Winter Olympic Games

I have have always loved watching the Olympic games. May favorite part would be the opening and closing ceremonies. The opening ceremonies capture the spirit of the games along with the hopes and dreams of the athletes. The closing ceremonies honor those athletes and those events which either brought victory or defeat.

In life, we all experience moments of victory and defeat. The question we need to ask on this journey: Am I at the top of my "game?" Pun intended! Are you giving 100% of yourself? Something to think about!

Day of Love

I admit I'm a hopeless romantic! "Sleepless in Seattle, You've Got Mail, and The Goodbye Girl" are some of my favorite movies! "You and Me, I'm Your's, and You Were Meant For Me" are some of my favorite songs. I think you know where I'm going with this!

During this time of year we are bombarded with ads including jewelry, flowers, candy, etc. Even though I agree these are ways to show love, I believe there are many other ways!

I've always considered Valentines Day as a day to show love to those people in our lives that we appreciate! It's as simple a visiting a shut-in, calling someone you haven't talked to for awhile, sharing a meal, etc. On your journey, take time to spread the Love!

We Are The World

This morning I downloaded a copy of "We are the world". It was 25 years ago that the song came out in response to children suffering from AIDS in Africa! They are doing a remake of the song in response to tragic suffering after the earthquake in Haiti.

I hope you take time to listen to this song. The lyrics combined with the music are very powerful. On your journey remember "We are the ones who make a better day so let's not give in"! Take time to

make a brighter day for someone!

Fortunate Cirmstances

Last Sunday I was frustrated and angry after watching the Saints/Vikings game. Although I agree it was a very good game and either team could have won, I wanted to see the Vikings win and progress to the Superbowl. The Vikings have been in the superbowl but the Saints never have.

My wife, who can always see a positive point in every situation, made a comment that left me speechless: "Maybe the Saints needed the victory more!" The victory was not only for the football team and fans, but for the people of New Orleans who are still rebuilding their city and their lives. On your journey, remember that sometimes your "unfortunate" circumstances may be "fortune" or "blessings to others. Journey on and count your blessings!

Coffee Connection

I am a coffee lover! Maybe even a little more than I should be! A Priest friend of mine (who has since passed on) told me he offered the people he counsels coffee, tea or some beverage. He told me it gives them something warm to hold on to and relaxes those people so they can begin to share.

I've realized for me it's more than the taste of the coffee, but what it represents! Drinking coffee is a great time to connect with God and friends. It's a cup of comfort! Maybe while reading a book or the morning paper. Could be while reading the bible or praying. Might be while talking to friends. So on your journey I hope you take time to have a cup of comfort!

Playing cards!

I have wondered why some people who have been faced with many obstacles have a true "rags to riches" life story, and others who have been given many opportunities wind up with a "riches to rags" life story.

As I reflect on my life journey, I think about the words of an old Danish proverb: Life is not holding a good hand; Life is playing a poor hand well. A little food for thought!

What Direction?

As we begin this journey into 2010, there are questions I have! What positive habits will I develop? Who will my friends be? What obstacles or opportunities will I be faced with? And the list goes on.
I hope that this year will be great for you! As you journey, ask plenty of questions, surround yourself with friends, and know that you've "always had the power within you" to do whatever you want to do and be the person you wish to be! Journey On!