Sunday, December 30, 2018

Resolution

It is almost a new year and time to think of any resolutions you may want.
Think about it - make it simple and then do your best to really adhere to it.
Here’s a few ideas:
I will laugh more
I will try my best to not gossip or speak badly about others
I will try to do a good deed at least once a day
I will be more appreciative of those around me
I am sure you can think of others.
Remember if you have your health, you have everything -
So don’t sweat the small stuff.


Friday, December 28, 2018

A Tell

tell in poker is a change in a player's behavior or demeanor that is claimed by some to give clues to that player's assessment of their hand. A player gains an advantage if they observe and understand the meaning of another player's tell, particularly if the tell is unconscious and reliable. Sometimes a player may fake a tell, hoping to induce their opponents to make poor judgments in response to the false tell. More often, people try to avoid giving out a tell, by maintaining a poker face regardless of how strong or weak their hand is.
In life “ A Tell” is someone who is racist - if a person is racist toward anyone they are telling you that they think they are superior and if they think they are superior to anyone they also feel as if they are “better” then others. If they think they are superior it will also show in their work life and their personal relationships.
I despise racist and bullies and they one of the same, do not accept bullying or rasism in any form and do not allow it around you because it may not be you today but it may be you tomorrow.
Do not give “them” oxygen and do not give them any power whatsoever ever over you -
We are ALL equal.

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Level playing field

No matter how much money you make you have a level playing field with the richest people in the world.
You have a level playing field because the most important thing you can give is your “time”.
Forget about what you can buy and think about what time you can give, what time you share with your kids, your parents, your grandparents and your friends.
Too many people try to justify how much time they spend working by trying to say they “need” the money so they can get what they need, but as they do that time is passing them by and you will never get it back.
You don’t need to spend money to visit and just sit and listen or hold conversations or just be there.
Your kids “need” YOU ! They need hugs and they need to learn what love truly is- being there for the people you care the most about- kids emulate what they see.
As you envy that person driving that brand new sports car or the person that constantly vacations or lives in that huge house remember you have a level playing field on what is really important- Your Time.

Sunday, December 23, 2018

Choose

Why do people choose ?
Why do people choose who to show what face to ?
A person that I worked with recently passed away , I worked with this person over a decade he passed away too young , seems as many people have different memories of him. Their were different groups, the people he worked with, people that were his friends, his family, casual relationships, and those that saw his other side in management. I am sure that he wanted to be that guy that many of friends knew and celebrated but , as we all do , he struggled to be that person all the time, he had it in him so why choose ?
 The only thing I always come back to is power and money, because people need to keep their power and to climb that corporate ladder something happens to people, I have witnessed it with too many people along my business life. They become hard and in order to keep climbing they choose , they choose to put blinders on to those they may need to eliminate because they may either disagree with or hurt their chances to make more money or a bigger title- it is not pretty.
And here is the important part , what role do WE play in why these people in our lives choose the face they do ? After all remember - the only person we can ever truly change is ourselves.
The real shame is I see that other side, the inner person, the one that can be kind and light and open but they choose to only let that side out to certain people and at certain times, the real problem is they see it too but they get to a point of no return and it starts the beginning of the end for them.
It is never too late to choose the face of kindness, let go of that worry of money, titles and power and be that person with everyone, that person who smiles and wants to help.
Choose your inner child... the rest will follow.

Saturday, December 22, 2018

1975

Cost of Living 1975

How Much things cost in 1975
Yearly Inflation Rate USA9.2%  
Year End Close Dow Jones Industrial Average 858 
Interest Rates Year End Federal Reserve 7.25%  
Cost of a gallon of Gas 44 cents  
Average cost new car$4,250.00
Below are some Prices for UK guides in Pounds Sterling
Average House Price  11,787
Gallon of Petrol  0.72  
Yearly Inflation Rate UK 24.2%  
Interest Rates Year End Bank of England 11.25%  
A few More Examples 
Average Cost of new house  $39,300.00 
Average Income per year $14,100.00  
Average Monthly Rent  $200.00
Foster Grant Sun Glasses $5.00
Chevrolet Caprice $4,819 
Ford Mustang II $4,105
Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale $5,626
Pontiac Ventura Coupe $3,829 

Friday, December 21, 2018

Rules to teach your son

RULES TO TEACH YOUR SON

1. Never shake a man’s hand sitting down.
2. Don’t enter a pool by the stairs.
3. The man at the BBQ Grill is the closest thing to a king.
4. In a negotiation, never make the first offer.
5. Request the late check-out.
6. When entrusted with a secret, keep it.
7. Hold your heroes to a higher standard.
8. Return a borrowed car with a full tank of gas.
9. Play with passion or don’t play at all…
10. When shaking hands, grip firmly and look them in the eye.
11. Don’t let a wishbone grow where a backbone should be.
12. If you need music on the beach, you’re missing the point.
13. Carry two handkerchiefs. The one in your back pocket is for you. The one in your breast pocket is for her.
14. You marry the girl, you marry her family.
15. Be like a duck. Remain calm on the surface and paddle like crazy underneath.
16. Experience the serenity of traveling alone.
17. Never be afraid to ask out the best looking girl in the room.
18. Never turn down a breath mint.
19. A sport coat is worth 1000 words.
20. Try writing your own eulogy. Never stop revising.
21. Thank a veteran. Then make it up to him.
22. Eat lunch with the new kid.
23. After writing an angry email, read it carefully. Then delete it.
24. Ask your mom to play. She won’t let you win.
25. Manners maketh the man.
26. Give credit. Take the blame.
27. Stand up to Bullies. Protect those bullied.
28. Write down your dreams.
29. Take time to snuggle your pets, they love you so much and are always happy to see you.
30. Be confident and humble at the same time.
31. If ever in doubt, remember whose son you are and REFUSE to just be ordinary!
32. In all things lead by example not explanation.

Wednesday, December 19, 2018

What drives you ?

What drives you ?
As children we only want to wake up and laugh and run around and learn more about the world around us. As we grow older we get weighed down with responsibilities and because of that we lose that free innocence of just being.
Unfortunately too many people allow “ stuff” to takeover their lives and the need to get more stuff and along the way they get buried in debt and start needing more money just to keep their nose above water and now what drives them is money. When money becomes your major goal you begin to lose that childhood innocence to just “be” and to enjoy the world around you.
Money and the need for power to obtain more money has destroyed many lives and by the time most realize it they have wasted too many years and loss too many relationships.
Free yourselves- - You have always had the power and the choice - choose life !

Monday, December 17, 2018

Want and Need

Always remember the difference between Want and Need
You may Want things but do you really Need them ?
I Need food and water and a shelter over my head , as long as I can put food on the table and I have a roof over my head and heat in the winter - and my family - I am good.
Stop and smell the roses and appreciate everything and everybody in your life, nothing is promised you, even tomorrow so don’t waste it always Wanting more.

Friday, December 14, 2018

Circle

All my life's a circle;
Sunrise and sundown;
Moon rolls through the nighttime;
'Til the daybreak comes around.
All my life's a circle;
But I can't tell you why;
Season's spinning round again;
The years keep rollin' by.
It seems like I've been here before;
I can't remember when;
But I have this funny feeling;
That we'll all be together again.
No straight lines make up my life;
And all my roads have bends;
There's no clear-cut beginnings;
And so far no dead-ends.
I found you a thousand times;
I guess you done the same;
But then we lose each other;
It's like a children's game;
As I find you here again;
A thought runs through my mind;
Our love is like a circle;
Let's go 'round one more time.
I found you a thousand times;
I guess you done the same;
But then we lose each other;
It's like a children's game;

Harry Chaplin 

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Approval

We all see approval
Who are seeking approval from ?
Your boss ? Your father ? Your friends?
The one person that you should be concerned the most about - is you.
We are brought up wanting to please our parents , no matter what are parents do , and it is not until we grow older that we realize that our pRents are human too and have their struggles and baggage but we many of us still travel through life trying to seek their approval. Sometimes we substitute our parents with our bossses and do our best to obtain their approval, they too have their struggles and motives and baggage but we try to do our best because they hold our chances of promotions and raises in their hands so we chase their approval.
As you grow older we all have experiences of being hurt or let down or used and begin to understand that all those people that we fought so hard to get approval from mostly had their own agendas and their own demons to fight and we may have wasted too much time and energy trying to please them when we should have spent more time simply trying to please ourselves.
Simply your life and lessen your weight- what do YOU want in life ?
Do your best , be honest and be honest with yourself , embrace the moments in the course of a day and try to smile and make someone else smile every day.
Seek your own approval

Monday, December 10, 2018

Exhale

If you are getting that holiday stress... take a deep breath and exhale.
Try your best to remember just what we are celebrating, we should take this time to count our blessings and tell those around us how much we love them.
It is not about gifts - it should be about love.
Forget the politics and who voted for who and forget about old wounds and extend that olive branch and smile.
When you gossip or hate or seek revenge you only hurt yourself and add to the weight on your shoulders. - It just is not worth it.
Be the first to say hi to that friend you have been in contact with for a while, hug that family member that could use the support.
That is what the holiday season should be about.
Exhale

Friday, December 7, 2018

Clicks

A click can mean a group of people.
Unfortunately most clicks I know grow out of wanting be a part of a group and empower you to leave out those you do not deem worthy to be in your “click”. I have always despised groups that think they are inferior or better and hurt others by their exclusion.
I tend to look for the quiet person that feels excluded, they always have the better story and a better moral fabric.
If you need the approval from others, particularly in your “click” you are nothing but a mere puppet, a shell of a person. Do not ever fall into that trap- always have enough faith in yourself to be yourself.
Many cling to others for lots of reasons, insecurities being number one.
Being on a team can be rewarding if you all have the same unselfish goals and truly work to make each other stronger- being in a “click” will rob you have your total vision and ability to learn and grow. Big difference from TEAM  and a click.
Choose TEAM - bet on yourself .

Wednesday, December 5, 2018

Failure

Those that have not failed have not tried hard enough.
Learning means venturing outside our comfort zone and possible knowledge, to do that takes courage and to do that you need to be able to deal with failure and to learn from it.
In the same manner you need to respect those around you that also fail, there are teachable moments every day , teach- learn.
Do not wallow in failure or in the negative, shake it off and if you are in a toxic environment then recognize that too and if you have to readjust then do so. Staying in a unhealthy environment will bring you down and if you are not respected it just plain is not worth it.

Monday, December 3, 2018

Quiet man

“I am a quiet man but I hear the voices of other quiet people that others don’t.”
That was a quote by President George H Bush.
President Bush passed away this past weekend and he was a remarkable man who led a remarkable life. From what I have read on the President “Humble” is the one word that I come away with.
He was brought up to never brag and to always help others and that is how he lived his life, from enlisting in the military at 18 to help fight WWII to being a public serpent his entire life from CIA to Vice President to President he never lost his intentity or his moral compass.
We can all learn from him and his life’s work.
President George H Bush also always put family first and loved spending time with his kids and grandkids.
He was the last President America had that actually served in the military and though it is not mandatory I do believe it does help shape your views on war and our military members.
RIP Sir

Friday, November 30, 2018

Religion

Part of my life’s lessons is trying to understand religion.
Too many times I see people talk the talk about being religious but fail to walk the walk.
I am not singling out any particular religion I see across the board.
I do believe that a person walked the earth thousands of years ago and was from a poor background but delivered an uplifting message of forgiveness and love and his words were so powerful they have been passed on even back in a time when there was no mass communication.
Unfortunately some people hide behind their religion and forget the true message, they gossip and hate and some hurt and kill all in the name of religion.
I try to learn every day and try to forgive and I try to not hold hate or envy in my heart.
The message is timeless - All we need is Love -

Tuesday, November 27, 2018

The State of Hate

Why do people hate ?
Who gives anyone the right to dictate another person’s life ?
We must agree to disagree- it is ok for you to believe in whatever you want or not to believe-
It is up to you how you want to live your life and who you want to live your life with as long as I can have the same right and privilege- what you do behind closed doors is none of my business.
So why do people hate ? Why do some people feel the right to tell others what to do or who to do it with ?
The only thing I can think of is insecurity and being scared ... why else do they care ?
Live and let live.
This holiday season try to release any hate or negative and instead try to smile and shake a hand and help to try to improve your own life and your own ideals.

Monday, November 26, 2018

Expectations

Setting expectations is important in business.
What do you think you can deliver ?
It is better to under promise and over deliver then to to promise something that you are not sure you can fully deliver.
Setting expectations in your personal life is just as important- do not over reach financially.
When you live beyond your means you start to owe your time to the master and you begin having to do things you may not want to do but have to do in order to make that paycheck.
Set your expectations for yourself as well as your employees and keep moving the goal post so that you are always trying to improve and learn and to be your very best.
Be honest.
Be honest with yourself, you do not know everything and never will , there is nothing wrong with saying - I don’t know- once you admit that you do not know everything you will have more respect for everyone around you and you listen to those around you you will have an opportunity to learn.
Set honest expectations

Friday, November 23, 2018

Accountability

To build a TEAM in sports or in business each individual must have ACCOUNTABILITY.
The Patriots have been successful because each and every player is accountable.
Of course everyone points to Brady but without an offensive line , running backs and receivers all doing their job he could not succeed and listening to and respecting the coaches and the overall plan is vital for the whole team.
Being part of being a good team member is always being prepared, the next man up mentality.
A good team is always mentoring and training and wanting their teammates to do good, their is no jealousy or pettiness, at least not on the successful teams.
The same holds true in business, you can not grow and succeed when people are not all working together and that is the job of a good leader, you need to oversee the process and the people and make people accountable and to do that YOU also need to be accountable.
Stay in the day to day, listen and observe and advise when necessary, your crew or staff or department needs to know that you care and appreciate them and most of all that you want them to achieve their personal goals as well as the teams.
Be accountable!



Tuesday, November 20, 2018

Happy and Merry

Here we go - it is the holiday season so we greet everyone with happy and merry.
What would be even nicer is if we actually mean it.
We smile and say these very nice salutations and then turn around and gossip and talk negative.
How about you try to make yourself this one resolution- be nice.
Try to be more conscious on what you say - eliminate gossip - nothing good comes of it.
If you do not agree with someone or their philosophy on life or politics or work then make it your goal to try to knock down the walls, do not match hate with hate or negativity with negativity-
“ like water off a duck’s back “ - let it roll off-
Rather then just say Happy and Merry - try to be happier and merrier - take the high road and lighten your load -
Let it Be

Happy Holidays


Thursday, November 15, 2018

Isolation

People say we got it made
Don't they know we're so afraid
Isolation
We're afraid to be alone
Everybody got to have a home
Isolation
Just a boy and a little girl
Trying to change the whole wide world
Isolation
The world is just a little town
Everybody trying to put us down
Isolation
I don't expect you, to understand
After you caused so much pain
But then again, you're not to blame
You're just a human, a victim of the insane
We're afraid of everyone
Afraid of the sun
Isolation
The sun will never disappear
But the world may not have many years
Isolation
John Lennon 

Tuesday, November 13, 2018

Finish line

Here’s the thing ... you never really reach the finish line in your true goals.
Eating right and eating clean... you want to lose weight and feel healthy? You need to make a change in your life that you can live with- no fad diets or thinking when you hit a certain weight you can go back to your unhealthy habits- you have to make a life change.
Exercising- want to exercise more? If you are over 50 you are losing muscle mass every day- want to add a weight and cardio program to your daily and weekly life ? You should.
Realize that it really never gets easy - you will feel better after you workout but getting there or doing it never gets easy.
You never reach the finish line in either but you will feel and look better for it.
Baby steps - if you want to start being healthy- do it.
Set short goals and stay the course - create good habits.

Sunday, November 11, 2018

Thank a Vet

Please thank a veteran today

Military veterans hear it all the time: “Thank you for your service.”
Usually, they say, “You’re welcome,” or “Thank you for your support.”
They are in the 1 percent who took an oath to protect the nation, accepted the risks that might be assigned to them, and managed to come out alive on the other side.
Pressed, they would tell you that they signed up voluntarily, knowing the risk-reward calculus, and were only doing the jobs they were given. Most seem to be uncomfortable to be regarded as heroes.
But to the vast majority of Americans, and count us among them, that is what they are. We see some of the very best young people America has go off to fight.
Veterans were treated differently when they returned from the Vietnam War — not only by angry war protesters, but by their own government.
Unlike veterans today, those who served in Vietnam — many of them drafted, and forced to go — were sent home singly, without ceremony. They were dumped back into a society where large numbers failed to appreciate their experience, and felt inclined to blame the warrior, not just the war policy.
Their own government wasn’t prepared for their baffling needs, from exposure to toxic chemicals to the mystifying, unseen hazards of post traumatic stress disorder.
It is amazing and humbling, thus, to see the way Vietnam veterans have turned out for the veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. They are there, in the funeral processions, at the parades, in the public square, holding out their hands and saying, “Welcome home.”
When you ask one why, he might say: We don’t want them to be treated the way we were.
So it’s a better thing that today’s veterans are welcomed, thanked and appreciated. But we cannot forget that they are very much like the rest of us, full of hopes, fears, anxieties and uncertainties — humans like the rest of us, confronted with choices and just trying to do the right thing.
Too many who serve give their lives in the process. Last week’s scenes from North Ogden, Utah, where the mayor was mourned after he was killed in an insider attack in Afghanistan, remind us of the ultimate cost of military service.
The mayor, Brent Taylor, was a major in the Utah National Guard. He was on his fourth war-zone deployment. Before he left, he told his constituents he would be in Afghanistan for about a year, because “service is really what leadership is all about.”
I just don’t know of a finer man,” one North Ogden resident told reporters.
Mr. Taylor is survived by a wife, Jennie, and seven children. His death at the hands of an Afghan man he was helping to train leaves an enormous hole in his family, his community and a grateful nation.
At a service on Wednesday night, his widow spoke of her husband’s love of his country and his desire to serve in the military.
”God bless America,” she said. “I know not what else to say — God bless America.”
“Thank you for your service” may not be the perfect words, but sometimes, they are all we have.

Friday, November 9, 2018

Be consistent and be honest

If you want to succeed in life - be consistent and be honest.
Always treat everyone the same and with respect and tell the truth.
People will always forgive you if you make a mistake or if you change your mind on a topic or program but they will never forget if you straight up lie.
No matter what it is - be honest- tell them why you made the decision you did and speak from the heart and you can not go wrong.
And here’s the thing, if you are disrespectful or dishonest with someone you can guarantee they will tell others and it will make it that much harder to gain their trust.
It is not that difficult- really-
Be consistent and be honest - ALLWAYS AND WITH EVERYONE!

Thursday, November 8, 2018

Speak out

First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—
     Because I was not a socialist.
Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out—
     Because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—
     Because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.


First they came ..." is a poem written by the German Lutheran pastor Martin Niemöller (1892–1984). It is about the cowardice of German intellectuals following the Nazis' rise to power and subsequent purging of their chosen targets, group after group. Many variations and adaptations in the spirit of the original have been published in the English language. 
It deals with themes of persecutionguilt and responsibility.

Tuesday, November 6, 2018

Walls and Doors

Ever since the world's existed
There's one thing that is certain
There are those who build walls
And those who open doors
Ah but this my love I'm thinking you already knew
For some it's always winter
While others have the spring
Some people find good fortune
While others never find a thing
Ah but this my love is something you already knew
That's how it's always been
And I know you know it
There can be freedom only when nobody owns it
I'm going to say that again
Because I know you know it
There can be freedom only when nobody owns it
Of what use is the moon if you don't have the night?
Of what use is a windmill with no Quixote left who'll fight?
Ah but this my love is something you already knew
At some point on the horizon
Sky can be confused with earth
Some people dream of God
While others dream of wealth
But of course my love this is what you see out on the street
It's how it's always been
And I know you know it
There can be freedom only when nobody owns it
Let me say that again
Because I know that we both know it
There can be freedom only when nobody owns it
When nobody owns it
When nobody owns it
Ever since the world's existed
There's one thing that is certain
Some people build walls

Monday, November 5, 2018

Talk is cheap

Talk is cheap
I have sat in way too many meetings with “ the higher ups” and all they do is talk- the greater their title the more they like to hear themselves talk.
My mentor and best business man I ever knew was a Paul Arpin and his meetings were short and sweet and to the point and when you left the room there was a direction and you had best follow up because he sure was going to.
Also when I worked for him he would tell me to avoid other meetings if possible because all they do is waste your time , time that you should be using for something productive.
The problem in most businesses now are the leaders did not work their way up like a Paul did so they simply don’t get it and definitely do not respect the workers that they are supposed to be leading.
Paul respected everyone and expected you to - do your job. He respected honesty and read right through the bull shit.
Talk is cheap- talk less and listen more - watch and learn.
As much as Paul knew he would say he was always learning.

Wednesday, October 31, 2018

Conviction - Driven

Being conviction-driven means doing the right things for the right reasons.
Beliefs and convictions provide the boundaries and direction that people want and need in order to perform well.
The problem with most leaders today is they don’t stand for anything.  Leadership implies movement toward something, and convictions provide that direction.
If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.
Some important goals for leaders :
-Keep perspective
-Lead by example
-Go for respect over popularity
-Value character as well as ability
-Work hard but enjoy what you do
You won’t be a successful leader if you don’t have a clear idea of what you believe, where you’re headed, and what you’re willing to go to the mat for.


Tuesday, October 30, 2018

Yea but

Yea but.. they started it
Yea but ... they they are wrong.
There will always be people that disagree with you and there will always be people with different beliefs and priorities in life.
Because you do not agree does not give either side the right to put down the other side, every human being has the right to live their live as they choose as long as they do not hurt others while doing it.
Diversity is good , life should not be as cut and dry as my way or the highway - or worse - trying to threaten people that we see as different.
Where we are born and the color of our skin should not dictate our life - we should embrace diversity and people with different life experiences.
When you look at earth from a plane there are no lines - they simply do not exist, they only exist on a map that is man made.
We are all the same as we want to love and be loved - no matter what our beliefs or race or religious beliefs we all want human touch and affection and family, we want to live , laugh, enjoy a meal with friends and have a roof over our heads and a place to rest our heads.
We are not that much different.
Embrace diversity- embrace your brother or sister and your neighbors.
Live and let live

Monday, October 29, 2018

Sports

Sports are important because they can teach us a lot about TEAM and about individual accountability and how they both work hand and hand.
In professional sports , like baseball and football , you only win and achieve your goals if you have team buy in and good leaders and a defined process and what your role is in that process.
Same in any business- you need good leaders and your employees need to know their role and most important to build the TEAM atmosphere they need to know that the leader not only knows what they are doing but that they are willing to help everyone on the team achieve their individual goals as well as the team goal.
Good leaders LEAD - they watch and listen and support the team members, they adhere to the same rules that they ask of you and they build TRUST.
On every championship team there are many stories and all kind of people, it does not matter what a team member looks like or what the color of their skin may be - all you know is that you need to do your role and have their back and they will have yours- that is how we all win.

Friday, October 26, 2018

Reply

ALWAYS REPLY !
Want to quickest way to tell someone that they do not matter or that you do not care about them or their opinions- ignore them.
In life and in business you should make it a priority to answer every email and every call promptly and politely. If you choose to ignore the call or email you might as well go open the closest window and stick your head and shout... I don’t give a good s*#t about you !
I do not care what your title is or how important you think you are... you are never too busy to respond to someone, even if it is brief and you need to get back to them or you need to redirect them they deserve the respect of an answer.
And by the way if you think you too important that is a bigger problem- like they say “ be nice to the people on the way up because they are the same people you will meet on your way down”.
Get off your high horse and keep perspective and give everyone the respect they deserve and for goodness sake reply to that email or text or voicemail !

Thursday, October 25, 2018

Worth

We all want to have a worth - to make a difference or to contribute.
We are at our best when we feel needed and wanted - work is one place we can achieve those goals but our personal life’s is where we will leave our mark.
No matter what you do for work , it is work and as in all jobs it revolves around money and profit and one day that will be gone and in today’s business world that shelf life is shrinking.
Your family on the other hand will always be there, at least if you make them a priority throughout your life they will be. Do not take them for granted and do not forget why you are working in the first place. If you have kids- love them and tell them that every day and more important- show them.
Showing someone that you love them does mean buying them jewelry or toys or gifts it means spending time with them, listening to them and sharing thoughts.
If you have grandkids - same there - time and hugs and viewing life through their eyes is our reward.
Our worth is to surrender to the life around us every day - close your eyes- take in a huge breath and exhale , and open your eyes to The beauty around you and the people that love you.
Never take them or a day for granted.

Wednesday, October 24, 2018

Music to my Eyes

You're music to my eyes
I had to listen just to find you
I'd like for you to let me sing along
Give you a rhythm you feel
I wanna learn your every line
I wanna fill your empty spaces
I want to play the part to reach your arms
Sing you a song that you feel, oh
Love, let your music be mine
Sing while I harmonize
Let your melodies fly in my direction
Take me to your paradise
On a musical ride
I'm in love with your music, baby
You're music to my eyes
Your voice is quite a view
I heard a song and then I saw you
I learned the lyrics and knew you were mine
Danced the horizon with you
I wanna sing you a sunrise
And be the dawn I know will move you
I'd like to be the strings on your guitar
Touch me and play what you feel
Love, let your music be mine
Sing while I harmonize
Let your melodies fly in my direction
Take me to your paradise
On a musical ride
I'm in love with your music, baby
You're music to my eyes
Song from the movie - A Star is Born
Dedicated to my wife- Lisa

Tuesday, October 23, 2018

True Reward

True Reward

I guess it comes down to what you believe...
If you believe that this brief time we have here is the end game and what you acquire here is all that matters then winning at all cost will be your road map.
If you believe that there must be something else and what we do to others will eventually come back to us and in the end the material things around us will matter least then that will become your life’s goal.

Unfortunately I see it more today then ever that winning is all that matters, people can hurt other people as long as they get what they want and that is not healthy and certainly not a way to live our lives. If you have to lie or hurt others to obtain your goal then the goal simply is not worth it.

If you have to gather groups to back you up and give voice to anger or fear then you can not truly believe in what you are saying- if you cannot stand alone in your beliefs then they are probably shallow and most likely the wrong beliefs to begin with.

Do not seek comfort in groups that spread negativity or anger - seek comfort from within.
When you release the need to “ go along “ or the fear of what would happen if you did not “ go along” you can begin to think for yourself and free those heavy chains around you.

“ Your voices matter, your dreams matter, be the roses that grow in the concrete “
Angie Thomas- The Hate U Give

Monday, October 22, 2018

Only Love

Only Love can conquer Hate
Do not buy into the reheteric and the fear -
It does not matter where you happened to be born or the color of your skin we are all human and we ALL want the same thing - to love and be loved.
For those that happened to be born poor and/or in an oppressed country or the inner city - they are literally trying to survive each day only want inner peace and the human right that should be afforded to everyone and that is to live without fear and to have an opportunity to provide for themselves and their family.
If you have the opportunity to ever lend a hand or to support a person in need my hope is that you take advantage of the opportunity and help.
There is nothing more important in your life and there is nothing more rewarding.
Open your hearts and mind and find the joy.
Love- lighten your load-

Friday, October 19, 2018

Freedom

True Freedom lies within
If you want to experience true freedom then first you need to stop chasing the almighty dollar.
Don’t get me wrong, work can be good and rewarding and you need to be able to provide but ask yourself- how much is enough?
I always told myself that as long as I had a roof over my head, food on the table and oil in my tank for heat I would be ok. I never wanted the mansion on the hill or the new sports car and certainly was not going to sell my soul for any of it.
YOU have the Power- you ALWAYS had the Power- you just may have fell into the wrong path - it is never to late to Free yourself.
Remember that this is NOT a dress rehearsal- Life is Short -
There is a movie called Michael, in it John Travolta comes back to earth as an angel to help some people out, after his mission is near complete and he knows he will be leaving Earth for the last time, he is sitting on a log in an open field with a little dog by his side, he lifts his head , looks around and feels the wind on his face and says... I am really going to miss all this.
Don’t waste a day ... be free... feel the wind on your face.

Thursday, October 18, 2018

Loyalty

Where is your Loyalty ?
To have true loyalty you need to ask your self what are YOUR priorities and goals?
Is the person asking you for your loyalty someone you observe being loyal to others ?
If you see and hear people being ugly toward others you can pretty much take it to the bank that will also throw you under the bus too.
Being loyal has to cut both ways and if you cannot fully trust the other person how the heck are you going to be totally loyal to them ?
I have written and expressed my views in the past on Money and power and it is all relevant because when people turn ugly and become disloyal many times it is because they are worried about their themselves and their position and pay- pretty sad but I have witnessed it way to often.
Working and living in an environment that is truly trusting and loyal is very special and within that environment you will do some pretty amazing things - most of all your shoulders will be lightened and you will enjoy your life and your friends and family even more.
Find those that deserve your loyalty and embrace them.
Life is short


Tuesday, October 16, 2018

In My Life

There are places I'll remember
All my life, though some have changed
Some forever, not for better
Some have gone and some remain
All these places have their moments
With lovers and friends I still can recall
Some are dead and some are living
In my life, I've loved them all
But of all these friends and lovers
There is no one compares with you
And these memories lose their meaning
When I think of love as something new
Though I know I'll never lose affection
For people and things that went before
I know I'll often stop and think about them
In my life, I love you more
Though I know I'll never lose affection
For people and things that went before
I know I'll often stop and think about them
In my life, I love you more

Beatles

Let it Go

Let it Go...
Three simple words that can free you.
Why ? Why do care so much that THEY do not know what they are doing or What THEY think about you ?
Let it Go
Why do you ALLOW THEM to get in your head or to rule your thoughts and your day ?
Why do you worry about things out of your control?
Let it Go
Water off of a duck’s back - that is what I was told years go - just let their negativity and hate roll right off your back- the more you allow them to take the more they will take.
What really bothers you at the end of the day is that you wasted the day and never really looked around and appreciated all the good that surrounds us all.
Let it Go

Saturday, October 13, 2018

Power and Money

Unfortunately I have seen very good men change because of Power and Money.
Those that do always forget where they came from and how they were able to succeed.
With great power comes great responsibility-
Even with little power, I see how a title can change a person and they forget how to be humble.
When a person lives more in the “ I” world and less in the “we” world the problem with fester- listen to them when they talk do they always refer to themselves? Do they take all the credit and push away the blame for any negative?
Everyone has somebody that showed them the path , that was an example or gave a hand- NEVER forget where you came from and ALWAYS stay humble.
With the title and the power normally comes a raise and everyone always lives a bit above there means, no matter what their pay is so they start to worry about making more money or losing their job and that also begins the path of ugliness. Before long I watched very good people start to hurt others because they “ had to do it” or they justified it in one way or the other, all to keep their power.
Ego also grows with the power and can make people say and do things that are just plain wrong.
Power-Money- Ego -
All attributes that are hallow and will make you forget who you are and what is most important in life.
Stay humble- Give more and want less


Friday, October 12, 2018

Excuses

Give Up Your Excuses

“It’s not about the cards you’re dealt, but how you play the hand.” ― Randy Pausch, The Last Lecture
Successful people know that they are responsible for their life, no matter their starting point, weaknesses, and past failures.
Realising that you are responsible for what happens next in your life is both frightening and exciting.
And when you do, that becomes the only way you can become successful, because excuses limit and prevent us from growing personally and professionally.
Own your life; no one else will.

Thursday, October 11, 2018

Toxic People

Give Up The Toxic People

“Stay away from negative people. They have a problem for every solution.”
— Albert Einstein
People you spend the most time with add up to who you become.
If you spend time with those who refuse to take responsibility for their life, always find excuses and blame others for the situation they are in, your average will go down, and with it your opportunity to succeed.
However, if you spend time with people who are trying to increase their standard of living, and grow personally and professionally, your average will go up, and you will become more successful.
Take a look at around you, and see if you need to make any changes.

Wednesday, October 10, 2018

Liked

Give Up Your Need To Be Liked

“You can be the juiciest, ripest peach in the world, and there’s still going to be people who hate peaches.” — Dita Von Teese
Think of yourself as a market niche.
There will be a lot of people who like that niche, and there will be individuals who don’t. And no matter what you do, you won’t be able to make the entire market like you.
This is completely natural, and there’s no need to justify yourself.
The only thing you can do is to remain authentic, improve and provide value every day, and know that the growing number of “haters” means that you are doing remarkable things.

Tuesday, October 9, 2018

Wasting Time

Give Up Wasting Time

“The trouble is, you think you have time” — Jack Kornfield
You only have this one crazy and precious life. That’s why you owe it to yourself to see who you can become, and how far you can go.
However, to do that, you need to ditch meaningless time wasters and stop allowing them to be an escape from your most important goals.
To do that, you should learn how to take control over your focus, attention and make the most out of your 24 hours within a day.
Remember that you will die, so never stop creating your legacy and doing the things that will enrich your life.

Wednesday, October 3, 2018

Acceptance

We all want to be accepted ...
It starts at a very young age, ever watch a young child around the age of 8 when they are around other kids being a bit older , like 11 or 12 ? They want to hang and play with them, unfortunately most kids 11 or 12 do not want to play or hang with 8 year olds... God forbid.. it would not be cool. And if it was your 8 year old and you observed it your heart sinks.
That follows up through middle school and high school, we want to be part of a group and be accepted and when we are pushed out it hurts and can effect our personalities and our confidence.
It still follows us into the business world because most adults are just big kids and they all are carrying around their own baggage and their own hurt and can be empowered by demeaning others.
We fear retribution and the possibility of being on the “outside” so we learn to either keep quiet or follow the leader or bend what we believe- my only advice to look for the good in everybody and follow your own path - you do not need to be part of a group to reassure yourself of your worth.
You alone are special- you alone have worth- listen to your heart and keep what is truly important to you in your every day life and hopefully what is important to you is not material.

Monday, October 1, 2018

Believe

Don’t believe you have to be like somebody...
Believe in yourself.
Learn from everyone, even those that you may not agree with.
Remember that titles do not make a person , neither does fame or fortune.
Springsteen has a lyric in one of his songs where he says “listen to your junkman,he’s singing “.
I love that line because it brings you right down to earth, you may think that big exec in the corner office with his 100,000 dollar automobile and big house and boat and toys has it all but at what price to he have to pay for all that ? How much stress is added in his life? How much time did you spend playing with his kids?
Where as that “junkman” that you drove by in the morning is singing, he does need the big house and toys , he enjoys each day and is thankful for what he has and goes home after a hard days work and has dinner with his family and reads a bed time story to his young one.
Believe
First you need to believe in yourself and strive each day to be a good person.
Work hard and never envy what another person may have, be appreciative of what you have and the loved ones in your life - and tell them you love them every day !
Believe

Friday, September 28, 2018

Truth

Truth is the strongest weapon.
If someone is yelling the loudest they may be trying to bend your opinions and if the truth does not work then they may resort to bend the truth or worse make up their own version of the truth.
Here’s the thing though truth finds a way to show its head, it may take longer then you like but it will come out.
The easiest way to live your life is to simply speak the truth and if that means having to give up power or a job or a title so be ie- in the end your shoulders will be lighter and it will help you lead a more fulfilled life. What you think is important at the time it retrospect may not be important at all, in fact it may be holding you back.
Fear is what normally causes lies - fear of job security, fear of power, fear of retribution but truth breeds growth, true relationships and true reward.
We all have choices- be strong- choose the right path - lighten your load.

Thursday, September 27, 2018

Character

Does Character  count ?
Does what you do - speak more of what you believe then what you say ?
We all have done and said stupid things - own them - learn from them.
I do absolutely believe in redemption and forgiveness but first you must admit to failings and for goodness sake not lie- it is ok- we are all human.
I do think character counts and if you are not truly trying to be a good person and have others best interest at heart how on God’s green earth can I truly trust you.
To be a good leader people need to know that they can trust you and that your word is your bond.
Your character is who YOU are and it will follow you wherever you go.
The beautiful thing in life is we can evolve, we can change, we can learn and more important we must evolve.
Muhammad Ali said that if you are the same person at 50 as you were at 20 you have wasted 30 years of your life.
Character Counts

Wednesday, September 26, 2018

At All Cost

Get what you want - At All Cost -
At the end of the day or more important at the end of your journey you have to ask yourself- was it worth it ?
To get or keep that job or position what did you give up ?
Your time ? Time with who is really important to you ?
Did you sacrifice your ideals or morals ?
Do you just get along to go along ?
If your end goal is to keep climbing that ladder -at all cost - are you pretty much saying that money is your God or compass ?
Is there collateral damage to you - at all cost - attitude? Is that collateral damage other people?
We can all get caught up in the day to day and our quest to obtain more but take the time to SEE who you are following and what YOU may be giving up.
In the end “ they” will disappear and leave you behind because- at all cost- is THEIR motto- do not buy in , do not blindly follow.
You will survive and you will be better off for it, you will be tested - if you are doing for the right reasons and you are not hurting others then speak up - make a difference- Always speak truth to Power and build your alliances through honest, hard work.
At All Cost is NOT your path

Tuesday, September 25, 2018

Satisfied

'Cause the only real pain a heart can ever know
Is the sorrow of regret
When you don't let your feelings show
Busy people walking by
Can't help but worry some
With so many things to do
So little love gets done
Empty hearts everywhere
Drowning but dying of thirst
If we want love
It's not that tough
Start by giving it first
It's easy to give
Baby can't you see?
Just close your eyes open your heart
And do what comes naturally
So did you say it?
Did you mean it?
Did you lay it on the line?
Did you make it count?
Did you look 'em in the eye?
And did they feel it?
Did you say it in time?
Did you say it out loud?
'Cause if you did hun
Then you lived some
And that feeling inside?
That's called satisfied


Lyrics and song by Jewel 


Monday, September 24, 2018

Scared

Many people are simply scared to actually speak their mind.
The more the 1% grow in numbers and Power the more the middle class or the “ worker” is suppressed, that is if there is actually a middle class anymore. If people actually speak their mind they face being fired or let go or put on an island- I know I have witnessed it and lived it.
Scared is not a good way to live, you will never reach your true potential if you do not stay true to your values and to your truth.
Here is the dilemma, how and when do you speak out ?
You need to be sure that your voice is heard but if you approach it wrong you will personally suffer so you need to be smart. First of all do not play their games- always stay true to your morals and speak softly , do your job and stay away from those that spew their negativity.
Their day will come because in the end I always believe in Karma and what ever you put out will come back to you. Do not lash out , watch your tone and your facial expressions - keep your poker face - and do not lose the validity of your argument by being “the bad guy”.
If you are scared it is probably because of a bully , bullies think they are tough but when they stand alone you find that they are bullies because they are really weak and scared themselves.
Stay strong

Friday, September 21, 2018

Adults

Be an Adult !

I think we may have it backwards, we tell our kids to try to act like an adult, I think we should be telling adults to act more like kids.

My two year old grandson is such a joy, he wakes up every day and runs out of his room with a huge smile on his face and cannot wait to start the day, all he wants to do that day is have fun. When he hugs you and gives a little pat on your back there is nothing better, he has no hidden agenda , all he has is unconditional love.

The adult world on the other hand is fraught with hidden agendas and people yelling and choosing sides. I was on a conference call yesterday with five “ adults” and we were to discuss some issues and one adult male joined the call with an already obvious attitude, he did not want to participate or he thought why am I even on this call with who he presumed to be knuckheads. The call lasted all of three minutes before he started barking out his demands, the top guy on the call got his back up and yelled back then hung up... conference call over... nothing accomplished but feelings that will spill over that will just continue to build walls.

Hmmmm.. should I ask the child to be more adult like or the adult to be more child like ?

Relax people, channel your inner child !

Try to approach each day with a reckless abandon to just learn and love and enjoy the day.
Unfortunately most adults wait till the end of there life to understand that each day is a gift and that big problem you thought you had was really nothing at all... don’t wait.

Embrace the day and be a kid !