A Letter to My Family, Friends and all the Rest (2022)

A Letter to My Family, Friends and all the Rest (2022)

Family, friends, acquaintances, and readers,

Thank you for making 2022 a momentous year. I have said this many times, but this year has been one of the best I have ever had. Throughout the year, there have been boundless opportunities. Each opportunity was an open door to abundance. I am thankful for each open door, but I am also thankful for you.

Wise men have said you are the sum of your five closest friends. Technology has brought us closer than in years past. Over 2022, we have established relationships, restored relationships, and strengthened others.

To those I have been friends with for a while now, I thank you for your support, encouragement, and love over the time we have known each other. To my new friends, I thank you for making this journey together. It is my prayer we will all, new friends, and old friends, learn to walk in simplicity, but in hope of a brighter future.

I am not a prophet, but the future is bright. I genuinely believe this is the greatest time to be alive and we have much to look forward to in the years to come. To this end, I welcome your moments of encouragement and strength as we walk together.

Over the past year, being one of the best, I have discovered the road is easier when you take a moment to breathe and renew your hope. Our hope is great, and the best days are ahead of us if we move with vigor, courage, and steadfastness.

2023 can be one of the best years in which we have ever lived… but we must want it and act on it.

The coming year will be like all the others: blessings mixed with opportunity. We must know where to look. It is upon us to open our eyes to see through the storm and find the light. While the chaos of the world will continue, we can find the anchor of the soul.

What will we need in 2023?

You! In this world, we need you, but we also need an improved version of you. While the “10-year-ago” version of you was good, we need the 2023 Growing Stronger You. The world needs the version of you that is growing stronger.

The world needs great people. I believe that 98.7% are good people. There are 1.3% of people who make things difficult, and we need to move past them to the 98.7%. We must find those looking to grow better and become united. We must find this unity in a hope greater than us.

Those growing stronger in 2023 will need open eyes. Your open eyes will allow you to look beyond the circumstances of the moment and to the greater life ahead. The future is bright. We must not allow the present, nor the past cannot distract our eyes.

With open eyes comes a strong mind. What goes into our minds settles in our hearts and comes out in our actions. Our actions follow the strong beliefs of our mind and the emotions of the heart. Our minds contain our core beliefs. As we walk this 2023 journey, we need people of strong mind and strong beliefs.

As I said previously, I am not a prophet, but I am an observer. In the next year, people will search. They will search for mental health, physical health, emotional health, and spiritual health. The past several years have been weary for many. Their minds need enrichment beyond what the past offered. Instead, they will search with forward focused eyes.

People have a longing. Their longing is for better times and brighter days. When we strengthen our minds, renew our hope, and cast our eyes on the future, we will become a shining light in the world. The brightness of hope will overshadow the challenges of the present.

The hope we have is not “seen hope.” It is a hope that is not seen. If we see the hope for which we aspire, then it is not hope. Hope in the present is only a wish. The hope the world needs is beyond this present age. It is the faith we have in the future, knowing that things will be better.

This coming year, I challenge you.

I challenge you to make things better than last year.

I challenge you to reach your potential and not settle for average.

You are a limited edition who can reach unlimited heights.

Thanks for listening.

Let us close this year in the next few days and use the momentum of 2022 to crush 2023.

Thank you for being my family, my friends, my acquaintances, and my readers.

May you be blessed!

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Want a Better 2023? Change your Mind.

Want a Better 2023? Change your Mind.

As we get into the New Year, many people want a new start and a better year. Some still make resolutions to change to start being the person they really want to be. Each resolution is a change. It is a change of action, a change or priority and a change or thinking.

However, studies have shown for years that most New Year’s Resolutions fade by the middle of February. The reasons are varied, but one of the most notable has always been the way one thinks. Even Solomon understood this in Proverbs 23.7, “As he thinks in his heart, so is he.”

Our minds control our actions, and even our outlook. Our mind is often called the “heart” in Scripture. The heart mentioned is the seat of emotions, the inward thoughts of our mind. Again, the wisdom of Solomon is found in Proverbs 4.23, “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” Solomon knew the purpose of guarding your heart, or your mind.

Jesus, speaking to the people, says, ““Hear and understand: it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.” (Matthew 15.10,11) And a few verses down, He clarifies it more, “But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person.  (Matthew 15:18)

We know the words of Paul regarding the mind when he writes to the Colossians church in Colossians 3.2, “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.”

How are you planning to change your mind? How are you planning to guard your mind this year?

To truly change, we must change our minds. When Peter said, “Repent” in Acts 2.38, the Greek word he used is “metanoeō.” It means to “think differently, “to “reconsider.” (Strongs) Digging deeper into the word, you will find that Peter wants them to change their hearts.

Are you changing your heart?

Just some thoughts,

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The Power of Leading by Example – The Power of One Series #10

The Power of Leading by Example – The Power of One Series #10

Leadership. It is a word often used when a situation needs someone to stand up and take control. Or it is used when a problem has developed, and someone is needed to make a difference.

Leading by example is one of the largest areas of contribution one can make to others, their church, their community, their workplace, and their family.  Someone needs to take the lead.

Will Rogers is noted as saying, “We can’t all be heroes, because someone has to sit on the curb and clap as they go by.” While it may seem that way many times, that fact is we are all leaders in one extent or another. You may lead your family, lead a group activity, or lead a team at work, but you are a leader. You might lead the way in innovation, or in teaching new generations the cultures of the past, but you are a leader.

The most significant influence you have as a leader is the example you set for others.  Remember, people are watching you. People will pay less attention to what you say, and more attention to what you do. Your example in actions will be the biggest influence you will have on them.

While words are important, it is the action that backs up those words and shows the true cahracter of an individual.

Consider for a moment your experience at school or work; who were the most influential teachers and bosses in your past?

Some of your teachers and bosses were a big influence by showing you what not to be like as a leader. However, the ones that made the most significant impact on you were likely the teachers and managers who brought out the best in you and taught you through their example.

What are some character traits of a great leader?

  • Is a great leader compassionate?
  • Is a great leader ethical?
  • Is a great leader honest?
  • Is a great leader dedicated?
  • Is a great leader fair to others?

What character traits would make up a great leader? Have you learned about these traits from great leaders in your past?

Another area of great leaders is the skills the possess. They do not have to be a jack-of-all-trades, but do they have skills necessary to assist others?

What skills can great leaders teach through their example?

  • Does a great leader have tactical skills? (Skills in communication and manners)
  • Does a great leader have the skill of empowerment to assist others?
  • Does a great leader have a mastery of a craft?

Based on your experience, what are some skills a leader should possess? You will find that some areas of leadership need different skills that others.

Remember, leaders lead through their example; this is where the distinction is made between the good and the great. The actions of a leader make a difference to his influence and his leadership abilities.

  • How do great leaders lead through their example?
  • Does a great leader model appropriate behavior?
  • Does a great leader teach complex concepts in understandable ways?
  • Do great leaders walk the walk as they talk the talk?
  • Does a great leader practice self-sacrifice for the betterment of the group?
  • Does a great leader champion their cause?

Through your reflection on what makes great leaders, you must remember that your example has power to shape whatever situation.

You can influence others in ways you may never imagine. Through your example you will help build someone’s character, or teach them a skill, and even encourage their self-worth just by doing what you do best, being a proper example.

Something to always keep in mind is that you are never unobserved. Others are always responding to your presence.

Remember to do your best from a place of integrity and think about your influence wherever you are. Do what you can to be mindful of the fact that someone, somewhere, is being influenced by your behavior. If even in the smallest of ways, your existence is making a meaningful impact on the world.

Whether you are the leader of a company, a leader in your church, or the leader of your home, you are a leader with influence wherever you go.

Be a good example to those looking to you and walk with confidence knowing that you are affecting others as they watch you.

Just some thoughts,

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The Power of Leading by Example – The Power of One Series #10

The Compound Effect – The Power of One Series #8

Have you ever heard of the “compound effect?”

This effect has been around for decades and is misunderstood by many. However, when it is understood, it is power.

So, let’s dive into the theory behind the compound effect and see how it can help you realize the power of one.

First, let’s begin with a question: Did you know that investing a small amount of money in the bank at a young age could make you a millionaire by middle age?

If you didn’t, then you need to know more about the compounding effect. Through the power of compounding interest, your initial investment can eventually give you a return that far exceeds what you first put into it. The initial investment does not have to be large.

Did you know that making a difference is the same?

Even though your contributions might be small and consistent, they have a compounding effect that surpasses your initial effort to make a lasting and meaningful impact.

Let’s look at some people who took a step in faith and in service to others to create a legacy that we enjoy today:

Eunice Kennedy Shriver was the founder of the Special Olympics. It began in 1962 as a backyard summer camp for people with intellectual disabilities. Now, that backyard summer camp is a global movement. Eunice Shriver’s small contribution compounded over time to surpass her expectations and even her lifetime. Today, the foundation is over fifty years old and has touched the lives of thousands and thousands over multiple generations.

Dr. Gory Klatt wanted to raise awareness and funds for a local cancer charity. So, in 1985, he walked a track for 24 hours continuously. He raised over $27,000.00 and the awareness of the need for cancer support. Since Dr. Klatt’s initial fundraiser, Relay for Life has become the largest fundraising event for cancer in the world. Currently, over 4 million people in 20 countries celebrate Relay for Life.

At some point, two people who had a passion for life and wanted to assist others, acted in a tiny way and their actions sparked interest and support with others. Their actions compounded so much that foundations were born. These foundations have employed people, served people, and constantly fill a need throughout the world.

Isn’t that amazing?

How about a few more people to consider?

Ever heard of Ray Kroc? Though he wasn’t the founder of McDonald’s, he brought the genius to the table that catapulted that small hamburger stand into a franchise that has served billions and billions since the 1950s. The name, “McDonalds,” is known in all parts of the world.

Or how about Colonel Sanders? He founded Kentucky Fried Chicken with one recipe and changed the industry. The hard work of that one man with his one recipe grew exponentially (the compound effect) until the KFC brand was known worldwide as “finger-lickin’ good.”

As you can see, small, consistent actions matter. Those consistent actions will grow benefits to reach to the ages.

Now that you understand a little about the compound effect, what actions will you begin today?

Just some thoughts,

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The Power of Leading by Example – The Power of One Series #10

Looking Back on Your Influence – The Power of One Series #7

Have you ever attended a retirement dinner?

Have you ever attended a gathering honoring someone?

Have you ever attended a funeral?

Whether it was a retirement celebration, a dinner honoring a person, or even a funeral, those events had speeches given by people who were grateful for the influence of the individual.

With retirement celebrations, the retiree gets to hear their accolades and the influence that they had on those around them. When you are at a dinner honoring someone, they get to hear from people who they had a lasting impact on in various areas of life. With the deceased, there is hope we can realize the stories of gratitude despite the separation of death.

When you look back on someone’s life you can see all the things they have done and then the influence they have had on many lives.

If you were to look back on your life, who would you say you have influenced?

Have you ever been told about the impact you had on someone else? Have you kept a record of the times you’ve volunteered, or actively tried to make a change – even in a small way?

I would imagine you have had a larger influence than you realize. Take a moment and ask yourself a few questions to see what type of impact you might have made:

  • Do people refer to you as an excellent example of individual traits and values?
  • Has a group has ever honored you for your contributions?
  • Have you been featured in a newspaper or magazine?
  • Have you ever made employee of the month?
  • Have you ever been interviewed about your work or your ministry?
  • Have you volunteered for your church?
  • Who have you shared your knowledge of a skill or trade to help them improve?
  • Who have you mentored?
  • Have you ever received a personalized “thank you” for something you did for someone?
  • Have you written a blog post, book, or other work that someone told you “changed their life”?
  • Have you donated your time or resources to an organization or a cause?

After you answer these questions, I would imagine you can think of times you’ve made a difference.

I would encourage you to make a list of the times you can recall and reflect on how it felt to be an influence. Consider those people you’ve affected and how they have benefited from your influence. These might be people that you never considered the influence you had on them, but you did. Even if you initially had no intention of making a difference, the chances are that you did, and it should encourage you.

Before we close, understand this point: you don’t have to wait until you retire, or honored by others, or die to know you’ve affected people around you. Realize your influence now.

Each of us has influence over others. We have even influenced those we may not realize. Consider how you have influenced others and decide to continue to be a positive influence in the future.

Just some thoughts,

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