True Destiny, If Life is a Journey, Why go it Alone?

What a beautiful day in Maine. The sun is out again, and no signs of any big storms the next few days. That is always a beautiful thing in February. We are one day closer to spring, and the days are getting longer sunshine wise. I must say that there are bragging rights for having survived a New England Winter, but as I get up in years I will say that winters in a warm sunny climate are far more appealing than ever before. But I must be honest and tell you that there is no other place I would rather be than the coast of Maine in the summer time. It is one of the seven wonders of the world as far as I see it and I encourage anyone who has never been here to come and visit. You may never want to leave, well at least leave in the summer time. I on the other hand will gladly depart for sun and warmth during January and February.

So what is on my mind today? I have been doing quite a bit of soul searching over the last few days, nothing that is earth shaking, but rather subtle changes that need to be made in my life to bring it in line with my beliefs. Now many will wonder what some of those beliefs are, and I have days when I question some of my beliefs. I look at human nature and wonder why some people do some of the things that they do. Now I am not one who enjoys conflict, far from it. Anyone who knows me knows I hate it with a passion and will run from it as soon as I see it coming. I've had people call me a coward because of this. Being a coward couldn't be farther from the truth. But I am amazed at people and what they perceive and with those perceptions make a blanket statement about someone. I avoid conflict because I know my temper and I never want it to get the better of me. I know that I can have a biting tongue and I never want to say something that is going to hurt someone and if my temper gets the better of me I can sometimes say things that are hurtful and I do hate that. I am no saint, I can say mean and hurtful things, but that generally comes only when I am backed into a corner, and trust me when I tell you, you don't want to do that very often. It's kind of like a wounded animal who will strike back.


I don't know how I got onto that band wagon, but maybe someone needed to hear it and so I went with the gut feeling. As I was saying earlier, I have had to take an inventory of where I am right now and where I want to go in the future. I have had to take a deep look at my desires and where I want to go in the next few years. I have also had to look deep inside and make sure I understood my motives and make sure they are for good and not just for gain. Sure we all want to make a living, but at the same time we want to make the world a better place. I do believe you can have your cake and eat it too. We have become a society of the "Haves" and "Have Nots". I never thought I would think this, but the longer I am around the more convinced I am that this is a reality, and not just a rumor. I have seen people work their fingers to the bone, giving everything they have for an employer, only to have that employer send the jobs overseas because of the cheaper labor rates. I have seen people who have given their all only to be kicked out on the street to cut cost for a corporation because it was better for the share holders. Man have we gotten way off track in this country. Now don't misunderstand, I am a capitalist. I believe in the concept of free enterprise and I know that the free enterprise system is what has made this country great. But I also know what greed can do to some business owners and what it has meant to those who have worked so hard to ensure the business owner's success. Shame on anyone who has turned their back on the employees only to turn a profit. May the fleas of a thousand rats infest their armpits. Pretty graphic, but you get my point. At what point in time is enough profit enough. When you have walked all over the backs of your employees and never uttered a simple thank you, well you are a true piece of work at this point. In my book, True Destiny, I talk about the most successful people out in the work force. Not one of them will ever claim that they did it all alone. It took help and effort from so many different people. But the truly successful people will always give credit where credit is due. They understand the concept of helping those who help you and giving back from the abundance which they have profited from. To the business owners who only want more, and have no intention of giving back to the workers or society, all I can say is "Screw You". I know that is blunt, but lets take care of those who take care of you. I never want to get to the point where I can not recognize the work and sacrifice that others have made to make me successful. For those that work with me, I can only say how grateful and fortunate I am to have you working along side of me. I truly appreciate all that they do, and given the opportunity will always make it know to them.

So let's do the world a favor and start giving back. Create that work environment that keeps all your employees happy and then motivation will be in abundance. It's never too late to reinvent the wheel. Maybe just maybe our best days are ahead of us. Think about that.........

True Destiny, If Life is a Journey, Why go it Alone?

Wow, every now and then life comes at you so fast you don't know whether you're coming or going. Ever have one of those Mondays when you're just not sure how the week is going to go? It has been a good day thus far, but boy I could use a nap. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining, I rather like how I feel right now, but I have a feeling that life is going to be busy this week and I know I will need a nice break come Friday. I was talking with a friend this morning, and I wish I could say that things were good for him. He has the weight of the world on his shoulders right now and there isn't anything I wouldn't do to ease his stress and thereby reduce the amount of acid in his stomach. There are just times in every one's life when things aren't going well and you want to escape and just leave all the crap behind you. I have been there more times then I want to admit, but I have come through it and so can you.

I was at lunch with my partner on Sunday, and as is my normal thing to do I was people watching throughout the meal. I love looking at people and trying to get a sense of what they may be like or what they may be going through at this moment in time. I admit that I am a softy when it comes to people and want nothing more than for everyone to have joy, peace, and happiness in life. I know that not everyone will be experiencing these things, but it doesn't make it any less a desire of mine. When I tell you that I hurt when others hurt, well let's just say you can take that to the bank. I guess my compassion is just to close to the surface. I often tend to wear my emotions on my sleeve, and it is hard to get away from them. But truth be told, I never want to get to a point where my emotions are so jaded that seeing a need in people does not generate a feeling of empathy. I look at my friend who is struggling and I would give anything to ease his concern and fears.

I have always rooted for the underdog and love it when I see a success story. I know, I know, what a softy, well I am what I am, and to be quite frank would never want to change. I can't help everyone, but that doesn't mean I don't want to. We are in a time when nothing seems to come easy. We always seem to be swimming up stream and against the current. Most people today are just looking for a short period of rest and tranquility, and don't know how to get there. If I could have any wish, other than world peace, so cliche, but hopeful none-the-less, I would love to see a time when all my friends, loved ones, and acquaintances could just sit back and know that all is good in their domain. Sadly that is not the case, but I would give anything for that to be the case. We have to get to the point when we think more of others than ourselves. I know it is tough when often we are fighting our own battles, but giving of yourself for the betterment of others is a noble effort, and one that will not quickly be forgotten. So reach out to others and give them hope for the future. It doesn't cost a thing and it will change the world one life at a time....think aboout it.......

True Destiny, If Life is a Journey, Why go it Alone?

Too many days since I last posted a blog. Busy, busy , busy, with the new job and all the other things that I have in the mix. But that is no excuse and I now must get back on the bandwagon and do what I do best, stir it up. I love creating a ruckus, not because I'm mean spirited or anything like that. Rather I love to get people thinking and the only way you can do that sometimes is to create an atmosphere where there may be uncertainty or a little discomfort. We all get bogged down in some of life's daily activities, and when that happens we often do not take time to spell the flowers and realize how good life really is. Sure there are times when things aren't going great or in the direction you had hoped. But lets face it, any day where you are walking above the ground is better than a day six feet under. I've recently had to make some difficult decisions that I would rather have put off indefinitely, but putting off never solves the problem, so why not jump in with both feet and get it over with.

My encouragement is in the fact that I am willing to make changes, often changes that I have fought off, but changes that needed to be made. If you are in the midst of making changes or contemplating changes, jump in, the water is fine. I say this having been through numerous changes over the last few years. I have to admit that at first I hated every bit of it, but once the dust settled I am better for having made the changes and quite frankly can't believe it took me so long to do it. Isn't that always the case? We fight it and fight it and fight it, and once it is all said and done we ask ourselves why did I fight this for so long, it isn't that bad. Hind sight is always 20/20.

I was watching the President's State of the Union Speech last night, as I always try to do. I think you need to keep up on what is going on, if you don't what right do you have to complain. Anyway, I liked a lot of what I heard and I hope that we can get our act together and do what is right for this county. I think it is time tht we put aside party politics and do what is right for the American People. There are people out there hurting and distressed. I know that government can't be everything to everyone, but it should be working to make the lives of others better. We have so much talent in this country, isn't it time that we put together the collective minds of all and figure out a way to help those who need it most, and forget about who is in power and who wants to get into power. I know there are two sides to every coin, but it still makes up one coin, and right now the left hand is not even remotely close to the right hand.

So let's figure a way to work together, and if we can't work together throw the bums out and lets start over. This is an idea I have thought about over the last few years.......we all need to tinnk about that.

True Destiny, If Life is a Journey, Why go it alone?

Did you ever wonder why...............? That's a question I ask myself from time to time, and one I'm sure you have asked also. But there are so many things that come to mind when I think of that question. For instance, why do you drive on a parkway, yet park in a drive way? Or what about this; why do we call it a "Pair" of panties, and yet a bra is not a "Pair"? And last but surely not least; Was Adam's belly button and "Innie" or an "Outie"? These are all things that have crossed my mind from time to time. Now I know you are thinking that I have way too much time on my hands. In actuality I have very little spare time, but there are questions that remain unanswered in the universe. Not that the three just mentioned questions give any real answer to things that are going on in the universe, but they are comical and it causes me to smile.

But there are serious questions that need to be asked and in asking hoping that someone will get the answers they are looking for. Just a quick note, that the answer you get may not always be the answer you want, but there are risk in everything we do, this area being no different. I have found myself in the past wondering about things that have transpired in my life, and wondering why somethings that have been less than pleasant have happened. I would like to say that nothing adverse has ever happened to me, but that is the farthest thing from the truth. I can recall a time not long ago when I found myself out of work and looking at was sure to be certain bankruptcy. It was not a great time for me and I was at the lowest point I had ever been in. There were days when I would lay down to sleep at night and praying that I wouldn't wake up in the morning. I was desperate for change and yet I saw no change in sight. I'm sure that many people have found themselves in this position and when I say I feel your pain, I really feel your pain. Hopelessness and desperateness are no laughing matter and yet I was able to rise above it and still see the possibilities that were out there for me. If you are facing difficult and challenging times reach out for assistance from those closest to you. I know that I am ask for help from various people almost on a daily basis and when ever possible I will render assistance, not because I have to but rather because I want to. I have had times when assistance from others was the only way that I was going to survive, and I thank the Good Lord that I had friends, family and loved ones there to assist me.

You've heard me say this before but it bears repeating that life is filled with uncertainty and some unpleasantness. Things don't always go as planned, and bad things happen to good people. It doesn't make it right, it just happens. But how we deal with uncertainty, unpleasantness and bad stuff that happens is the true test of character, and one test that must be passed. Life is never going to be "Simple", just ask anyone. When going gets tough the tough get going, or at least that's what you've heard said before. I hate that saying, but I really can't argue it's merits. The true test of trials and tribulations is being able to keep moving forward and not letting things stop you. It's never over until I say it is, and quite frankly I never want to say it's over. So Here's the bottom line; know that things will happen that you don't expect or want. But when they do you will be prepared to handle them. Never run away from a challenge and always, and I mean always know that your best days are ahead of you.

True Destiny, If Life is a Journey, Why go it Alone?

It looks as though Mother Nature is brewing up another batch of snow as I jot down some thoughts this morning. Here's my thought for the day; what ever happened to common courtesies? I am amazed at the self-centered attitude of so many people walking around today. It's as though the world owes them something on a silver platter, and when they don't get what they want they throw a temper tantrum like some little spoiled brat walking around a store with mom and dad.

Now I am very prone to helping people out whenever asked, if I can do it. Now there are times because of my schedule that I have to say no to a request, but will do everything I can to accommodate whenever possible. Now I don't do things because I am looking for anything in return, I do because that is my nature. But what really gets my goat is when you go out of your way to help someone and you don't even get a "Thank You". What planet are these people from who were never taught the most simple of sayings that being"Thanks". Now I know people whose nature it is to expect things, and show no appreciation. I must tell you that it is very difficult for me to want to reach out the hand of friendship to someone like this. On the other hand I know people who are so appreciative it is heart wrenching. It is as though you just gave them the winning lottery ticket. These are the types of people who it is so easy to say yes to because you feel the warmth that emanates from them. I have a hard time ever saying no to these types of people. Now lets turn the scenario around and look at those who expect, and when you don't come through for them pitch a hissy fit. We all know these types and we all pretty much have the same reaction when we see them coming to ask a favor.

But let me ask you a question; is showing simple courtesies so difficult? It must be that if you say thank you you are going to face a firing squad in the morning and so you avoid it at all cost. No wait, maybe you have to give up all your worldly things. How about this one, if you have to say thank you, you give up your right to freedom. It just has to be one of these, because the penalty for saying "Thank You" must be so severe one must fear for their life. Now I know I have the flare for the dramatic, but come on, what is wrong with some people. It's not difficult to be a decent human being and show appreciation. It has zero cost and better yet zero calories. Ok that last statement was my attempt at humor. Something I should shy away from.

So here's the bottom line; simple courtesy is easy, it's free, and it's deserved. If you haven't taken it out for a spin recently why not try it on for size. You may find the fit and the ride agreeable to you and to others as well. Think about it............

True Destiny, If Life is a Journey, Why go it Alone?

It's a classic snowy day in Maine this morning. The ground is more than covered and the wind is blowing like crazy, it is days like this that I wonder about why I live here. But after some reflection I realize that I really never want to leave, and the reasons are numerous for that. First off I can think of no place I would rather be in the summer than the coast of Maine. It is one of the most beautiful places on the face of the earth, and I for one enjoy every second of every day that I get to experience it. Second, I believe in effecting positive change in all that I do and believe you me Maine is in dire need of some change in many areas. I see people every day who are desperate for change not only in their personal but also professional lives. There are people all around who do not know where to turn next because times have gotten so bad. There is a feeling of doom and gloom, and many can not muster enough strength to get out of bed in the morning and face the day. How do I know these things, because I have been there myself. It is not a place I like being in, and it is a place that I hope I never have to be in again.



That being said, what can I do to help someone out of the darkness and into the light? As I have sad so many times in the past, everyone has dreams, and most of us have unfulfilled dreams. Many times we feel as though life has passed us by and there will never come a time when you will fulfill your dreams. This is the time that I must be honest and tell you that there is never a time when you should give up on your dreams. Sure there are moments when we want to, and often times when we feel as though we have too. But once again you are the only one who can drop a dream and my question is why would you want to? In my book I state that age is never a limiter when it comes to dream fulfillment. Whether you are 18, 38, or even 88, there is still time to go after them, and I encourage everyone to do just that. In my humble opinion there is nothing worse than giving up on a dream. Most of the time we give up because we hit a bump in the road or run into a roadblock, but bumps and roadblocks are apart of life and how we handle them is a show of character. I have unfulfilled dreams and I do not want to give up on them. Some of my dreams are small and others are bigger than life. Either way I want each of them and do not want to quit until I get there. I challenge each of you to take the same approach, and don't give up until you achieve them all. Life is grand, but it can be better with each dream that is fulfilled and when that happens can life get much better. Think about that............

True Destiny, If Life is a Journey, Why go it Alone?

It's a beautiful day here in Maine today. The sun is shinning and temps are a little above average, all together a splendid day in a remarkable state. It is days like this that cause me to pause and count the many blessings that I have in life. I have friends and loved ones who mean more to me than life itself. I have a partner who loves me and is there for me in every sense of the word. I have a destiny that is right there in front of me and I am so excited about the possibilities that exist. And yet even with all this there are emotions that encompass me because so many people are struggling and unsure of the future. It is sobering to see the hoards of people who are desperate for a change, or just a touch of relief from the pressure and uncertainty of these days. What I would give for just a moment of absolute peace on the planet. Now I'm not talking about peace in regards to the various wars and conflicts that are going on at this very moment. We will always have war and conflict in the world. But hey it would be nice if we could have just one moment without war and conflict also. What I am talking about is a peace of mind for all people that all things are right in the world and that the fears and anxiety that so many feel could be wiped away for just a brief moment.

I'm a realist and know that this is not a real possibility, but that does not dampen my desire to see it so. I have friends who always seem to go from one crisis to another and never a period of rest in between. You can see it on their face that they have been worn down by life's pressures and I would give anything to take that away from them. Alas I am only human and quite frankly do not have the ability to take it away from everyone. What I can do is talk to them about the future and that the future can and will bring better times. But truth be told when you have been beaten down by life's trials and tribulations, it is hard to believe that there is a light at the end of the tunnel or that the pot of gold really does exist at the end of the rainbow.

My goal in life is pretty simple. I want to speak to as many people as humanly possible about destiny and possibilities and dreams. We are in a time in this world where so many people are looking for the smallest bit of hope in what appears to be a gloomy, dark, and hopeless environment. I am not immune from feeling the same way from time to time, but that's when I have friends, family, and other loved ones to help me out of the muck and mire. It is my desire to be there to help each one of you out of it if that is what you need. It is a great thing to be able to give of yourself in a selfless act of kindness toward another human being, and expect no gain or payback. The things I do for people are not for gain, or notoriety. I do because I feel.

Take some time out of your busy schedule the next few days and stretch out the hand of kindness to someone. It just may put a smile on your face and a warmth in your heart, and at the end of the day that's not a bad thing. Think about it..........