January 15, 2023
Good morning my friends. I hope you are doing well and enjoying life. Monday, January 9th was Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. I hope you took a moment to reflect on what these brave men and women do every day (24/7). The commitment, service and dedication of officers, across America, to protect and serve are admirable and inspiring qualities. They place themselves in harm’s way daily, so we can live in safety and freedom. Without their distinguished efforts, our society and nation would crumble into chaos. If you didn’t have an opportunity to thank an officer on Monday, I’m sure they will appreciate your thanks and recognition today, or any day of the week. It’s sad to see the attacks and murder of officers continue without a word of support from elected officials. Officer Darnell Calhoun, of the Riverside County Sheriff Department, in California, was kill in the line of duty on Friday, January 13, 2023. Officer Isaiah Cordero, of the same department, was killed on Thursday December 29, 2022. Both men died at the hands of criminal assailants. We live in sorrowful times my friends. It’s time for Americans to wake up and stop this madness before it’s too late.
We’re already mid-way through the first month of 2023! Life isn’t going to sit back and wait for you. Don’t linger in the past or dwell on what the future may (or may not) bring. Life is best lived now, in the present. You can achieve anything you desire with some hard work and determination. The world is yours, if you just believe in your own inner power and strength. Don’t wait to participate in life my friends; tomorrow is never promised. We all live in an amazing world as part of Gods plan; but our choices and decisions lead us to the path we select. Don’t allow the negativity of events or circumstances break you down or lead you astray. We all struggle with various issues during the course of life. Each of us possesses the ability to lift ourselves up to positivity and happiness. Maybe you have to dig deeper than others at times, but never give up. If you need help, I know it’s out there. Please, never be fearful or hesitant to ask or seek out assistance. I’m thankful I reached out, but now know how much better I would have been if I had done it sooner. I discovered when I change my thoughts, I can change my world.
People seem to continually search for a “secret ingredient” to life and success. Maybe individuals believe if they find this elusive component their life will change and their burdens will immediately disappear. I wish I knew, and could provide, that “secret” source for relief. I receive questions from time to time, asking me “what’s your secret to…,” achieving this, getting through that or over coming some obstacle. I have no doubt individuals, throughout time, have been seeking answers to similar questions. I assume if something magical like that existed, it would make life easier. My best response is, “There really isn’t any secret.” I wasn’t taught, nor was I shown, any special ingredient to getting through life. It’s taken me years to learn and develop my own formula for success and happiness. We all traverse the difficult times in our own way. What works for me, may not be the same solution for you (and vice versa). For me, the key to happiness is mine to control and fulfill. My morning begins with being grateful for all that I have; being present in life and happy. I work daily to control my thoughts and maintain a positive attitude. If something doesn’t work out the way I intended, I don’t consider it a failure. I’ve learned over the years that negativity just breeds more negative thoughts and actions. When something doesn’t go as planned, I see it as an opportunity to learn, grow and improve myself. If that’s the “secret,” I wish I would have learned and understood it many years ago. I wasted far too much time on ego, perfection and a self-absorbed attitude. None of these insecurities are good when it comes to achieving success. I’ve been stubborn in the past, as well, never willing to bend. This trait had some usefulness during my career, but it doesn’t work well in life or relationships. Life doesn’t have to be perfect to be fabulous; besides we all know perfection is a myth. Work hard, be grateful, kind and see the positive in yourself and everyone you contact. See the good instead of the bad and live a happier life.
A friend asked me the other day if I believe in God. I replied, “Yes, I do.” The next question was, “Why does God allow bad stuff to happen? Why do good people have to deal with tragedy?” Similar questions have crossed my mind from time to time. Why do family, friends, military, police officers, or just good people, have to be taken in such tragic incidents; and usually before their time? My immediate response to the second question was, “I don’t know. I wish I knew the answer.” After thinking about it, I doubt we (humans) can answer that question. I know God has a plan, but only God knows why. What I do know is, when I was born, death will be my final outcome. I don’t have control of when that will occur. I assume we all want to be here as long as possible; because I know I do. I want to see my daughter grow older into adulthood. I want to share lots more adventures and life with family, friends and the people I love. Humans will always seek answers to questions we can’t answer. I wish I knew why we don’t have a cure for cancer or why good individuals are taken from this life in tragic circumstances. It’s easy and safe to place the blame on others. It relieves us of the burden in not knowing why. Instead of seeking blame, have the courage to face life and be thankful for our time together on this planet. I realize sorrow and emotions can sometimes drive our spirit into sadness. Experiencing open and honest feelings is all part of being human. Life is truly a gift. It can change, be altered or taken without our approval at any moment. Please cherish every moment while you’re here.
If there is a “secret ingredient” to life, it’s being happy with who you are and moving forward with kindness and respect for all (people, creatures and things). You don’t always need to know where everything in life is going before you get there. Life is an amazing adventure. Trust your own intuition and God. A magical solution isn’t required to get everything we want. Dedication, perseverance and effort will guide you to your dreams. Stop worrying about what might go wrong. Believe in your abilities and all that will go right. The “secret” to success is believing your own power. Great things just don’t happen. Dedication, perseverance, confidence, discipline and hard work is where success is born and achieved. You are the key to your happiness. The magic of life and joy in each adventure is created by my happiness. Follow your dreams. They know the way.
Please tune in and join me again next Sunday for more! The puzzle of life is always changing. Change can lead to amazing opportunities. Together, let’s be healthy and strong; mentally, physically and spiritually!
Thanks for your love and support! Embrace Life! Be sure to get outside and enjoy nature!
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