Friday, November 21, 2008
Friday, November 14, 2008
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Election Day, a Day of Choices
Here we are on the official day set aside to let our voices be heard, however big or small we may think they are, and making decisions on how we want the future of Our cities, states, and Country to be led. As we approach this opportunity, or better said responsibility, I hope we all understand the significance and importance of what we are doing. Thoughts AND actions have consequences.
With this in mind, let me share with you a couple of thoughts that apply to this day as well as every other that we get the opportunity to experience. First, Jim Rohn, an American entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker shared the following thought about Change Begins With Choice.
Any day we wish; we can discipline ourselves to change it all. Any day we wish; we can open the book that will open our mind to new knowledge. Any day we wish; we can start a new activity. Any day we wish; we can start the process of life change. We can do it immediately, or next week, or next month, or next year.
We can also do nothing. We can pretend rather than perform. And if the idea of having to change ourselves makes us uncomfortable, we can remain as we are. We can choose rest over labor, entertainment over education, delusion over truth, and doubt over confidence. The choices are ours to make. But while we curse the effect, we continue to nourish the cause. As Shakespeare uniquely observed, "The fault is not in the stars, but in ourselves." We created our circumstances by our past choices. We have both the ability and the responsibility to make better choices beginning today. Those who are in search of the good life do not need more answers or more time to think things over to reach better conclusions. They need the truth. They need the whole truth. And they need nothing but the truth.
We cannot allow our errors in judgment, repeated every day, to lead us down the wrong path. We must keep coming back to those basics that make the biggest difference in how our life works out. And then we must make the very choices that will bring life, happiness and joy into our daily lives.
And if I may be so bold to offer my last piece of advice for someone seeking and needing to make changes in their life - If you don't like how things are, change it! You're not a tree. You have the ability to totally transform every area in your life - and it all begins with your very own power of choice.
Second, the following story about the Boston Tea Party was shared by Glenn Rawson (http://www.soundsofsunday.com/);
It was a cold rainy December night in Boston, Massachusetts when a crowd of some 7000 people responded to the ringing bells in Old South Church. They came spilling out into the streets, and listened to Samuel Adams and others speak about British tea and taxes. At that very moment, three ships laden with East India tea lay anchored in Boston Harbor. In just a few hours that tea would be forced on the citizens of Boston, taxes and all.
With adamant finality, Samuel Adams said, "This meeting can do nothing more to save the country." Just then, fifty of Boston's more prominent men came out of the back room of the church disguised as Mohawk Indians. With the crowd following the ‘Indians,’ they made their way to Griffin’s Wharf, where they split into three companies and boarded the tea ships. While the British crews watched, the men of Boston dumped 342 chests of tea into the harbor, effectively turning Boston Harbor into a saltwater teapot – about 90,000 pounds worth. That tea amounted to about 26 million cups and a small fortune.
Well, as they left, British Admiral Montagu called out, "Well, boys, you have had a fine, pleasant evening for your Indian caper, haven't you? But mind you, you have got to pay the fiddler yet!" Oh, and pay they did! The British instantly retaliated closing Boston Harbor, and cutting off all trade. Among other things, they disfranchised the city government and took steps to strangle the city of Boston completely out of existence.
That tea party was followed by Lexington and Concord, which led to the American Revolution – which led to American freedom.
Now, I learned that story as a child, and I pondered it. What was it that was at the heart of that tea party? Did the colonists not like British tea? – No, they loved tea! Well then, was the issue taxes; was it money? - No, because even with the tax on the British tea, it was still cheaper to buy that tea than the Dutch tea they were smuggling in. So why then did the people of Boston tweak the nose of the most powerful bear on earth – the British military?
Listen – remember this? "Taxation without representation is tyranny." That’s what they chanted. The meaning of that is: If they could have no voice in government, and no vote, they wanted no part! Boston went to war for a voice in government, the right to vote. Now my friends, the right to vote is a fundamental expression of man's God-given agency.
Sadly, in the last presidential election, less than 50% of Americans voted. Or in other words, they surrendered the governing of their lives to someone else – which is exactly what Lucifer wanted in the first place.
You see, God is the Author of prosperity and within each of us is the ability to create positive change for ourselves and those around us, but it is up to us to first make the choice. On election day when we step into that booth, do we hope for change by voting according to the letter that is next to someone’s name, or the person that uses the most eloquent words, or has the best appearance? Or, do we rise to a higher level and gain a clear understanding of an individual, and the standards and principles they represent? Do we seek out those who have a knowledge of the Moral Founding Document which they will sware to protect? Therefore, on this day and every other, let us remember that it all begins with a CHOICE.
With this in mind, let me share with you a couple of thoughts that apply to this day as well as every other that we get the opportunity to experience. First, Jim Rohn, an American entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker shared the following thought about Change Begins With Choice.
Any day we wish; we can discipline ourselves to change it all. Any day we wish; we can open the book that will open our mind to new knowledge. Any day we wish; we can start a new activity. Any day we wish; we can start the process of life change. We can do it immediately, or next week, or next month, or next year.
We can also do nothing. We can pretend rather than perform. And if the idea of having to change ourselves makes us uncomfortable, we can remain as we are. We can choose rest over labor, entertainment over education, delusion over truth, and doubt over confidence. The choices are ours to make. But while we curse the effect, we continue to nourish the cause. As Shakespeare uniquely observed, "The fault is not in the stars, but in ourselves." We created our circumstances by our past choices. We have both the ability and the responsibility to make better choices beginning today. Those who are in search of the good life do not need more answers or more time to think things over to reach better conclusions. They need the truth. They need the whole truth. And they need nothing but the truth.
We cannot allow our errors in judgment, repeated every day, to lead us down the wrong path. We must keep coming back to those basics that make the biggest difference in how our life works out. And then we must make the very choices that will bring life, happiness and joy into our daily lives.
And if I may be so bold to offer my last piece of advice for someone seeking and needing to make changes in their life - If you don't like how things are, change it! You're not a tree. You have the ability to totally transform every area in your life - and it all begins with your very own power of choice.
Second, the following story about the Boston Tea Party was shared by Glenn Rawson (http://www.soundsofsunday.com/);
It was a cold rainy December night in Boston, Massachusetts when a crowd of some 7000 people responded to the ringing bells in Old South Church. They came spilling out into the streets, and listened to Samuel Adams and others speak about British tea and taxes. At that very moment, three ships laden with East India tea lay anchored in Boston Harbor. In just a few hours that tea would be forced on the citizens of Boston, taxes and all.
With adamant finality, Samuel Adams said, "This meeting can do nothing more to save the country." Just then, fifty of Boston's more prominent men came out of the back room of the church disguised as Mohawk Indians. With the crowd following the ‘Indians,’ they made their way to Griffin’s Wharf, where they split into three companies and boarded the tea ships. While the British crews watched, the men of Boston dumped 342 chests of tea into the harbor, effectively turning Boston Harbor into a saltwater teapot – about 90,000 pounds worth. That tea amounted to about 26 million cups and a small fortune.
Well, as they left, British Admiral Montagu called out, "Well, boys, you have had a fine, pleasant evening for your Indian caper, haven't you? But mind you, you have got to pay the fiddler yet!" Oh, and pay they did! The British instantly retaliated closing Boston Harbor, and cutting off all trade. Among other things, they disfranchised the city government and took steps to strangle the city of Boston completely out of existence.
That tea party was followed by Lexington and Concord, which led to the American Revolution – which led to American freedom.
Now, I learned that story as a child, and I pondered it. What was it that was at the heart of that tea party? Did the colonists not like British tea? – No, they loved tea! Well then, was the issue taxes; was it money? - No, because even with the tax on the British tea, it was still cheaper to buy that tea than the Dutch tea they were smuggling in. So why then did the people of Boston tweak the nose of the most powerful bear on earth – the British military?
Listen – remember this? "Taxation without representation is tyranny." That’s what they chanted. The meaning of that is: If they could have no voice in government, and no vote, they wanted no part! Boston went to war for a voice in government, the right to vote. Now my friends, the right to vote is a fundamental expression of man's God-given agency.
Sadly, in the last presidential election, less than 50% of Americans voted. Or in other words, they surrendered the governing of their lives to someone else – which is exactly what Lucifer wanted in the first place.
You see, God is the Author of prosperity and within each of us is the ability to create positive change for ourselves and those around us, but it is up to us to first make the choice. On election day when we step into that booth, do we hope for change by voting according to the letter that is next to someone’s name, or the person that uses the most eloquent words, or has the best appearance? Or, do we rise to a higher level and gain a clear understanding of an individual, and the standards and principles they represent? Do we seek out those who have a knowledge of the Moral Founding Document which they will sware to protect? Therefore, on this day and every other, let us remember that it all begins with a CHOICE.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Knowledge
At times we need look back in history to find the wisdom that can enlighten us in the present. A fresh perspective which is not lost amidst the current confusion and misunderstandings, but is held high by a pillar of principle.
A wise man by the name of David O. McKay gave us such a moment when in April of 1928 he said the following; “True education does not consist merely in the acquiring of a few facts of science, history, literature or art, but in the development of character. True education awakens a desire to conserve health by keeping the body clean and undefiled. True education trains in self-denial and self-mastery. True education regulates the temper, subdues passion, and makes obedience to social laws and moral order a guiding principle of life. It develops reason and inculcates faith in the living God as the eternal loving father of all. "
A wise man by the name of David O. McKay gave us such a moment when in April of 1928 he said the following; “True education does not consist merely in the acquiring of a few facts of science, history, literature or art, but in the development of character. True education awakens a desire to conserve health by keeping the body clean and undefiled. True education trains in self-denial and self-mastery. True education regulates the temper, subdues passion, and makes obedience to social laws and moral order a guiding principle of life. It develops reason and inculcates faith in the living God as the eternal loving father of all. "
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
A New Day
As you know the 2008 Summer Olympics are now over but there were many inspiring moments from which we can all learn some valuable lessons. Although there were many, I would like to focus my attention on two individuals.
First, Usain Bolt from Jamaica. Here is a young man, 22 years old, 6' 5" in height, and weighing in at about 190 pounds. His events: the track & field 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay. How did he do? Well, with a new world record of 9.69 seconds in the 100m, a new world record of 19.30 seconds in the 200m, and a new world record of 37.10 seconds in the relay, you can easily say he did absolutely great....and he has three gold medals to show for it. Now, winning three gold medals is inspiring in and of itself. So is setting three world records. However, the story behind the story is even better. You see, previous to this time the "experts" said that a man that tall is not capable of running that fast.
Second, Michael Phelps of the U.S.A. Here is another young man, 23 years old, 6' 3" in height, and weighing about 201 pounds. His specialty is swimming. This was Michael's second Olympics having previously competed in the 2004 Olympics in Athens. In 2004 he won 8 medals, 6 of which were gold. In 2008 he added to that by doing what many said he couldn't. He won 8 more gold medals and did them all in either world record or olympic record time.
The one thing I found in common with the two stories is the one lesson or piece of knowledge that provides the most value. Both ignored the naysayers and CHOSE to focus on all the positives. They set their goals, made plans, and BELIEVED they would achieve them. They had already succeeded before they succeeded. By understanding the principles embedded in the lesson, we can all enjoy and create our own inspiring moments throughout our lives.
Finally, I want to share a thought from a man by the name of Walter Bonatti. Bonatti, born June 22, 1930 in Italy, was known as one of the finest alpinist in the world. He was also famous for his pioneering efforts in climbing and his drive to only take on mountains that offered almost impossible challenges. His words are some we should all ponder. He said, "The mountains are the means; the man is the end. The idea is to improve the man, not to reach the top."
Make every day a productive day!
First, Usain Bolt from Jamaica. Here is a young man, 22 years old, 6' 5" in height, and weighing in at about 190 pounds. His events: the track & field 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay. How did he do? Well, with a new world record of 9.69 seconds in the 100m, a new world record of 19.30 seconds in the 200m, and a new world record of 37.10 seconds in the relay, you can easily say he did absolutely great....and he has three gold medals to show for it. Now, winning three gold medals is inspiring in and of itself. So is setting three world records. However, the story behind the story is even better. You see, previous to this time the "experts" said that a man that tall is not capable of running that fast.
Second, Michael Phelps of the U.S.A. Here is another young man, 23 years old, 6' 3" in height, and weighing about 201 pounds. His specialty is swimming. This was Michael's second Olympics having previously competed in the 2004 Olympics in Athens. In 2004 he won 8 medals, 6 of which were gold. In 2008 he added to that by doing what many said he couldn't. He won 8 more gold medals and did them all in either world record or olympic record time.
The one thing I found in common with the two stories is the one lesson or piece of knowledge that provides the most value. Both ignored the naysayers and CHOSE to focus on all the positives. They set their goals, made plans, and BELIEVED they would achieve them. They had already succeeded before they succeeded. By understanding the principles embedded in the lesson, we can all enjoy and create our own inspiring moments throughout our lives.
Finally, I want to share a thought from a man by the name of Walter Bonatti. Bonatti, born June 22, 1930 in Italy, was known as one of the finest alpinist in the world. He was also famous for his pioneering efforts in climbing and his drive to only take on mountains that offered almost impossible challenges. His words are some we should all ponder. He said, "The mountains are the means; the man is the end. The idea is to improve the man, not to reach the top."
Make every day a productive day!
Saturday, August 2, 2008
The Phoenix
Well here we are at the beginning, the birth and awakening of a new blog!
My mission and purpose for this site is this....that I will have a positive impact on those with whom I come in contact, by being honest, friendly, optimistic, outgoing, and influential. In addition, I will improve the lives of those around me by sharing knowledge, forging friendships, having fun, and being creative. Furthermore, I will strive to leave a legacy by acting as a role model and team player, working hard and having a never-quit attitude, always striving for success and perfection.
A friend has told me that some things are true whether we believe them or not. One example of this is that true principles govern. You will come to understand what I'm saying as you visit this blog because it will be a place to exchange, grow in knowledge, and gain value to create a life filled with joy.
Therefore, to get things rolling let me say that a Nation, which has wandered from it's standards and was lulled into submission by secret combinations, is now arising! The banner of freedom is raised. The ultimate revolution has begun!
Enjoy your experiences here and remember to not only engage your thoughts, but act upon them for the one is incomplete without the other. My name is Shane, and I am the man who loves his life!!
My mission and purpose for this site is this....that I will have a positive impact on those with whom I come in contact, by being honest, friendly, optimistic, outgoing, and influential. In addition, I will improve the lives of those around me by sharing knowledge, forging friendships, having fun, and being creative. Furthermore, I will strive to leave a legacy by acting as a role model and team player, working hard and having a never-quit attitude, always striving for success and perfection.
A friend has told me that some things are true whether we believe them or not. One example of this is that true principles govern. You will come to understand what I'm saying as you visit this blog because it will be a place to exchange, grow in knowledge, and gain value to create a life filled with joy.
Therefore, to get things rolling let me say that a Nation, which has wandered from it's standards and was lulled into submission by secret combinations, is now arising! The banner of freedom is raised. The ultimate revolution has begun!
Enjoy your experiences here and remember to not only engage your thoughts, but act upon them for the one is incomplete without the other. My name is Shane, and I am the man who loves his life!!
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