Strength comes in many forms!
One of my favorite shows to watch is 'Strongman' competitions. Let's watch Jim carry this elephant across a balance beam on this tricycle without a seat. Who thinks this stuff up? But, undoubtedly, these men are incredibly able-bodied. The feats they perform astound! That is obvious, pure, brute strength!
Strength, though, comes in many facets. There is Rosa Parks strength. There is Nelson Mandela strength. There is Helen Keller strength. There is Kerry Strug strength. There is Aron Ralston strength. There is David strength. And there is the fortitude to face every day strength.
Each of us faces daily struggles. Each of us has that choice to make, every day, whether or not those struggles will win out over us. Today, please know, that the battle lies not in your ability to beat those struggles, but rather in your realizing that you have within you the strength to do ANY thing. You are all those people I just mentioned. You are MORE than that, too. You can stand up to indifference. You can make things change. You can overcome anything that's in your way. You can fight through pain. You can rise above seemingly insurmountable odds. You can do what so many fear doing. You own that power. It is within you.
Strength is in more than your muscles!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Media Ch-Angels
Ch-Angel time . . .
This piece will actually envelope two people . . . Ann and Bill. They are the Batman and Robin of All Children's Hospital's media department. Superheroes with super hearts! They take heartbreak and make it matter. These two, among their zillion other responsibilities, develop the features stories for the All Children's Hospital telethon each year. They created Miles' story. They made us count. They made us a tangible, touchable effect of the hospital's abilities. They gave credence to our suffering, our stamina, our journey, our victories, and all the amazing things the hospital does.
These two, independently, are outstanding media stars. Incredible in their own abilities, when they put their beautiful heads together, they create incredibly touching stories that tug the heart strings, open the purse strings, and educate, too. Always behind the scenes, without much accolades, these two consistently produce work that help the hospital garner vitally needed funds every year.
In addition to their phenomenal media magic, I have had the privilege to get to know these folks on a personal level. I thought I was lucky having them portray my son's story for the telethon. What a pot of gold I have come across with the opportunity to call them friends. They are genuine, caring, kind, philanthropic, beautiful, unbias, dedicated souls. Willing to assist anyone in need at the drop of a hat, they give from the depths of their being with a true desire to simply help.
They earn their "Ch-Angel Wings" today through their selfless and tireless endeavors for those folks that don't have the platform to do so. Bless you both for all you do for so many others. Love you!
This piece will actually envelope two people . . . Ann and Bill. They are the Batman and Robin of All Children's Hospital's media department. Superheroes with super hearts! They take heartbreak and make it matter. These two, among their zillion other responsibilities, develop the features stories for the All Children's Hospital telethon each year. They created Miles' story. They made us count. They made us a tangible, touchable effect of the hospital's abilities. They gave credence to our suffering, our stamina, our journey, our victories, and all the amazing things the hospital does.
These two, independently, are outstanding media stars. Incredible in their own abilities, when they put their beautiful heads together, they create incredibly touching stories that tug the heart strings, open the purse strings, and educate, too. Always behind the scenes, without much accolades, these two consistently produce work that help the hospital garner vitally needed funds every year.
In addition to their phenomenal media magic, I have had the privilege to get to know these folks on a personal level. I thought I was lucky having them portray my son's story for the telethon. What a pot of gold I have come across with the opportunity to call them friends. They are genuine, caring, kind, philanthropic, beautiful, unbias, dedicated souls. Willing to assist anyone in need at the drop of a hat, they give from the depths of their being with a true desire to simply help.
They earn their "Ch-Angel Wings" today through their selfless and tireless endeavors for those folks that don't have the platform to do so. Bless you both for all you do for so many others. Love you!
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Entertaining Angels
Simple kindnesses have made lasting impressions and eternal differences. We've all heard the stories of how a kind gentleman helps a lady change a flat tire in a rain storm and she ends up leaving him all of her earthly possessions or various versions. Some are true. Some are simply spiritual stepping stones to help you make better choices.
My theory is much more easy. No changing flats in rain storms, although, please . . . if you ever see me on the roadside with a flat tire in a Florida rain storm . . . STOP! Rather, to do the right thing when you see it needs to be done. It doesn't need to be a grand gesture and it surely doesn't need to be in hopes of some reciprocation. It should just be done because it should just be done.
Helping people is one of the most joyous, most enlightening and wonderful activities there is. I'm not saying that you should house every homeless person or feed all the panhandlers. But you can offer them an opportunity to help themselves. Give them a bit of self assurance, a little dignity back, some self respect. It's astounding what one can do with a smidge of self respect.
Give up your seat to an elderly person. Offer guidance to your fellow shopper who looks lost. Allow the multi-lane-changing driver to get in front of you so he can get to the red light 4 seconds before you. Help a needy neighbor. Allow that mall shopper the tiny convenience of unloading their daily burdens on you. It helps them and you can filter it quickly. A listening ear, a soft heart, a tender touch, a genuine gift of generosity goes a long, long way.
Remember Hebrews 13:2, "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it." And you know how I love my angels . . .
Monday, October 24, 2011
Grow Round!
Ahhhh, to be well rounded! Sadly, this kinda refers more now to my physical shape than my abilities and experiences, but today I defer to those abilities and experiences.
What glorious opportunities I have had in my life. I have been enriched by so many things and so many people. I am truly lucky!
There has been a myriad of musical fulfillment. From swing and jazz through rock and rap. I've been blessed with classical influences and country soul and heavy metal. I've enjoyed barbershop quartets and been party to Sweet Adelines. I've played the piano, clarinet, trumpet, saxophone, drums, flute, and more. What a joy to have been exposed to all of that!
And to that music, I have danced! I took ballet, jazz, tap, modern dance, and hip hop. I did gymnastics for more years than I can recall. I played competitive golf, ran track, and dabbled in body building. I trained to teach aerobics and love tennis, racquetball, and tossing the old pigskin around. I'm a pretty good ping-pong and pool player and I adore a good bike ride. I love to hike and explore and climb rocks and ride horses.
I devour good books and have a plethora of reading tastes. Sometimes I enjoy a good Patterson thriller. Or, perhaps, a little Koontz craziness. And there are times when I go the complete opposite direction and read "Eat, Pray, Love" or "The Shack". Then maybe I'll grab something all uplifting like "Freedom Writers". Could not get enough of C.S. Lewis and pretty much will read most anything on angels. I think it's important to consume all sorts of things.
I've done a little travelling. Been up and down the eastern seaboard of the United States. I've been to Texas, Las Vegas and Wyoming. I travelled to Canada and to Germany. There are beautiful and amazing things everywhere. Know, though, that you need not travel to the ends of the earth to find beauty. There is an abundance in your own back yard.
And people . . . where do you start? I've known some absolutely, jaw-droppingly amazing folks. I have also known some . . . not-so-amazing folks. (That was nice, wasn't it?) I have met famous folks and average folks. I have endured the pains of hurtful people and have lavished, much more, in the love of genuine, kind, and caring folks. I like the latter much more, but must admit that without those hurtful folks the genuine ones would not be so very appreciated. There is much to be learned from EVERY person that you meet.
So, I encourage you today, to be well-rounded. It's never too late to start a new hobby, try a new destination, pick up a new paperback, or make a new friend. Life is about growth. Grow round, my friend. Grow round!
What glorious opportunities I have had in my life. I have been enriched by so many things and so many people. I am truly lucky!
There has been a myriad of musical fulfillment. From swing and jazz through rock and rap. I've been blessed with classical influences and country soul and heavy metal. I've enjoyed barbershop quartets and been party to Sweet Adelines. I've played the piano, clarinet, trumpet, saxophone, drums, flute, and more. What a joy to have been exposed to all of that!
And to that music, I have danced! I took ballet, jazz, tap, modern dance, and hip hop. I did gymnastics for more years than I can recall. I played competitive golf, ran track, and dabbled in body building. I trained to teach aerobics and love tennis, racquetball, and tossing the old pigskin around. I'm a pretty good ping-pong and pool player and I adore a good bike ride. I love to hike and explore and climb rocks and ride horses.
I devour good books and have a plethora of reading tastes. Sometimes I enjoy a good Patterson thriller. Or, perhaps, a little Koontz craziness. And there are times when I go the complete opposite direction and read "Eat, Pray, Love" or "The Shack". Then maybe I'll grab something all uplifting like "Freedom Writers". Could not get enough of C.S. Lewis and pretty much will read most anything on angels. I think it's important to consume all sorts of things.
I've done a little travelling. Been up and down the eastern seaboard of the United States. I've been to Texas, Las Vegas and Wyoming. I travelled to Canada and to Germany. There are beautiful and amazing things everywhere. Know, though, that you need not travel to the ends of the earth to find beauty. There is an abundance in your own back yard.
And people . . . where do you start? I've known some absolutely, jaw-droppingly amazing folks. I have also known some . . . not-so-amazing folks. (That was nice, wasn't it?) I have met famous folks and average folks. I have endured the pains of hurtful people and have lavished, much more, in the love of genuine, kind, and caring folks. I like the latter much more, but must admit that without those hurtful folks the genuine ones would not be so very appreciated. There is much to be learned from EVERY person that you meet.
So, I encourage you today, to be well-rounded. It's never too late to start a new hobby, try a new destination, pick up a new paperback, or make a new friend. Life is about growth. Grow round, my friend. Grow round!
Sunday, October 23, 2011
The Best Medicine
If laughter is the best medicine, I must be seriously healthy!
Thursday night, I spent many hours stumbling around Busch Gardens for Howl-O-Scream. To allow yourself that silliness to be scared out of your skin and laugh about it, is just a fabulous release. I spent the night dodging zombies, beasties, crazy stalker people, and tip-toe-ing through many haunted houses. I jumped, I screamed, I laughed, I ran away, and I just generally had an absolutely amazing time. It felt good to let go for a little while.
Friday, I tied up a few loose ends and generally got a lot of stuff done. It always feels fabulous to accomplish things and I got just bunches done! And all while in the company of my husband who just makes me giggle most of the day. Friday, he decided to pick up on the way I say "squirrel" and it hasn't stopped since. It's quite silly! It IS a two syllable word, isn't it?
Friday night we drove to Tallahassee, went to the party down town and on Saturday, hubby, Miles and I went to an antique car museum and then to the Seminole game. The museum was absolutely amazing and I cannot believe we've never been. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is passing by, loves cars & antiques, or just wants a little history lesson. It was amazing! We laughed our way through the two-story facility when we weren't standing in awe of this man's collection.
On to the game and FSU provides quite an aura! The stadium was pretty packed and lessened the chill in the air. We joked, chanted, chopped, and willed our team on to a wonderful victory. The whole time we just laughed and several times I really thought Miles would lose his lunch, he was laughing so hard. It was just an absolutely fabulous weekend. I couldn't have asked for a better time.
And so, in closing today, I wish you laughter. I wish you the brief and fleeting moments of letting your hair down and relaxing enough to really and truly enjoy what is around you. Find the lightness and frivolity that exists in simple things while in the company of folks you care about!
Be well . . . and laugh!
Thursday night, I spent many hours stumbling around Busch Gardens for Howl-O-Scream. To allow yourself that silliness to be scared out of your skin and laugh about it, is just a fabulous release. I spent the night dodging zombies, beasties, crazy stalker people, and tip-toe-ing through many haunted houses. I jumped, I screamed, I laughed, I ran away, and I just generally had an absolutely amazing time. It felt good to let go for a little while.
Friday, I tied up a few loose ends and generally got a lot of stuff done. It always feels fabulous to accomplish things and I got just bunches done! And all while in the company of my husband who just makes me giggle most of the day. Friday, he decided to pick up on the way I say "squirrel" and it hasn't stopped since. It's quite silly! It IS a two syllable word, isn't it?
Friday night we drove to Tallahassee, went to the party down town and on Saturday, hubby, Miles and I went to an antique car museum and then to the Seminole game. The museum was absolutely amazing and I cannot believe we've never been. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is passing by, loves cars & antiques, or just wants a little history lesson. It was amazing! We laughed our way through the two-story facility when we weren't standing in awe of this man's collection.
On to the game and FSU provides quite an aura! The stadium was pretty packed and lessened the chill in the air. We joked, chanted, chopped, and willed our team on to a wonderful victory. The whole time we just laughed and several times I really thought Miles would lose his lunch, he was laughing so hard. It was just an absolutely fabulous weekend. I couldn't have asked for a better time.
And so, in closing today, I wish you laughter. I wish you the brief and fleeting moments of letting your hair down and relaxing enough to really and truly enjoy what is around you. Find the lightness and frivolity that exists in simple things while in the company of folks you care about!
Be well . . . and laugh!
Friday, October 21, 2011
Good Things . . .
Normally, good things come to those who wait.
Good things come, too, to those who pursue them in a positive and progressive manner!
Working on two major events is just a little hectic. But, when you just put your head down and lead with a shoulder you can usually knock a few things out of the way. I must say that I am blessed with some help from 'higher up,' but without the ability to be persistent; I don't think I'd get too far.
Maybe it's just the fact that these two projects are for veterans and for children. That might have something to do with the positive outcome. Maybe it's the inherent goodness in people that creates such grand results. Whatever it is, I am most grateful for all the many wonderful things that have been befalling me as of late.
I will continue my persistently positive passions and see where it leads. If one path becomes impassible, believe me, I will simply change course. If I come to a hole I cannot cross, I will find another route. If I find someone who does not share my passion or my purpose, I will simply, happily, and eagerly ask the next person.
Good things wait for all of us. Best wishes in your endeavors today! . . .
Good things come, too, to those who pursue them in a positive and progressive manner!
Working on two major events is just a little hectic. But, when you just put your head down and lead with a shoulder you can usually knock a few things out of the way. I must say that I am blessed with some help from 'higher up,' but without the ability to be persistent; I don't think I'd get too far.
Maybe it's just the fact that these two projects are for veterans and for children. That might have something to do with the positive outcome. Maybe it's the inherent goodness in people that creates such grand results. Whatever it is, I am most grateful for all the many wonderful things that have been befalling me as of late.
I will continue my persistently positive passions and see where it leads. If one path becomes impassible, believe me, I will simply change course. If I come to a hole I cannot cross, I will find another route. If I find someone who does not share my passion or my purpose, I will simply, happily, and eagerly ask the next person.
Good things wait for all of us. Best wishes in your endeavors today! . . .
Thursday, October 20, 2011
A question
When we are in elementary school, there is no issue with raising your hand to ask a question. Where does that inhibition go?
When you get to middle school, it is far too uncool to raise your hand and have any of your friends think you don't know everything. Get to high school, and should you happen to raise your hand for an inquiry, you are instantly pegged as a geek, a brainiac, or wannabe teacher's pet. As an adult, we feel we are far too educated to not know answers so why ask questions? We either just don't respond, or we formulate some lopsided, bias ideas and never sway from them . . . because we refuse to allow ourselves the opportunity of . . . a question!
I learned a long time ago that the only stupid question is the one that ISN'T asked! If you don't know the answer; ask the question! If you cannot educate yourself; find someone who is schooled in the field of query and . . . fire away! Doubt is an obtrusive little virus that can infect a multitude of facets. Ignorance is a full blown, raging case of "I-choose-not-to-ask-itis". Don't be sickened or weakened by pride or prejudice. Simply ask a question!
When we choose to stop asking questions, we CHOOSE to stop growing intellectually. When we stop growing intellectually, we choose to become part of the current; part of the tide. We simply roll along with whatever comes to pass. To rise up, make a difference, and 'turn' the tide is difficult, at best. But, when we adjust our self-esteem and let that little sentence: "I have a question" come out, you just never know what brilliance can come of it. One little ripple can create a whole new wave. Be the ripple.
Ask a question . . .
When you get to middle school, it is far too uncool to raise your hand and have any of your friends think you don't know everything. Get to high school, and should you happen to raise your hand for an inquiry, you are instantly pegged as a geek, a brainiac, or wannabe teacher's pet. As an adult, we feel we are far too educated to not know answers so why ask questions? We either just don't respond, or we formulate some lopsided, bias ideas and never sway from them . . . because we refuse to allow ourselves the opportunity of . . . a question!
I learned a long time ago that the only stupid question is the one that ISN'T asked! If you don't know the answer; ask the question! If you cannot educate yourself; find someone who is schooled in the field of query and . . . fire away! Doubt is an obtrusive little virus that can infect a multitude of facets. Ignorance is a full blown, raging case of "I-choose-not-to-ask-itis". Don't be sickened or weakened by pride or prejudice. Simply ask a question!
When we choose to stop asking questions, we CHOOSE to stop growing intellectually. When we stop growing intellectually, we choose to become part of the current; part of the tide. We simply roll along with whatever comes to pass. To rise up, make a difference, and 'turn' the tide is difficult, at best. But, when we adjust our self-esteem and let that little sentence: "I have a question" come out, you just never know what brilliance can come of it. One little ripple can create a whole new wave. Be the ripple.
Ask a question . . .
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