v

2011-01-10T05:36:00.000-08:00

On Life's Journey
Who Am I?

Who am I? Know one yet, just someone wanting to share my story; a story that's probably been told before. Maybe a different version or a different scenario, however, this is mine and I am Angelina Barth.

Who do I want to be? Well, I always wanted to be someone. I still lay there at night and daydream about traveling overseas, working in villages with kids of need; working with animals, a fashion designer, front cover of the magazine, talking about my courageous life and how I got to be where I am now. I could have been a vet too, however I couldn't handle the blood and guts and the emotion of animals suffering.

I guess what I would love, is success.

What am I at the moment? I am someone who has dreams that feel too far-fetched to grab. I work in an office 8-5 Monday to Friday. Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining; I love my job. I just wish my job was my dreams.

What type of person am I? Well I'm halfway there to figure that one out. I am a person who has had so much cramped into 21 years. In 21 years I have experienced and seen Alcoholism, Depression, Sexual abuse, Drugs and plenty more.

I am a person who strongly believes everything happens for a reason. We have paths chosen for us and it is up to us to walk those paths and decide which ones will keep us going.

Life is a journey, an experience. If something goes wrong - we fall, but it is up to us to pick ourselves up and to keep walking. The only difference this time is we need to remember what crack we tripped over and to jump over it next time.

I have negativity in my life, everyone does. I decide to let the positive push the negative away.

Do I wish things happened to me? No, of course not, but they did. And they happened for a reason. That's why I can't drown in my own sorrow; all that will do is bring my spirit down. I want to get up and see the good things that life has planned for me.

Am I strong? Not strong enough, I don't think anyone is. Everyone has problems. The worst thing when you are pessimistic, you don't like to hear problems because you are always working on your own.

I can't be around negative people, why? Because I hate people that continue to make excuses and live yesterday instead of today. Everyone has to have problems otherwise there wouldn't be any paths for us to choose from. It's when it's the same problem and we sit there on the ground because you let the problem take over you. Instead you should feel yourself, listen to yourself, get up and keep walking.

Am I normal? Of course not, I don't want to be. Being different is unique. When you lose yourself, I don't think you ever get it back. You experience new things and it keeps adding to the person you are.

What is happiness? Never knowing what's going to happen next. If someone sat me down at a table and told me how my life would fold out, what would be the point in living? Living is not knowing; living is learning everyday as it comes. There's always something to learn.

I hate when people try and make your own problems their own. Why do people do that? Does it cover up their own problems? The only thing is when they keep talking like they know your problems. They don't know. They just want an excuse to have something to slow them down from working out their own.

Is that harsh? I don't think so... It's my own opinion. There's nothing wrong with that in my eyes. If I wanted to share my problems, it would mean that I needed help to get up. If I don't bring them up, that means I don't want them to surface; I'm dealing with them in my own way.

Have I contradicted myself? Maybe... That's your opinion to have. I am always a helping hand, a listening ear but my eyes are opened to see if you want to help yourself.

--- Copyright © 2009 Angelina Barth
I think that writing is the best way to express emotion. I wrote this when my brother was going through depression. He said it helped him, so I hope someone else may relate to it and that it helps them too.

A Love That Stays.....................

2011-01-10T05:34:00.000-08:00

Love Knows No Boundaries

A Love That Stays Long After We Are Gone!

Though belonging to today's generation, I'm pretty emotional when it comes to my family and friends. They paint the silhouette of my life with the vibrant colors of love, happiness and care. The story I'm going to share is of my friend and me. The uniqueness of it is the kind of bond we shared and the kind of connection I feel, whenever I think of her.

It was my first day in college. As I entered the chemistry class, I saw everyone seated. Apparently, I was late. I started looking for a vacant bench when suddenly someone said, "Here. Come and sit." I looked up; there she was, sitting with a charming smile and looking at me. I felt so good among strangers. I took the seat and finished the lecture. Then I said to her, "Thanks". She said that it was ok and that's how we started talking. Two hours passed and time flew like winds.

That's how I met Rachel. She had an aura of earthiness and a charm that put me completely under the spell of the sweet friendship we shared. We started sitting together for lectures, lunch and even bunked a few sessions together. We would partner with each other for the projects and even discussed our lives. It was a perfect friendship. There was no trace of jealousy when she overtly talked to other girls or when I did. we understood each other perfectly and had complete freedom for each other. Time moved swiftly.

She would help me through lectures, practicals and exams. During my final year, I was not able to attend most lectures as I started preparing for MBA. Rachel would ensure that I got all the important updates about classes, experiments and projects. She would call me up twice a week to tell me about college. Whenever I could, I attended the sessions and she would again sit by my side and help me mumble answers, in case I was asked any.

Rachel was the most wonderful person I had ever met. Subtle, sober, sincere and sweet... she was everything. I again moved out of my hometown some 200 miles away, after getting selected to complete my MBA. I would never forget the day when I was at college to get my B.SC. mark sheets, how proudly she told everyone of my selection. I was amazed to see how beautifully she celebrated my happiness. We remain connected through calls while I was away. Again I returned back after a year, to finish off my summer internship, when I got another chance to meet her in person. It was June and the "birthday month" for both of us.

My birthday was on June 2nd. She was the first to wish me and we met in the evening after I returned from the office. We chatted for a good four hours and shared everything about my MBA, college, work and she told me of her master's degree and new college mates. Being in the same city was such a big relief!

On the eighteenth, just two days before her birthday, she called me up in the evening, trying to fix a venue for her birthday. We finalized one and as usual, I was looking forward to meet her. Next day was a day off from work, so I lazed around and played video games with my brothers when the phone rang again.

It was Rachel. I picked up. The voice on other end was not hers. It was her brother. He said that Rachel was no more - No More!... I simply didn't understood.

I told him not to fool me but his voice was broken and had a lump. I simply held the cell phone away from myself. My brother, when he looked at me, called "MOM!"

My mom took the phone and talked to Rachels's brother. He confirmed the same thing he told me and said they are about to perform the last rites. Since, I was her best friend, he thought I should see her one last time. My mother put the phone down. Rachel died of an accident.

I was traumatized. Tears covered my face, my eyes were red and I could barely speak. I cried... I cried like hell! How could it happen? It was unbelievable.

My mom told me, we had just an hour to drive to her place and see her. I somehow gathered myself and set off. We reached her place in forty-five minutes. I saw her mother and brother crying bitterly. I went inside. There, clad in a snowy white cloth was the sleeping body of Rachel... looking as serene and sober as ever.

For a minute, I thought she was asleep and would get up any moment. Then, after some time, they took her. I touched her feet, carefully, not to hurt her or wake her up... just to tell her that I was there. I hope she could feel my presence.

After coming back from her funeral, the days, which ensued, were the most turbulent ones in my life so far. To date, whenever I remember, I still see her smiling at me, forever willing to help me. Sometimes when I close my eyes I feel her presence surrounding me. Sometimes, when I'm low, I imagine her and feel a composure covering me.

I know she is there, somewhere...looking at me and smiling!

Through her, I came to know...where the real connection is...Love stays long after we are gone... Like she stays with me to this day!

--- Copyright © 2010 Shruti Awasthi
About The Author: I'm a 22 year Old girl, currently working as Assistant Manager in GE Capital, India. I was born and brought up in a number of cities, due to my father's transferrable job. I have always taken keen interest in Debates, extempores during my academic career. I'm also a regular blogger and love to share my experiences and thoughts. I'm passionately in poetry too. I love to send messages to people and take immense pleasure in watching people handling life in a better way. I wrote this story because I was missing my friend a lot and thought by sharing this with others, we may re-live the love that was there with us once.

Dreaming...

2011-01-10T05:32:00.000-08:00

Dreams Are Good For Us

Does dreaming really affect our lives?

Does it really make any difference with how we manage to live our lives in the midst of doubts and uncertainties?

Yes, it does!

Sometimes, what makes our day more relaxed and leaves us with a lighter feeling is enjoying the freedom of dreaming about good things that we hope to happen to our lives- without any limits or boundaries. We could freely think of things we surely know that would do our lives more good than damage.

We don't know what is in store for us. The things we do today are part of how we picture the kind of life we want to enjoy tomorrow.

We deal with things in our own unique ways. We are all players in our own worlds.

Sometimes we are being invaded by adversities, which block our way and distract our focus. But even with disturbances along our way, that act like our opponents whom we might think are stronger than we are, still, we opt to win. To lose is not an option. Nobody plays to lose. Nobody wishes for his own failure.

Dreaming is free. Each of us has his own dreams. We dream... and these dreams of ours sometimes bring out from us who we really are in terms of ways of how we deal with things. We tend to act according to what kind of dreams we have, with all the freedom of making our dreams come true.

Normally, people think of things that will help them grow, but there are those who take unlawful actions to get what they want.

A dream to me is a picture of the place where we want to find ourselves someday; it is how we want to see ourselves in the time to come, and it is like a draft of our own design of how we want things to look like by the time we get there.

There are those who just draw in their minds the picture of their dream life in the future. There are those who put on paper, through writing or drawing, the things they want to have.

About a month ago, I was on the phone talking with one of my friends who, like other people, dreams of a simple house where she could live safely with her children; a parcel of land where she could do one thing she really enjoys, which is planting different kinds of crops, fruit-bearing trees and flowering plants, and where there would be a place for her favorite domesticated animals.

I was happily listening to what she had to say, but I was touched when her voice suddenly sounded sad as she uttered these words:

"I am already very happy to see my dream come true even just in a simple game, Farmville. Sometimes I get too emotional while I tend to my farm in Facebook’s Farmville, thinking that the realization of this dream of mine would only be up to this game, it will just remain a fantasy, because for me, it is far from reality.

Maybe because I am not just working for my own satisfaction but I am working for the welfare of my whole family... thinking more of what I can give them and sacrificing my personal desires. I may not be as fortunate as other people are, but I am very happy with what I have.

I have the real happiness in my heart seeing my family enjoying the life we are living today... the kind of life that we never had in the past. I am so delighted helping my children work on their dreams and making those dreams come true!"

Dreaming keeps our lives in motion; it keeps us going. Dreaming is something that makes a difference in our lives; it makes us more energetic, more courageous and more positive in dealing with life. It gives us a better view about life so we probably learn to be more patient and to remain hopeful of finding, in our future, the things we are dreaming of.

In dreaming, there is no room for failure.

Of course, we think of things that will make us happy. But we should always keep in mind that God knows what is best for us, He gives us what we deserve.

--- Copyright © 2010 James Patrick Cabacungan

Manufacture Your Future

2011-01-10T05:31:00.000-08:00

Connecting To The Future

Each one of us is constantly manufacturing our individual future and the future of the society we live in. Every action, every thought of each one among us is a thread that connects us to the future.

As I write this and as you read it, we are undergoing a transformation of which we may not be aware but which is, all the same, consequential. Also, we are organizing into a cooperative effort that is creative, constructive and multiplicative in its positive output. It binds us together into a positive force of constructive and creative thought and generates an energy that destroys evil and darkness --- both within and without us.

If you train your mind to constantly perceive how each of your acts and thoughts is manufacturing the future, you will get a sense of direction. You will then develop the intuitive power to judge the right and the wrong. You will not need to logically decide what you should do and what avoid.

When you plan to do something, your mind will show you a blob appearing somewhere in the expanse of time before you --- a white blob or black and you will feel the thrill of creating something positive and yearn to do it or dither at the negative consequences of your act and avoid it.

Tune your mind to perceive the future you are manufacturing and you shall never falter.

Live in the present, says virtually every philosopher. Fair enough, but what is the present but the fleeting moment that is a part of the past even before you can look straight into its face.

When you live in the present, you are virtually trying to steady yourself on a thin strip of the Past-Present-Future continuum where you unsteadily strive to cling to a split second that belonged to the future a moment ago and now belongs to the past.

Don't live in the present. Move towards the future, constantly manufacturing it to your liking and taste as you fly to meet it.

--- Copyright © 2010 S. K. Dogra --- India

Humanity Does Exist

2011-01-10T05:28:00.000-08:00

Humanity Is Everywhere

I just thought to share with you, a real incident that happened in India.

Two blind people wanted to drink water at the RagiGudda temple, Bangalore (India). When they were unable to operate the tap, this mother monkey opened the tap for them, allowed them to drink water, drank some water herself and then closed the tap before leaving the scene.

P.S.: Do share this pic with your friends. It is proof that humanity does exist – even if we humans have forgotten it...

--- Submitted by Chithambaran T.S. --- India

Kindness To Others And Love

2011-01-10T04:31:00.000-08:00

Important Questions To Ask Yourself Each Day

Today, can you say that you were nice to everyone you came in contact with, and if they were not nice to you, that you humbled yourself long enough to let it go and not form a resentment??

Can you tell yourself that your heart and soul were filled with positive thoughts and the negative one's just bounced off?

Can you remember if you exhibited an act of kindness towards another person through out the course of your day?

Did you give more of yourself to people who needed you without wanting anything in return?

Did you go home to your family today and tell them you love them more than anything and thank them for being in your life??

Instead of seeing the mistakes people made today, did you tell them it was ok and offer a solution to fix it?

Did you reach out and touch someone's heart today, and fill it with hope for their future?

Did you say hello to a perfect stranger today to brighten their day, or just look someone in the eye today and smile at them for no reason, other than to make them feel good??

Can you rest your head on your pillow tonight and say that you did the very best at everything you did today?

If not, when you wake in the morning, you will have that opportunity all over again.

Remember what life is all about...It is about kindness to others and the people we love.

Tomorrow, reach out your hand and your heart to someone in need and make that person's life, that much better.....

Make every tomorrow a better day than today!!!

--- Copyright © 2010 Rich Barnes

Mother Of Strength

2011-01-10T04:28:00.000-08:00

Strength From My Mother
Strength From My Father

By Miles Patrick Yohnke
Copyright © 2007 All Rights Reserved

Oct 17, 1968 saw the tragic event in one human life; it changed the lives of many. Francis Lewis Yohnke died. Bridget Yohnke's life had changed; she was just 36. She had just lost her best friend, her love, her husband.

A lot of people at this time would fall into self-destruction, self-pity, and self-loathing, but she didn't! She was strong! She would devote her life to her three sons.

She would instill love, passion, confidence, kindness, a desire for life, and to place others before themselves. She gave her sons these values to take on the world and to make a difference. She broke the cycle.

Her father was an alcoholic and the family struggled to find itself. Where she found her strength we don't really know.

Because of her life, she would not just shape the lives of her sons, but their children. They too have sinced carved out a niche in the world and are making a great difference in it.

So today and always, we celebrate her life because she changed the life of many, including perhaps most importantly, her own children.

Thank you, Mother.

Your Loving Son,

Miles

For my father:
Francis Lewis Yohnke (April 12th 1929 - October 17th 1968)

Make Me An Instrument Of Thy Peace
By Miles Patrick Yohnke
Copyright © 2008 All Rights Reserved

"Make me an instrument of thy peace."

These are the words that rest on my father's tombstone. October 17th, 2008 was forty years since an accident in a Potash mine took his life. Francis Lewis Yohnke was just 39.

On the night of October 16th, coming up on ten o'clock, my Mother (who always called him Francis) prepared what would be his last meal... bacon and eggs.

That week he worked night shift. He started at midnight.

Just after 2am, the group that Dad was supervising went for coffee. There was a machine that always had to be manned and he said, "It's okay. You guys all go and I'll work it."

The machine was tricky. It would move quickly, periodically and for one moment Dad made a mistake -- he didn't pay attention, and it struck him in the head; lodged in Dad's skull. With panic, the workers rushed and cut the base of the machine and transported it with him in the ambulance.

Mother was notified that there was an accident and to meet at the hospital. My oldest brother Ken, then sixteen, drove Mother, and my other brother Bob, then fourteen, stayed with me. Father died on route.

In the middle of this ordeal, a spokesperson for the hospital asked my mother if they could take one of my father's eyes -- that they had a person waiting for it. My mother replied, "Yes!"

Years later, in the late summer of 2006, I was at the Woodlawn Cemetery where my father's body rests. As I finished praying and stood, a man from behind me said, "How did you now, Frank?"

I quickly thought, knowing how only the family, and his friends and co-workers called him "Frank," that this man must have known him.

As I turned to face him, I replied, "He's my father."

This man, Frank Bazylak, as I would learn later, replied confidently, "I worked with your father for a short time - just over a year - but he made an impact on my life. He was so intense, so demanding and yet so giving."

You know, he wasn't meant to be there that day. But that was Frank," he said.

Almost four decades later and from a stranger, there in the cemetery, Frank Bazylak's words were surreal in a way. I'd heard wonderful stories from family and from friends, but this... after all of that time... and there... beautiful!

Jack Kornfield once wrote, "The trouble is that you think you have time."

Jay Conrad Levinson said, "It is certainly not money, as many people have been falsely led to believe. Instead, time is life. Time is opportunity. Each second of time is precious. The more you are aware of that, the more likely you'll be to never waste your time. Unlike other resources, it is non-renewable, available in limited quantities, and substitutes are not possible."

Some things I've learned from my father's life and passing:

Time is precious and we need to find our own voice and be original.

No "Can'ts", "Buts" or "What Ifs."

No small-minded thoughts.

Challenge yourself.

Don't place limits on yourself.

Learn to have a thirst for knowledge.

Live with passion.

Live with integrity and be accountable.

Place others before yourself.

One person caring about another represents life's greatest value.

Father's favorite hockey team was the Detroit Red Wings. His favorite player was Gordie Howe. Howe once said, "I know if I give 100% of my best, I can rest easy."

I know my father is resting easy, as he gave his best every day he was alive!

From the prayer of Saint Francis:

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace!

Where there is hatred; let me so, love
Where there is injury; pardon
Where there is doubt; faith
Where there is despair; hope
Where there is darkness; light
Where there is sadness; joy

From St. Augustine

"O, Divine Master, Grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled, as to console; To be understood as to understand; To be loved as to love; For it is in giving that we receive; It is in pardoning that we are pardoned; And it is in dying to ourselves that we are born to eternal life. Amen."

--- Copyright © 2007, 2008 Miles Patrick Yohnke
Widely recognized and award-nominated engineer, producer, writer, poet and founder and C.E.O. of 5 Star Productions, Miles Patrick Yohnke brings many years of experience to the music industry including many awards in sales and marketing. If you are looking at developing your career, Yohnke offers consulting in person, by phone or via email.

For All Our Beautiful Mothers

2011-01-10T04:23:00.000-08:00

Mothers
Truly Great Souls

Ma, Mother, Mamma,
Mom, Mai or Amma,
Màna, Anya or Mati,
She has names in variety,
Love, she renders amazing,
Impressions made, lasting!
In her hands gentle,
A safe haven we found,
Brought out did she,
All the love in her soul!
Watching us grow and play,
Still silently standing and praying,
Never wanting any glory,
Sacrificing was she,
Evident by her energy,
For us, anytime – anywhere,
What we needed most,
She knew, she gave!

Her understanding wonderful,
Making us know we are worthy!
Love, incredible she pours,
Unmatched by human scores,
Dignifying our being,
Making us feel loved and big!
Prayers sincere, she makes,
That safe may we be.
Ever ready to share our burdens,
With the hands,
That bore us, years ago!

Years may have flowed,
Words may have faded,
Truly the greatness of a mother,
Stands beyond!
Why not let us tell her:
Mamma, your love,
Makes happy, my journey!
Love you always Amma,
For what you are – truly a great soul!

--- Copyright © 2010 Sam Vijay Kumar

Mother Earth

2011-01-10T04:20:00.000-08:00

Let's Honor Our Mothers
And Mother Earth

Alive and Well

The month of May joyfully reminds us of the rebirth of nature. In acknowledgment, we celebrate Mother’s Day – honoring our birth mothers, and ultimately our spiritual mothers.

Symbolizing the greater gifts of the earth as Mother to all living things, we dedicate one day to recognizing our origins by honoring she who gave us life, and the earth which sustains our life. This month, take a look at your own walk on the planet, and see the many different forces which give birth to your potential.

Safe and secure
From the moment of conception to birth, our life depends on our mother for development. Not only do we grow in the biological sense, but Mother sets the precedent for her role as nurturer and protector. We flourish at an alarming rate of cell duplication and soon, enter the world as a complete physical being.

We take for granted Mother is there for us, tending to our basic human infant needs and offering love and support for our emotional growth, as well. Mother taught us to adapt and improvise, demonstrating overcoming obstacles and making way for better things.

Mother Earth, as we experience her, always existed. From the day of our birth to our last day, the constancy of our world never waivers. We depend on gravity and the tides, sunrises and sunsets as the natural and normal courses of each day.

We go through each day silently grateful for such support, and if something shakes our foundation, Mother Earth heals herself rather quickly, or she changes entirely in response to the occasion, usually producing a shift greater in magnificence than what suffered the loss.

Direction
Savvy mothers allowed us to make mistakes. While the lessons often eluded us, Mother pointed out that we learn from errors as well as successes. In short, our Mothers provided a sense of direction as well as buoyancy on the rough waters of life.

We value her opinion, her steadfastness and her willingness to navigate while we steer the ship ourselves. While patient or not with our explorations, Mother helps us to set goals ourselves while giving us the space to change course and consider different directions.

North and South, East and West, Mother Earth grounds us in geography and geology. We learn our limitations in conquering mountains, rough waters and ocean depths, yet the challenge remains to find an inside passage which best suits our goals.

Encountering the inevitable heights of difficulties, or diving deeply into despair, Mother Earth stands unmoved by our machinations and simply “is.” With so much to see and explore, we uncover parts of ourselves as depicted in earthly landscapes.

The patient giant, Earth gives us unending opportunity to make mistakes and try again. When our direction becomes clear with all obstacles removed, we advance to even higher ground of who we truly are in the wind of our achievement; we transform into a spiritual being even better than before!

Birth to potential
At the time of birth, no one, including Mother, knew our future. Perhaps her newest bundle of joy would grow to cure cancer, write a symphony or free a nation. Rarely would Mother desire anything negative for her baby.

Doing her best with her given conditions and circumstances, Mother nurtured, loved and taught us to develop and pursue our dreams. She provided what loving support possible and released her umbilical hold on our sovereign consciousness so we could venture into the world to experience and achieve our finest potential.

Our Earth Mother provides us with soil to grow our food, oceans and animals to harvest for our nourishment. Learning from her and from one another, we make our way through life by discovering new edible food or methods to improve our chances in hunting and gathering. Mother Earth provides us with a canvas by meeting all our basic needs and freeing us to explore what we do with the palette of pure potential.

Birth to ourselves
As an infant – and more importantly as an adult – we exist as pure potential. As we age, we learn and acquire cynicism and doubt, and many times long to revert back to a womb of protection to shield us from the hazards of the rocky life we befell.

When we separate from mother, in the physical and emotional sense, we realize our glory as an autonomous individual and discover the greatness within us. Giving thanks to Mother for all she provided, especially life itself, we expand our horizons and explore possibilities separate from her.

Mother Earth, too, gave birth to man’s potential. In space exploration, we separated from the earth and atmosphere to explore the unknown, moving further and further away. Like a child whose distance-radius expands with confidence, our daring missions away from Earth grow larger with each effort. And, like the child who returns to mother, we return to the earth, compelled by the need for grounding and the pull of gravitational force. When reunited, we share our discoveries with our fellow travelers in the hopes that one day they, too, reach far only to find themselves.

We give thanks to our Mothers and to Mother Earth for nurturing and sustaining us throughout our lifetime. Understanding that direction and guidance give way to discovering our own path, we strive to make the most of our talents and gifts. In separating from the gravitational pull of Mother Earth and the loving connection from Mother, we realize our individuality creates our potential.

This month we may share flowers or a meal with Mother, giving her gifts of Earth itself, for they are one, as are we all.

--- Copyright © 2010 Marlene Buffa
Taking a quiet sideways glance at life, Marlene offers insight through her words from experiences. A student of new-thought teachings, Marlene finds practical spirituality around every corner and seeks wisdom through observation of life’s inter-relationships. Sometimes playful, sometimes poignant, always thought-provoking, her writing inspires readers in meaningful ways. Be sure to visit her website at http://www.wordsofmind.com

We're Never Too Old to Teach

2011-01-10T04:17:00.000-08:00

Remember People's Feelings

Every church is part of the Body of Jesus Christ. Just as God is the head of the church, each member is a part of that body. I would like to think that as the pastor I was part of the heart and perhaps even a small bit of the brain.

Some members serve as the hands that do God's work throughout the community, while others are the feet that keep us moving forward. Every church must keep moving forward. If they fail to do so they will become stagnant and eventually die.

In order to give a church real meaning, it must also have character. While being a man of many talents, Harry Fish was the person who gave Turner Center Universalist Church a very distinct character.

I first met Harry shortly after I was hired as pastor at Turner Center. I trusted him because he was in his 90's and knew everybody in town. Although his hearing wasn't what it once was, he still had a very keen mind and wonderful sense of humor. If I ever needed a little background concerning a member of the congregation, Harry was always able to guide me as to how I might approach the situation with that member.

Along with knowing everyone in the congregation and the surrounding community, Harry also knew his ministers. If there was a sermon of mine that Harry didn't fully agree with, he was always able to let me know how I might have addressed the message a bit differently.

One Sunday morning I was delivering a sermon titled, "Stop Lying to Yourself." The purpose of my message was to show how people today continually stretch the truth about situations and facts in an effort to make their lives sound more important or exciting. Some people call these stories tall tales in an effort to give them credibility. The point of my sermon was to show that God calls them lies.

To make matters worse, we have even started color-coding our untruths. These fabrications fall somewhere between the little white lie and the dastardly black lie. But the reality is that a lie is a lie; no matter what color we might want to assign to it.

While delivering my sermon I could tell from by the facial expressions of the congregation that my point was being made. However, Harry, who I know for a fact has spun more than one tall-tale during his long lifetime, thought that my sermon might have been presented differently. In fact, when I was through giving the Benediction at the end of the service, Harry was waiting for me in front of the pulpit.

"Harry, how may I help you?"

"It is I who can help you," Harry answered. "When I was a little boy my mother always taught me to tell the truth, but in doing so making sure not to hurt anyone's feelings in the process."

He had my full attention.

"If a woman was wearing an ugly dress and she asked me what I thought of the dress, I would never tell her it was ugly."

"What would you tell her?" I asked.

"Well, I might tell her how the blue in the dress matched her eyes, or that her dress was truly one-of-a-kind, but I would never tell her my true feelings about how the dress looked. Do you hear what I'm telling you, Pastor?"

"Thank you my friend," I said. "In looking for the truth I believe you may have given me an even greater truth. There is more than one way to love our neighbor."

Seeing that he was able to get his point across, Harry just shook my hand and smiled. He ended our little meeting by saying, "By the way, I loved your message... I could hear every word just fine." And with that we both laughed.

About a year later I told that story at Harry's funeral. The story was very fitting because that's the kind of person Harry was. He may be gone, but as long as I'm able to share his stories of how he helped to make me a better pastor during the early years of my ministry, Harry is still with us.

--- Written in 2010 by Rev. Raymond C. Nolan
Rev. Raymond C. Nolan has served as a minister for over 30 years and is presently the Assistant Pastor at Daybreak United Methodist Church in Miflin, Alabama. His positive outlook on life serves as an inspiration to all who know him.

My Heart Beats Happy

2011-01-10T00:56:00.000-08:00

Does Someone Make Your Heart Happy?

My heart beats happy
with thoughts of you.

From the comfort of your voice,
and the kindness that you speak,
to the battles that you've won,
and the nights that I long for you.
And my heart beats happy.

My heart beats happy,
when you say my name.
From a choir of angels this is sung,
sung to my flesh and bone.
And my heart beats happy.

My heart beats happy,
with thoughts of you.

Your long, uncoloured brown hair,
and lips that don't tell lies,
these are your gifts embroidered in me.
And my heart beats happy.

My heart beats happy
with these thoughts of you.

I told you I wasn't a breast man,
but one look at you, made me a believer.
In a casual dress, a red dress,
you shine like my prairie sun.
And my heart beats happy.

My heart beats happy,
when I look into your eyes.

The innocence of a child I feel,
reborn, and a need to be one.
This is what you've done for me.
And my heart beats happy.

--- Copyright © 2010 Miles Patrick Yohnke - All Rights Reserved
Widely recognized and award-nominated engineer, producer, writer, poet and founder and C.E.O. of 5 Star Productions, Miles Patrick Yohnke brings many years of experience to the music industry; including many awards in sales and marketing.

Teach Our Children Well

2011-01-10T00:55:00.000-08:00

Living Through The Pain
And Coming Out Triumphant

A.B.C.1.2.3. Teach Our Children Well

"Communication companies are the new drug dealers of our youth. What has happened is through competition, these companies were forced to drive down their long distance costs, creating lost revenue. Text messaging came to replace this downfall, preying on our youth. Communicative skills and self-esteem will be greatly affected as a result of this."

"We see Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, or Kurt Cobain on t-shirts. Why? If we think about it, they all killed themselves. None of them were happy in their own skins. As a society why are we embracing them? Shouldn't we all be wearing Mother Teresa t-shirts?"

Let's teach our children well.

Me? I'm just trying to express myself. Pulling out the ghosts from yesterday's past, overcoming my learning disorder, getting past the tragic loss of my father when I was five or the endless days of pain and hurt from being mercilessly bullied for the first eight years of my schooling.

I'm blessed that for the most part, I can find some positive in all of this. Grateful also!

I never want another human being to feel the pain I did. That's why I try to help others. I'm in a good place now. It's from this place that I want to share my words and my thoughts. My life.

Not too long ago, in talks about bullying and schooling, I brought up one event that occurred in those school years. It appears sad but like the other events in my life, I'm grateful for it. It's interesting.

During the thoughts of these events in my mind came this endless quest; this interest on the human condition - a life long human study of why we do what we do.

To set up the one event that occurred, I have included an entry from my personal journal. You know, my learning disorder was so bad that by the age of nine I still couldn't spell my last name. I couldn't get the "h" and the "n" correct and in the right place.

It was through my brother Bob and a situation at a bank that became my saving grace.

I was opening a bank account. I had so wanted to save up to buy a Boston Bruins jersey. I had to sign my name to open the account and fear took over me. I told my brother the problem. He, then only eighteen, said:"Think of the "h" as a chair and the "n" sits on it."

Simple.
One problem solved.
One life-changing event.
An eye opener.

............ ............ ............

PERSONAL JOURNAL ENTRY:

Thurs, July 27th, 2006, 2:15a.m.:

I think about the way I am, trying to make some sense of it.

As a child I faced a tragic event, and by the age of thirteen I had been kicked, beaten, and robbed of my self-esteem. Only my mother and my two older brothers had faith in me. Nobody else saw much hope for me.

I had a learning disability that made it almost impossible to read and write. Through this time of endless pain, I still had this inner voice telling me that I could make a difference in this world. I still had pride. They had taken everything from me but not my pride! I received a lot of internal scars that I keep to this day.

Through these events I became very grateful, as it's made me a homo-sapient; one with great sentiment. It's given me a vortex of emotions involving vulnerability, pain, anger, hope, love, and a lust for life.

It's made me a prize-fighter!

Still wide-eyed like an infant, I find myself intoxicated by my surroundings. So today I climb the endless mountain, grateful that I can, grateful not knowing what I may find.

Grade 7:

My teacher, who was also our principal, was talking and I always listened so hard to each word. For one thing, I was trying to figure out what he was saying. The other thing was that I always was afraid of the teacher asking me for the answer.

If it wasn't just the verbal abuse around the school or in the hallways, it was the fear I'd be asked a question, the fear of not having the answer, looking stupid and the 30 or so students jumping on me for it.

This particular day as I was sitting off to one side, half way back, he asked me a question. I didn't know the answer and that familiar fear filled my mind. He replied:

"Miles, why don't you come sit up here?"
(an open desk in front of him)

I did.

With a piece of chalk in his hand, he drew a mark on me; a line that ran down my nose.

The 30 students laughed and I saw his eyes light up (he felt good about himself - empowered). He did it again. A tear glazed my cheek. The class erupted with laughter and again and again and again he repeated this.

We need to teach our children well.

That their dreams are possible.
That it's okay to have some hurdles to overcome. To live a life without limits.

Point out their strengths.
Build on those strengths and nurture those strengths. When their confidence and self-esteem is high in those areas then, and only then, should we work on their weaknesses. Turn their weaknesses into their strengths. Success is failure turned inside out.

Fill them with proper culture.
Great films. Ones that make them think. Music that goes to the core. Lyrics that run deep that provoke the mind. The library system is a great resource for all this.

Show them that their dreams are possible.
To live a life without limits.

You see, my teacher had not learned these lessons himself; so sad for him. I believe he was just insecure. Lost in his own life. Another lost soul teaching all the wrong lessons from all his wrong skills.

--- Copyright © 2010 Miles Patrick Yohnke - All Rights Reserved
Widely recognized and award-nominated engineer, producer, writer, poet and founder and C.E.O. of 5 Star Productions, Miles Patrick Yohnke brings many years of experience to the music industry; including many awards in sales and marketing.

Relationships

2011-01-10T00:52:00.000-08:00

Do You Want To Be Right
Or Effective In Relationships?

Each and every one of us have people in our lives that can be difficult, and sometimes even hard to be around. It could be a spouse, a friend, or a child, a brother or sister, or even a co-worker.

Relationships are hard at times, and sometimes very complicated and hard to maintain happiness and structure. They have their ups and downs just like anything else, but it is the way you choose to approach the difficult situation that will define its outcome.

It is all about how you choose to react. Every emotion that you throw into the mix is your choice. If you want to be mean and resentful or even hurtful in this sensitive situation, then that is your choice... I am not sure if it is a very good one, but never the less, it is your choice.

You can also approach it with kindness and understanding. You do not always have to have cement shoes on and stay steadfast on your position. You may not agree with the other person, but a calm, soft approach is always better than being the aggressor.

If people would just listen more and try to be understanding to the other person's point of view, there would be a whole lot less controversy amongst people, and the world would be at peace.

--- Copyright © 2010 Rich Barnes

The Secret of Progress?

2011-01-10T00:51:00.000-08:00

Do You Know The Secret Of Progress?

Man belongs to where he wants to go. Think 'improvement' in everything you do and think 'high standards' in everything you do. Believe it can be done.

Believing something can be done sets the mind in motion to find a way of doing it. There is a way. And, there is a better way. When you believe it is impossible, your mind goes to work to prove why. But when you believe and really believe that something can be done, then your mind goes to work to help find ways of doing it.

Many of us whip and defeat on why we can't, when the only thing worth concentrating on is why and how we can.

In almost everything in life, from work to home to community development, the formula for success is - 'do what you do even better' (improve the quality of your output) and 'do more of what you do' (increase the quantity of what you do). Qualitative up-gradation plus quantitative growth is progress.

Constantly remind yourself that you are better than you think you are so you can do everything in a better way than how you are already doing it. Also, constantly remind yourself that you are not doing as much as you can so you can do more of everything than what you are already doing.

Capability is the ability to better what you are already doing. Capacity is about doing more of what you are already doing.

Improve your capability. Increase your capacity. That's progress.

--- Sri. T.T.Rangarajan --- Submitted by Chithambaran T.S

A Mother's Love

2011-01-09T23:25:00.000-08:00

Eight Lies Of A Mother

This story begins when I was a child: I was born poor. Often we hadn't enough to eat. Whenever we had some food, Mother often gave me her portion of rice. While she was transferring her rice into my bowl, she would say, "Eat this rice, son, I'm not hungry."

This was Mother's First Lie.

As I grew, Mother gave up her spare time to fish in a river near our house; she hoped that from the fish she caught, she could give me a little bit more nutritious food for my growth. Once she had caught just two fish, she would make fish soup. While I was eating the soup, mother would sit beside me and eat what was still left on the bone of the fish I had eaten; my heart was touched when I saw it. Once I gave the other fish to her on my chopstick but she immediately refused it and said, "Eat this fish son, I don't really like fish."

This was Mother's Second Lie.

Then, in order to fund my education, Mother went to a Match Factory to bring home some used matchboxes, which she filled with fresh matchsticks. This helped her get some money to cover our needs. One wintry night I awoke to find Mother filling the matchboxes by candlelight. So I said, "Mother, go to sleep; it's late: you can continue working tomorrow morning." Mother smiled and said, "Go to sleep son, I'm not tired."

This was Mother's Third Lie.

When I had to sit my Final Examination, Mother accompanied me. After dawn, Mother waited for me for hours in the heat of the sun. When the bell rang, I ran to meet her... Mother embraced me and poured me a glass of tea that she had prepared in a thermos. The tea was not as strong as my Mother's love. Seeing Mother covered with perspiration, I at once gave her my glass and asked her to drink too. Mother said, "Drink son, I'm not thirsty!"

This was Mother's Fourth Lie.

After Father's death, Mother had to play the role of a single parent. She held on to her former job; she had to fund our needs alone. Our family's life was more complicated. We suffered from starvation. Seeing our family's condition worsening, my kind Uncle, who lived near my house, came to help us solve our problems big and small. Our other neighbors saw that we were poverty stricken so they often advised my mother to marry again. But Mother refused to remarry saying, "I don't need love."

This was Mother's Fifth Lie.

After I had finished my studies and got a job, it was time for my old Mother to retire but she carried on going to the market every morning just to sell a few vegetables. I kept sending her money but she was steadfast and even sent the money back to me. She said, "I have enough money."

That was Mother's Sixth Lie.

I continued my part-time studies for my Master's Degree. Funded by the American Corporation for which I worked, I succeeded in my studies. With a big jump in my salary, I decided to bring Mother to enjoy life in America but Mother didn't want to bother her son. She said to me, "I'm not used to high living."

That was Mother's Seventh Lie.

In her dotage, Mother was attacked by cancer and had to be hospitalized. Now living far across the ocean, I went home to visit Mother who was bedridden after an operation. Mother tried to smile but I was heartbroken because she was so thin and feeble but Mother said, "Don't cry son, I'm not in pain."

That was Mother's Eighth Lie.

Telling me this eighth lie, she died.

YES, MOTHER WAS AN ANGEL!

M - O - T - H - E - R

"M" is for the million things she gave me,
"O" means only that she's growing old,
"T" is for the tears she shed to save me,
"H" is for her heart of gold,
"E" is for her eyes with love-light shining in them,
"R" means right , and right she'll always be,

Put them all together, they spell "MOTHER"

... a word that means the world to me.

--- Author Unknown --- Submitted by Edz Arsua --- U.A.E.

Goodnight

2011-01-09T23:23:00.000-08:00

Have You Done Your Best Today?

It is time for bed... I need to get on my knees and thank the Lord above for another day. I humbly thank Him for being such a big part of my life and walking with me on my journey of self-exploration.

As I put my head on my pillow for another night's slumber, I ask myself... Did I do everything I could today, to make this day the best one yet??

Did I react to every opportunity to do a good deed, as to let someone go in traffic while others lay on their horn in disbelief that I should let the person take their left turn in front of me?

Did I act ethically in every aspect of life today?? Did I help another human being with their taxing issue and put them in a better place??

Did I hold the door for the old man that was behind me and that had two boxes in his arms, right after the door was not held for me and literally slammed on my face??

Did I smile at the woman that cut me in line to get a carriage in the grocery store, who just spilled her pocketbook while looking for a pen to cross off the broccoli she just put in her carriage off of her list?

Did I offer to help her pick up her belongings or did fear of helping someone riddle my body?? No, I helped her, because fear stops people right in their tracks and lives in people's minds... I do not let fear live in me.

Did I kiss my daughters goodnight and was I the best Daddy I can be to my children??

Ok, I think I can go to bed now because I answered, "yes" to all of my questions.

Goodnight!

--- Copyright © 2010 Rich Barnes

The Faithful Dog

2011-01-09T23:20:00.000-08:00

Do You Know All The Facts?

There is a legend of a woman who had a faithful dog. This dog was so faithful that the woman could leave her baby with it and go out to attend other matters. She always returned to find the child soundly asleep with the dog faithfully watching over him.

One day, something tragic happened.

The woman as usual, left the baby in the "hands" of this faithful dog and went out shopping. When she returned, she discovered a rather nasty scene. There was a total mess.

The baby's cot was dismantled. His nappies and clothes torn to shreds, with bloodstains all over the bedroom where she had left the child and the dog. Shocked, the woman wailed as she began looking for the baby.

Presently, she saw the faithful dog emerging from the under the bed. It was covered with blood and licking its mouth as if it had just finished a delicious meal. The woman went berserk and assumed that the dog had devoured her baby. Without much thought, she clubbed the dog to death.

But as she continued searching for the "remains" of her child, she beheld another scene.

Close to the bed was her baby who, although lying on the bare floor, was safe. And under the bed, the carcass of a jackal torn to pieces in what must have been a fierce battle between it and the dog which was now dead.

Then reality hit the woman, who now began to understand what took place in her absence. The dog fought to protect the baby from the ravenous jackal. It was too late for her now to make amends because in her impatience and anger, she had killed the faithful dog.

Question: How often have we misjudged people and torn them to shreds with harsh words and even with physical assault before we have had time to evaluate the situation? A little patience can drastically reduce major life long errors.

Think about it!

--- Author Unknown --- Submitted by George Wachira --- Kenya

The Power Of Thought

2011-01-09T23:17:00.000-08:00

Are You Controlling Your Thoughts?

"Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny."
--- Frank Outlaw

"Thought is at the bottom of each progress or retrogression, of all success or failure, of all is desirable or undesirable in human life. The type of thoughts we entertain both creates and draws conditions that crystallize about it, conditions exactly the same in nature as is the thought that gives them form, thoughts are forces and each create of its kind, whether we realize it of not. Like creates like, and like attracts like. And it is continuously working in every human life."
--- James Allen Wallace

What we think, believe and imagine about ourselves determines exactly our personality and the security with which we cope with life. All thoughts we retain in our minds influence our personality and motives. The more we hold them, the stronger they become and the more they control our actions. Thoughts of insecurity, uncertainty, fear, and failure build a weak, negative and insecure mind, therefore a weak personality.

Be sure about yourself, or better yet be confident, for it is the main and first step all of us need to acquire what we want. Being confident consists of believing in yourself - that you are sure you will achieve whatever you set in your mind, regardless of all the obstacles you have in front of you, even if we don't have the required tools. Attitude is everything!

All the knowledge or education you acquire doesn't matter, if you don't trust and believe in yourself. All you pretend to do or obtain will be in vain. Maybe think of it this way: a car's wheels are to the tires what confidence is to our achievements.

Take control of your life! Monitor, constantly and daily, your thoughts and guide them toward your goals. Never, never accept, (not even for a second) negative thoughts that take you away from your peace, happiness and your dreams.

"People only see what they are prepared to see."
--- Ralph Waldo Emerson

--- Copyright © 2010 Eduardo Dominguez
I emphasize about thought, self esteem and confidence because I am truly convinced that be secure or confident is the main and most important thing we need to learn in order to be able to accomplish everything; I hope it can be helpful and benefit somebody.

Who Says You Cannot?

2011-01-09T23:16:00.000-08:00

You Are Stronger Than You Know

Who says you cannot,
Tell him he is wrong.
Bigger are you, than opinions,
Much larger than you think.
What is needed but time,
Till then in patience wait.
For want of success,
You dare.
For want of glory,
Striving, you must be,
With a heart that is set,
Mind that is fixed,
Arms that are ready.

Then shall you see,
The rising of you, the inside 'you'.
High above the shadows,
Beyond views and opinions.
Everyone will then know,
When the phoenix rises,
Nothing stands in the way.
When the storms subside,
Opportunities come to play.
This is a law of life unsaid,
Are you willing to embrace?

Time is coming when,
You will rise and your problems, subdue.
Then will the sun shine, radiantly,
On your way to success and grandeur.
Imperative it is to move on - now,
For stagnation is the greatest disease.
Dynamic is the world you live in,
Thus, keep up the pace.

Leave your worries to the worrier,
For there are many - truly many.
Invest your 'you' in to edification,
For you are called to prove
That you are bigger than opinions.
You are commissioned to show,
That you are larger than your shadow.
Keep up the pace
And you shall prove so!

--- Copyright © 2010 Sam Vijay Kumar

Seek Perfection

2011-01-09T23:13:00.000-08:00

You Are Talented And Gifted

Have you sought to ascertain the talents you've been given? Do you realize the great gifts you possess? What are you doing with the talents you have, that can bring satisfaction to your being? You were born into this world with unique gifts. Within you is a glimmer of the divine. Your light can make a more beautiful world.

Today, the light of many in the world lies dormant. It's been snuffed out by fears. Don't let your talents be silenced by prejudice, discipline, judgment, or lack of motivation. Don't undermine the light of these talents by hiding your abilities.

You deny self and others of many great experiences, when your capabilities are not displayed for their greatest worth. Your abilities are a part of who you are and you should affirm the love, esteem, and trust which you have within yourself. Display your light for the world to see.

Don't let others convince you of your inadequacies. Don't allow peers to sway you from using the talents you have. Don't be admonished or humbled to avoid showing off your skills.

Realize that there is a vast chasm between those who let their light shine and those who seek only to draw attention to themselves. Give of your light to the world. You become a whole individual when you can share the embodiment of your vast potential.

If you have kept your light hidden for so long that it has shrunk to an ember, start today to enlighten yourself and the world. It's not too late to ask yourself how you can utilize those abilities in your daily living. The gifts you were born with were not given to you arbitrarily.

God put you here for a purpose. Seek to know His will.

Seek to be in the right place at the right time to make a difference in someone's life. Know that when you embrace and share your talents with others, you will spread light to a darkened world. Godspeed...

--- By Bob Stoess --- Submitted by Brian G. Jett --- Kentucky

Rewrite Your Destiny

2011-01-09T23:11:00.000-08:00

Is Your Karma Working For You?

How many of us blame "destiny" when we're going through tough phases of life? We hear people say, it's bad luck. But is this "luck" thing really so harsh and irreversible?

Though few events of our life like birth, marriage or death are controlled by destiny, when it comes to hard times, opportunities, or challenges we can repeal them by our "karma"- our deeds.

Even when passing through the roughest period of our life, we can turn it in our favor by hard and righteous work. No good deed goes without being paid off and it does have the power of changing the fortunes.

For example if one has worked for 20 hours in a week, the employer will pay for 20 hours. Similarly if we are walking on the path of positivity with great faith in the almighty, performing our karmas, we'll be paid off. When and how? Better we leave this calculation to the most compatible one - the god himself.

Even when nothing seems obliging or working, it's better to keep trying to make something good happen rather than sitting or blaring.

When trapped from all sides in a dark cave one is not supposed to break the rock straight away. One hollows out a small hole amid rocks to let the sunshine and air come in to avoid suffocation. Then efforts are aimed at breaking free.

Human life is precious and powerful. This power is "will power". However this "will power" has to be coupled with undeterred hard work, commitment and positivism. And if you are doing so, no matter how tough stiff the problem is or how tough the time is, it will have to change as result of your "karmas" and you will rewrite your destiny.

The secret lies in being vigorous and not surrendering. The secret lies in always striving to fill the gap between "what is happening" and "what you want to make happen". The secret lies not in being the victim or spectator of circumstances but in being victor of circumstances.

The secret lies in rewriting your destiny with gusto.

--- Copyright © 2010 Nisha Grace