Reach Your Potential

I have been learning about reaching your potential.  That is a difficult thing to do.  In fact, for each of us to reach that pinnacle we must first face the challenges that hold us back.
I recently met a man who struggles when speaking in front of an audience.  He told me that it is the single fear that he has in his life--he would rather do anything else.  I watched his hands tremble as he was asked to speak in front of a group.  He did it with courage and strength.  We all must face the fears that trouble us. 


On May 25, 2001, Erik Weihenmayer became the only blind man in history to reach the summit of the world's highest peak - Mount Everest.


Sometimes we need to step out of the shadows of our 'comfort zone' and stretch ourselves out.  It is hard but the struggles we have seem to make us that much better.

A Hero

Neil Armstrong was a humble hero who saw himself as a team player and never capitalized on his celebrity as the first man to walk on the moon, mourners said Friday outside a private service attended by fellow space pioneers, including his two crewmates on the historic Apollo 11 mission.

I'm reminded that everybody is a hero in one form or another.  The acts of kindness that so many share with others defines what a hero really is.
Some are glorified for their achievements and others never get a single word spoken about them but in my mind they are still heroes.
Think about the heroes in your life.  Maybe a parent or a grandparent.  Is there a friend or brother and sister?
A person like Neil Armstrong had accomplishments that most of us will never achieve but the things we do in our homes and communities help shape and mold what the future of this world will become.
Keep up the good work!

First Day Of School

The first day of school is in the record books.  Each of our four children had a successful and happy day.  There was nervousness but the excitement prevailed.  I love to hear their take on the things that are the most important to them.  Learning stimulates their minds and expands their normal way of thinking.  I love the anticipation of what a new school year will bring.  Nat and Lol are in high school and I hope that they take advantage of the experience as a whole.  Hooray for school!

Lead Out

I heard something recently that caused me to think.  “Out of every team emerges a leader.”  That statement forced me to contemplate my own life and am I doing all that I can to be an effective leader.  The greatest success I will ever achieve is within the walls of my own home.  So I ask a question to you, are you doing all that you can to lead in righteousness within the walls of your home?  How we act and what we do will have great impact on the lives of our children and grandchildren.  That success hangs directly off of what we contribute and how we execute the decisions that we make.

The Amazing Things Of Life

When was the last time you flew on an airplane?  Was it fearful or did you find it enjoyable?  I find it incredibly amazing that a large machine can fly through the air with such grace and mobility.  Every working part must be orchestrated so that the functions that each performs is precise.  I love to watch airplanes fly and it makes me grateful that I get the chance to be a part of the success.  So it is with our lives.  The precise implementation of all that we learn must be practiced and then properly executed to produce good sound results.  The next time you fly pay close attention to the operation of the aircraft and you’ll know what I mean.

Scouts

I accompanied Brady on his inaugural scout camp-out.  The excitement has been building for a couple of weeks now.  With packing list in hand Brady gathered the required materials that he would need for a successful night.  We camped out in Tooele, Utah in a place called Settlement Canyon.  There were five boys and three adults present.  We had an incredible time and I marveled at the way the boys treated one another and the effort they displayed in carrying out such a successful event.  Happy Scouting Brady!  We’ll have plenty more opportunities just like this.

Get Past Your Fears

Some people struggle while speaking in front of big crowds.  Others think that holding a small snake can’t get any worse.  Yet others aren’t quite comfortable doing anything that is out of the ordinary.  Can I suggest that you “walk out on a limb” and stretch yourself beyond what you normally otherwise would?  Life is an opportunity to stretch, learn, and grow.  The growth that we receive will help us and bless our lives forever.  Learning is a continuous improvement.  It’s exciting, it’s difficult, and yet the dividends are huge.  Stretch a little, you’ll be glad you did.