“Good, better, best. Never let it rest. 'Til your good is better and your better is best.”
-- St. Jerome
***
Many have heard of the famous Frank Lloyd Wright. Frank Lloyd Wright was an American architect who lived from 1867 – 1959. In 1991 Wright was posthumously, recognized by the American Institute of Architects as "the greatest American architect of all time." Wright is credited with designing hundreds of magnificent structures. Frank Lloyd Wright was once asked, “Which one of your projects is your favorite?” To which Wright promptly responded, “My next one.”
How about you? Are you resting on your laurels? Are you settling for a life that is just okay? Are you living up to your potential? Those are questions we need to ask ourselves. The Good Lord has instilled in us more potential and ability than we’ll ever use. Scientists claim that a person of average intelligence uses only 10% of the brain’s capability. Just think, 90% of unused potential! What could you accomplish if you used just 5%, 10% or 25% more of your brain’s capability? The potential is there, just waiting to be tapped into. Our God is a God of abundance. When God told Adam and Eve to be fruitful and multiply, he was instructing them to go forth and produce abundantly. He was telling them that they have within them everything they need, and more, to live a life full of abundance. God’s discourse in the garden was not about limitations and restrictions. It was about potential! It was about understanding that this life is meant to be lived fully. It was about understanding that within each person there is the potential to live an abundant life; a life so full, that goodness naturally overflows unto others. It was about understanding that there are no limitations with God, and he will provide for you all that you need, if you are willing to do the work.
Now is the time to tap into all the potential that resides within you. Don’t let anyone rob you of your potential. More importantly, don’t rob yourself of your potential with self-defeating thoughts. The potential is there, ready to be unleashed. Once it is unleashed, you quickly realize that your best days are still ahead of you.
I have a quote that I use when playing golf that is similar to Frank Lloyd Wright’s quote, “My next one.” The quote reminds me to not dwell too long on either a good shot or a bad shot. It reminds me that what is in the past is but history and it’s the future that really counts. After I shot, good or bad, I say to myself, “You are only as good as your next one (shot).”
***
It's your life: Live it, Love it & Celebrate it!
MJD
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
The Gift of Encouragement
"My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person, he believed in me."
-- Jim Valvano
***
Success is all about belief. It is about belief in yourself, along with the support of others believing in you too. How many times have hope and dreams been destroyed because of a lack of encouragement from others. When we believe we are capable of doing something or achieving something, sometimes all we need is a little encouragement from someone else. It is this encouragement or belief by others that validates our belief that we actually have what it takes to an achiever.
Today, make it a point to let someone know you believe in them. It is the gift of encouragement. It costs nothing and just a little bit can go along way!
***
It's Your Life: Live it, Love it, Celebrate it!
MJD
-- Jim Valvano
***
Success is all about belief. It is about belief in yourself, along with the support of others believing in you too. How many times have hope and dreams been destroyed because of a lack of encouragement from others. When we believe we are capable of doing something or achieving something, sometimes all we need is a little encouragement from someone else. It is this encouragement or belief by others that validates our belief that we actually have what it takes to an achiever.
Today, make it a point to let someone know you believe in them. It is the gift of encouragement. It costs nothing and just a little bit can go along way!
***
It's Your Life: Live it, Love it, Celebrate it!
MJD
Friday, June 11, 2010
Standing on the Shoulder of Giants
“A mentor is someone who allows you to see the hope inside yourself.”-- Oprah Winfrey
***
Do you ever find that there are times when you don’t have the right answers? Are there times when you need help improving a technique or skill? Do you find yourself in situations where sometimes all you need is a little encouragement?
Throughout our lives, we will come in contact with people who will have a profound impact on us; some for the betterment, and unfortunately, some not so good. If we want to succeed, we need to be quick to identify, and sever any relationship with a person who is exerting a negative influence in our lives. What can be more challenging is identifying and developing a relationship with people who can help get us to the next level. These people are called mentors. A mentor is regarded as knowledgeable and possessing insight in a given area. The book of Proverbs (19:20) speaks to mentoring, it says, “listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you’ll be wise.”
Why don’t we seek out mentors? Is it because we might be embarrassed that we might not know something? Is it because we have too much pride? Is our ego getting in the way?
A mentor is any person who has your best interest at stake and is willing to teach you. . Believe it our not, most people are willing to share their wisdom and expertise with others. Their wisdom and expertise can be used to help you develop and monitor a game/life plan. Sir Issac Newton once said, “If I have seen further it is only by standing on the shoulder of giants. If you look at the history of all great men and women, you will find that someone, somewhere in time , took them under their wing.
Today, make it a point to find a mentor. If you have one, make sure you show your appreciation for the time and energy that they have spent on you. While you are at it, take a good look at your skills and expertise. Could you be a mentor to someone? All you need to do is show you care, be willing to listen, and share your experiences with your protégé. It is a win/win situation; you win, they win!
Remember, a good mentor can make the difference between becoming a champion or just a contender. Gotta go – searching for a giant or two!
***
It's your life: live it, love it & celebrate it!
MJD
***
Do you ever find that there are times when you don’t have the right answers? Are there times when you need help improving a technique or skill? Do you find yourself in situations where sometimes all you need is a little encouragement?
Throughout our lives, we will come in contact with people who will have a profound impact on us; some for the betterment, and unfortunately, some not so good. If we want to succeed, we need to be quick to identify, and sever any relationship with a person who is exerting a negative influence in our lives. What can be more challenging is identifying and developing a relationship with people who can help get us to the next level. These people are called mentors. A mentor is regarded as knowledgeable and possessing insight in a given area. The book of Proverbs (19:20) speaks to mentoring, it says, “listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you’ll be wise.”
Why don’t we seek out mentors? Is it because we might be embarrassed that we might not know something? Is it because we have too much pride? Is our ego getting in the way?
A mentor is any person who has your best interest at stake and is willing to teach you. . Believe it our not, most people are willing to share their wisdom and expertise with others. Their wisdom and expertise can be used to help you develop and monitor a game/life plan. Sir Issac Newton once said, “If I have seen further it is only by standing on the shoulder of giants. If you look at the history of all great men and women, you will find that someone, somewhere in time , took them under their wing.
Today, make it a point to find a mentor. If you have one, make sure you show your appreciation for the time and energy that they have spent on you. While you are at it, take a good look at your skills and expertise. Could you be a mentor to someone? All you need to do is show you care, be willing to listen, and share your experiences with your protégé. It is a win/win situation; you win, they win!
Remember, a good mentor can make the difference between becoming a champion or just a contender. Gotta go – searching for a giant or two!
***
It's your life: live it, love it & celebrate it!
MJD
Thursday, June 10, 2010
A Postive Attitude
"I believe in taking a positive attitude toward the world. My hope still is to leave the world a little bit better than when I got here."
-- Jim Henson
1936-1990, Muppets Creator
***
Jim Henson left this world in 1990 at the age of 53. Henson was known for his positive attitude, enthusiasm for life, and creative energy. It was these qualities that gave life to such world known characters as Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Big Bird, Bert and Ernie, and the like. Jim Henson's Muppets have entertained children and adults alike. His Muppets have brought laughter and smiles to the faces of millions worldwide. And, when you can make someone laugh or smile, you make the world a better place. Jim Henson made the world a better place one smile, one laugh at a time!
You too can make the world a better place! So I ask you: Who will you make smile (laugh), today?
***
It's Your Life: Live it, Love it, Celebrate it!
MJD
-- Jim Henson
1936-1990, Muppets Creator
***
Jim Henson left this world in 1990 at the age of 53. Henson was known for his positive attitude, enthusiasm for life, and creative energy. It was these qualities that gave life to such world known characters as Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Big Bird, Bert and Ernie, and the like. Jim Henson's Muppets have entertained children and adults alike. His Muppets have brought laughter and smiles to the faces of millions worldwide. And, when you can make someone laugh or smile, you make the world a better place. Jim Henson made the world a better place one smile, one laugh at a time!
You too can make the world a better place! So I ask you: Who will you make smile (laugh), today?
***
It's Your Life: Live it, Love it, Celebrate it!
MJD
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
A Choice
"Happiness is an attitude. We either make ourselves miserable, or happy and strong. The amount of work is the same."
-- Francesca Reigler
***
What will you choose, happy and strong or miserable? The toll that misery takes on one's physical, emotional and social life can be devastating. Happy people, on the other hand, are generally healthier, emotionally stable, and report satisfaction with their social lives. It seems to me if the work is the same and the results are vastly different, the choice is clear!
Since your attitude is something that only you control, your are the one that will determine if you will be happy or miserable. The choice is yours! Choose happy!
***
It's Your Life: Live it, Love it, Celebrate it!
MJD
-- Francesca Reigler
***
What will you choose, happy and strong or miserable? The toll that misery takes on one's physical, emotional and social life can be devastating. Happy people, on the other hand, are generally healthier, emotionally stable, and report satisfaction with their social lives. It seems to me if the work is the same and the results are vastly different, the choice is clear!
Since your attitude is something that only you control, your are the one that will determine if you will be happy or miserable. The choice is yours! Choose happy!
***
It's Your Life: Live it, Love it, Celebrate it!
MJD
Monday, June 7, 2010
A Hero: John Wooden
"Talent is God given. Be humble. Fame is man-given. Be grateful. Conceit is self-given. Be careful."
-- John Wooden
***
The sports world lost an icon on Friday, June 4, 2010. John Wooden died at the age of 99. John Wooden has been called the "Greatest coach ever." Wooden was a proven winner; on the court and, more importantly, off the court. He won titles; but more importantly he won hearts. He was a master at teaching basketball, but more importantly, he was a master at teaching the lessons of life.
On February 10, 2010, I posted a blog, entitled "The Coach." The blog speaks to why John Wooden was so successful in basketball and, more importantly, in life.
John Wooden is known for his use of maxims. Recently, Wooden was asked, of all the maxims, which one do you like the most? He responded with, "Lord, make me beautiful inside."
Coach Wooden, you were definitely beautiful inside! Rest in Peace, My Hero!
***
It's Your Life: Live it, Love it, Celebrate it!
MJD
-- John Wooden
***
The sports world lost an icon on Friday, June 4, 2010. John Wooden died at the age of 99. John Wooden has been called the "Greatest coach ever." Wooden was a proven winner; on the court and, more importantly, off the court. He won titles; but more importantly he won hearts. He was a master at teaching basketball, but more importantly, he was a master at teaching the lessons of life.
On February 10, 2010, I posted a blog, entitled "The Coach." The blog speaks to why John Wooden was so successful in basketball and, more importantly, in life.
John Wooden is known for his use of maxims. Recently, Wooden was asked, of all the maxims, which one do you like the most? He responded with, "Lord, make me beautiful inside."
Coach Wooden, you were definitely beautiful inside! Rest in Peace, My Hero!
***
It's Your Life: Live it, Love it, Celebrate it!
MJD
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Guaranteed Return on Your Investment
"There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up."
-- John Andrew
***
To invest means to devote or spend something for future benefit. We invest our money with the hope of a greater financial return. Students invest their time studying with the hope of getting good grades. Athletes invest in rigorous training/conditioning programs with the hope of becoming better in their chosen sport.
Basically, there are two types of investments: money and time. Financial investments vary from the conservative savings accounts to risky capital ventures. Conservative financial investments usually have a small predetermined return based upon a set percentage; whereas, risky investments can yield a significant monetary loss or gain.
Unlike financial investments that are limited to financial matters only, the investment of time is unrestricted. You can invest your time in anything you want to. The key is that your investment of time is productive; remember, "to devote for future benefit!"
Not being a financial advisor, I would never pretend to give you any advice on financial investments. However, I do offer some advice on how to invest your time. The advice is guaranteed to produce a significant return on your investment. My advice is to invest your time on others. Sounds simple, does it not! How can such simple advice about investing your time in others produce a significant return on your investment?
The Good Book tells us that it is in giving that you receive. The ancient writer tells us, “Give, and it will be given to you. Your gift will be returned to you.” In order for your gift to be returned to you, it cannot be given with the expectation of something in return. It does not work that way. Your gift of time must be unselfish and for the benefit of another.
Understand that most often, your gift of time will be returned to you; a return on your investment. It is called the law of reciprocity. Now, there may be days, months, and years that you have unselfishly invested your time for the betterment of another. And, it may appear that you have not received anything in return. Bear in mind that it is quite possible that your time and service to another may never be repaid during your lifetime. However, the law of reciprocity is still at work. It is at work on a much more significant level. The Good Lord sees your investment of time and love. Your gift of time on another person is pleasing to him and you will be repaid; just as the Good Book tells us. When you invest your time on others, God, in return, will invest his time in you; making your return on your investment eternal. And, there is no better return on your investment; I guarantee it!
***
It's your life: live it, love it & celebrate it!
MJD
-- John Andrew
***
To invest means to devote or spend something for future benefit. We invest our money with the hope of a greater financial return. Students invest their time studying with the hope of getting good grades. Athletes invest in rigorous training/conditioning programs with the hope of becoming better in their chosen sport.
Basically, there are two types of investments: money and time. Financial investments vary from the conservative savings accounts to risky capital ventures. Conservative financial investments usually have a small predetermined return based upon a set percentage; whereas, risky investments can yield a significant monetary loss or gain.
Unlike financial investments that are limited to financial matters only, the investment of time is unrestricted. You can invest your time in anything you want to. The key is that your investment of time is productive; remember, "to devote for future benefit!"
Not being a financial advisor, I would never pretend to give you any advice on financial investments. However, I do offer some advice on how to invest your time. The advice is guaranteed to produce a significant return on your investment. My advice is to invest your time on others. Sounds simple, does it not! How can such simple advice about investing your time in others produce a significant return on your investment?
The Good Book tells us that it is in giving that you receive. The ancient writer tells us, “Give, and it will be given to you. Your gift will be returned to you.” In order for your gift to be returned to you, it cannot be given with the expectation of something in return. It does not work that way. Your gift of time must be unselfish and for the benefit of another.
Understand that most often, your gift of time will be returned to you; a return on your investment. It is called the law of reciprocity. Now, there may be days, months, and years that you have unselfishly invested your time for the betterment of another. And, it may appear that you have not received anything in return. Bear in mind that it is quite possible that your time and service to another may never be repaid during your lifetime. However, the law of reciprocity is still at work. It is at work on a much more significant level. The Good Lord sees your investment of time and love. Your gift of time on another person is pleasing to him and you will be repaid; just as the Good Book tells us. When you invest your time on others, God, in return, will invest his time in you; making your return on your investment eternal. And, there is no better return on your investment; I guarantee it!
***
It's your life: live it, love it & celebrate it!
MJD
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