I believe that if we were to take a sample of people from around the world and ask them if they are ready to see 2009 end, there would be a resounding YES! I too, am ready to watch 2009 disappear from my rearview mirror.
The challenges of this year are well chronicled. The monetary losses have been added up.
This year has been a particular challenge for many that have experienced health issues, pay cuts and job loss.
While we have felt the sting of this year, we look back and count our blessings that we are still able to proceed onward! Situations may have been challenging, but we take great pride in knowing our faith and humanity have not wavered.
My focus in this post is not on the negative. As many of my friends know, I am an optimist – to a fault!
I contend that 2009 has also been a year of personal abundant blessings for the Wolfe family.
For in 2009, we have caught up with old friends and created new friendships. My life has been deeply enriched by many of the people that I’ve met this year.
We have felt the healing power of prayer while we have prayed for others.
We have laughed and shared hugs. And, we have shed tears for others.
We have consoled those who have lost battles and we have celebrated with those who have overcome adversity.
We have thanked heroes who serve us today and in the past. And, we have been thankful for all we have received.
While this has been a year of ups and downs for many, it has also been a year to reach out to others. Neighbor has reached out to neighbor and many of us have reached across the country, the continent and the world to provide hope to others.
So, as we move into 2010, let us remember that the challenges from this past year have made us stronger.
We may have been tested, but we have not lost! Go forward in the knowledge that you are better and stronger than ever before!
Best Wishes to You and Yours for a Safe, Happy and Prosperous 2010!
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
My First Day
As each year passes, the various “firsts” in my life have more meaning. I remember my first day of riding a school bus to Kindergarten – the beginning of a learning journey that continues to this day.
The first date I had with my wife definitely changed my life for the better. While my wife and I look back on the date and laugh, we also remember that two weeks after the date I asked my wife to marry me and surprisingly, she said yes!
The birthdays of both of our children conjure up fond memories of waiting for their arrival into the world and the continuous joy they have provided to us ever since. I was fortunate enough to cut both of their umbilical chords and be the first to hold them.
There are so many more firsts in my life, which hold significant meaning.
Tonight, I look back on yet another important first that occurred yesterday.
After dropping off my company vehicle on Friday, I found myself in a position in which I’m not accustomed. For the past fifteen years, I have not had one day where I was not employed. During this time, the organizations I worked for enjoyed tremendous success and benefited from the marketing expertise I brought to the table.
Yesterday was the first day in a highly successful career in marketing that I was not part of an organizational team.
The day, however, was filled with the endless opportunity to help others and stay engaged. I was fortunate enough to participate in the Dacula Lions Club first service project – a food drive with proceeds being sent to The Quinn House, Gwinnett County’s sole homeless shelter. The Dacula Lions Club members came together with eighty bags of food that were used to feed needy families throughout the county. I was filled with a sense of achievement and pride to be able to play a small part. Our first service project, taking place on my first day of being unemployed.
I refused to retreat inward in a sense of worry, for I know that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ provides for my needs, as well as for the needs of my family.
Like many before and after me, I stayed in the game and stayed engaged. It is this attitude that will ensure my time of unemployment is minimized and will help to propel the next organization I’m a part of above its expectations.
I stand with many of my friends who have lost their jobs, yet will never lose their hope. Patti Womack serves as a wonderful example. Patti is a dear friend of mine who lives in Phoenix, Arizona and is currently looking for a new position in project management. Her spirit of giving and sense of commitment have not been diminished, as she gives of herself to Packages from Home – a non-profit organization that provides provisions, letters and reminders from home to military heroes serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. You may learn more about Packages from Home by visiting http://www.packagesfromhome.org/.
Unemployment is a temporary condition. Providing hope, inspiration and compassion to others should be a lifelong commitment that does not end.
I salute Patti Womack and others like her who stay engaged. Temporary unemployment does not stand in their way and it does not stand in my way as I go forward with my journey of serving the needs of others.
December 20, 2009 will be remembered as another first day in my life - a day in which I refused to look inward and kept my focus on the greater missions of life.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
That Perfect Gift
We all have people in our lives that are just difficult to find a gift for. It may be a co-worker, an uncle, a cousin that we see a couple of times a year, or a parent that we’re trying to surprise with that perfect gift. We listen to them intently prior to “Black Friday,” trying to glean out some information that may be hidden in a conversation. There are other times when we simply ask for a “wish list.”
I know the perfect gifts for everyone – those who are semi-strangers, as well as those very close to us, in 2009.
I have a few suggestions that will fit every situation and are offered at a very attractive price point. In fact, the price and perfection of these gifts is such that they should be given freely!
The gifts I speak of are patience, attention and love.
These gifts are perfect for Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa! In fact, these gifts will be perfect for six months from next Thursday and every day before and after!
Many people are entering the home stretch of 2009 with heavy burdens and heavy hearts. A tough economy has caused many people to face situations that they would never dream of in years past. I know several very talented people who are unemployed at this time – people that have given much to their companies. I also know many proud people who feel a sense of frustration, as they have always been in a position to give and never to receive. I too will soon be feeling the effects of this soft economy, as I face unemployment for the first time in my life – exactly one week before Christmas.
The purpose of my post is not to state the obvious about a year filled with challenges. There are plenty of sources for finding 2009 recaps and stories of people facing difficult situations.
This blog post is to serve as a reminder that the giver is often the receiver. When we give hope to others, we too feel its benefits. And, of course, we make the world a better place along the way – one relationship at a time.
So, I challenge everyone to take a deep breath and battle the old habits of impatience, neglect and distraction that we all see in the workplace, our neighborhoods and roads (especially around the shopping malls).
Let’s conquer those habits with strong doses of patience, attention and love.
By doing so, we make those around us stronger, as well as ourselves, as we enter into 2010.
I know the perfect gifts for everyone – those who are semi-strangers, as well as those very close to us, in 2009.
I have a few suggestions that will fit every situation and are offered at a very attractive price point. In fact, the price and perfection of these gifts is such that they should be given freely!
The gifts I speak of are patience, attention and love.
These gifts are perfect for Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa! In fact, these gifts will be perfect for six months from next Thursday and every day before and after!
Many people are entering the home stretch of 2009 with heavy burdens and heavy hearts. A tough economy has caused many people to face situations that they would never dream of in years past. I know several very talented people who are unemployed at this time – people that have given much to their companies. I also know many proud people who feel a sense of frustration, as they have always been in a position to give and never to receive. I too will soon be feeling the effects of this soft economy, as I face unemployment for the first time in my life – exactly one week before Christmas.
The purpose of my post is not to state the obvious about a year filled with challenges. There are plenty of sources for finding 2009 recaps and stories of people facing difficult situations.
This blog post is to serve as a reminder that the giver is often the receiver. When we give hope to others, we too feel its benefits. And, of course, we make the world a better place along the way – one relationship at a time.
So, I challenge everyone to take a deep breath and battle the old habits of impatience, neglect and distraction that we all see in the workplace, our neighborhoods and roads (especially around the shopping malls).
Let’s conquer those habits with strong doses of patience, attention and love.
By doing so, we make those around us stronger, as well as ourselves, as we enter into 2010.
Friday, November 27, 2009
One Moment to the Next
This past Monday I had decided what I was going to write about for Thanksgiving. My thoughts were in order and I had put together a few notes to make sure that no details were lost. The plan was for me to write the blog and post it on Tuesday night.
Things changed dramatically for me when the phone rang on Tuesday afternoon. My brother called to let me know that plans were being made at that moment for my father to go into emergency quadruple bypass surgery on Wednesday.
It turns out that when my father went to the hospital on Tuesday for a somewhat routine test and it was discovered that all of four of his heart valves were substantially blocked. He was transported by ambulance to Crawford Long Hospital late Tuesday by ambulance and prepped for surgery.
How things can change from one moment to the next. We simply never know when a similar situation can happen to any of the people we love, or in fact to ourselves.
The point of this blog post is to reiterate what all of us knows, but are prone to forget as we get tied up in our daily routines. Our life is limited on this earth and we may not know when our time may be shortened.
The time to make a difference in the lives of others and get in the game is RIGHT NOW! We may not have the time tomorrow to do some of the important things we’re putting off.
We simply never know what may happen from one moment to the next.
One of the things we must never forget is to let our friends know how vitally important they are to our lives. I’ve always said that my friends are the part of my family that I get to pick. The last few days have certainly reiterated that for me – I’ve been touched by the outpouring of prayers lifted up on behalf of my father’s recovery by my friends and their concern.
I’m happy to report that my father made it through surgery successfully and has begun the recovery process. He is still in the ICU unit as I write this post and we’re confident that with each day he will make additional progress on his recovery.
One of these days I will put together the post I was planning on writing this past Tuesday. In the meantime I have some very important friends that I would like to touch base with – for words left unsaid and moments left unacted upon may never see the light of day if I don’t act on them today.
Things changed dramatically for me when the phone rang on Tuesday afternoon. My brother called to let me know that plans were being made at that moment for my father to go into emergency quadruple bypass surgery on Wednesday.
It turns out that when my father went to the hospital on Tuesday for a somewhat routine test and it was discovered that all of four of his heart valves were substantially blocked. He was transported by ambulance to Crawford Long Hospital late Tuesday by ambulance and prepped for surgery.
How things can change from one moment to the next. We simply never know when a similar situation can happen to any of the people we love, or in fact to ourselves.
The point of this blog post is to reiterate what all of us knows, but are prone to forget as we get tied up in our daily routines. Our life is limited on this earth and we may not know when our time may be shortened.
The time to make a difference in the lives of others and get in the game is RIGHT NOW! We may not have the time tomorrow to do some of the important things we’re putting off.
We simply never know what may happen from one moment to the next.
One of the things we must never forget is to let our friends know how vitally important they are to our lives. I’ve always said that my friends are the part of my family that I get to pick. The last few days have certainly reiterated that for me – I’ve been touched by the outpouring of prayers lifted up on behalf of my father’s recovery by my friends and their concern.
I’m happy to report that my father made it through surgery successfully and has begun the recovery process. He is still in the ICU unit as I write this post and we’re confident that with each day he will make additional progress on his recovery.
One of these days I will put together the post I was planning on writing this past Tuesday. In the meantime I have some very important friends that I would like to touch base with – for words left unsaid and moments left unacted upon may never see the light of day if I don’t act on them today.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Here’s Hoping for a Few More Traffic Jams
My son, daughter and I were on our way to a Cub Scout field trip and running a little late, as is prone to happen on the weekend. We were almost to our meeting place when all of a sudden we had to come to a complete stop and wait for a few moments. It seems that there was some paving taking place on an adjacent street and the construction crew was working to get an asphalt distributor on to the street and on its way.
Is this noteworthy? Well, yes it is during these times.
As always, the construction equipment industry sits typically at the tipping point, as our economy enters into economic recessions. And thankfully, the industry is typically the first to experience recovery.
I’ve spent the past two years watching friends in this industry experience furloughs, pay cuts and job loss. It has been a particularly tough year, as I have traveled with our territory managers across the southeast and have spoken with our customers.
While the national unemployment rate is stands at around 10.2%, Engineering News Record reports the construction unemployment rate climbed to 18.7% in October – up from 17.1% in September.
D.Ann Shiffler, editor of American Cranes & Specialized Transport reported in the November issue that when construction equipment manufacturers and distributors are placed in the mix, the sector’s unemployment rate approaches 35%.
So, what is my point? We need a stimulus plan that stimulates more than just conversation. We need targeted spending that puts the construction industry back to work again on roads and bridges.
I don’t know if my next venture will keep me in the construction equipment industry. In any event, I will keep a close eye on the industry in hopes that some very talented people who are sitting on the sidelines can get back into the game.
As I’ve told many of our customers, the one thing that I know for certain is that we’re one day closer to economic recovery today than we were yesterday.
Here’s to hoping that we’re one day closer to a few more traffic jams.
Is this noteworthy? Well, yes it is during these times.
As always, the construction equipment industry sits typically at the tipping point, as our economy enters into economic recessions. And thankfully, the industry is typically the first to experience recovery.
I’ve spent the past two years watching friends in this industry experience furloughs, pay cuts and job loss. It has been a particularly tough year, as I have traveled with our territory managers across the southeast and have spoken with our customers.
While the national unemployment rate is stands at around 10.2%, Engineering News Record reports the construction unemployment rate climbed to 18.7% in October – up from 17.1% in September.
D.Ann Shiffler, editor of American Cranes & Specialized Transport reported in the November issue that when construction equipment manufacturers and distributors are placed in the mix, the sector’s unemployment rate approaches 35%.
So, what is my point? We need a stimulus plan that stimulates more than just conversation. We need targeted spending that puts the construction industry back to work again on roads and bridges.
I don’t know if my next venture will keep me in the construction equipment industry. In any event, I will keep a close eye on the industry in hopes that some very talented people who are sitting on the sidelines can get back into the game.
As I’ve told many of our customers, the one thing that I know for certain is that we’re one day closer to economic recovery today than we were yesterday.
Here’s to hoping that we’re one day closer to a few more traffic jams.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Honoring Those Who Served
This morning in Atlanta has started out cold and drizzly. A definite improvement however, from the weather we experienced yesterday.
As I drove to the office this morning, I was reminded that the veterans who have served our country over the many years have fought in this weather and in much worse. They have experienced the blistering heat and bitter cold. Swamps, deserts and city streets have been crossed by their footsteps – all in the pursuit of freedom.
We are truly blessed to live in a nation that stirs the hearts of the very best people our nation has to offer, to service.
We are also blessed to be able to use this day and everyday to thank our precious veterans. I’ve used this day to make phone calls and send messages in order to show my appreciation and I know you’re doing the same.
How tragic it is that we lost thirteen of the very best our nation has to offer, in last week’s Fort Hood massacre. They were good soldiers, as well as good fathers, sons, mothers and daughters.
We’ve been deprived as a nation to be able to look into their eyes, shake their hands and thank them for their service.
So today, as I remember and thank the veterans that are with us today, I will surely remember the thirteen who we may no longer thank.
Instead, I will lift their families up in prayer and remember our fallen.
Here are the names of those who perished at Fort Hood, as reported by The Associated Press:
Michael Grant Cahill, 65, of Cameron, Texas
Maj. Libardo Eduardo Caraveo, 52, of Woodbridge, Virginia
Staff Sgt. Justin M. DeCrow, 32, of Evans, Georgia.
Capt. John Gaffaney, 56, of San Diego, California
Spc. Frederick Greene, 29, of Mountain City, Tennessee.
Spc. Jason Dean Hunt, 22, of Tipton, Oklahoma.
Sgt. Amy Krueger, 29, of Kiel, Wisconsin
Pfc. Aaron Thomas Nemelka, 19, of West Jordan, Utah
Spc. Michael Pearson , 21, of Bolingbrook, Illinois.
Capt. Russell Seager, 51, of Racine, Wisconsin
Francheska Velez, 21, of Chicago, Illinois
Juanita Warman, 55, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Army Spc. Kham Xiong, 23, of St. Paul, Minnesota
May their families receive comfort, may God continue to bless the United States and may we continue to remember those who serve.
As I drove to the office this morning, I was reminded that the veterans who have served our country over the many years have fought in this weather and in much worse. They have experienced the blistering heat and bitter cold. Swamps, deserts and city streets have been crossed by their footsteps – all in the pursuit of freedom.
We are truly blessed to live in a nation that stirs the hearts of the very best people our nation has to offer, to service.
We are also blessed to be able to use this day and everyday to thank our precious veterans. I’ve used this day to make phone calls and send messages in order to show my appreciation and I know you’re doing the same.
How tragic it is that we lost thirteen of the very best our nation has to offer, in last week’s Fort Hood massacre. They were good soldiers, as well as good fathers, sons, mothers and daughters.
We’ve been deprived as a nation to be able to look into their eyes, shake their hands and thank them for their service.
So today, as I remember and thank the veterans that are with us today, I will surely remember the thirteen who we may no longer thank.
Instead, I will lift their families up in prayer and remember our fallen.
Here are the names of those who perished at Fort Hood, as reported by The Associated Press:
Michael Grant Cahill, 65, of Cameron, Texas
Maj. Libardo Eduardo Caraveo, 52, of Woodbridge, Virginia
Staff Sgt. Justin M. DeCrow, 32, of Evans, Georgia.
Capt. John Gaffaney, 56, of San Diego, California
Spc. Frederick Greene, 29, of Mountain City, Tennessee.
Spc. Jason Dean Hunt, 22, of Tipton, Oklahoma.
Sgt. Amy Krueger, 29, of Kiel, Wisconsin
Pfc. Aaron Thomas Nemelka, 19, of West Jordan, Utah
Spc. Michael Pearson , 21, of Bolingbrook, Illinois.
Capt. Russell Seager, 51, of Racine, Wisconsin
Francheska Velez, 21, of Chicago, Illinois
Juanita Warman, 55, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Army Spc. Kham Xiong, 23, of St. Paul, Minnesota
May their families receive comfort, may God continue to bless the United States and may we continue to remember those who serve.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Saluting the Entrepreneurs
I was getting ready to find a place to sit for the Atlanta Bloggers Meetup this week, when Kimberly Kelly approached me. I had noticed Kimberly entering the room a few moments earlier carrying two large bags. It turns out that each of the bags contained several square boxes – each was decorated with a ribbon and had a business card attached to it. I was intrigued by Kimberly’s personality, as well as what might be contained in the box.
It turns out that Kimberly Kelly is the proud owner of Devine Kakes and she wanted to share some of her signature Praline RumKake with each of the Meetup attendees.
I have to admit -- it was a challenge for me to bring the box home unopened! My wife enjoys rum cake as much as I do, so I wanted her to share some of it with me. In fact, for the last several years everyone in the office has looked to me to bring in the traditional rum cake for the company Christmas parties. Actually, they have looked to my wife, since my passion and talent lies in enjoying great food and sharing it – not creating it!
Once I tasted the cake, I understood immediately why Kimberly’s customers as far away as New Orleans and Las Vegas order her Kakes for very special occasions. It was delicious!
Ok, so by now you’re asking “why are you writing a blog post about cake?”
The ingredients of this cake go much deeper than flour, butter, pralines and rum – the added ingredient entrepreneurial spirit!
Kimberly left her position as a practicing Doctor of Pharmacy to follow her dream last December and has not looked back since. Her customers in Atlanta will tell you that now she provides exactly what “the doctor has ordered” as her “Atlanta's Best 2009 for Minority-Owned Businesses” award will attest.
Many people will remember 2008 and 2009 as especially difficult years, due to the economic reasons. I will look back on these same two years as difficult years as well – but the overriding theme for me during the past couple of years is entrepreneurship.
I will remember these years as a time when I met so many interesting people that followed their dreams and made things happen.
The same type of inspired entrepreneurship has caused those before us to set sail across oceans, take wagons across the prairies and cross areas of unmapped terrain in search of opportunities filled with promise. It is the same type of spirit that motivates people to harness ingenuity, take risks and inspire those around them.
I’ve met far too many inspiring entrepreneurs during the last couple of years to mention all by name. There are many whom I see as true pioneers.
Take Chris Jordan, “Host” of Atlanta Insurance Live!, for example. Working behind the desk for a single insurance company was not fulfilling enough for Chris. So, he has branched out and harnessed the power of social media (including Twitter, Facebook and YouTube) to get his message out. Chris Jordan, your “Host” of Atlanta Insurance Live!, is able to provide a variety of insurance solutions, including personal and commercial auto insurance, homeowners insurance, life insurance and complete business insurance packages to his customers in Georgia. His approach is both entertaining and informative!
Be sure to check out Atlanta Insurance Live!, and you’ll soon see why Intuit and CBS Atlanta have made mention of the convenience and availability that Chris brings to the table. You can learn more about Chris Jordan’s innovative approach by visiting http://www.atlantainsurancelive.com
I’ve been struck not only by the innovation that entrepreneurs are bringing to the table, but also by their passion. Take Diana Baldwin Martinez, for example. Diana brought more than twenty years of Marketing, Business Development, and Product Management experience with her as she left Corporate America to start her own business in 2009. Once Diana’s previous experiences are combined with her passion for Social Media, a winning combination is virtually assured for her customers.
One thing that really struck me about Diana during a recent conversation was the genuine concern for well being she has for her customers. I could see it in her eyes as she discussed her undying commitment to providing value to each and every customer. Customers of Diana’s company, Social Techs Marketing, LLC are truly in very capable hands! Check out the blog for Social Techs Marketing by visiting http://socialtechs.com and you’ll surely feel the same way that I do.
These are but a few examples of the type of entrepreneurial spirit, ingenuity and passion that will make 2008 and 2009 very special years for me.
I’m planning to include a very special Praline RumKake as part of my celebration this New Year’s Eve, as I look back during the past year with a sense of excitement for those who have followed their dreams and those who will follow in their footsteps in 2010.
Perhaps you have considered following your dreams, but are holding off for a variety of reasons.
I would suggest that the best time to step away from the sidelines and get into the game is right now!
Should you decide to include a RumKake in your New Year’s Eve celebration, you can check out the Devine Kakes site by visiting http://www.devinekakes.com. You will be happy that you did!
So, with this lengthy blog post, I salute the entrepreneurs – past, present and future!
It turns out that Kimberly Kelly is the proud owner of Devine Kakes and she wanted to share some of her signature Praline RumKake with each of the Meetup attendees.
I have to admit -- it was a challenge for me to bring the box home unopened! My wife enjoys rum cake as much as I do, so I wanted her to share some of it with me. In fact, for the last several years everyone in the office has looked to me to bring in the traditional rum cake for the company Christmas parties. Actually, they have looked to my wife, since my passion and talent lies in enjoying great food and sharing it – not creating it!
Once I tasted the cake, I understood immediately why Kimberly’s customers as far away as New Orleans and Las Vegas order her Kakes for very special occasions. It was delicious!
Ok, so by now you’re asking “why are you writing a blog post about cake?”
The ingredients of this cake go much deeper than flour, butter, pralines and rum – the added ingredient entrepreneurial spirit!
Kimberly left her position as a practicing Doctor of Pharmacy to follow her dream last December and has not looked back since. Her customers in Atlanta will tell you that now she provides exactly what “the doctor has ordered” as her “Atlanta's Best 2009 for Minority-Owned Businesses” award will attest.
Many people will remember 2008 and 2009 as especially difficult years, due to the economic reasons. I will look back on these same two years as difficult years as well – but the overriding theme for me during the past couple of years is entrepreneurship.
I will remember these years as a time when I met so many interesting people that followed their dreams and made things happen.
The same type of inspired entrepreneurship has caused those before us to set sail across oceans, take wagons across the prairies and cross areas of unmapped terrain in search of opportunities filled with promise. It is the same type of spirit that motivates people to harness ingenuity, take risks and inspire those around them.
I’ve met far too many inspiring entrepreneurs during the last couple of years to mention all by name. There are many whom I see as true pioneers.
Take Chris Jordan, “Host” of Atlanta Insurance Live!, for example. Working behind the desk for a single insurance company was not fulfilling enough for Chris. So, he has branched out and harnessed the power of social media (including Twitter, Facebook and YouTube) to get his message out. Chris Jordan, your “Host” of Atlanta Insurance Live!, is able to provide a variety of insurance solutions, including personal and commercial auto insurance, homeowners insurance, life insurance and complete business insurance packages to his customers in Georgia. His approach is both entertaining and informative!
Be sure to check out Atlanta Insurance Live!, and you’ll soon see why Intuit and CBS Atlanta have made mention of the convenience and availability that Chris brings to the table. You can learn more about Chris Jordan’s innovative approach by visiting http://www.atlantainsurancelive.com
I’ve been struck not only by the innovation that entrepreneurs are bringing to the table, but also by their passion. Take Diana Baldwin Martinez, for example. Diana brought more than twenty years of Marketing, Business Development, and Product Management experience with her as she left Corporate America to start her own business in 2009. Once Diana’s previous experiences are combined with her passion for Social Media, a winning combination is virtually assured for her customers.
One thing that really struck me about Diana during a recent conversation was the genuine concern for well being she has for her customers. I could see it in her eyes as she discussed her undying commitment to providing value to each and every customer. Customers of Diana’s company, Social Techs Marketing, LLC are truly in very capable hands! Check out the blog for Social Techs Marketing by visiting http://socialtechs.com and you’ll surely feel the same way that I do.
These are but a few examples of the type of entrepreneurial spirit, ingenuity and passion that will make 2008 and 2009 very special years for me.
I’m planning to include a very special Praline RumKake as part of my celebration this New Year’s Eve, as I look back during the past year with a sense of excitement for those who have followed their dreams and those who will follow in their footsteps in 2010.
Perhaps you have considered following your dreams, but are holding off for a variety of reasons.
I would suggest that the best time to step away from the sidelines and get into the game is right now!
Should you decide to include a RumKake in your New Year’s Eve celebration, you can check out the Devine Kakes site by visiting http://www.devinekakes.com. You will be happy that you did!
So, with this lengthy blog post, I salute the entrepreneurs – past, present and future!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Battling the Monsters.
As I write this post, it is Halloween morning. While the weather is definitely nasty outside, both of my children are filled with a sense of excitement as they think about wearing their costumes tonight. My son is dressing up as Darth Vadar and my daughter is dressing up as me. This should be interesting…
As Halloween approaches, many of us dig back into movie collections to watch some of the scary classics. There are typically some predictable elements to these movies – we can tell when the monsters are about to appear with changes in the background music and the monsters are typically impossible to destroy (until the very end of the movie).
We always tell our children that monsters are pretend. And they are, well sort of……
Haven’t we all had monsters and demons to battle throughout our lives to various degrees? These monsters have approached us in disguises, but can be identified as fears, poor habits and addictions once their disguises are removed. Just as in the movies, we are not able to destroy them right away – they keep coming back to us again, at all of the right times. The difficult thing about these monsters is that we don’t always hear the changes in background music, so it’s sometimes hard to know when they are about to pounce upon us.
And of course, these monsters must be slain before a happy conclusion can be reached and the final credits can roll – just as in the movies.
I’ve battled monsters many times in my life and continue to do so today.
Let me tell you about one of the monsters that I have overcome….
Back when I was in high school and my freshman year in college, I can remember being painfully shy – to the point where I didn’t like to ask a question in class even if my grade depended on it. This was definitely a fear that needed to be overcome, for the sake of my grades and overall happiness!
While I was not able to conquer this fear in high school, I did not give up. In fact, during my freshman year of college I made it a point to ask one question during a class each day (if I had a question). I didn’t have to ask it in the same class, but I did have to overcome my shyness one time each day. This was not an easy process for me!
And then, just as in the movies, there is a pivotal moment when battling the beast! One day, a classmate that I didn’t know came up to me after class and told me that she was glad I had asked my question in class. It turns out that she and a few others in class had the same question, but were not sure how to ask it. Further evidence that if we reach out to others, as the unknown classmate did with me, we may provide an impact to others that we never actually know about!
As time passed, my shyness diminished and confidence grew. That particular monster had been slain!
As we head into 2010, are there some fears, poor habits or addictions that you would like to remove from your life? Surely we all have something that may be getting in the way of personal happiness or achievement. Incidentally, if your answer is yes, then I’m right there with you.
Why not begin the upcoming year with a little less weight on our shoulders and a lot more satisfaction? The time to formulate your plan is now, because just as in the movies, monsters and demons take some time and persistence to overcome.
The time to take off our masks, put on our gloves and battle the “monsters of life” could not have come at a better time – right now!
Here’s to the battle – and to victory!
As Halloween approaches, many of us dig back into movie collections to watch some of the scary classics. There are typically some predictable elements to these movies – we can tell when the monsters are about to appear with changes in the background music and the monsters are typically impossible to destroy (until the very end of the movie).
We always tell our children that monsters are pretend. And they are, well sort of……
Haven’t we all had monsters and demons to battle throughout our lives to various degrees? These monsters have approached us in disguises, but can be identified as fears, poor habits and addictions once their disguises are removed. Just as in the movies, we are not able to destroy them right away – they keep coming back to us again, at all of the right times. The difficult thing about these monsters is that we don’t always hear the changes in background music, so it’s sometimes hard to know when they are about to pounce upon us.
And of course, these monsters must be slain before a happy conclusion can be reached and the final credits can roll – just as in the movies.
I’ve battled monsters many times in my life and continue to do so today.
Let me tell you about one of the monsters that I have overcome….
Back when I was in high school and my freshman year in college, I can remember being painfully shy – to the point where I didn’t like to ask a question in class even if my grade depended on it. This was definitely a fear that needed to be overcome, for the sake of my grades and overall happiness!
While I was not able to conquer this fear in high school, I did not give up. In fact, during my freshman year of college I made it a point to ask one question during a class each day (if I had a question). I didn’t have to ask it in the same class, but I did have to overcome my shyness one time each day. This was not an easy process for me!
And then, just as in the movies, there is a pivotal moment when battling the beast! One day, a classmate that I didn’t know came up to me after class and told me that she was glad I had asked my question in class. It turns out that she and a few others in class had the same question, but were not sure how to ask it. Further evidence that if we reach out to others, as the unknown classmate did with me, we may provide an impact to others that we never actually know about!
As time passed, my shyness diminished and confidence grew. That particular monster had been slain!
As we head into 2010, are there some fears, poor habits or addictions that you would like to remove from your life? Surely we all have something that may be getting in the way of personal happiness or achievement. Incidentally, if your answer is yes, then I’m right there with you.
Why not begin the upcoming year with a little less weight on our shoulders and a lot more satisfaction? The time to formulate your plan is now, because just as in the movies, monsters and demons take some time and persistence to overcome.
The time to take off our masks, put on our gloves and battle the “monsters of life” could not have come at a better time – right now!
Here’s to the battle – and to victory!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
“So, Whom Do You Work For?”
We’ve all come across this scenario literally hundreds or thousands of times with only a change in the setting. Perhaps it occurs at a dinner party, your place of worship, or a rock concert. It may have happened in the grocery line, at your child’s school, or in an elevator.
While there are variations to the dialogue in this scenario, the paraphrase for the initial question is the same – “So, whom do you work for?”
Over the last couple of years, I’ve witnessed an increase in awkward moments as the recipient (let’s call him “John Doe”) may offer a long pause followed by the revelation that the he is without a job and looking for a new career on the horizon. I too find myself in this position, having declined the request to relocate to a city that offers substantially less in the way of opportunity for my family – my eyes are also fixed firmly on the horizon.
My personal advice to anyone who views the scenario I’ve described as awkward, is as follows:
Hold your head high and promote the most important company that you can promote – YOU, INC.
YOU, INC. is in the solutions business and is focused on providing value to its customer (the employer). Known as being proactive, positive and well tested in providing solid solutions, YOU, INC. has enjoyed a rich history of excellence and can be depended on now and in the future to inspire and propel its customers to the next level.
I’ve always believed firmly in promoting my personal brand along with the company that I’ve represented. By doing so, quality by association was reinforced for both the organizations that I’ve served, as well as for myself.
Your brand, communicated with strength, will always serves you well.
So, if you haven’t done so already, get in the game and be prepared to tell your story with confidence.
We find ourselves in challenging times. Once we’re able to see the challenges in the rear view mirror we’ll be much stronger for it. You, your brand and your future customers will benefit from the endurance test.
So, whom do you work for again?
While there are variations to the dialogue in this scenario, the paraphrase for the initial question is the same – “So, whom do you work for?”
Over the last couple of years, I’ve witnessed an increase in awkward moments as the recipient (let’s call him “John Doe”) may offer a long pause followed by the revelation that the he is without a job and looking for a new career on the horizon. I too find myself in this position, having declined the request to relocate to a city that offers substantially less in the way of opportunity for my family – my eyes are also fixed firmly on the horizon.
My personal advice to anyone who views the scenario I’ve described as awkward, is as follows:
Hold your head high and promote the most important company that you can promote – YOU, INC.
YOU, INC. is in the solutions business and is focused on providing value to its customer (the employer). Known as being proactive, positive and well tested in providing solid solutions, YOU, INC. has enjoyed a rich history of excellence and can be depended on now and in the future to inspire and propel its customers to the next level.
I’ve always believed firmly in promoting my personal brand along with the company that I’ve represented. By doing so, quality by association was reinforced for both the organizations that I’ve served, as well as for myself.
Your brand, communicated with strength, will always serves you well.
So, if you haven’t done so already, get in the game and be prepared to tell your story with confidence.
We find ourselves in challenging times. Once we’re able to see the challenges in the rear view mirror we’ll be much stronger for it. You, your brand and your future customers will benefit from the endurance test.
So, whom do you work for again?
Thursday, September 10, 2009
It Began as a Clear and Beautiful Morning.
I can remember driving to work on September 11, 2001 and thinking how beautiful and clear the sky was that morning. It was unusual for me to observe this, since I’m like many other people that can often miss the beauty in all of the small details – but for some reason I noticed it that morning.
I’m sure that many other people living along the East Coast of the United States felt the same way, as it was a particularly clear and beautiful morning from Maine to Florida.
Later that morning I remember wondering if it made sense for me to go home to be with my wife and infant daughter after the Pentagon was hit. Many of us felt that way as we crowded around a small portable television that a colleague had. We watched the television back in the warehouse area, pacing and speculating. The Internet was not accessible that morning and reception was not so great on the television. Would it make sense for us to go home in anticipation of what may happen next?
I remember watching my three-year-old daughter as she drifted off to sleep – oblivious to what was going on. I’m sure that many other parents watched their children closely that night and counted their blessings, as children count sheep quickly at first and then slower as time passes.
As my wife and I drifted off to sleep I wondered what the morning would bring. Would there be more attacks? What could I do to prepare my family and fight for the survival of my community and country?
I remember trying to comprehend how nearly 3,000 civilians could have possibly perished that day. Yes, the attack took part on American soil, but this was an attack against the world as lives from ninety countries were lost that day. The sorrow was felt across the globe and losses are remembered on every continent today.
I remember that pride I felt as the best and brightest that the United States has to offer were readying themselves to go off to Afghanistan. I’m sure others around the globe felt the same pride as their best and brightest also prepared.
The flags flew high during those days and we banded together to combat a common enemy, as well as our own internal fears. We, the entire world, were in this fight together.
Time has passed, and we go back to our daily business. Flags do not fly as often or as high as they should. I guess that it’s a symptom of normalcy. It does not seem possible that we could forget – but normalcy does come.
So much to remember as we reflect on another 9/11 anniversary.
We owe it to so many people in and out of uniform to remember.
Let us never forget.
I’m sure that many other people living along the East Coast of the United States felt the same way, as it was a particularly clear and beautiful morning from Maine to Florida.
Later that morning I remember wondering if it made sense for me to go home to be with my wife and infant daughter after the Pentagon was hit. Many of us felt that way as we crowded around a small portable television that a colleague had. We watched the television back in the warehouse area, pacing and speculating. The Internet was not accessible that morning and reception was not so great on the television. Would it make sense for us to go home in anticipation of what may happen next?
I remember watching my three-year-old daughter as she drifted off to sleep – oblivious to what was going on. I’m sure that many other parents watched their children closely that night and counted their blessings, as children count sheep quickly at first and then slower as time passes.
As my wife and I drifted off to sleep I wondered what the morning would bring. Would there be more attacks? What could I do to prepare my family and fight for the survival of my community and country?
I remember trying to comprehend how nearly 3,000 civilians could have possibly perished that day. Yes, the attack took part on American soil, but this was an attack against the world as lives from ninety countries were lost that day. The sorrow was felt across the globe and losses are remembered on every continent today.
I remember that pride I felt as the best and brightest that the United States has to offer were readying themselves to go off to Afghanistan. I’m sure others around the globe felt the same pride as their best and brightest also prepared.
The flags flew high during those days and we banded together to combat a common enemy, as well as our own internal fears. We, the entire world, were in this fight together.
Time has passed, and we go back to our daily business. Flags do not fly as often or as high as they should. I guess that it’s a symptom of normalcy. It does not seem possible that we could forget – but normalcy does come.
So much to remember as we reflect on another 9/11 anniversary.
We owe it to so many people in and out of uniform to remember.
Let us never forget.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Important Lessons Found in Ordinary Places
We were at the mall last weekend, looking for that “must have” pair of shoes that my daughter needed in order to begin a successful school year. It was the second mall we ventured to that day. An associate at the first shoe store we visited was kind enough to call ahead to another store that was thirty miles away, in the opposite direction. Once we got to our second destination, it was “mission accomplished” for our shoe mission.
We rewarded ourselves with a quick visit to the LEGO store, just to look around a bit. How the mind can wander in the LEGO store, with all of the wonderful kits that are now available! My family has been known to get caught up in our surrounding in that particular store without being aware of our surroundings or the time.
Last Saturday’s visit was different.
We had just turned the corner to look at the latest “Mars Mission” kits when I looked up and noticed a soldier in fatigues looking at some LEGO sets with his young son. They were engrossed with all of the remarkable details of the sets, just as my son and I typically are.
I’ve come across many active duty service personnel over the years. Often times, I’ve seen them in airports or restaurants. Like many of you, my first instinct is to shake their hands and thank them for the invaluable service that they provide for our country. We usually end up talking about where they’re from, where they’re headed and how long they’ll be there. I end up saying a silent prayer as I walk away, praying for their safety and the safety for those they are leaving behind (either at home, or on the battlefront).
This time was different.
I approached the soldier, extended my hand and said, “Thank you for keeping us safe.” The young soldier’s eyes filled with tears and he simply said, “Thank you.” The young boy that was with him looked back and forth at the two of us during the short silence. My eyes filled up with tears too and I said, “You’re welcome.”
Never before had I come across such an emotional moment quite like this, when thanking one of our servicemen. Perhaps it was the sadness of leaving behind a son to serve overseas, or maybe it was the pride of having the next generation witness the gratitude.
As my family walked down to our next destination in the mall, there was also a silence that lasted for a few minutes. Once I felt comfortable speaking, I asked my son and daughter if they were fully aware of the exchange in the LEGO store. We often don’t give our children the benefit of taking away a good lesson from the visible examples we provide.
They had indeed noticed the power of gratitude and respect making contact with the appreciation for simple recognition.
How often do we let moments like this slip away? I find myself becoming more conscious of opportunities like this when I can instill the sense of respect for honor and country to my children.
As a parent, I believe it is the very best gift I can give to them.
The purpose of this post is not to tell others how to express their appreciation, or to provide a “look what I did” moment -- but it’s simply my way to acknowledge the gift of opportunity, that we often have, to benefit from the lessons found in ordinary places.
Many of us are afraid of showing our emotions, or looking silly.
We’re only silly when we let the opportunities pass us by.
Troopwalk 2009 Update:
Ruth Adkins has had to return to Phoenix, AZ in order to attend to some serious health concerns. Please lift Ruth up in your prayers for a solid and speedy recovery.
You can follow Ruth’s journey on her blog: http://troopwalk2009.wordpress.com/
Additional Notables:
Be sure to checkout the outstanding BASE NEWS article that retired Col. Terry Fobbs recently wrote for The Washington Times, highlighting the mission of former Miss America Sharlene Wells Hawkes to help preserve memories for those who served.
You can read the article by visiting: http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2009/aug/13/preserving-our-troops-memories/
We rewarded ourselves with a quick visit to the LEGO store, just to look around a bit. How the mind can wander in the LEGO store, with all of the wonderful kits that are now available! My family has been known to get caught up in our surrounding in that particular store without being aware of our surroundings or the time.
Last Saturday’s visit was different.
We had just turned the corner to look at the latest “Mars Mission” kits when I looked up and noticed a soldier in fatigues looking at some LEGO sets with his young son. They were engrossed with all of the remarkable details of the sets, just as my son and I typically are.
I’ve come across many active duty service personnel over the years. Often times, I’ve seen them in airports or restaurants. Like many of you, my first instinct is to shake their hands and thank them for the invaluable service that they provide for our country. We usually end up talking about where they’re from, where they’re headed and how long they’ll be there. I end up saying a silent prayer as I walk away, praying for their safety and the safety for those they are leaving behind (either at home, or on the battlefront).
This time was different.
I approached the soldier, extended my hand and said, “Thank you for keeping us safe.” The young soldier’s eyes filled with tears and he simply said, “Thank you.” The young boy that was with him looked back and forth at the two of us during the short silence. My eyes filled up with tears too and I said, “You’re welcome.”
Never before had I come across such an emotional moment quite like this, when thanking one of our servicemen. Perhaps it was the sadness of leaving behind a son to serve overseas, or maybe it was the pride of having the next generation witness the gratitude.
As my family walked down to our next destination in the mall, there was also a silence that lasted for a few minutes. Once I felt comfortable speaking, I asked my son and daughter if they were fully aware of the exchange in the LEGO store. We often don’t give our children the benefit of taking away a good lesson from the visible examples we provide.
They had indeed noticed the power of gratitude and respect making contact with the appreciation for simple recognition.
How often do we let moments like this slip away? I find myself becoming more conscious of opportunities like this when I can instill the sense of respect for honor and country to my children.
As a parent, I believe it is the very best gift I can give to them.
The purpose of this post is not to tell others how to express their appreciation, or to provide a “look what I did” moment -- but it’s simply my way to acknowledge the gift of opportunity, that we often have, to benefit from the lessons found in ordinary places.
Many of us are afraid of showing our emotions, or looking silly.
We’re only silly when we let the opportunities pass us by.
Troopwalk 2009 Update:
Ruth Adkins has had to return to Phoenix, AZ in order to attend to some serious health concerns. Please lift Ruth up in your prayers for a solid and speedy recovery.
You can follow Ruth’s journey on her blog: http://troopwalk2009.wordpress.com/
Additional Notables:
Be sure to checkout the outstanding BASE NEWS article that retired Col. Terry Fobbs recently wrote for The Washington Times, highlighting the mission of former Miss America Sharlene Wells Hawkes to help preserve memories for those who served.
You can read the article by visiting: http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2009/aug/13/preserving-our-troops-memories/
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Rolling Up My Sleeves to Look For all of the “Little Things.”
Let’s face it, regardless of the type of business you’re in, the current economy is definitely a challenge. However, it cannot last forever, so now is the time to consider all of the “little things” that will help your company excel when the economy reaches full recovery.
My personal commitment this year, is to travel with at least one territory manager per week. I don’t care who it is, or which territory they cover. The reason for my persistence is as follows:
* I want to thank our customers for their previous business. How often do we all forget to do this? Are we taking our customers for granted, when they could very well have done business with someone else?
* We need to let our customers know that we’re all in this economy together and that our company stands ready to assist them in any way possible.
* I want to hear feedback directly from our customers about what we’re doing well and what we could be doing better. I also want to know what is going on in their geographic area, as well as what is causing them to feel concern or optimism.
* We need to be doing all of the “Little Things” that it takes to get the job done. So far during my visits with customers, I have been able to identify some slight modifications that we've done to do conduct business a little better, or present ourselves a little better.
Do the little tweaks that we implement make any difference? You bet they do! When we address issues proactively with our customers, we’re sure to win!
As a marketing professional, I know that in order for a company to achieve great success, marketing must play an active role.
It’s important to get in the game!
Are you playing an active role in working with and listening to your sales force and customers? You owe it to your organization to roll up your sleeves, and look for the “Little Things”, for looking after the little things leads to great success.
Troopwalk 2009 Update:
Ruth Adkins has had to return to Phoenix, AZ in order to attend to some serious health concerns. Please lift Ruth up in your prayers for a solid and speedy recovery.
You can follow Ruth’s journey on her daily blog: http://troopwalk2009.wordpress.com/
My personal commitment this year, is to travel with at least one territory manager per week. I don’t care who it is, or which territory they cover. The reason for my persistence is as follows:
* I want to thank our customers for their previous business. How often do we all forget to do this? Are we taking our customers for granted, when they could very well have done business with someone else?
* We need to let our customers know that we’re all in this economy together and that our company stands ready to assist them in any way possible.
* I want to hear feedback directly from our customers about what we’re doing well and what we could be doing better. I also want to know what is going on in their geographic area, as well as what is causing them to feel concern or optimism.
* We need to be doing all of the “Little Things” that it takes to get the job done. So far during my visits with customers, I have been able to identify some slight modifications that we've done to do conduct business a little better, or present ourselves a little better.
Do the little tweaks that we implement make any difference? You bet they do! When we address issues proactively with our customers, we’re sure to win!
As a marketing professional, I know that in order for a company to achieve great success, marketing must play an active role.
It’s important to get in the game!
Are you playing an active role in working with and listening to your sales force and customers? You owe it to your organization to roll up your sleeves, and look for the “Little Things”, for looking after the little things leads to great success.
Troopwalk 2009 Update:
Ruth Adkins has had to return to Phoenix, AZ in order to attend to some serious health concerns. Please lift Ruth up in your prayers for a solid and speedy recovery.
You can follow Ruth’s journey on her daily blog: http://troopwalk2009.wordpress.com/
Saturday, July 18, 2009
A Handshake is Worth a Thousand “Friends.”
I want to start off by saying that I really do enjoy and respect the Social Media 2.0 movement. Social Media is playing an ever-increasing role in marketing our company’s services, getting in touch with old friends and meeting new ones.
LinkedIn, twitter and facebook are sites that provide tremendous value both to my company and to myself.
There have been multiple instances where I’ve shared job search information with friends in need of employment, found on twitter. I’ve learned more about particular subjects and interacted with great people via LinkedIn. I’ve also found about upcoming events that fulfill my devotion to continuous learning on LinkedIn and facebook.
I’ve met some wonderful people in the Atlanta area due to face-to-face meetings promoted by LinkedIn Groups, such as members of Atlanta Marketer’s Forum. I’ve also kept up with my upcoming high school reunion (even though I could not attend due to a schedule conflict), and have caught economic headlines and words of wisdom via useful tweets.
That’s great isn’t it? Well, sort of…..
This blog has two points:
1. Are we really the person that we “say” we are? Are we really the same person in the flesh, or do we model the Brad Paisley song titled, “Online” where the first stanza is as follows?:
I work down at The Pizza Pit And I drive an old Hyundai I still live with my mom and dad I'm five foot three and overweight I'm a sci: fi fanatic, mild asthmatic Never been to second base But there's a whole 'nother me That you need to see Go check out Myspace.
A vast majority of the people that I’ve met through Social Media sites are outstanding people that are interesting, have compelling stories and are exactly who they claim to be.
Unfortunately, in the current worldwide economy there are people who will profess to be anyone they think you would want them to be. I’ve come across many “visionaries” and “experts” that turn out to be simply pretty good writers.
2. Have you shaken the hand of a business prospect lately, hugged a friend, or checked in with a colleague to see how their son’s team fared in the baseball tournament? Have you taken some time to attend a meeting in your area that pertains to your industry or interests? When was the last time you called a customer on the phone to see how your company is serving their needs?
I fear that sometimes many of us are using Social Media 2.0 tools in place of face-to-face interactions, or phone calls.
Why not use Social Media to supplement instead of substitute?
“Point and Click” should be used to compliment, “Reach out and touch someone.”
Even the person that meets their future spouse online gets to say, “I do” in person.
Get in the game and stay engaged.
How ironic that I should voice this type of opinion on a blog, of all things? If you want to talk about it, give me a call.
Troopwalk 2009 Update:
Ruth Adkins has had to return to Phoenix, AZ in order to attend to some serious health concerns. Please lift Ruth up in your prayers for a solid and speedy recovery.
You can follow Ruth’s journey on her daily blog: http://troopwalk2009.wordpress.com/
LinkedIn, twitter and facebook are sites that provide tremendous value both to my company and to myself.
There have been multiple instances where I’ve shared job search information with friends in need of employment, found on twitter. I’ve learned more about particular subjects and interacted with great people via LinkedIn. I’ve also found about upcoming events that fulfill my devotion to continuous learning on LinkedIn and facebook.
I’ve met some wonderful people in the Atlanta area due to face-to-face meetings promoted by LinkedIn Groups, such as members of Atlanta Marketer’s Forum. I’ve also kept up with my upcoming high school reunion (even though I could not attend due to a schedule conflict), and have caught economic headlines and words of wisdom via useful tweets.
That’s great isn’t it? Well, sort of…..
This blog has two points:
1. Are we really the person that we “say” we are? Are we really the same person in the flesh, or do we model the Brad Paisley song titled, “Online” where the first stanza is as follows?:
I work down at The Pizza Pit And I drive an old Hyundai I still live with my mom and dad I'm five foot three and overweight I'm a sci: fi fanatic, mild asthmatic Never been to second base But there's a whole 'nother me That you need to see Go check out Myspace.
A vast majority of the people that I’ve met through Social Media sites are outstanding people that are interesting, have compelling stories and are exactly who they claim to be.
Unfortunately, in the current worldwide economy there are people who will profess to be anyone they think you would want them to be. I’ve come across many “visionaries” and “experts” that turn out to be simply pretty good writers.
2. Have you shaken the hand of a business prospect lately, hugged a friend, or checked in with a colleague to see how their son’s team fared in the baseball tournament? Have you taken some time to attend a meeting in your area that pertains to your industry or interests? When was the last time you called a customer on the phone to see how your company is serving their needs?
I fear that sometimes many of us are using Social Media 2.0 tools in place of face-to-face interactions, or phone calls.
Why not use Social Media to supplement instead of substitute?
“Point and Click” should be used to compliment, “Reach out and touch someone.”
Even the person that meets their future spouse online gets to say, “I do” in person.
Get in the game and stay engaged.
How ironic that I should voice this type of opinion on a blog, of all things? If you want to talk about it, give me a call.
Troopwalk 2009 Update:
Ruth Adkins has had to return to Phoenix, AZ in order to attend to some serious health concerns. Please lift Ruth up in your prayers for a solid and speedy recovery.
You can follow Ruth’s journey on her daily blog: http://troopwalk2009.wordpress.com/
Friday, May 29, 2009
Ditch The Rally Cap and Get In The Game
Have you seen the new GM Total Confidence commercial that’s been running? I can’t remember what I was watching at the time, but recall that the commercial caused me to pause and take notice.
As the commercial begins, we see a little league game. A voice comes on saying, "You know what America needs right now? America needs a comeback, so let’s put on our rally caps and dig in."
The camera then pans in to the dugout where we see players putting on their caps inside out (a rally cap). We then see a father in the stands doing the same.
Throughout the commercial there are people wearing rally caps in some unusual settings. We see a child wearing a rally cap as his mother loads groceries into the car, a man wearing a rally cap as he gets ready to go mountain biking, etcetera.
I found the imagery and message to be inspiring, as I’m sure many people did.
But then I remembered one thing.
The rally cap is worn by spectators and fans and not by the actual players on the field of play.
I would contend that for America to rally, we all need to get in the game and not remain on the sidelines. So, I believe that it is time to ditch the rally cap and become part of the rally!
Everyone’s game plan may be different, but the recovery game we’re playing calls for a team effort.
The Total Ownership Experience that I’m referring to has nothing to do with GM vehicles and everything to do with taking personal ownership in lifting ourselves up – and those around us.
So what does my game plan look like?
Staying informed about cutting edge trends in one’s field, or the field that we wish to enter into if we’re looking for a new career. By staying current we improve the company we work for, or build additional skills in the unfortunate event of a downsizing.
Networking in such a way that we become exposed to new ideas and opportunities that lie ahead for those who are willing to put in the time to learn. I’m talking about the type of networking that takes place over the world wide web, as well as with a handshake and a business card. Were we talking about Wind Power or "Going Green" a few years ago? What will we be talking about in a few years? You can bet that opportunities will continue to change.
Lift up those we know of that are looking for new employment. More importantly, spend time in trying to help friends in need. Sometimes it takes little more than an encouraging word, a reference, or some information about career openings. The old adage goes, "To have a friend, you must be a friend." There are no truer words today.
Inspire those around us by acting and thinking that we’re a little closer to the end of this recession today than we were yesterday. The media tends to focus on the negative – and of course, the news is made up of things that are newsworthy, or different. We are definitely living in different times. However, we need to be able to recognize ourselves in the mirror once full economic recovery is achieved.
Be more than what you do. Find your passions and causes and put some energy into them. When we focus on others, we’re sure to win.
Inspire the young people around you by being an active mentor.
These are just a few of the elements in my game plan. I don’t claim to be perfect at each of these things, but will always show up for practice.
I believe that this is the time to step up, step out and get some skinned knees in the process.
This is the time to put in a little sweat and perhaps a few tears.
Wearing a rally cap would only get in my way.
Have you considered your game plan? I would be interested to hear what you’re doing to make a difference during current times. Perhaps there are some X’s and O’s on your chalkboard that would help in my game plan as well.
Troopwalk 2009 Update:
Ruth Adkins has encountered some rough weather in Virginia that has slowed down her walk. However, she is firmly focused on her journey and looks forward to arriving in or around Preston County, West Virginia by the middle of next week.
You can follow Ruth’s remarkable progress on her daily blog:
http://troopwalk2009.wordpress.com/
As the commercial begins, we see a little league game. A voice comes on saying, "You know what America needs right now? America needs a comeback, so let’s put on our rally caps and dig in."
The camera then pans in to the dugout where we see players putting on their caps inside out (a rally cap). We then see a father in the stands doing the same.
Throughout the commercial there are people wearing rally caps in some unusual settings. We see a child wearing a rally cap as his mother loads groceries into the car, a man wearing a rally cap as he gets ready to go mountain biking, etcetera.
I found the imagery and message to be inspiring, as I’m sure many people did.
But then I remembered one thing.
The rally cap is worn by spectators and fans and not by the actual players on the field of play.
I would contend that for America to rally, we all need to get in the game and not remain on the sidelines. So, I believe that it is time to ditch the rally cap and become part of the rally!
Everyone’s game plan may be different, but the recovery game we’re playing calls for a team effort.
The Total Ownership Experience that I’m referring to has nothing to do with GM vehicles and everything to do with taking personal ownership in lifting ourselves up – and those around us.
So what does my game plan look like?
Staying informed about cutting edge trends in one’s field, or the field that we wish to enter into if we’re looking for a new career. By staying current we improve the company we work for, or build additional skills in the unfortunate event of a downsizing.
Networking in such a way that we become exposed to new ideas and opportunities that lie ahead for those who are willing to put in the time to learn. I’m talking about the type of networking that takes place over the world wide web, as well as with a handshake and a business card. Were we talking about Wind Power or "Going Green" a few years ago? What will we be talking about in a few years? You can bet that opportunities will continue to change.
Lift up those we know of that are looking for new employment. More importantly, spend time in trying to help friends in need. Sometimes it takes little more than an encouraging word, a reference, or some information about career openings. The old adage goes, "To have a friend, you must be a friend." There are no truer words today.
Inspire those around us by acting and thinking that we’re a little closer to the end of this recession today than we were yesterday. The media tends to focus on the negative – and of course, the news is made up of things that are newsworthy, or different. We are definitely living in different times. However, we need to be able to recognize ourselves in the mirror once full economic recovery is achieved.
Be more than what you do. Find your passions and causes and put some energy into them. When we focus on others, we’re sure to win.
Inspire the young people around you by being an active mentor.
These are just a few of the elements in my game plan. I don’t claim to be perfect at each of these things, but will always show up for practice.
I believe that this is the time to step up, step out and get some skinned knees in the process.
This is the time to put in a little sweat and perhaps a few tears.
Wearing a rally cap would only get in my way.
Have you considered your game plan? I would be interested to hear what you’re doing to make a difference during current times. Perhaps there are some X’s and O’s on your chalkboard that would help in my game plan as well.
Troopwalk 2009 Update:
Ruth Adkins has encountered some rough weather in Virginia that has slowed down her walk. However, she is firmly focused on her journey and looks forward to arriving in or around Preston County, West Virginia by the middle of next week.
You can follow Ruth’s remarkable progress on her daily blog:
http://troopwalk2009.wordpress.com/
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Walking the Walk During a Season of Commitment
Summer is almost here. In a couple of weeks, neighborhood pools will be opening all across America. With the new season, comes a whole list of new commitments – swim team, little league baseball, keeping up with yard work and preparing for vacation. While the Summer Solstice begins on June 21 this year, as always Memorial Day Weekend will mark the unofficial start of the summer.
Memorial Day Weekend. Some think of the holiday as a time to sneak away for the weekend or use the grill for the first time of the year – if you live in Georgia like I do, however, the grill can be used all year long.
Since 9/11 Memorial Day, an already meaningful holiday to me has had even more meaning, as have commitments. Commitment to securing our nation’s safety, commitment to faith and commitment to one another.
On Memorial Day we honor the ultimate sacrifice that comes from a strong commitment to country. Examples of this brand of commitment were illustrated along the banks of the Marne River, on the beaches of Normandy, in the jungles surrounding Ong Thanh, the snow covered hills of Chinpyong-ni, Helmund Province in Afghanistan, and the streets of Baghdad.
We do our best to honor the heroes by telling our children about many of the remote places around the world where our heroes have fallen and the character they possessed until the very end. While they never had the chance to hold the hand of a loved while passing away, some may have been fortunate enough to have had a note sent home that was carried from battleground to battleground, in hopes that relatives back home would never have the opportunity to read it.
We honor the fallen by keeping the memories alive in stories to our children about where they fell and why they were there.
The sight of men and women massed together in an airport, camouflage fatigues and duffel bags distinguishing from the typical business traveler give us more opportunities to think about commitment and share the message with our children. As do church services on occasional Sundays when the pastor asks the congregation to lift up a member of the choir, in the choir loft last Sunday and en route to a faraway desert land today, where he will be praying with members of his battalion before going on patrol. Commitment is all around us.
My wife and I are big believers in passing along a sense of commitment. We’re proud parents of a daughter and son. Both of our children know that an American flag is not to touch the ground or be thrown away. They know that a baseball cap comes off during the national anthem. They pray for the safety of our service men and women overseas and they know who Ruth Adkins is.
Who is Ruth Adkins? Ruth Adkins is the Founder and President of Inspiring Alliance Military Network (www.inspiringalliance.org), a newly created nonprofit service organization offering emergency care and long-term support to military service members, veterans and their families. The programs Inspiring Alliance refers clients to are supported through a variety of qualified nonprofit organizations and federal agencies whose web links are located on our their Military Support Links and Wounded Warrior Links pages.
Ruth was inspired to provide help to veterans after hearing stories of heroism from the mother of a soldier serving in Iraq. She felt a commitment to help the brave men and women who have given of themselves to keep our country free and safe.
The mission of The Inspiring Alliance Military Support Network is to help veterans help themselves by providing as many resources for support from one web site as possible. It is their mission to circulate timely and useful information that enhances productivity and quality of life for veterans and their families, especially those disabled by combat-related injuries who have served in Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom offensives.
Ruth says, “Thousands of men and women are returning from Iraq and Afghanistan with disabilities; few organizations provide long-term care and mentorship to help them meet the challenges they face. Inspiring Alliance provides a mechanism that allows us to offer a wide variety of transitional services to all military service members, as well as to support our Wounded Warriors with special services that meet those long-term needs. “
Staff from the “Inspiring Alliance” meet one-to-one when necessary with severely disabled veterans – in their hometown – to determine what assistance needs to be implemented & draw from program resources the organization hosts on our their site to maximize their support network.
The Career Transitions Training Program is set to launch July 1, 2009, offering online career training free of charge to all military service members – a service that will also provide free resumes. Once client assessment and training is completed, clients will be assisted in obtaining gainful employment through one of 150+ firms the “ Inspiring Alliance” partners with who are pro-active in supporting veteran concerns.
Ruth had lined up several sponsors to get the “Inspiring Alliance” up and running. However, given current economic conditions, most of the sponsors had to pull their support for the time being. Some would say that perhaps Ruth should shelve her plans for the time being and wait for the economy to improve. Ruth’s commitment level to the veterans who need “Inspiring Alliance’s” help is too high for that type of thinking and feels the time to for those who are arriving back to civilian life in need of assistance is right now.
So, Ruth Adkins, Founder and President of Inspiring Alliance Military Support Network will begin an incredible journey – the type of journey to tell your children about in order to illustrate commitment. Ruth and her organization set up a new Internet site (www.troopwalk.com) to promote the walk. She will walk across America to raise funds to support Inspiring Alliance’s new online training programs and the ongoing needs of their long-term care programs. Now that is commitment!
The 3,300 mile journey will begin on May 25, at 8am (Memorial Day) and will pass across the heartland of America – it’s rivers, hills, mountains and valleys. Her mission is to raise money for the “Inspiring Alliance Military Network” – an inspiring mission indeed!
The trip begins at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC and ends at the Naval Medical Center San Diego, CA. Ruth is planning to walk across eleven states and the District of Columbia en route to providing hope to those who have kept us safe.
Parents that have children in the District of Columbia, Virginia, West Virginia, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, or California will have the opportunity to illustrate real live commitment to their children as Ruth makes her journey, which is expected to last for at least five months. My son and daughter will be watching from afar, as I point to our friend Ruth as an inspirational example of someone possessing the type of commitment that makes leads to great things.
Donations for the Inspiring Alliance Military Network will gladly be accepted along the way, as well as your well wishes, thoughts and prayers.
Be sure to visit www.troopwalk.com to follow the progress of Ruth’s journey, donate, or learn more about sponsors like New Balance and Walmart who are providing sponsorship for the journey.
Memorial Day Weekend. Some think of the holiday as a time to sneak away for the weekend or use the grill for the first time of the year – if you live in Georgia like I do, however, the grill can be used all year long.
Since 9/11 Memorial Day, an already meaningful holiday to me has had even more meaning, as have commitments. Commitment to securing our nation’s safety, commitment to faith and commitment to one another.
On Memorial Day we honor the ultimate sacrifice that comes from a strong commitment to country. Examples of this brand of commitment were illustrated along the banks of the Marne River, on the beaches of Normandy, in the jungles surrounding Ong Thanh, the snow covered hills of Chinpyong-ni, Helmund Province in Afghanistan, and the streets of Baghdad.
We do our best to honor the heroes by telling our children about many of the remote places around the world where our heroes have fallen and the character they possessed until the very end. While they never had the chance to hold the hand of a loved while passing away, some may have been fortunate enough to have had a note sent home that was carried from battleground to battleground, in hopes that relatives back home would never have the opportunity to read it.
We honor the fallen by keeping the memories alive in stories to our children about where they fell and why they were there.
The sight of men and women massed together in an airport, camouflage fatigues and duffel bags distinguishing from the typical business traveler give us more opportunities to think about commitment and share the message with our children. As do church services on occasional Sundays when the pastor asks the congregation to lift up a member of the choir, in the choir loft last Sunday and en route to a faraway desert land today, where he will be praying with members of his battalion before going on patrol. Commitment is all around us.
My wife and I are big believers in passing along a sense of commitment. We’re proud parents of a daughter and son. Both of our children know that an American flag is not to touch the ground or be thrown away. They know that a baseball cap comes off during the national anthem. They pray for the safety of our service men and women overseas and they know who Ruth Adkins is.
Who is Ruth Adkins? Ruth Adkins is the Founder and President of Inspiring Alliance Military Network (www.inspiringalliance.org), a newly created nonprofit service organization offering emergency care and long-term support to military service members, veterans and their families. The programs Inspiring Alliance refers clients to are supported through a variety of qualified nonprofit organizations and federal agencies whose web links are located on our their Military Support Links and Wounded Warrior Links pages.
Ruth was inspired to provide help to veterans after hearing stories of heroism from the mother of a soldier serving in Iraq. She felt a commitment to help the brave men and women who have given of themselves to keep our country free and safe.
The mission of The Inspiring Alliance Military Support Network is to help veterans help themselves by providing as many resources for support from one web site as possible. It is their mission to circulate timely and useful information that enhances productivity and quality of life for veterans and their families, especially those disabled by combat-related injuries who have served in Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom offensives.
Ruth says, “Thousands of men and women are returning from Iraq and Afghanistan with disabilities; few organizations provide long-term care and mentorship to help them meet the challenges they face. Inspiring Alliance provides a mechanism that allows us to offer a wide variety of transitional services to all military service members, as well as to support our Wounded Warriors with special services that meet those long-term needs. “
Staff from the “Inspiring Alliance” meet one-to-one when necessary with severely disabled veterans – in their hometown – to determine what assistance needs to be implemented & draw from program resources the organization hosts on our their site to maximize their support network.
The Career Transitions Training Program is set to launch July 1, 2009, offering online career training free of charge to all military service members – a service that will also provide free resumes. Once client assessment and training is completed, clients will be assisted in obtaining gainful employment through one of 150+ firms the “ Inspiring Alliance” partners with who are pro-active in supporting veteran concerns.
Ruth had lined up several sponsors to get the “Inspiring Alliance” up and running. However, given current economic conditions, most of the sponsors had to pull their support for the time being. Some would say that perhaps Ruth should shelve her plans for the time being and wait for the economy to improve. Ruth’s commitment level to the veterans who need “Inspiring Alliance’s” help is too high for that type of thinking and feels the time to for those who are arriving back to civilian life in need of assistance is right now.
So, Ruth Adkins, Founder and President of Inspiring Alliance Military Support Network will begin an incredible journey – the type of journey to tell your children about in order to illustrate commitment. Ruth and her organization set up a new Internet site (www.troopwalk.com) to promote the walk. She will walk across America to raise funds to support Inspiring Alliance’s new online training programs and the ongoing needs of their long-term care programs. Now that is commitment!
The 3,300 mile journey will begin on May 25, at 8am (Memorial Day) and will pass across the heartland of America – it’s rivers, hills, mountains and valleys. Her mission is to raise money for the “Inspiring Alliance Military Network” – an inspiring mission indeed!
The trip begins at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC and ends at the Naval Medical Center San Diego, CA. Ruth is planning to walk across eleven states and the District of Columbia en route to providing hope to those who have kept us safe.
Parents that have children in the District of Columbia, Virginia, West Virginia, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, or California will have the opportunity to illustrate real live commitment to their children as Ruth makes her journey, which is expected to last for at least five months. My son and daughter will be watching from afar, as I point to our friend Ruth as an inspirational example of someone possessing the type of commitment that makes leads to great things.
Donations for the Inspiring Alliance Military Network will gladly be accepted along the way, as well as your well wishes, thoughts and prayers.
Be sure to visit www.troopwalk.com to follow the progress of Ruth’s journey, donate, or learn more about sponsors like New Balance and Walmart who are providing sponsorship for the journey.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
TROOPWALK 2009 SET TO BEGIN
Here is a release about an organization founder that talks the talk and walks the walk. If you're so inclined, please show your support for those who have stepped up for their country and now need for us to step up for them.
TROOPWALK 2009 SET TO BEGIN
May 13, 2009 (Phoenix, Arizona) --- On May 25th, 2009, a very special event will begin to evolve - an event that will take place over the next 4 to 5 months!
Ruth Adkins, Founder and President of Inspiring Alliance Military Support Network and creator of Troopwalk.com, will start an incredible journey - to walk across America to raise funds to support Inspiring Alliance's new online training programs and the ongoing needs of their long-term care programs.
The mission of The Inspiring Alliance Military Support Network is to help veterans help themselves by providing as many resources for support from one web site as possible. It is our mission to circulate timely and useful information to enhance productivity and quality of life for veterans and their families, especially those disabled by combat-related injuries who have served in Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom offensives.
Adkins states, "Thousands of men and women are returning from Iraq and Afghanistan with disabilities; few organizations provide long-term care and mentorship to help them meet the challenges they face. Inspiring Alliance provides a mechanism that allows us to offer a wide variety of transitional services to all military service members, as well as to support our Wounded Warriors with special services that meet those long-term needs.
"Staff from the "Inspiring Alliance" meet one-to-one when necessary with severely disabled veterans - in their hometown - to determine what assistance needs to be implemented & draw from program resources the organization hosts on our their site to maximize their support network.
Adkins stated, "In addition, our Career Transitions Training Program launches July 1, 2009, offering online career training FREE of charge to all military service members – a service that will also provide FREE resumes. Once client assessment and training is completed, we will assist clients in obtaining gainful employment through one of 150+ firms we partner with who are pro-active in supporting veteran concerns."
Event Details:
What: "Walk a Mile In Their Shoes" Cross-Country Walking Tour
When: Starting Memorial Day - Monday, May 25, 2009 - 8:00 a.m.
Starting Point: Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC
Destination: Naval Medical Center San Diego, CA
By way of: VA--WV--OH--IN--IL--MO--KS--CO--UT--NV--CA
Distance: Approximately 3,300 Miles (17.5 million linear feet)
Purpose: National Fundraising Event and Program Awareness Campaign
For additional information pertaining to the upcoming "Walk a Mile In Their Shoes" cross-country walking tour, or the Inspiring Alliance Military Support Network, please visit www.inspiringalliance.org/. Ruth Adkins can be contacted directly by calling 480-710-1277, or she may be reached via e-mail at ruthadkins@aol.com.
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TROOPWALK 2009 SET TO BEGIN
May 13, 2009 (Phoenix, Arizona) --- On May 25th, 2009, a very special event will begin to evolve - an event that will take place over the next 4 to 5 months!
Ruth Adkins, Founder and President of Inspiring Alliance Military Support Network and creator of Troopwalk.com, will start an incredible journey - to walk across America to raise funds to support Inspiring Alliance's new online training programs and the ongoing needs of their long-term care programs.
The mission of The Inspiring Alliance Military Support Network is to help veterans help themselves by providing as many resources for support from one web site as possible. It is our mission to circulate timely and useful information to enhance productivity and quality of life for veterans and their families, especially those disabled by combat-related injuries who have served in Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom offensives.
Adkins states, "Thousands of men and women are returning from Iraq and Afghanistan with disabilities; few organizations provide long-term care and mentorship to help them meet the challenges they face. Inspiring Alliance provides a mechanism that allows us to offer a wide variety of transitional services to all military service members, as well as to support our Wounded Warriors with special services that meet those long-term needs.
"Staff from the "Inspiring Alliance" meet one-to-one when necessary with severely disabled veterans - in their hometown - to determine what assistance needs to be implemented & draw from program resources the organization hosts on our their site to maximize their support network.
Adkins stated, "In addition, our Career Transitions Training Program launches July 1, 2009, offering online career training FREE of charge to all military service members – a service that will also provide FREE resumes. Once client assessment and training is completed, we will assist clients in obtaining gainful employment through one of 150+ firms we partner with who are pro-active in supporting veteran concerns."
Event Details:
What: "Walk a Mile In Their Shoes" Cross-Country Walking Tour
When: Starting Memorial Day - Monday, May 25, 2009 - 8:00 a.m.
Starting Point: Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC
Destination: Naval Medical Center San Diego, CA
By way of: VA--WV--OH--IN--IL--MO--KS--CO--UT--NV--CA
Distance: Approximately 3,300 Miles (17.5 million linear feet)
Purpose: National Fundraising Event and Program Awareness Campaign
For additional information pertaining to the upcoming "Walk a Mile In Their Shoes" cross-country walking tour, or the Inspiring Alliance Military Support Network, please visit www.inspiringalliance.org/. Ruth Adkins can be contacted directly by calling 480-710-1277, or she may be reached via e-mail at ruthadkins@aol.com.
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