Quotes to Living the Truth...

2007-12-04T09:52:00.000-05:00

Marie Curie was Polish-born, but is known for her work in France as a chemist and physicist. She lived from 1867 to 1934. She was the first female professor at the University of Paris and remains the first and only twice-honored Nobel laureate in two different sciences.

Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.

We should not fear what we understand, and we should not fear knowing that we don't understand everything. Our hunger for knowledge should feed our appetites and never quite satisfy our palate.

2007-10-12T09:09:00.000-04:00

Too much time has passed without typing in quotes to make us ponder. Here's one a good friend of mine relays often. It comes from the book of Matthew 6:4. (Thanks Joe)

"Do not worry for tomorrow;
Tomorrow will take care of itself.
Sufficient for each day is its own evil."

It's somewhat amusing to me how much emphasis we put on tomorrow, and how little we focus on today - what can be accomplished, now. Carpe diem.

Image by Caravaggio.

2007-07-09T18:18:00.000-04:00

I recently traveled to Abilene, Kansas and while there, visited the President Dwight D. Eisenhower historical site, memorial, library and Presidential grounds.

This is an excerpt from his 1953 Inaugural Address...

"A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both."

I am fascinated by previous Presidents and the speeches they gave to the American people while in Office. Oddly enough though, it seems that the words spoken do not often correlate to their actions in office. In this instance, I believe President Eisenhower words speak to today's people, perhaps more clearly than to those 54 years ago.

2007-04-17T12:48:00.000-04:00

Esther "Eppie" Pauline Friedman Lederer wrote a syndicated advice column under the pen name of Ann Landers. Although I have not read any of her columns to memory, this quote came upon me and I think it's fair advice worth sharing.

"Maturity is the ability to live in peace with that which we cannot change."

There is something to be said about the person that lives with that which cannot be changed. How much greater of a person I would be if I could maturely accept life's givings with grace and gratefulness.

2007-04-12T12:12:00.000-04:00

During the 1800's lived a gentleman with the pen name, Josh Billings. His real name was Henry Wheeler Shaw and he is considered perhaps the second most famous humor writer and lecturer in the second half of the 19th century after Mark Twain, whom also used a pen name.

"Occasions are rare; and those who know how to seize upon them are rarer"

Soemtimes I fail to realize that occasions as Mr. Billings says, are 'rare' as I go about the day-to-day. And then, it hits me. Wow. What gifts we are blessed with, those occasions.

2007-03-26T15:23:00.000-04:00

Christian author Halford E. Luccock said these words,

No one can whistle a symphony. It takes an orchestra to play it.

I'm constantly reminded that 'we' are in this together. That, and I'm a lousy whistler.

2007-03-13T10:37:00.000-04:00

British writer Freya Stark was not only one of the first Western women to travel through the Arabian deserts (Hadhramaut); she often travelled solo into areas where few Europeans, let alone women, had ever been.

There can be no happiness if the things we believe in are different from the things we do.

People will call it our conscience, but I feel its though we have this little alarm devise inside us that is constantly monitoring what we are doing. When we do the things we are supposed to like being honest, keeping promises, etc., it stays quiet. But, when we get close to doing the wrong, the things we know we shouldn't, it comes alive. The buzzer sounds, the lights flash and it starts jumping all around. At first, it's subtle and barely audible, but then it's blaringly loud and I just can't ignore it any longer. It's when guilt sets in.

I don't know if we can always control our emotions, but I do feel that we should be able to control our actions, and we must. Seeing is not believing. Believing is doing.

2007-03-06T22:16:00.000-05:00

American Opera Conductor Sarah Caldwell said these words,

Learn everything you can, anytime you can, from anyone you can - there will always come a time when you will be grateful you did.

I am constantly amazed at what I can learn by simply stopping to listen, taking it all in.

2007-03-02T13:41:00.000-05:00

Today's quote comes from Swiss psychiatrist and founder of analytical psychology, Carl Jung.

"The man who promises everything is sure to fulfill nothing."

In short, do not make a promise, you can't keep.

2007-03-01T13:32:00.000-05:00

George H. Lorimer was the editor of the Saturday Evening Post weekly magazine from 1899 to 1937. He wrote these words,

"Back of every noble life there are principles that have fashioned it."

I believe one becomes noble only by having lived by principle.

This post is dedicated to you, Grandmother.

2007-02-28T10:24:00.000-05:00

I think myself 'stupid' to say it, but until recently I had never been into reading. I enjoyed the occassional latest-greatest fiction novel, but I had never developed a keen interest in the likes of Emerson, Steinbeck, Camus, Churchill and others until now. It brought me to the realization that a person develops their own mind and principles through acquiring knowledge; transforming that information into wisdom. Ralph Waldo Emerson said these words,

"Nothing can bring you peace but the triumph of principles."

I believe that he is speaking of action, for acquired knowledge of wisdom only has meaningful value through action or deliberate inaction.

2007-02-27T09:11:00.000-05:00

American Novelist and Nobel Prize winner John Steinbeck gives us a few words of wisdom. He was born this day in 1902.

“No man really knows about other human beings. The best he can do is to suppose that they are like himself.”

There is a flaw in my thinking that baits me to believe that I know how someone else is thinking; for I do not understand how even I came about my thoughts. Yet, I continue to try. Why?

2007-02-26T14:10:00.000-05:00

On this day in 1932, Johnny Cash was born. If you've seen the movie portraying his life, you'd know he had struggles. This is one bit of advice he gave.

"You build on failure. You use it as a stepping stone. Close the door on the past. You don't try to forget the mistakes, but you don't dwell on it. You don't let it have any of your energy, or any of your time, or any of your space."

I never got to know my Grandfather, my father's father. He passed away when I was just a child barely 3. I've heard about the man he was and he loved to hear the songs of Johnny Cash, telling it like it was, writing/singing from the heart. He was also a man that believed in another day, another chance to make things right. This entry is dedicated to him.

2007-02-23T10:39:00.000-05:00

The humble CS Lewis writ,

“God, who foresaw your tribulation, has specially armed you to go through it, not without pain but without stain.”

Psalm 27:3-5.

2007-02-22T09:13:00.000-05:00

General and first American President George Washington is honored this day of his birth in 1732. He is considered one of America's founding fathers and he had these words to say.

“The government of the United States is not in any sense founded on the Christian Religion”

Though he also made mark in saying,

“It is impossible to rightly govern a nation without God and the Bible.”

To me these words live on...

“The propitious smiles of Heaven can never be expected on a nation that disregards the eternal rules of order and right which Heaven itself has ordained”

Amen, I say to that.

2007-02-21T08:54:00.000-05:00

17th century English philosoher John Locke said this,

"It is one thing to show a man that he is in error, and another to put him in possession of truth."

I ask myself whether I learn more from my errors, or unveiling the truth. In truth, there is light and I believe it is in the light that I also discover my errors.

2007-02-16T10:45:00.000-05:00

One more thought from John Denver to finish the work week.

The best thing you have to offer the world is yourself. You don't have to be anyone else. If you do, you are second best. To achieve success is to be first, and that's being yourself.

I am and must continue to come to the realization that I am imperfect. Despite it, I must be myself. In as such, I put my trust in Him for strength to overcome my flaws, my insecurities and above all else, my fears.

2007-02-15T09:32:00.000-05:00

I did not listen to the songs by John Denver during the days he lived his life. Though recently, I've come to understand why so many were moved by his music. He writ and sang with passion and purpose.

There has never been a time on Earth like we see today. What we need are more ways to experience our interconnectedness - it is a precursor to deep love. So in this quickening light, with the dawn of each new day, let us look for love. Let us no longer struggle. Let us ever become who we most want to be. As we begin to be who we truly are, the world will be a better place.

Isn't that all that God asks of me? To be true to Him and do His will.

2007-02-14T10:00:00.000-05:00

There's a book I'm reading and in it, this line spoke to me. I've discovered this thought prior in my own recent writings, yet with other literal phrasing. Author James McDonald says it this way.

I don't want an "A" for appearance - I want the real thing in my heart. I don't want to look right - I want to be right.

In further thought, I can undestand the meaning Dr. McDonald may be trying to express, but it must be taken a step further from being 'right' to 'righteous in living'.

2007-02-13T10:08:00.000-05:00

Hellen Keller became blind before she was two from illness. In my perspective, her earthly illness became one of humanity's greatest gifts.

Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. The fearful are caught as often as the bold.

There is nothing wrong with having strength. Perhaps there is nothing wrong with having fear. Maybe it is by having such fear, that we find the greatness of the strength given to us.

2007-02-07T12:23:00.000-05:00

Theologian and Bishop Jeremy Taylor bears these thoughts,

Enjoy the blessings of this day, if God sends them; and the evils of it bear patiently and sweetly: for this day only is ours, we are dead to yesterday, and we are not yet born to the morrow.

This passage reminds me to seize the moment and not squander it with worries, doubts or concerns. The day is given as a gift, just as yesterday was. Yesterday's wrappings are now old and the surprise inside unveiled. Why look towards tomorrow, when we've barely begun unwrapping today's. A 'thank you' should be said.

2007-02-06T11:32:00.000-05:00

I feel like today is a good day to hear from the Charles M. Schulz character, Charlie Brown. He makes me smile; the innocence, a pure heart of good intentions.

“In the book of life, the answers aren't in the back.”

Too often, I try to find the shortcut. There really isn't one. And if there was and I took it, what would I have learned? What would have been the point?

We need to read the whole book to understand, and then, read it again.

2007-02-05T08:48:00.000-05:00

Author Dave Dravecky noted,

I've come to realize that real growth of character takes place in the valleys of life.

The last place I wanted to be was in the valley and to feel the heartache of the descent with blinded sight and an ignorant mind, alone.

However, what is learned in the valley can only be experienced there, in person. That knowledge, that wisdom cannot be felt by reading or contemplation. Nor is the descent ever experienced alone.

Is it written in 2nd Chapter of James, verse 24,

You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone.

I believe that 'action of faith' is part of the climb. It is an exhilerating adventure that He has always desired His children to experience.

2007-02-02T00:34:00.000-05:00

On the morning of this full moon, I return to one of my favorite wise elders, Albert Einstein.

"Only a life lived for others is worth living."

This quote is simple, yet intuitive of our greater life's purpose.

2007-01-24T07:33:00.000-05:00

I looked in the mirror today and saw a person screaming to be free! Do something! Change. Make a difference.

The person in the mirror was the 'me' of yesterday. Everything thing that I am today is a culmination of all my yesterdays, but it's not who 'I am'. It's people knowing me from my actions, my words and all the things of the past. And in the blink of my eye I heard a voice tell me, 'Today is a new day to be the person I want you to be.'

It's an opportunity to overwrite the wrongs, begin anew. This today is given to me for a reason. Who am I to squander it. I rejoice and am grateful.

2007-01-22T10:35:00.000-05:00

The world was given a glimpse of the holocaust through the eyes of a young girl, named Anne Frank. Her feelings have inspired people of every race and religion. With love, we remember her this day.

The final forming of a person's character lies in their own hands.

He has allowed me to create who I am and what I will be. I hope I am making Him proud.

2007-01-20T09:46:00.000-05:00

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was taken a decade before my birth. I only know of him through history books. Until now, the only words I had heard him speak were from 'I have a Dream....' In researching this last day and choosing which quote to post, I found this audio track posted at the The King Center. I invite you to listen to him.

I listened to it once, and I felt Dr. King's passion. I listened to it again, and I heard his words. I listened a third time, and I understood.

Recognize, he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. That is the new definition of greatness... and everybody can be great, because everybody can serve...
You only need a heart full of grace, a soul generated by love, and you can be that servant.

Dr. King, your passion lives and continues today. Thank you.

2007-01-19T09:00:00.000-05:00

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. inspired Americans and individuals around the world. He spoke words and took action that brought unity and non-violence with the principle of unconditional love.

"If you lose hope, somehow you lose the vitality that keeps life moving, you lose that courage to be, that quality that helps you go on in spite of it all. And so today I still have a dream, the Trumpet of Conscience.”

Dr. King reminds me that beneath this armor is that Trumpet of Conscience, wanting to be played.

2007-01-18T13:20:00.000-05:00

This statement from Dr. King hits me especially hard.

“Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.”

What he must have went through to overcome the obstacles he faced, and the faith in God he must have had to take that first step. The times and circumstances are different, but the obstacle is the same. The obstacle is not the haters or the bashers, or the unholy triad of the desires of this flesh, worldly powers and the devil's temptations, but the depths of my faith and everlasting belief, to take the first step.

2007-01-17T08:57:00.000-05:00

In 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr. released a book entitled Strength to Love. It contains sixteen sermons and one essay entitled "Pilgrimage to Nonviolence." The book was one of many which he wrote conveying his beliefs and stance on the conflicts he confronted.

“I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality. This is why right, temporarily defeated, is stronger than evil triumphant.”

I find my strength in Truth; to seek it, unveil it, choose it, act upon it, and to believe it in all its humbled glory.

2007-01-16T17:51:00.000-05:00

Though spoken many years ago, these words by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. are still powerfully true today.

“Our scientific power has outrun our spiritual power. We have guided missiles and misguided men.”

I feel this occurs when we allow so-called 'science and logic' to give explained reason for our actions, rather than doing what is unexplainably right.

Dr. King said further,

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”

No matter if I am right or wrong, let me speak up and know that I am alive, expressing that which I believe.

2007-01-15T08:40:00.000-05:00

I attempted to find just one quote from Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that tugged at my heart this day, but there are several. So this week, we honor Dr. King.

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

We live in the darkness because we choose to. Hate because we do not allow ourselves to love, or be loved. Ignorance, nor innocence is an excuse.

“Every man must decide whether he will walk in the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of destructive selfishness.”

As much as it pains Him, God gives us a choice. In darkness, there is hate. In light, there is love. Which will you choose?

2007-01-12T15:42:00.000-05:00

Author Robert Tamasy wrote,

"If we are to be salt and light in our world, we need to go where the lost are... The Holy Spirit will start working in their lives as they watch ours, and then they will try to figure out why we are different."

It is said, You will know these people by what they do, by their fruits. (Matthew 7:16)

It is amazing to me how we can learn from what we've done, that I too have been lost, and the feeling of the Spirit working in my life, opening my heart and soul.

2007-01-11T09:17:00.000-05:00

Over the past year and a half, I have learned from the quotes of so many. I have also learned I am what you call a 'collector', loving to learn and experiencing new 'input' into life. It is a blessing to live in such an abundant world.

Along the path of collecting these quotes, I have developed an appreciation for Albert Einstein. Please allow me to share one of my favorites.

"The search for truth and knowledge is one of the finest attributes of man, though often it is most loudly voiced by those who strive for it the least."

You learn alot about yourself when looking in the mirror, being honest who I am, and when you take time to reflect. I further learned not only that it's important to reflect, but the reasons why. I must thank a friend whom had enough courage and love in her in heart to tell me just that. Thank you.

2007-01-09T10:04:00.000-05:00

Each day I use a planner to organize my tasks and prioritize. There's also a quote at the top of each page, though its rare that I find one that I wish to share via this blog. Today's is an exception.

Historical leader, General and American President, George Washington eloquently said,

True friendship is a plant of slow growth and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity before it is entitled to the appellation.

It is then that we discover who we truly are, the friend, myself.

2007-01-06T11:05:00.000-05:00

I feel all this thinking about me is selfish. My mistakes, ignorance, regrets, on and on and on. I cannot change past. I am allowing 'me' to get in the way... and I ain't gonna win. He's gonna get me, because it is where I am supposed to be. There is a greater plan than I am can and am meant to understand; my purpose is to act with unconditional trust, guiding faith, His will.

The prophet Hosea says,

"He has torn us to pieces but he will heal us; He has injured us, but he will bind up our wounds."

It further draws me to one my favorite CS Lewis passages,

He is not safe, but He is good.

2007-01-05T09:31:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I feel it's a moving target. Me. Flip-flopping from reliving the past and what I had planned for the future. My mind a-wandering and me trying to fight my old habits and old-ways of thinking. It's hard to make a change. It's hard to go about your day-to-day. It's exciting and a challenge and scary all at the same time. Maybe because I feel that I'm alone making the change, and although I'm told i have the support of friends, the only person that can make the change, turn it over and surrender it all up, is me.

Today, I turn to American theologian, Reinhold Niebuhr for words that express my thoughts and my request.

“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

2007-01-04T13:59:00.000-05:00

Dale Galloway once wrote,

"A rose only becomes beautiful and blesses others when it opens up and blooms. Its greatest tragedy is to stay in a tight-closed bud, never fulfilling its potential."

I don't know if I can be called a rose, but i do know that I have been and I now challenge myself to open to bloom. I was closed so tight that it caused pain to the person I love, and that closed-bud selfishness upset the entire garden that I thought and tried to be a beautiful part of.

Lord, let the nurturing continue. Let your grace and love shine upon the one and those I hurt. Let your strength and encouragement shower me. Let it create a rainbow.

2007-01-03T08:31:00.000-05:00

This next gentleman pens a feeling I've had for some time. He is a respected composer and songwriter, Mr. Porter Cole.

"I want to ride to the ridge where the west commences. I can't look at hobbles and I can't stand fences. Don't fence me in."

Why does the fencing take place? There's an interesting test I've recently taken. What values are my own? What values have been imposed? Which will I choose to live? I can tell you, I've been fenced in way too long. Playwright Christopher Fry has so keenly written,

"Life is a hypocrite if I can't live, The way it moves me!"

Photo by Wayne Mumford.

2007-01-02T07:34:00.000-05:00

Author and Pastor Dr. James McDonald writes,

"I want every detail of every circumstance of every moment of every day to awaken my heart to the reality of God and His nearness."

To live with this thought, to feel the presence of God, to see God in all things, to experience God, is to know God - and thyself.

2006-12-27T09:10:00.000-05:00

The Christmas holiday is my favorite time of the year, reminding me to be grateful for all that is given. It is also a time for reflection. I read an interesting verse from a man that I am becoming quite fond of, Mr. C.S. Lewis. I would like to share it with you, now.

God cannot give us a happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing.

Happiness and Peace have new feeling, depths without limits.

Photo by Steve Crocker.

2006-12-15T11:19:00.000-05:00

Dear Friend & Reader,
I've looked for a quote better than Ms. Swain's below, but hers embodies my current thought and mission. I will refrain from further posts till i find another which draws my spirit. I hope hers does the same for you. God Bless.

2006-12-14T08:48:00.000-05:00

Author Alice M. Swaim gives us today's quote.

Courage is not the towering oak that sees storms come and go; it is the fragile blossom that opens in the snow.

Change comes from the inside. The blossom is the beauty that is seen by the world.

2006-12-12T09:39:00.000-05:00

French novelist Gustave Flaubert is best known for his masterpiece, Madame Bovary. He said these words,

The artist must be in his work as God is in creation, invisible and all-powerful; one must sense him everywhere but never see him.

We are each artists. I must paint the world with my palette, trusting that He is guiding me to create a masterpiece that is beautiful and worthy to Him.

2006-12-11T09:19:00.000-05:00

A wise person once said,

A friend is someone with whom I can reveal many parts of me, even those I am meeting for the first time.

I never really understood the meaning of a friend, until i called them out in times of need. They rushed and stood to my side. Listening, supporting, giving of themselves unconditionally because they want to express their love. I had no idea the true value of friendship, until right now. The sacrifice a person makes when they offer to become yours, and what that really means. I am grateful.

2006-12-08T08:27:00.000-05:00

We turn to our old friend, 12th Century Japanese Buddhist monk, Dogen, for words of wisdom.

When we discover that the truth is already in us, we are all at once our original selves.

He has placed the answers within us, just need to ask how to find it.

2006-12-04T09:10:00.000-05:00

Highly regarded in the Armed Forces, Navy Captain Gerald L. Coffee's military decorations include the Silver Star, two awards of the Legion of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Bronze Stars, the Air Medal, two Purple Hearts, and the Vietnam Service Medal with 13 stars. Through tremendous courage and resolve, Captin Coffee lived as a POW in the Communist prisons of North Vietnam for 7 years. After his repatriation in February, 1973, Jerry returned to operation duties, giving 28 years of service.

Our lives are a continuing journey - and we must learn and grow at every bend as we make our way, sometimes stumbling, but always moving toward the finest within us.

Sometimes we falter, but God does not let us fall. We become closer to the person we are supposed to be if we allow ourselves to learn, grow and love.

2006-11-22T10:41:00.000-05:00

As a friend reminded me this day, Thanksgiving is an American Holiday and Tradition that the rest of the world does not celebrate. Personally speaking, they are missing out.
So with gratefulness of the Thanksgiving Holiday, I turn to 18th Century English Poet, Christina G. Rossetti.

Were there no God, we would be in this glorious world with grateful hearts: and no one to thank.

Thank you God.

2006-11-20T11:31:00.000-05:00

Emmy Award Winning Television host and interviewer Dick Cavett once said,

It is a rare person who wants to hear what he doesn't want to hear.

We grow a little each time we step outside out comfort zone. Friends shared with me this weekend, "we must give a little to live alot." In reflection, it means to open myself to know and understand who I really am.

2006-11-16T10:07:00.000-05:00

Let us listen and learn from the words of France's most beloved comedy writers and playrights, Moliere.

It is not only what we do, but also what we do not do, for which we are accountable.

Think first. Choose wisely. Act deliberately.

2006-11-13T13:16:00.000-05:00

Today we turn to one of my favorite Quoters, American President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Happiness lies not in the mere possession of money. It lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort.

I take great pride in effort, striving towards the finish line. Sometimes that line is nearer and other times so distant its not even visible, but I take personal worth knowing that I have given my all and will reach whatever finish line is deserved.

2006-11-09T08:27:00.000-05:00

Comic book 'The Spectre' co-creator Bernard Baily shares his insight with these words,

When science discovers the center of the universe, a lot of people will be disappointed to find they are not it.

We are put to this earth to play a role and live with purpose. Our role and purpose are according to His will. We just have the choice of whether and how closely we listen.

2006-11-07T10:56:00.000-05:00

I enjoy a good conversation and the realm of philosophy. Here's words to ponder by Socrates.

The greatest way to live with honor in this world is to be what we pretend to be.

As a child we attempt to become what we pretend and are not afraid to try. How did I let 'me' get in the way? How do I become what I pretend?

2006-11-06T10:29:00.000-05:00

We turn today to wise words stated by author Mary H. Waldrip.

It's important that people should know what you stand for. It's equally important that they know what you won't stand for.

It's okay to draw a firm line on what is acceptable and not. Only then will we know where we stand, and the type of person I am.

2006-10-23T08:45:00.000-04:00

Leadership coach Foster C. McClellan says,

Trust yourself. Create the kind of self that you will be happy to live with all your life. Make the most of yourself by fanning the tiny, inner sparks of possibility into flames of achievement.

It's so true. I am the one that has to look at myself in the mirror each day. Live with the decisions I've made. I can control myself, and only me. It's my decision, my action, my challenge, my opportunity.

2006-10-19T09:19:00.000-04:00

Author, leadership coach and business strategist John C. Maxwell says,

If you think you are leading a team, department or organization and no one is following... you are just out for a walk.

Sometimes, I like taking a walk by myself.

2006-10-18T09:43:00.000-04:00

American historian and writer James Truslow Adams is thought to be the man responsible for coining the phrase, 'American Dream'. He served to the aid of President Woodrow Wilson and was assigned with preparations and become part of the US Delegation for the Paris Peace Conference of 1918.

We cannot advance without new experiments in living, but no wise man tries every day what he has proved wrong the day before.

I must learn from yesterday so that I may not make the same mistake twice. A simpler phrase to be said then done, but nonetheless, something to look forward to. I must have been given this new knowledge for a reason.

2006-10-17T10:25:00.000-04:00

Anti-Slavery Advocate and American Journalist Charles A. Dana was an instrumental proponent of free speech during the trying times leading up to, during and following the Civil War. His expressions led him to close ties with American Presidents and the decisions they made.

Fight for your opinions, but do not believe that they contain the whole truth or the only truth.

This human system is quite limited really. What I have come to know or learn is not necessarily absolute truth. Although in my mind, I think that it is. The same goes for my opinions. My opinion is not necessarily true, though it is what I stand upright fighting in defense. It makes me think... I must be forever learning, understanding, realizing that I may not always be right. And perhaps not 'wrong' - wise enough to understand others perspective, become knowledge in search of Truth.

2006-10-14T09:08:00.000-04:00

A product of Abilene, Kansas, the 34th US President Dwight David Eisenhower was instrumental connecting the Union with the creation of the Interstate Highway System. Although he justified its use as a necessity to ensure America's Military Defense Strategy during the times of the Cold War, its greatest impact has been economic.

'Worry' is a word that I don't allow myself to use.

If I follow the guidance and thoughts of earlier posts this week, I have created my optimism, my own hope, my own rules and have trust and faith in all that is done is His will. Why should I waste earthly time with 'worry'?

2006-10-11T09:15:00.000-04:00

Recipient of the Nobel Prize for Literature, Albert Camus is considered by many to be a great French writer and philosopher. His concept focused on people, less on ideas.

Integrity has no need of rules.

No need to comment further.

2006-10-10T09:30:00.000-04:00

Born on this day in 1895 in China, Lyn Yutang is honored today as a prolific writer, editor and philosopher.

Hope is like a road in the country; there was never a road, but when many people walk on it, the road comes into existence.

I believe that we make our own hope. Optimism comes from our belief that good is possible, truth will prevail and all that is evil will subside. My perseverance will lead me to find, create and walk on that road. It is a path of discovery that gives me comfort, allows me to breathe and puts me at peace.

2006-10-09T09:36:00.000-04:00

While I am not a real fan of her consult and far-side opinions, I do agree and promote her quote this day.

Dr. Joyce Brothers is a family psychologist who has received fame and most widely known for 40-plus years of work as a syndiciated advice columnist.

Listening, not imitation, may be the sincerest form of flattery.

It's amazing what I hear when I let the silence speak.

2006-10-06T10:51:00.000-04:00

American Journalist Shana Alexander was the first female writer and editor for Life Magazine. She also appeared regularly on 60 Minutes.

The paradox of reality is that no image is as compelling as the one which exists only in the mind's eye.

No matter what the optometrist says, our mind's eye is the dominant one. I must be careful not to let it see only as it wants. Though powerful, I have been give the power to control the reality I see and live.

2006-10-05T09:40:00.000-04:00

French philosopher of free will and poetic letterman Denis Diderot was born today, on October 5, 1713. He is most known for his involvement of the work, Encyclopédie.

Only passions, great passions can elevate the soul to great things."

My mind wants to be challanged. My heart wants to be loved. My soul wants to be inspired. And while I want all of those things, the truest part of me yearns just as badly and even more to love, give, share, live and be.

2006-10-04T08:39:00.000-04:00

American historian and musician Bernice Johnson Reagon founded the a cappella ensemble Sweet Honey in the Rock in 1973.

Life's challenges are not supposed to paralyze you, they're supposed to help you discover who you are.

I firmly believe we are only given challenges that we are capable of handling through His grace.

2006-10-02T08:57:00.000-04:00

Writer of the 1922 novel Ulysses, Irishman James Joyce is one of the great 20th Century writers. We learn from his thoughts this day.

I am tomorrow, or some future day, what I establish today. I am today what I established yesterday or some previous day.

Though our actions define us, we are blessed with the opportunity to do better today than yesterday for tomorrow.

2006-09-29T13:13:00.000-04:00

The Spanish author and philosopher Senor Miguel de Unamuno gave a new outlook to self-introspection. To note, two of his works — La Agonía del Cristianismo (The Agony of Christianity) and his novella "San Manuel Bueno, mártir" — are included on the Index Librorum Prohibitorum of the Catholic Church and are still considered works that orthodox Roman Catholics are encouraged not to read.

Only in solitude do we find ourselves; and in finding ourselves, we find in ourselves all our brothers in solitude.

While it is my belief much good can come from seeking solitude, we are not meant to live in a silo. We are human. And it is blessing to us to live, share and love.

2006-09-28T09:24:00.000-04:00

Today, I turn to the country of my heritage and ponder on the words spoken by its leader. He is was last President of Czecholslovakia and became the First President of the Czech Republic. Vaclav Havel has been an inspiration to many in his country. He is also known as a gifted writed and dramatist.

The real test of a man is not when he plays the role he wants for himself, but when he plays the role destiny has for him.

I need to take Vaclav's words one more step from 'plays the role destiny has for him' to 'when he becomes the role'.

The distinction takes it beyond 'acting' to the core of believing, doing, being, living.

2006-09-25T08:58:00.000-04:00

Rabbi Harold Kushner said these words,

None of us can be truly human in isolation. The qualities that make us human emerge only in the ways we relate to other people.

For sometime, I lived with the thought that I could handle problems all on my own. Overcome things all by myself. I can't. I'm not made to. Part of letting go, surrendering, is letting others into your life. Trusting. Respecting. Loving.

2006-09-23T09:15:00.000-04:00

American pop singer Tori Amos is known for her expressive lyrics. Her emotional dedication has led to a loyal following and fans trusting her and her music.

Some people are afraid of what they might find if they try to analyze themselves too much, but you have to crawl into your wounds to discover where your fears are. Once the bleeding starts, the cleansing can begin.

For me, it was more difficult to make the cut into the wound, then the crawling in part. Its easier to not see or ignore that the infection grows and lies under the skin. Once deep inside, the cells of world aid in the healing process.

2006-09-22T08:37:00.000-04:00

A Japanese Buddhist monk and philosopher, Dōgen Zenji lived during the early 1200's. He is known as the founder of the Soto school of Zen in Japan.

When we discover that the truth is already in us, we are all at once our original selves.

I wrote in my journal last night, the truth is already inside of me. I have been in darkness long enough, I need to dig deep and turn on the light.

2006-09-21T07:43:00.000-04:00

A poet, an author, a teacher, an ordained Minister, Patrick Overton wrote a poem on Faith. This is what it says,

When you have come to the edge of all light that you know, and are about to drop off into the darkness of the unknown, Faith is knowing one of two things will happen: There will be something solid to stand on or you will be taught to fly.

Taking myself to the edge is where I must stand. The closer to the edge, the more I discover. Black is all one color, but it is in the Light that I learn and find myself.

2006-09-20T08:29:00.000-04:00

Sophia Loren is considered by many to be the most famous female Italian film actress. She won an Academy Award for her work in the 1960 film, Two Women.

Today we listen to one of her quotes.

If you haven't cried, your eyes can't be beautiful.

I have never felt so vulnerable, humbled, honest and free as when letting it all go and crying. It's though I'ved tapped into the inner core of me, filled with so much emotion that tears need to be released so I don't explode inside. From my eyes, the beauty Sophia Loren is talking comes from opening and sharing what's within, expressing my innermost feelings, the real me.

2006-09-19T09:06:00.000-04:00

While I don't agree with all of his business sales advice, Tom Hopkins had these words to say. Taken in the right context, they are very good to live by.

Getting in touch with your true self must be your first priority.

I cannot serve others if I don't know the true me. I must dig deeper to find me. Let Him in me. I must lift the gates, open the doors, even break the windows that won't or that I have sealed never wanting to open.

2006-09-18T08:42:00.000-04:00

The Salvation Army was created by ministers William and Catherine Booth. It was originally called the Christian Revival Association, then the East London Christian Mission, and once moved to beyond serving East London, The Christian Mission. It was finally named the Salvation Army in 1878, 13 years after its original founding.

The organization was established, in their words, to win the world for Jesus by bringing the whole world under the lordship of Jesus Christ.

The Salvation Army was created with God's calling to care for his children. Come as you are - broken, tattered, lost, confused.

William Booth said,

The greatness of a man's power is the measure of his surrender.

The critical question are, "Why am I surrendering?" and "Who I am you surrendering to?"

I can surrender to myself to me or to someone else, but that will be me again thinking that I have the power to heal me. The only power is that which has been given to me. Surrendering is giving up yourself to God. Undoubtedly believing and knowing that He will care for me as one of his children. As much as it hurts and tears me in two, I must release the person in my life that I hold so tight, so that He can do His work as she needs, so that He can do His work in me.

Love is not about affection and compromise. Love is not about the worldly things this society teaches. The love we are seeking is His. It is everlasting and it is His love that we will find peace, comfort and be at One.

2006-09-16T09:11:00.000-04:00

Dr. Laurence J. Peter is labeled as one of America's foremost hierarchiologists. Don't know what that is? No worries, neither does Webster's Dictionary.

In any case, we turn to this Vancouver born educational doctor for his quote.

Speak when you are angry - and you'll make the best speech you'll ever regret.

How right he is. Its like the top being blown off the radiator with big bellowing steam shooting everywhere. I have never become uncontrollably angry. I have never been in a top of your lungs shouting match or angry enough that i thought of any type of physical harm. Instead, my anger turns to disappointment in the action. I can recall instances where anger become synonomous with confusion. I say that meaning that when confused, i can't think straight. Being thrown in a mouse-like maze with a countdown clock and only one escape route, but no ideas of how to reach it. I believe anger is a reaction in which a person fails to control their emotions. The mind is racing to regain control, or take control. Further, it reacts in defense shutting down all points of entry, closing the windows, gating the doors in self-preservation.

Where does anger come from? Is my state of confusion and neediness to understand, my comparable anger? I've spoken in anger/confusion, and regretted the conversations. Its no wonder how others can't understand when i've spoken without making sense in my own mind.

In closing for today, anger is as much about confusion or losing control, as it is about regret. I know that could have avoided angered circumstance by conscious thought, decision and action. Perhaps, the anger is only a reflection of the disappointment i feel for failing myself, and what i know to be true, of what i am truly capable of.

2006-09-15T07:48:00.000-04:00

Today we learn from two great men.

The Pressman, Statesman, Writer and Inventor Benjamin Franklin shaped much of America's early development with this persuasive, yet humbling arguements of unity and perserverance.

He that blows the coals in quarrels that he has nothing to do with, has no right to complain.

And in much the same tone, we turn to the dedicated American scholar, pastor and professor Dr. William Arther Ward. Dr. Ward is considered to be one of America's most quoted writers of inspirational maxims.

We can throw stones, complain about them, stumble on them, climb over them, or build with them.

So quickly to judge, too often looking at the negative rather than the positive. It's a line that I find myself teetering on lately, but have now gotten to the point that I am fed-up with the teetering and the negativity. I enjoy optimism. Seeing the positive, seeing the beauty, seeing the blessings given.

2006-09-14T12:34:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I forget the importance of friendship. A shoulder to cry on. An embracing smile. A trusted Counselor. A listening supporter. Its an unconditional love that accepts your faults without judgement. A friend sees the 'real' you, loves the 'real' you.

Today we turn to my personal favorite story-time gang, Winnie the Pooh. Christopher Robbins says to Pooh Bear,

Promise me you'll always remember: You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.

There's a Friend and Trusted Counselor already within us.

2006-09-13T08:28:00.000-04:00

Today is a shared thought and quote in one. Thanks for stopping by.

There is a conscious decision made by a person whether to do right or wrong. I wonder though, how often decisions are made when consideration is given to cause and effect. There is relative ease to see the short-term impact, but what about long-term? What are the emotional effects? What is the message being conveyed by taking action? Or not taking action as the case may be?

A friend shared with me these thoughts and I relay them to you.

Your actions are the truest indicator of who you are as a person. Words are just words. The greateast orator can speak volumes. It is the action which defines.

2006-09-12T08:21:00.000-04:00

In tribute to all things Swiss, we turn to the Founder of Analytic Psychology, Dr. Carl Gustav. He is best known for his pioneering work of dream analysis.

The unconscious mind of man sees correctly even when conscious reason is blind and impotent.

Inside, I know what is right and what is wrong. Why does my mind try to always be right? It fights my heart and soul. I need to master my mind. It is only a tool that I've been given. If i can control my mind, I can control myself. My conscious tells me, listen.

2006-09-11T09:14:00.000-04:00

He is considered to be the world's pre-eminent dramatist. With more than 38 plays penned and 154 sonnets, not including his poetry, William Shakespeare expressed his emotions, his beliefs, his convictions in his works. It is the reason
he is admired and remembered.

Honesty is the best policy. If I lose mine honor, I lose myself.

I took 'honesty' foregranted. I didn't give it a second-thought, and just considered myself to be it. I lived day to day thinking that I 'was' being honest. Its weird. I had thought I doing everything right. Making the right decisions. Saying the right things. There was tough decisions inside that i made, who really made though decisions? Was it the 'real' me? I would like to think so.

Looking back on it, I was performing on a stage. The applause from the cheap seats fueled the performance. Those just outside of 'eye' sight didn't know the difference. There was a stare from the front row. When sitting front row and middle, you see it all. What's real and what is not. You see the performance for what it is. You see the person for what they are. You also see a glimpse of the person they truly want and are meant to be. I still see the stare. I see the same stare in the mirror.

2006-09-09T13:28:00.000-04:00

I am critic of life. I believe each of us are in some accord.Cesare Pavese was not only a critic of literaure, but a poet, novelist and translator. He lived during the fascism 1930's of Italy and was persecuted because of anti-fascism viewpoints. He led a difficult life which he ended at his own choice. This quote is taken from his diaries.

We do not remember days, we remember moments. The richness of life lies in memories we have forgotten.

This is an pondering perspective that I'm not sure I grasp completely. Does he mean that we often overlook the richest memories of past? That we've forgranted them, merely as a way of everyday living?

There are moments of yesterday that I put into a storage chest, filed away, per say. As if I was a sponge soaking in the moments but not realizing that they occurred or of their signifigance. I am challenged to look into the storage chest. Sort through the files of yesteryear and learn from them. I sense that they are far 'richer' than I ever could have imagined.

2006-09-08T08:17:00.000-04:00

I refer to a passage in the Bible, Hebrews Chapter 12, Verse 1.

God Disciplines His Sons.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us.

To all the readers of this blog, embark upon this day's journey with vigor and love. Fill your heart with compassion and be grateful you slept under a Moon and awoke to a rising Sun. Act with urgency. Live with Discipline. Add Value.

2006-09-07T08:54:00.000-04:00

Today we have a simple quote from the famed folk artist, Grandma Moses. Born with the name of Anna Mary Robertson, Grandma Moses reminded American of its roots, its values and the fruits of living life to its fullest.

Life is what we make it, always has been, always will be.

Sometimes we forget that we can take the reigns of life and make things happen. I can make it better.

2006-09-06T08:35:00.000-04:00

William James may be more known for the company he kept than his writings. Godson to Ralph Waldo Emerson and a friend to the likes of Helen Keller, Mark Twain, G. K. Chesterton and Sigmund Freud, James wrote books on the young science of psychology.

The greatest discovery of my generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes of mind.

Inside, I always knew this to be true. Someone once told me, all the answers are already inside. I just shut the door in my mind to hear only what I want to hear. Its time I open the door.

2006-09-05T07:44:00.000-04:00

Mother Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity in India. She is most known for her work among the poverty-stricken of Kolkata (Calcutta) and is referred to as the Angel of Mercy. Her work has changed the life of millions and the way she lived continues to be a source of inspiration for even more around the world. She is remembered and she is loved, because she gave love.

Few of us can do great things, but all of us can do small things with great love.

It truly is amazing what a person can do when they allow love and gratefulness to fill their heart. Let us be reminded of that this day.

2006-09-04T12:16:00.000-04:00

An English writer, Aldous Leonard Huxley is said to be a 'leader of modern thought' in distinguished circles. Others thought his perspective was ill-conceived and baseless, encroaching too harsh a critic.

There are things known and there are things unknown, and in between are the doors of perception.

I say to thee, all of us think we know what is best. Best for me, best for you, best for everyone. Father teaches that there is only One who knows. All else is merely a guess. All else is perception between fact and truth. Lost life will forever exist if under another's list. No one can live in self-freedom under markings of expectations. True life and love comes from chosen-disciplined living, unjudged acceptance and unconditioanal gratefulness.

2006-09-02T08:58:00.000-04:00

Born and lived in the 1800's, Henry George was an early American economist. He was also looked upon with political influence as a philospher forming policies that helped shape the American economic infrastructure.

He who sees the truth, let him proclaim it, without asking who is for it or who is against it.

Living in a politically-correct world, we need to remain bold and stalwart to follow and live our convictions. Sometimes its not that easy though, right? I remind myself, dig a little deeper, and a little more, and a little more until all doubt has left.

2006-09-01T07:25:00.000-04:00

CS Lewis helped changed the world's landscape, but he first started by changing himself. His faith, his strength, his courage is an inspiration.

Though our feelings come and go, God’s love for us does not.

There's something surreal about that phrase - How we can be loved unconditionally. Its unfathomable by the human mind, which is why you have to let mind go. Feel it with your heart. Feel it with your soul.

2006-08-31T08:40:00.000-04:00

CS Lewis was an atheist in his youth. He described himself as being "very angry with God for not existing." He was later influenced by arguments with his Oxford colleague and Catholic friend J. R. R. Tolkien, and by G.K. Chesterton's book, The Everlasting Man. He slowly rediscovered Christianity. He came to believe in the existence of God although he fought greatly against it. He describes his last struggle in Surprised by Joy:

You must picture me alone in that room in Magdalen, night after night, feeling, whenever my mind lifted even for a second from my work, the steady, unrelenting approach of Him whom I so earnestly desired not to meet. That which I greatly feared had at last come upon me. In the Trinity Term of 1929 I gave in, and admitted that God was God, and knelt and prayed: perhaps, that night, the most dejected and reluctant convert in all England.

It sounds incredibly similar both in feeling and action. God wanted me to hit bottom. Not for him, but so I would see Him. I had been blind and deaf, stupid and ignorant.

My best friend told me of her similar experience and I relate her advice, and my 'awakening' with these words, 'I was trying to find myself by looking to the core of my humanity. I was looking in the wrong place. There is fault in being human. It is the Divinity within me that I must listen to, trust completely."

2006-08-30T07:32:00.000-04:00

Born in Northern Ireland, CS Lewis was awarded many honorary doctorates for his accomplishments, but he found self- passion in Renaissance literature and Poetry.

What you see and hear depends a good deal on where you are standing; it also depends on what kind of a person you are.

Move. Change where you are standing. You are missing the world if you stay in the same spot. What's the saying about grass growing under your feet? You need to find yourself to know you need to move.

2006-08-29T07:51:00.000-04:00

Clive Staples Lewis, or more commonly known to his friends as 'Jack', is most recognized for his literary work, The Chronicles of Narnia.

God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks to us in our conscience, but shouts in our pains: It is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world.

Maybe its because we turn to Him the most during those times. We should always be listening...

2006-08-28T16:43:00.000-04:00

This week we turn to the great author and story-teller CS Lewis...

The pain I feel now is the happiness I had before. That's the deal.

I wonder why the pain feels so much greater? Is it because we don't really appreciate the happy times? We coast through them without even thinking. We should all be a bit more grateful.

2006-08-24T07:50:00.000-04:00

There was no third-party quote that could embody the words being felt, so this is a new creation.

No matter how busy you may think you are, you must find time to look inside yourself, view how you are living life, see your faults, surrender your ego and yourself to what is just.

I have found myself living in ignorance far too long and its penalty far greater than ever imagined.

2006-08-21T14:01:00.000-04:00

Nobel Prize Peace Awardee, the Most Reverend Desmond Mpilo Tutu said these words,

Without forgiveness, there's no future.

2006-08-17T10:49:00.000-04:00

American actress and sex symbol Mae West was the Diva of Vaudeville and a shining star in the hype of Hollywood birth.

Love thy neighbor - and if he happens to be tall, debonair and devastating, it will be that much easier.

Ladies, this one's for you.

2006-08-04T09:40:00.000-04:00

Born in 1854, the Irishman, Poet, Novelist, Dramatist and an opinionated Critic,
Oscar Wilde sharply stated,

I like men who have a future and women who have a past.

I don't know exactly what that means,
but I like it.

2006-08-01T13:16:00.000-04:00

Sixth American President and eldest son of the second US President, John Quincy Adams stated,

Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.

Why do we find it so difficult to have patience?

2006-07-19T08:51:00.000-04:00

Known as one of America's Best Story-Tellers, a camp-fire dweller and a beloved troubador, Louis L'Amour was a writer of western fiction with over 100 novels and 30 motion pictures penned to his name.

"Nobody got anywhere in the world by simply being content."

When we settle for being content, we let mediocrity prevail.

2006-07-17T10:55:00.000-04:00

A student of Socrates, this person is known as one of the most influential philosophers of ancient Greece and a teacher to Aristotle. The Philosopher Plato remarked,

Wise men speak because they have something to say; Fools because they have to say something.

Why don't we more carefull choose our words?