I am natures greatest miracle.
Since the beginning of time never has there been another with my mind, my heart, my eyes, my ears, my hands, my hair, my mouth. None that came before, none that live today, and none that come tomorrow can walk and talk and move and think exactly like me. All men are my brothers yet I am different from each. I am a unique creature.
I am natures greatest miracle.
I am rare, and there is value in all rarity; therefore, I am valuable. I am the end product of thousands of years of evolution; therefore, I am better equipped in both mind and body than all the emperors and wise men who preceded me. But my skills, my mind, my heart, and my body will stagnate, rot, and die lest I put them to good use. I have unlimited potential. Only a small portion of my brain do I employ; only a paltry amount of my muscle do I flex. A hundredfold or more can I increase my accomplishments of yesterday and this I will do, beginning today.
I am natures greatest miracle.
Nevermore will I be satisfied with yesterday's accomplishments nor will I indulge, anymore, in self-praise for deeds which in reality are too small to even acknowledge. I can accomplish far more than I have, and I will, for why should the miracle which produced me end with my birth? Why can I not extend that miracle to my deeds of today?
I am natures greatest miracle.
~excerpt from "The Greatest Salesman in the World," by Og Mandino
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Monday, July 22, 2013
Year 2
As I embark on the second year of this web site, I think my biggest disappointment has been my inability to engage the reader at a one-on-one level. The failing is so pronounced I realize the term "facilitator" that I used in the About Me section is wildly inappropriate. I haven't been able to facilitate much of anything for those who visit. I have asked a friend of mine (Lance Buffington) to critique my writing style and offer suggestions how I can become more approachable. I wanted the web site to be about YOU and I have failed miserably. Whatever my writing style one thing is clear, it isn't one that generates a lot of commentary.
The most amazing thing that took place in the last year was the series of posts in February that began with Flatline and actually didn't conclude until May 23rd with Mark 8:18. Looking back I am reminded of Parsifal, the innocent fool. That I could be so naïve to think that I could help them "learn how to smile again" was beyond audacious, it was ludicrous. And yet, something took place that I am hard pressed to explain outside the context of G-G-G. Life intervened. Dramatically. I lived it and I know (who believes what a river knows). Whether I was actually able to convey the cosmic dynamic to the reader is a whole different question.
Advanced Reading: http://howellgroup.org/parsifal.html
As to my direction for the coming year: I will continue to emphasis that if there is to be a "Kingdom," it will be our responsibility to bring it about. Matthew 24:4-34 is pretty clear. No matter how the literalist's want to twist the text, Jesus said it, not me. The scam that it is THIS generation he was talking about simply perpetuates the con. Pretty effectively too---its worked for 2000 years! No, as daunting as it may be, it will be up to regular people like you and me to make it happen. If we are unable, or unwilling to embrace the "largesse" of the dynamic, it will fall to another generation to effect the inevitable. How I hope we seize the moment (carpe diem).
It is doubtful I will continue G-G-G for a third year. Some 5 to 6 weeks ago I anted up to maintain the domain name and I was excited to do so. My enthusiasm hasn't diminished so much as the realization there are only so many ways to tell you that you are God's instrument. His best and finest way of interacting with his creation. After 107 posts last year and what will be a total of 115 posts this year (Life just let me know 222 is the exact number to reach) then I will have achieved what I set out to do. The honor and the privilege is that I got to share it with you.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12CmOw5MY0E
Update 4:56 PM Interesting this showed up today isn't it?
http://weather.aol.com/2013/07/22/look-cassini-photographs-earth-from-deep-space/?icid=maing-grid7%7Cmain5%7Cdl7%7Csec1_lnk2%26pLid%3D347486
The most amazing thing that took place in the last year was the series of posts in February that began with Flatline and actually didn't conclude until May 23rd with Mark 8:18. Looking back I am reminded of Parsifal, the innocent fool. That I could be so naïve to think that I could help them "learn how to smile again" was beyond audacious, it was ludicrous. And yet, something took place that I am hard pressed to explain outside the context of G-G-G. Life intervened. Dramatically. I lived it and I know (who believes what a river knows). Whether I was actually able to convey the cosmic dynamic to the reader is a whole different question.
Advanced Reading: http://howellgroup.org/parsifal.html
As to my direction for the coming year: I will continue to emphasis that if there is to be a "Kingdom," it will be our responsibility to bring it about. Matthew 24:4-34 is pretty clear. No matter how the literalist's want to twist the text, Jesus said it, not me. The scam that it is THIS generation he was talking about simply perpetuates the con. Pretty effectively too---its worked for 2000 years! No, as daunting as it may be, it will be up to regular people like you and me to make it happen. If we are unable, or unwilling to embrace the "largesse" of the dynamic, it will fall to another generation to effect the inevitable. How I hope we seize the moment (carpe diem).
It is doubtful I will continue G-G-G for a third year. Some 5 to 6 weeks ago I anted up to maintain the domain name and I was excited to do so. My enthusiasm hasn't diminished so much as the realization there are only so many ways to tell you that you are God's instrument. His best and finest way of interacting with his creation. After 107 posts last year and what will be a total of 115 posts this year (Life just let me know 222 is the exact number to reach) then I will have achieved what I set out to do. The honor and the privilege is that I got to share it with you.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12CmOw5MY0E
Update 4:56 PM Interesting this showed up today isn't it?
http://weather.aol.com/2013/07/22/look-cassini-photographs-earth-from-deep-space/?icid=maing-grid7%7Cmain5%7Cdl7%7Csec1_lnk2%26pLid%3D347486
Friday, July 19, 2013
Deliver Us From Evil
http://www.ted.com/talks/philip_zimbardo_on_the_psychology_of_evil.html
The lesson to be learned is that the reality of evil does not incapacitate us, rather it defines us. The contrast between what is, and what we believe in, is the trail of our "heroic journey." The way is marked for us by that which moves us. Can't stand arrogance? Stay humble. Abhor injustice? Be fair. Cringe and avoid liars? Tell the truth. Detest bullies? Stand up to them. Love a forgiving nature? Pardon. Touched by compassion? Be empathic. Believe in self-sacrifice? Flip the "m" in me upside down to become we. (see the last paragraph in "Perspective" of the God section of the web site)
In the post Thy Kingdom Come (5-16-13) I stated that if you were reading that post you had been called. Selected. Appointed. Anointed. I wasn't kidding. You are the one we have been waiting for.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLNCX84-kfA
Mount up...
The lesson to be learned is that the reality of evil does not incapacitate us, rather it defines us. The contrast between what is, and what we believe in, is the trail of our "heroic journey." The way is marked for us by that which moves us. Can't stand arrogance? Stay humble. Abhor injustice? Be fair. Cringe and avoid liars? Tell the truth. Detest bullies? Stand up to them. Love a forgiving nature? Pardon. Touched by compassion? Be empathic. Believe in self-sacrifice? Flip the "m" in me upside down to become we. (see the last paragraph in "Perspective" of the God section of the web site)
In the post Thy Kingdom Come (5-16-13) I stated that if you were reading that post you had been called. Selected. Appointed. Anointed. I wasn't kidding. You are the one we have been waiting for.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLNCX84-kfA
Mount up...
Thursday, July 18, 2013
We Must Say Yes
If you haven't had the pleasure of reading or viewing Joseph Campbell, you are in for a wonderful treat. This link of 25 minutes and 46 seconds has a staggering number of insights available for your discernment. If you are of the Christian, Jewish, or Islamic faith, I would ask you to employ your "intellectual curiosity." If, after a fair hearing, you wish to dismiss the ideas outright, so be it. I do not ask you to believe, only to entertain the possibilities presented.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIAa2xKx2hk&NR=1&feature=endscreen
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIAa2xKx2hk&NR=1&feature=endscreen
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Something to Celebrate
This is the way it begins. As I said in the post of 5-16-13 (Thy Kingdom Come) we know what to do. And it is simple. It is just a matter of doing it.
http://news.msn.com/pop-culture/good-deed-leads-to-chain-of-pay-it-forward-at-doughnut-shop
A smile, a gesture, a moment of your time. This is how we change the world.
Update 7-23-13 Additional evidence that we can do it...
http://cavnews.wordpress.com/2013/07/16/21-pictures-that-will-restore-your-faith-in-humanity/
http://news.msn.com/pop-culture/good-deed-leads-to-chain-of-pay-it-forward-at-doughnut-shop
A smile, a gesture, a moment of your time. This is how we change the world.
Update 7-23-13 Additional evidence that we can do it...
http://cavnews.wordpress.com/2013/07/16/21-pictures-that-will-restore-your-faith-in-humanity/
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Gwenn Jones
A year ago today I started actualizing a web site entitled Gift-Gratitude-God. The single person that made that possible was Gwenn Jones.
I first met Gwenn when I dropped into a yoga studio here in town (Auburn Yoga and Fitness). Gwenn spent an hour with me discussing my physical health and diet. She made several suggestions and I started attending classes shortly thereafter. I found her opinionated, feisty, full of life and fun to be around. As time went by, I learned she was a "take no prisoner" type of instructor. We've had many talks as to her approach and how a former Division 1 Collegiate basketball player (yes, that would be me) felt about her "style." She disagrees with my interpretation and reminds me constantly that she is verbally emphatic (and repetitive) about staying within ones limits. And she's right, she does. What I try and explain to Gwenn is when men hear a "coach" shout an instruction--by God we do it! It is about going beyond our limits! Gwenn and I have yet to resolve this difference.
I love Gwenn Jones. I love that I've discovered she has topics, subjects and personal experiences she refuses to discuss with me (though that number is shrinking). I love that she is as loyal a person as I have ever met. That if you are her friend, world watch out! She is not about to let anyone take advantage of you, berate you, or malign you in any way, shape or form. I love the fact that Gwenn always has time for me, or makes time. Pretty amazing when you realize she runs three businesses to keep herself afloat. Even more so when you realize she did this whole web site "gratis."
Yep, didn't ask for anything. I gave what I could, which amounted to about 4 hours what a mediocre web designer would charge. We spent AT LEAST 12 hours working just that first day/night! And if anyone thinks this web site is mediocre...please direct me to one more ascetically pleasing. Honestly...I would love to see it. In 7 days (!) Gwenn created everything you see within the web site. On the 8th day you could google Gift-Gratitude-God or WP Grogan and guess who was first (FIRST!) on page number one to appear? I have talked to others and the consensus is; "that ain't possible bub!"
It took quite a bit more time to get the "Blog" section up and running. Gwenn had sacrificed so much time and effort that (obviously) other endeavors had suffered. Proof of this is the very first post didn't appear until August 3rd when it had been written a day or two after 7-20. I share this only to emphasis how driven I had become. I hope I was somewhat understanding about it but we would have to ask Gwenn to be sure. Most likely, I was the last person on earth Gwenn wanted to receive another e-mail or phone call from.
I took Gwenn to lunch yesterday. It had hit me that the web site was (soon to be) one year old. I told her why I was taking her to lunch. I asked her if she had any reservations if I used her full name doing a post (blog) about her. She was fine with it and perhaps, pleased. But as I've written this blog I realize I have "shorted" Gwenn Jones again. What I could have said was; "You have been a godsend. For all you've done, the hours (and hours!) you've spent, the direction you have provided, the level of professionalism you have displayed---thank you." But I didn't do that. I think it may be due to the fact I will never be able to thank her enough...
The very first step in the process. JULY 13th
Gwenn, if you open up the link and scroll down to the 7th image, it is a bridge leading into a forest. I LOVE THIS IMAGE! It is perfect. A fallback image would be the third one. (japanese garden) However, believing Life wants this to happen, I believe that we can obtain something very similar to the bridge. Let me know. P.
I have used you saving some links--I am sorry. I bet they add to an already crammed mail box.
(Just had Ronnie confirm--were available on Google)
Anyway, I am going to go through and check for typos and mistakes. Are you going to be available today? P.
PS Dont worry about the 2 links I have sent or the text for Aurora.
I first met Gwenn when I dropped into a yoga studio here in town (Auburn Yoga and Fitness). Gwenn spent an hour with me discussing my physical health and diet. She made several suggestions and I started attending classes shortly thereafter. I found her opinionated, feisty, full of life and fun to be around. As time went by, I learned she was a "take no prisoner" type of instructor. We've had many talks as to her approach and how a former Division 1 Collegiate basketball player (yes, that would be me) felt about her "style." She disagrees with my interpretation and reminds me constantly that she is verbally emphatic (and repetitive) about staying within ones limits. And she's right, she does. What I try and explain to Gwenn is when men hear a "coach" shout an instruction--by God we do it! It is about going beyond our limits! Gwenn and I have yet to resolve this difference.
I love Gwenn Jones. I love that I've discovered she has topics, subjects and personal experiences she refuses to discuss with me (though that number is shrinking). I love that she is as loyal a person as I have ever met. That if you are her friend, world watch out! She is not about to let anyone take advantage of you, berate you, or malign you in any way, shape or form. I love the fact that Gwenn always has time for me, or makes time. Pretty amazing when you realize she runs three businesses to keep herself afloat. Even more so when you realize she did this whole web site "gratis."
Yep, didn't ask for anything. I gave what I could, which amounted to about 4 hours what a mediocre web designer would charge. We spent AT LEAST 12 hours working just that first day/night! And if anyone thinks this web site is mediocre...please direct me to one more ascetically pleasing. Honestly...I would love to see it. In 7 days (!) Gwenn created everything you see within the web site. On the 8th day you could google Gift-Gratitude-God or WP Grogan and guess who was first (FIRST!) on page number one to appear? I have talked to others and the consensus is; "that ain't possible bub!"
It took quite a bit more time to get the "Blog" section up and running. Gwenn had sacrificed so much time and effort that (obviously) other endeavors had suffered. Proof of this is the very first post didn't appear until August 3rd when it had been written a day or two after 7-20. I share this only to emphasis how driven I had become. I hope I was somewhat understanding about it but we would have to ask Gwenn to be sure. Most likely, I was the last person on earth Gwenn wanted to receive another e-mail or phone call from.
I took Gwenn to lunch yesterday. It had hit me that the web site was (soon to be) one year old. I told her why I was taking her to lunch. I asked her if she had any reservations if I used her full name doing a post (blog) about her. She was fine with it and perhaps, pleased. But as I've written this blog I realize I have "shorted" Gwenn Jones again. What I could have said was; "You have been a godsend. For all you've done, the hours (and hours!) you've spent, the direction you have provided, the level of professionalism you have displayed---thank you." But I didn't do that. I think it may be due to the fact I will never be able to thank her enough...
The very first step in the process. JULY 13th
Gwenn, if you open up the link and scroll down to the 7th image, it is a bridge leading into a forest. I LOVE THIS IMAGE! It is perfect. A fallback image would be the third one. (japanese garden) However, believing Life wants this to happen, I believe that we can obtain something very similar to the bridge. Let me know. P.
-JULY 21st-
Wow. We are active on Google and we have the first 3 positions on page 1. Holy Moly.
I have used you saving some links--I am sorry. I bet they add to an already crammed mail box.
(Just had Ronnie confirm--were available on Google)
Anyway, I am going to go through and check for typos and mistakes. Are you going to be available today? P.
PS Dont worry about the 2 links I have sent or the text for Aurora.
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Scroll II
I will greet this day with love in my heart.
For this is the greatest secret of success in all ventures. Muscle can split a shield and even destroy life but only the unseen power of love can open the hearts of men and until I master this art I will remain no more than a peddler in the market place. I will make love my greatest weapon and none on whom I call can defend against its force.
My reasoning they may counter; my speech they may distrust; my apparel they may disapprove; my face they may reject; and even my bargains may cause them suspicion; yet my love will melt all hearts liken to the sun whose rays soften the coldest clay.
I will greet this day with love in my heart.
And how will I do this? Henceforth I will look on all things with love and I will be born again. I will love the sun for it warms my bones; yet I will love the rain for it cleanses my spirit. I will love the light for it shows me the way; yet I will love the darkness for it shows me the stars. I will welcome happiness for it enlarges my heart; yet I will endure sadness for it opens my soul. I will acknowledge rewards for they are my due; yet I will welcome obstacles for they are my challenge.
I will greet this day with love in my heart.
~excerpt from "The Greatest Salesman in the World," by Og Mandino
For this is the greatest secret of success in all ventures. Muscle can split a shield and even destroy life but only the unseen power of love can open the hearts of men and until I master this art I will remain no more than a peddler in the market place. I will make love my greatest weapon and none on whom I call can defend against its force.
My reasoning they may counter; my speech they may distrust; my apparel they may disapprove; my face they may reject; and even my bargains may cause them suspicion; yet my love will melt all hearts liken to the sun whose rays soften the coldest clay.
I will greet this day with love in my heart.
And how will I do this? Henceforth I will look on all things with love and I will be born again. I will love the sun for it warms my bones; yet I will love the rain for it cleanses my spirit. I will love the light for it shows me the way; yet I will love the darkness for it shows me the stars. I will welcome happiness for it enlarges my heart; yet I will endure sadness for it opens my soul. I will acknowledge rewards for they are my due; yet I will welcome obstacles for they are my challenge.
I will greet this day with love in my heart.
~excerpt from "The Greatest Salesman in the World," by Og Mandino
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