Clearly America is confused by the whole Libya situation. Interestingly, there are parallels with our own rebellion to gain independence. We, (Libya and Colonial America), were both ruled by dictators, demanding an uprising if we were ever to gain our freedom. The odds were never in our favor, England was the most powerful army on earth, and Qadaffi has superior firepower the rebels only dream of. In both cases only outside intervention could have turned the tide. Additionally, France was involved in both interventions. Also eerily similar is not everyone in both countries were 100% behind the uprising. France and England share economic hopes for Libyan oil trade, and they both eyed the New World as a trade partner in colonial times.
Here's where the Libyan freedom fighters blew it....
Colonial America defined it's mission, and announced to the world what the goals were, in the form of The Declaration of Independence. The world knew who was behind the revolt, and what their intentions were. We can't define that in Libya. Who is their George Washington? America sent Ben Franklin to France to ask for assistance, we had a representative for our cause. He secured funds, weapons, and manpower because France knew who they were dealing with, and what they hoped to accomplish. None of that is evident in Libya, hence the American hesitation. We don't want to fund or arm the Taliban, the Muslim Brotherhood, or Hezbollah. There isn't a politician crazy enough in the free world to take that gamble.
Orrin Woodward, has always told me, "begin with the end in mind," and "guard your associations, they are a reflection of who you are." Without Libya taking the steps Colonial America did, we could be backing a terrorist faction. Is there a leadership in this revolt? Who is in charge? The orders have to be coming from somewhere.Even as disorganized as they seem, there is some method of organization.
Time will tell who we are dealing with, but history is there to guide them if they choose to learn from the past.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
What To Do...What To Do?
Rich brought up some great questions in his comment yesterday. The answer to those questions trouble many, just like the confrontation of a needy person looking for a handout. This has always bothered me, I want to help, but how do you determine who is really in need, and who is just too lazy to work. We've always been told, "you are your brother's keeper," yet enabling the slothful is sinful as well. It's the age old struggle, who is sinful in their motives? Are the new regimes seeking freedom, or just their form of suppression? Are we assisting the Taliban, Hezbollah, or the Muslim Brotherhood, or truly on the side of freedom?
The beggar thing I solved, I simply give them the best help I can without knowing what their situation really is. I tell them if they are truly in need, and without resources, get to the nearest church. Charity for them starts there. I give my money so they can not only aid these people but counsel them back on the right path. This way I'm a good steward of the blessings God has entrusted to me, and I don't enable slothfulness.
One would think he UN would be the institution we could turn to for the same clarity in the Middle East matter. Honestly, we are the UN. It's just a counsel on how the Americans should spend their money and their efforts. The bulk of it's financial support rests on our shoulders, and the President is just using it to redistribute the blame assigned by others for getting involved. If the UN was to be effective, it should have a system set up to enter a toppled regime and establish and defend a voting system. Allow those people who yearned for freedom to vote for how they wish to live, without fear of reprisal. It should also include an education system to inform the people what they are voting for. Freedom is all about choices, and any multinational force should have the means to offer newly birthed governments those options. Then they've made the decision!
As far as when and where we should use force, that's still a conundrum. Humanitarian support shouldn't be determined by a dollar figure. It's never, ever justified to put money before life. If it's a legitimate need, we have the means to resolve, there isn't a question. It should be done! The question of the need is the secret we must unravel.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
The beggar thing I solved, I simply give them the best help I can without knowing what their situation really is. I tell them if they are truly in need, and without resources, get to the nearest church. Charity for them starts there. I give my money so they can not only aid these people but counsel them back on the right path. This way I'm a good steward of the blessings God has entrusted to me, and I don't enable slothfulness.
One would think he UN would be the institution we could turn to for the same clarity in the Middle East matter. Honestly, we are the UN. It's just a counsel on how the Americans should spend their money and their efforts. The bulk of it's financial support rests on our shoulders, and the President is just using it to redistribute the blame assigned by others for getting involved. If the UN was to be effective, it should have a system set up to enter a toppled regime and establish and defend a voting system. Allow those people who yearned for freedom to vote for how they wish to live, without fear of reprisal. It should also include an education system to inform the people what they are voting for. Freedom is all about choices, and any multinational force should have the means to offer newly birthed governments those options. Then they've made the decision!
As far as when and where we should use force, that's still a conundrum. Humanitarian support shouldn't be determined by a dollar figure. It's never, ever justified to put money before life. If it's a legitimate need, we have the means to resolve, there isn't a question. It should be done! The question of the need is the secret we must unravel.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
You Cannot Pilot A Vessel From The Stern!
Leader: "One who leads."
Leadership: "Position of a leader."
I think it's safe to assume that a leader's position is out in front. The one who makes the final decision to act, then applies all their resources to complete that action. If you combine those you lead with another to form a coalition, and they take the initiative to act, are you not then merely a follower, in tow of a stronger leader?
What has happened to our President recently has placed America as a representative of a coalition. When we participate with the UN action in Libya, we are not leading anything. In fact we are avoiding responsibility, handing off the criticism of the action to a broader stage. Although we supplied most of the firepower, bore the lion's share of the cost, we tried to shirk the responsibility of facing any critics of the action, by conceding the ultimate decision to others. It's just like the quarterback of a football team allowing those in the stands to call the plays. Then after they pulled the quarterback's strings like a puppet, having the quarterback stand in front of the post game reporters and bask in the glow of the victory, claiming his outstanding leadership to be the reason for victory.
American exceptionalism has taken another blow to the groin. I can't help but pray that the youth of our nation are too consumed with other activities to take this all in. Our founding fathers didn't sum up the opinion of the world before taking action against the injustice of the British Monarchy. We are under the control of a regime that believes in a "new world order." Mob rule by popular opinion of the global consensus!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Leadership: "Position of a leader."
I think it's safe to assume that a leader's position is out in front. The one who makes the final decision to act, then applies all their resources to complete that action. If you combine those you lead with another to form a coalition, and they take the initiative to act, are you not then merely a follower, in tow of a stronger leader?
What has happened to our President recently has placed America as a representative of a coalition. When we participate with the UN action in Libya, we are not leading anything. In fact we are avoiding responsibility, handing off the criticism of the action to a broader stage. Although we supplied most of the firepower, bore the lion's share of the cost, we tried to shirk the responsibility of facing any critics of the action, by conceding the ultimate decision to others. It's just like the quarterback of a football team allowing those in the stands to call the plays. Then after they pulled the quarterback's strings like a puppet, having the quarterback stand in front of the post game reporters and bask in the glow of the victory, claiming his outstanding leadership to be the reason for victory.
American exceptionalism has taken another blow to the groin. I can't help but pray that the youth of our nation are too consumed with other activities to take this all in. Our founding fathers didn't sum up the opinion of the world before taking action against the injustice of the British Monarchy. We are under the control of a regime that believes in a "new world order." Mob rule by popular opinion of the global consensus!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, March 28, 2011
American Accountability!
I'm sure if you've ever had a serious discussion about our current Republic with anyone from the liberal sect, you've found they heartily believe man incapable of ruling, or governing himself. Actually, in our current state of affairs, that's an accurate statement. What differs in the thought process is who should hold mankind accountable.
First let me clear up the "man cannot govern himself" statement. While we are all responsible for our individual behavior, (contrary to a liberal's point of view), we have to have something to hold us each accountable. The liberal view is it should be a strong handed government, enacting and enforcing laws to keep the population under "control." You see they are convinced we cannot help ourselves, and by that standard we need a heavy handed authority to take responsibility for guiding our actions. Man and woman, in their eyes, are victims of the circumstances surrounding them. For instance, if there was a murder involving a weapon, it wasn't the actions of the person in possession of the weapon, it was the fact the weapon was made available. No weapon, no crime! Neglecting the likelihood the aggressor would have used his bare hand, or anything else at their disposal to commit the felony. This is the excuse they use to limit our freedoms, and tax us for the over site. More taxes mean more government, more government means more control, and in their eyes that's a good thing. So you should happily pay exorbitant tax rates, as it supplies a safer environment for us all.
Here's the flaw! Government is run by....people! By their own definition, people cannot help themselves. Our founding fathers knew this! That's why they based our form of government on a Judeo-Christian philosophy. Without the people answering to a higher power, (God), you still have the problem of people governing people, and by the critic's own admission, that doesn't work! So as they chip away at the foundation supplied by our founding fathers, so they erode the premise that makes a Republic work. The notion of separation of Church and state is an example of the attack on our foundation. I'll give them that. You heard it right, I'll give them separation of Church and state, but I won't concede the separation of God and state! HE is the higher power that makes this Republic work. Those Ten Commandments and the penance of eternal damnation, are all we need to keep us accountable. It can never be compromised by human error, and the punishment for noncompliance is infinite. You cannot blame the weapon in the example above, the weapon can't be sent to hell.
The liberal argument holds up when you assign the Church as the higher power. The Church is merely an organization, (like the government), run by.....you guessed it.....people! That's corruptible. Man is indeed flawed, God is not. We are born in sin, God is not. Man cannot govern man, but God can! When we act in alignment with those simple Ten Commandments gifted to us by the Higher Power, there are no gray areas. That's exactly why our founding fathers based our Republic on that ideology. As long as we held to the principles defined by God, our sinful heritage could not compromise men governing men. When we allow man to become the final authority, well, the results speak for themselves.
George Washington himself addressed this in his First Inaugural Speech....
...." the foundations of our National policy will be laid pure and immutable principles of private morality; and the pre-eminence of a free Government, be exemplified by all the attributes which can win affection of it's Citizens, and command the respect of the world. I dwell on this prospect with every satisfaction which an ardent love for my Country can inspire; since there is not truth more thoroughly established than that there exists in the economy and the course of nature, an indissoluble union between virtue and happiness, between duty and advantage, between the genuine maxims of an honest and magnanimous policy, and the solid rewards of public prosperity and felicity: Since we ought to be so less persuaded that the propitious smiles of Heaven, can never be expected on a nation that disregards the eternal rules of order and right, which Heaven itself has ordained. And since the preservation of the sacred fire of liberty, and the destiny of the Republican model of Government, are justly considered as deeply, perhaps as finally staked, on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people."
No fooling around, our purpose stated by the first President right out of the box. Now someone tell me where a separation of God and State has any legs?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
First let me clear up the "man cannot govern himself" statement. While we are all responsible for our individual behavior, (contrary to a liberal's point of view), we have to have something to hold us each accountable. The liberal view is it should be a strong handed government, enacting and enforcing laws to keep the population under "control." You see they are convinced we cannot help ourselves, and by that standard we need a heavy handed authority to take responsibility for guiding our actions. Man and woman, in their eyes, are victims of the circumstances surrounding them. For instance, if there was a murder involving a weapon, it wasn't the actions of the person in possession of the weapon, it was the fact the weapon was made available. No weapon, no crime! Neglecting the likelihood the aggressor would have used his bare hand, or anything else at their disposal to commit the felony. This is the excuse they use to limit our freedoms, and tax us for the over site. More taxes mean more government, more government means more control, and in their eyes that's a good thing. So you should happily pay exorbitant tax rates, as it supplies a safer environment for us all.
Here's the flaw! Government is run by....people! By their own definition, people cannot help themselves. Our founding fathers knew this! That's why they based our form of government on a Judeo-Christian philosophy. Without the people answering to a higher power, (God), you still have the problem of people governing people, and by the critic's own admission, that doesn't work! So as they chip away at the foundation supplied by our founding fathers, so they erode the premise that makes a Republic work. The notion of separation of Church and state is an example of the attack on our foundation. I'll give them that. You heard it right, I'll give them separation of Church and state, but I won't concede the separation of God and state! HE is the higher power that makes this Republic work. Those Ten Commandments and the penance of eternal damnation, are all we need to keep us accountable. It can never be compromised by human error, and the punishment for noncompliance is infinite. You cannot blame the weapon in the example above, the weapon can't be sent to hell.
The liberal argument holds up when you assign the Church as the higher power. The Church is merely an organization, (like the government), run by.....you guessed it.....people! That's corruptible. Man is indeed flawed, God is not. We are born in sin, God is not. Man cannot govern man, but God can! When we act in alignment with those simple Ten Commandments gifted to us by the Higher Power, there are no gray areas. That's exactly why our founding fathers based our Republic on that ideology. As long as we held to the principles defined by God, our sinful heritage could not compromise men governing men. When we allow man to become the final authority, well, the results speak for themselves.
George Washington himself addressed this in his First Inaugural Speech....
...." the foundations of our National policy will be laid pure and immutable principles of private morality; and the pre-eminence of a free Government, be exemplified by all the attributes which can win affection of it's Citizens, and command the respect of the world. I dwell on this prospect with every satisfaction which an ardent love for my Country can inspire; since there is not truth more thoroughly established than that there exists in the economy and the course of nature, an indissoluble union between virtue and happiness, between duty and advantage, between the genuine maxims of an honest and magnanimous policy, and the solid rewards of public prosperity and felicity: Since we ought to be so less persuaded that the propitious smiles of Heaven, can never be expected on a nation that disregards the eternal rules of order and right, which Heaven itself has ordained. And since the preservation of the sacred fire of liberty, and the destiny of the Republican model of Government, are justly considered as deeply, perhaps as finally staked, on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people."
No fooling around, our purpose stated by the first President right out of the box. Now someone tell me where a separation of God and State has any legs?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Friday, March 25, 2011
A Couple Of Errors!
Have you ever heard the statement," it's lonely at the top?" It defines the ultimate bottom line of leadership. No matter how many counsels, coalitions, advisors or trusted partners you have coddled together, the final consequences for your decisions, fall on your shoulders. That is if your truly a leader. People appointed to positional leadership, void of the actual skills required to lead people, have a tendency to push accountability off on others. You know, like having, say, Hillary Clinton address the nation, and tell the citizens, the military action you agreed to get involved with, will be palmed off on the NATO forces. As if that admonishes you of responsibility, like when Pontias Pilate washed his hands of Jesus's execution, thinking that would shift the guilt to others. Have you ever seen the Secretary of State address the nation in a press conference to update a military action? So who was elected Commander in Chief, Hillary or Barry? What we have here is an absentee manager, not a president principled in the art of leadership.
In a completely different matter,,,Donald Trump went on "The View," and suggested Ole Barry produce a birth certificate. Now I'm not a "birther," I believe, (please note there is not the phrase,"I know", because the burden of proof isn't present), that President Obama was born in the USA, but what is the issue with supplying the proof? While being a president without a certified copy of his birth certificate, gets you a ride on Air Force 1 to any country you desire, it won't get you a valid passport. In fact, it won't even get you past the first window where they check to see that you have all your documents in order. Look, I know Barry is no George Washington, but as I noted in my post yesterday, George had something to say about this type of behavior...,.,.
In letters to Timothy Pickering, February 10, 1799, " Concealment is a species of misinformation." And again, August 29, 1797 " Candor is not a more conspicuous trait in the character of Governments than it is of individuals."
But then he understood and practiced leadership skills......
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
In a completely different matter,,,Donald Trump went on "The View," and suggested Ole Barry produce a birth certificate. Now I'm not a "birther," I believe, (please note there is not the phrase,"I know", because the burden of proof isn't present), that President Obama was born in the USA, but what is the issue with supplying the proof? While being a president without a certified copy of his birth certificate, gets you a ride on Air Force 1 to any country you desire, it won't get you a valid passport. In fact, it won't even get you past the first window where they check to see that you have all your documents in order. Look, I know Barry is no George Washington, but as I noted in my post yesterday, George had something to say about this type of behavior...,.,.
In letters to Timothy Pickering, February 10, 1799, " Concealment is a species of misinformation." And again, August 29, 1797 " Candor is not a more conspicuous trait in the character of Governments than it is of individuals."
But then he understood and practiced leadership skills......
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Thursday, March 24, 2011
General Integrity!
George Washington on integrity, from a letter to Alexander Hamilton, August 28, 1788. " I hope I shall always possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain (what I consider to be the most enviable of all titles) the character of an honest man!" Isn't it interesting the man who was a key factor to forming this great nation and our first President, put the title of an honest man above all?
He held honesty paramount in his life and made no attempt to hide his feelings to everyone who surrounded him! To Timothy Pickering, February 10, 1799, " Concealment is a species of misinformation." And again, August 29, 1797 " Candor is not a more conspicuous trait in the character of Governments than it is of individuals."
A good conscience and hope of divine approval were essential to Washington's sense of integrity. It was immortalized in the fable of him chopping down the cherry tree. While that story seems to be an embellishment, and Washington himself wouldn't have approved of it, it's creation was designed to convey how his upbringing defined the man. One of the key tools to George Washington's character was , "The Young Man's Companion Book," written by W. Mather in 1742. It contained little tidbits like this....
" The Instruction of Words is not so Powerful as the Exhortation of Works, for if they Teach well and neglect to do well they shall hardly profit their hearers....Let us declare and profess what we will, Men will judge of us after all by our Works... So that it is a Dishonor to God , a Scandal to Religion, and a cause why so many become atheists that men are permitted to Preach and Teach the People, who are unsound in Morals, yea, guilty of some of the Evil above mentioned."
I don't see this level of instruction present in today's society, perhaps that's why we don't produce leaders like George Washington anymore?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
He held honesty paramount in his life and made no attempt to hide his feelings to everyone who surrounded him! To Timothy Pickering, February 10, 1799, " Concealment is a species of misinformation." And again, August 29, 1797 " Candor is not a more conspicuous trait in the character of Governments than it is of individuals."
A good conscience and hope of divine approval were essential to Washington's sense of integrity. It was immortalized in the fable of him chopping down the cherry tree. While that story seems to be an embellishment, and Washington himself wouldn't have approved of it, it's creation was designed to convey how his upbringing defined the man. One of the key tools to George Washington's character was , "The Young Man's Companion Book," written by W. Mather in 1742. It contained little tidbits like this....
" The Instruction of Words is not so Powerful as the Exhortation of Works, for if they Teach well and neglect to do well they shall hardly profit their hearers....Let us declare and profess what we will, Men will judge of us after all by our Works... So that it is a Dishonor to God , a Scandal to Religion, and a cause why so many become atheists that men are permitted to Preach and Teach the People, who are unsound in Morals, yea, guilty of some of the Evil above mentioned."
I don't see this level of instruction present in today's society, perhaps that's why we don't produce leaders like George Washington anymore?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Freedom and Dignity!
How's your dignity? Dignity is derived from independence. The more your capable of doing for yourself, the higher your level of self esteem. Isn't it a wonder that many in this great nation suffer from a lack of self esteem. They question their self worth, because they have allowed their independence to be quietly removed from them.
When you borrow money from a lending institution to say purchase a car, are you not admitting to the world that your not capable of the financial discipline required to save for that vehicle. Who holds the position of independence when you have to scroll a check each month to the bank so you can keep the car? The bank holds the ability to repossess that vehicle if you fail to comply to their terms. Financial freedom is a key to dignity. Imagine the shot to one's self esteem when they are burdened with credit card debt they cannot pay. Where is the dignity in that? Dignity is based in freedom!
Same applies to everything you allow the government to do for you. If they supply you healthcare, provide you food stamps, deposit an unemployment check in your account so you can survive. All signs you've traded your freedom and dignity for government welfare.
If your community tells you how long your lawn can grow before they fine you, or if they allow you to park a truck in your driveway, all speaks to how they feel about your ability to make those decisions on your own. It kind of pokes you right in the old dignity, doesn't it?
Never allow someone to do for you what your capable of doing yourself. It's the key to a higher level of self esteem, and dignity!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
When you borrow money from a lending institution to say purchase a car, are you not admitting to the world that your not capable of the financial discipline required to save for that vehicle. Who holds the position of independence when you have to scroll a check each month to the bank so you can keep the car? The bank holds the ability to repossess that vehicle if you fail to comply to their terms. Financial freedom is a key to dignity. Imagine the shot to one's self esteem when they are burdened with credit card debt they cannot pay. Where is the dignity in that? Dignity is based in freedom!
Same applies to everything you allow the government to do for you. If they supply you healthcare, provide you food stamps, deposit an unemployment check in your account so you can survive. All signs you've traded your freedom and dignity for government welfare.
If your community tells you how long your lawn can grow before they fine you, or if they allow you to park a truck in your driveway, all speaks to how they feel about your ability to make those decisions on your own. It kind of pokes you right in the old dignity, doesn't it?
Never allow someone to do for you what your capable of doing yourself. It's the key to a higher level of self esteem, and dignity!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
WAKE-UP! Thank You.........
My dog Bear and I take our morning walk at "O-dark thirty" religiously after I read the Bible. It's usually uneventful, a chance to reflect on what I'd like to accomplish that day, and review in my head what I'd like to address here as the topic of the day. So it's fair to say my mind isn't actually on the events around me during our stroll. As we made our way down the street a car approached the intersection just ahead. He was cruising along at the speed limit, probably in a hurry to get to work, when a car from his left pulled out right in front of him. He instinctively veered to his right, to avoid a crash and directly in front of him stood Bear and I. You could see the terror in his eyes as his wheels left the road and he leaned hard to the left on the steering wheel. If the car didn't respond promptly in the sand underneath, collision with us was a forgone conclusion. As I crouched to dive in the bushes the wheels stopped their slide and the car corrected and found itself back on the road. I looked up and thanked the Lord for traction, and the gift of another day. Maybe it was a reminder to appreciate all of His creation, if it was it worked. I saw the blue jays fighting, and heard the birds greeting the new dawn with their songs of praise. The color of the sky seemed that much more vivid as my usually preoccupied mind absorbed the glory of the new dawn. Isn't it funny, those heaven sent subtle reminders serve as a wake up call to appreciate what we take for granted. Today is a gift, and tomorrow shouldn't be taken for granted. Make today your masterpiece, and live it like there will be no tomorrow. You never know!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, March 21, 2011
Resource And Assets!
What defines one's ability to become successful? Is there a random selection appointing those who, "make it," and those who are left behind to feed on the scraps? Hardly, it's merely a personal decision. If you examine those who attain success, it's simply a matter of how you use your resources.
We all have a bank of resources. Successful people invest theirs, those who find themselves lacking choose to spend their resources. Some may think I'm referring to money here, but that's not the entire picture! So maybe we ought to define what resources are.
"The means of supplying a want or deficiency," "a country's wealth."
Your resources are...time...money...your mind...and your spirit.
Do you invest time, or spend it?
Do you invest your money or spend it?
Do you invest your mind or spend it?
Do you invest in your spirit or spend it?
The answers to these questions no doubt define your level of success. Is your most precious asset spent recreating, or do you invest time? When was the last time you invested in your mind? Read anything to improve that asset recently? Is time spent in front of a TV or a computer, or are you developing relationships that will prove to be assets? Is you money tied up in bills and rent, or is it working for you in savings or supplying you some type of return? Have you developed yourself spiritually? Get yourself to church and invest in eternal salvation!
These might not seem profound revelations to some of you, it's because you've already realized these are the keys to success. We all possess these resources, though some maybe limited, they can all be utilized as assets if refined. It's simply the power of duplication. A little time invested allows for a little more, and it snowballs. Once resources are use properly, they become assets, and assets pay dividends. Those dividends allow for more free time, more income, a higher level of intelligence, and more spiritual awareness.
In contrast look at those who constantly struggle. How well do they use their resources?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
We all have a bank of resources. Successful people invest theirs, those who find themselves lacking choose to spend their resources. Some may think I'm referring to money here, but that's not the entire picture! So maybe we ought to define what resources are.
"The means of supplying a want or deficiency," "a country's wealth."
Your resources are...time...money...your mind...and your spirit.
Do you invest time, or spend it?
Do you invest your money or spend it?
Do you invest your mind or spend it?
Do you invest in your spirit or spend it?
The answers to these questions no doubt define your level of success. Is your most precious asset spent recreating, or do you invest time? When was the last time you invested in your mind? Read anything to improve that asset recently? Is time spent in front of a TV or a computer, or are you developing relationships that will prove to be assets? Is you money tied up in bills and rent, or is it working for you in savings or supplying you some type of return? Have you developed yourself spiritually? Get yourself to church and invest in eternal salvation!
These might not seem profound revelations to some of you, it's because you've already realized these are the keys to success. We all possess these resources, though some maybe limited, they can all be utilized as assets if refined. It's simply the power of duplication. A little time invested allows for a little more, and it snowballs. Once resources are use properly, they become assets, and assets pay dividends. Those dividends allow for more free time, more income, a higher level of intelligence, and more spiritual awareness.
In contrast look at those who constantly struggle. How well do they use their resources?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Is There A Shortage Of Men?
Yesterday there was quite a to-do about whether women should be worried about men's lack of masculinity, sparked by a newly released book. BINGO! It's about time someone pointed out the obvious. I don't need an AOL post or blurbs on the national news to alert me to this problem. Let's look a little deeper into this female concern.
When I was growing up we could turn on the television and there was a western or a war movie starring John Wayne. You could bet somewhere in the plot, between single handedly overcoming the forces of evil, he would be slapped by a woman for telling her what she didn't want to hear, then as he grabbed her wrists to prevent her from doing it again they would stare longingly into each others eyes and fall into a passionate kiss. The hero won the damsels heart, and then rode off in to the sunset to overcome whatever evil lurked awaiting the next challenge. Then on another channel you found Superman, standing for "truth, justice, and the American way." Over on a competing network was Batman, slugging it out with evildoers, protecting Gotham City. Now we have Barney. "I love you, you love me,la,la,la,la,la"
Boys aren't outside playing war or cowboys and Indians, that's politically incorrect. They are walking around at nine and ten years old with stuffed animals. When I was nine and ten I was cleaning my shotgun, reading Outdoor Life,and/or outside practicing fly fishing and yearning to go hunting or fishing. We had cap guns, the louder the better. Side note... We used to put the rolls of caps on the side walk and throw big flat rocks on them because it made a louder noise when the whole roll exploded. If kids did that today we'd have, OSHA, the EPA, Children's Services, and any number of government run agencies there to resolve this taboo. Everyone but the parents! We rode bicycles, skateboards, go carts, mini bikes, and ice skated without helmets, kneepads, or elbow guards. We played tackle football and baseball without helmets, pads, or supervision. We were allowed to be boys, training to become men, and all without a safety net. Here's another little ditty, when we played, we kept score! There were winners and losers. If I got a splinter, dad took it out with a razor knife, he always kept in his pocket. If I got hurt, I was told, "rub a little dirt on it.-," or "walk it off."
The first President I can remember wrote a book called PT109 about his encounter with a Japanese destroyer during his wartime service. JFK was a hero! Now we have a Commander in Chief who waits for.......FRANCE of all things, to take the lead when human beings are being abused in a foreign country. A President who votes present like a spineless invertebrate when America is called to duty. This is our elected leader? He waits for a coalition of countries to finally decide to do the right thing so he can "redistribute" the blame when this action is criticized. And women wonder if the fact men are less manly is a concern?
You can't help but turn on the TV and see and ad for the cure for erectile dysfunction. It seems all this society's attempts to replace testosterone with estrogen has caused an epidemic in the bedroom, and for good reason. Now a woman writes a book questioning if this is a problem? Not at all, we have a pill that replaces a man's penis! Maybe someday they'll make one to replace his spine dysfunction!
Some of our leaders, both political and religious, think it's okay for a man and a man, or a woman and a woman to adorn the top of a wedding cake. We've removed morality, principles, self accountability, religion, fun, and adventure from our young men's upbringing, and now they ask if it's having an affect? The simple answer is.....
YES!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
When I was growing up we could turn on the television and there was a western or a war movie starring John Wayne. You could bet somewhere in the plot, between single handedly overcoming the forces of evil, he would be slapped by a woman for telling her what she didn't want to hear, then as he grabbed her wrists to prevent her from doing it again they would stare longingly into each others eyes and fall into a passionate kiss. The hero won the damsels heart, and then rode off in to the sunset to overcome whatever evil lurked awaiting the next challenge. Then on another channel you found Superman, standing for "truth, justice, and the American way." Over on a competing network was Batman, slugging it out with evildoers, protecting Gotham City. Now we have Barney. "I love you, you love me,la,la,la,la,la"
Boys aren't outside playing war or cowboys and Indians, that's politically incorrect. They are walking around at nine and ten years old with stuffed animals. When I was nine and ten I was cleaning my shotgun, reading Outdoor Life,and/or outside practicing fly fishing and yearning to go hunting or fishing. We had cap guns, the louder the better. Side note... We used to put the rolls of caps on the side walk and throw big flat rocks on them because it made a louder noise when the whole roll exploded. If kids did that today we'd have, OSHA, the EPA, Children's Services, and any number of government run agencies there to resolve this taboo. Everyone but the parents! We rode bicycles, skateboards, go carts, mini bikes, and ice skated without helmets, kneepads, or elbow guards. We played tackle football and baseball without helmets, pads, or supervision. We were allowed to be boys, training to become men, and all without a safety net. Here's another little ditty, when we played, we kept score! There were winners and losers. If I got a splinter, dad took it out with a razor knife, he always kept in his pocket. If I got hurt, I was told, "rub a little dirt on it.-," or "walk it off."
The first President I can remember wrote a book called PT109 about his encounter with a Japanese destroyer during his wartime service. JFK was a hero! Now we have a Commander in Chief who waits for.......FRANCE of all things, to take the lead when human beings are being abused in a foreign country. A President who votes present like a spineless invertebrate when America is called to duty. This is our elected leader? He waits for a coalition of countries to finally decide to do the right thing so he can "redistribute" the blame when this action is criticized. And women wonder if the fact men are less manly is a concern?
You can't help but turn on the TV and see and ad for the cure for erectile dysfunction. It seems all this society's attempts to replace testosterone with estrogen has caused an epidemic in the bedroom, and for good reason. Now a woman writes a book questioning if this is a problem? Not at all, we have a pill that replaces a man's penis! Maybe someday they'll make one to replace his spine dysfunction!
Some of our leaders, both political and religious, think it's okay for a man and a man, or a woman and a woman to adorn the top of a wedding cake. We've removed morality, principles, self accountability, religion, fun, and adventure from our young men's upbringing, and now they ask if it's having an affect? The simple answer is.....
YES!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Change The View!
Enter by the narrow gate; for the gate that is wide and the way that is made easy, leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For when the gate is narrow and the way is hard, that leads to life, and those who find it are few!- Matthew 7:13
Got some struggles going on? Good for you! Your on the right path! If being exceptional was easy, it would be the new average. By definition, living intentionally for excellence, (life), demands there be struggles. If the road to hell is paved with good intentions, so it holds true the road to heaven is paved in challenges. As Matthew points out, many take the easy way out, few face the challenges and have the discipline required to achieve spiritual excellence. Isn't that what our time here on earth is really all about?
The temptation is to follow the herd. Here's the scoop...the fate of the herd has been known by all for a long time. They get led to slaughter. We need to swim against the tide, and challenge others to follow our example. Excellence insists you be different! Otherwise your snout is pushed into the backside of the one in front of you and the view never changes.
A wise man won't settle for satisfaction...He seeks gratification. The difference defines the gap between average and exceptional!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Got some struggles going on? Good for you! Your on the right path! If being exceptional was easy, it would be the new average. By definition, living intentionally for excellence, (life), demands there be struggles. If the road to hell is paved with good intentions, so it holds true the road to heaven is paved in challenges. As Matthew points out, many take the easy way out, few face the challenges and have the discipline required to achieve spiritual excellence. Isn't that what our time here on earth is really all about?
The temptation is to follow the herd. Here's the scoop...the fate of the herd has been known by all for a long time. They get led to slaughter. We need to swim against the tide, and challenge others to follow our example. Excellence insists you be different! Otherwise your snout is pushed into the backside of the one in front of you and the view never changes.
A wise man won't settle for satisfaction...He seeks gratification. The difference defines the gap between average and exceptional!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Friday, March 18, 2011
Open Ears, Open Doors!
One of the highest compliments you can pay another person is the simple act of listening to them. Have you ever hear a wife say of her husband, "he never hears a word I say," or the popular young person's quote, "my parents just don't listen to me, they don't understand me?" How many marriages would be saved if we all just took the time to pay attention to what others said? How many children would stop their rebellious behavior if their parents would open their ears and shut their mouths long enough to understand? A lot of trouble, misery, and failure happens in our world because people don't listen. So often we shut of the receiver and start broadcasting! It's been said many times before, God gave you two ears and one mouth, use them in proportion.
It's simply a matter of taking the focus and attention off one's self. Set the ego aside and make the other person the most important issue in the room. Think of your friends and acquaintances, who gets the vote for most intelligent and wise? Is it the people in your life that are always shooting off their mouth, the guy who has the answer to everything before the question is even out of your mouth, or is it the one who has learned the art of being a good listener? It's amazing how wise one can seem by simply saying nothing. Some of the best conversationalists I know hardly say a word. Disagreements often begin between two people because party A had the attention on themselves, and not on party B. Impress them with you ability to listen!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
It's simply a matter of taking the focus and attention off one's self. Set the ego aside and make the other person the most important issue in the room. Think of your friends and acquaintances, who gets the vote for most intelligent and wise? Is it the people in your life that are always shooting off their mouth, the guy who has the answer to everything before the question is even out of your mouth, or is it the one who has learned the art of being a good listener? It's amazing how wise one can seem by simply saying nothing. Some of the best conversationalists I know hardly say a word. Disagreements often begin between two people because party A had the attention on themselves, and not on party B. Impress them with you ability to listen!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Time To Get Off The Couch!
As a society we've been taught by those who judge the morality of man, by the morality of man and not by a standard imposed by a higher power, that our actions are, "not our fault." Problems like drug addiction, alcoholism, homosexuality, pedophilia, kleptomania, and binge buying leading to out of control personal debt, are not actually sins, but sicknesses, or diseases. By defining these as sicknesses rather than deviant behavior, it removes the personal responsibility from the individual. The "victim" cannot help themselves as their behavior is the result of an outside force, something they "caught," or were unlucky enough to have in their gene pool. The current mental health viewpoint in our society is plainly wrong, shifting the blame from the sinner and placing it on the shoulders of society, or a genetic disorder. It allows for a convenient "excuse," transferring the problem away from man's depravity based on fallen human nature. Accountability for the deviant behavior can be restored by simply assuming personal responsibility for it.
Since one is not considered blameworthy for catching the flu, those who love him are sympathetic to his condition, understanding they cannot help their situation, and make allowances for the victim. The medical community prescribes pills to numb the pain, when assuredly the cure lies in a clear conscience. Therapy demands the counselor take the "victim" back into their past to find the culprits on which they seek to place the blame. Usually the patient's problems are moral, not medical. The pain they are experiencing are not hidden in the past by the result of personal guilt. Problems can be solved not by the ventilation of feelings, but the admission of guilt and the acceptance of personal responsibility. The "victim" has to come to the revelation that the problems they are having are of their own making. The decisions they have chosen have led to their results in life. It's time to stop avoiding their responsibility for their actions and accept that these are learned behaviors. Ones they have adopted and accepted, resulting in ill feelings supplied by a guilty conscience, feelings of insecurity, and anxiety.
So, in the words of Dr. Phil....How's that working for you?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Since one is not considered blameworthy for catching the flu, those who love him are sympathetic to his condition, understanding they cannot help their situation, and make allowances for the victim. The medical community prescribes pills to numb the pain, when assuredly the cure lies in a clear conscience. Therapy demands the counselor take the "victim" back into their past to find the culprits on which they seek to place the blame. Usually the patient's problems are moral, not medical. The pain they are experiencing are not hidden in the past by the result of personal guilt. Problems can be solved not by the ventilation of feelings, but the admission of guilt and the acceptance of personal responsibility. The "victim" has to come to the revelation that the problems they are having are of their own making. The decisions they have chosen have led to their results in life. It's time to stop avoiding their responsibility for their actions and accept that these are learned behaviors. Ones they have adopted and accepted, resulting in ill feelings supplied by a guilty conscience, feelings of insecurity, and anxiety.
So, in the words of Dr. Phil....How's that working for you?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
How To Close The Gap!
Truth! Ah the truth, absent from our lives. Overcome by spin from politicians, warped by bias reporting in the news. Hindering communication because; Truth which is held in common, shared, and believed by all of the parties who communicate, is the foundation for all significant communication. Or in other words, if you lie or spin the truth, the dialog is wounded.
You know those who are unable to communicate need communication to overcome their communication problem. So if you cannot speak the truth, you'll never come to an agreement on anything. Here's the secret....
When the credibility gap between man and God is closed, the gap between man and man may be closed as well. It's sinful to lie! So until such time what comes out of our mouths, read in the papers, or spun by the media on TV, can be considered the truth we will always suffer doubters due to our lack of credibility. If Mother Theresa was alive, and made a statement, would it not be accepted as the truth? She's closed the credibility gap between man and God. She had fewer, if any, doubters when she spoke.
How's your credibility gap with your Maker?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
You know those who are unable to communicate need communication to overcome their communication problem. So if you cannot speak the truth, you'll never come to an agreement on anything. Here's the secret....
When the credibility gap between man and God is closed, the gap between man and man may be closed as well. It's sinful to lie! So until such time what comes out of our mouths, read in the papers, or spun by the media on TV, can be considered the truth we will always suffer doubters due to our lack of credibility. If Mother Theresa was alive, and made a statement, would it not be accepted as the truth? She's closed the credibility gap between man and God. She had fewer, if any, doubters when she spoke.
How's your credibility gap with your Maker?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
God Bless America!
One can't help but notice if you turn on the TV the horrid disaster that has befallen Japan. With the death toll rising, and their cities in ruin, it has to be a major challenge just to survive. Food is in shortage, even if you can find a store open, the shelves have been plucked clean. Gasoline lines are four to five hours long, and most of the time when your opportunity arrives, the supply is depleted. Nuclear plants are threatening to melt down, and the possibility of radiation exposure is a real consideration. It's extremely trying, and demands the utmost in emotional maturity. Yet there has been not one report of looting, protests, or any sort of tantrums. I can't help but contrast that to Wisconsin.
Why is it every time there is a disaster here in the United States, we have to bring in the National Guard and declare curfews? I'm thinking back to when Katrina hit New Orleans, residents sat in their homes armed to protect their belongings. Just recently the Capitol buildings in Wisconsin were defiled simply because the work force and their employers had a disagreement. The big earthquake in California was followed by looting, and God forbid we don't like a courtroom decision as that district will have to call in riot police. What is wrong with our culture?
We have a minority representation in this country that thinks of themselves first. Their code of ethics are defined by the ends justify the means, so whatever it takes to appease the selfishness that lives within them is just fine and dandy. As we have seen it's not confined to race, or economic lines, but by a political persuasion. They refuse to have God present in our schools, and demand we enforce a on-existent law separating church and state. They are proponents of abortion, and thoroughly believe the government is a charitable entity. They believe the government is the answer to every problem, and that man is the standard that man should be held accountable to. This is the poison that feeds the decline of our culture, and consistently embarrasses us every time our population faces adversity.
By contrast there is a movement to bring us back to the intent of our founding fathers. It's gaining momentum, and living by example. The group that realizes the power lies in the individual, not the collective. A group that can assemble and voice dismay to what they disagree with, peaceably, without destruction nor violence,and leave the facility better than they found it. Which seems more attractive to you? This group of citizens roll up their sleeves and get to work when adversity strikes, they don't protest and loot. They understand God is the ultimate judge of our time here on earth and hold themselves accountable to Him. They respect life and property, they believe charity is up to each individual, and when the need arises they give till it hurts. This group detests the lack of religion in our learning institutions, and relate the lack of results our public schools offer as proof of such.
Comparing apples to apples...Which seems more attractive to you?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Why is it every time there is a disaster here in the United States, we have to bring in the National Guard and declare curfews? I'm thinking back to when Katrina hit New Orleans, residents sat in their homes armed to protect their belongings. Just recently the Capitol buildings in Wisconsin were defiled simply because the work force and their employers had a disagreement. The big earthquake in California was followed by looting, and God forbid we don't like a courtroom decision as that district will have to call in riot police. What is wrong with our culture?
We have a minority representation in this country that thinks of themselves first. Their code of ethics are defined by the ends justify the means, so whatever it takes to appease the selfishness that lives within them is just fine and dandy. As we have seen it's not confined to race, or economic lines, but by a political persuasion. They refuse to have God present in our schools, and demand we enforce a on-existent law separating church and state. They are proponents of abortion, and thoroughly believe the government is a charitable entity. They believe the government is the answer to every problem, and that man is the standard that man should be held accountable to. This is the poison that feeds the decline of our culture, and consistently embarrasses us every time our population faces adversity.
By contrast there is a movement to bring us back to the intent of our founding fathers. It's gaining momentum, and living by example. The group that realizes the power lies in the individual, not the collective. A group that can assemble and voice dismay to what they disagree with, peaceably, without destruction nor violence,and leave the facility better than they found it. Which seems more attractive to you? This group of citizens roll up their sleeves and get to work when adversity strikes, they don't protest and loot. They understand God is the ultimate judge of our time here on earth and hold themselves accountable to Him. They respect life and property, they believe charity is up to each individual, and when the need arises they give till it hurts. This group detests the lack of religion in our learning institutions, and relate the lack of results our public schools offer as proof of such.
Comparing apples to apples...Which seems more attractive to you?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, March 14, 2011
Let's Make Beautiful Music!
Today I thought I'd touch briefly on living a life of discipline. Sounds awful, doesn't it? It might be best defined as living a life of structure, with morals and principles being the foundation. Some people might find living a life of structure confining, but then I certain if you examine their results, it will reflect something less than desirable. Let's look at a couple of examples where structure or discipline is necessary.
If a train were trying to go from point A to point B, is it not an easier journey for that train to use the confines of the tracks that were laid for it to make that journey? Certainly if it left the tracks the journey would be more difficult. The structured discipline demanded by those who made the route is also what is makes the trip so effortless.
How about the example of a symphony? Without a structured discipline of how and when the notes were to be played, wouldn't you in fact just have noise? When the conductor applies the discipline demanded by the author of the music, that unorganized noise becomes a beautiful melody.
How does that apply to your life? With the foundation of morals and discipline you have the means to build a giant superstructure. Without that strong base upon which to build there is nothing to support you as you reach toward new heights. God above has granted us the free will to apply this as we see fit. Are you going to use the "confines" of discipline to drive your train down the effortless path and create a symphony out of your life? Or are you going to struggle undisciplined creating a noisy chaos trying to push your train in the sand?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
If a train were trying to go from point A to point B, is it not an easier journey for that train to use the confines of the tracks that were laid for it to make that journey? Certainly if it left the tracks the journey would be more difficult. The structured discipline demanded by those who made the route is also what is makes the trip so effortless.
How about the example of a symphony? Without a structured discipline of how and when the notes were to be played, wouldn't you in fact just have noise? When the conductor applies the discipline demanded by the author of the music, that unorganized noise becomes a beautiful melody.
How does that apply to your life? With the foundation of morals and discipline you have the means to build a giant superstructure. Without that strong base upon which to build there is nothing to support you as you reach toward new heights. God above has granted us the free will to apply this as we see fit. Are you going to use the "confines" of discipline to drive your train down the effortless path and create a symphony out of your life? Or are you going to struggle undisciplined creating a noisy chaos trying to push your train in the sand?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Deal With It!
When an issue presents itself in our lives, there are generally four ways to deal with it. The first represents the cowards way out. Perhaps you caught the news recently where in Wisconsin the state representatives fled to avoid the vote to address the union issues that are plaguing their budget. You simply avoid the conflict as if it didn't matter. If I ignore it, it will go away, then the confrontation in my life will be minimal. I think we can all agree this plan of, (or lack of) attack never brings the desired results. Personally I can't recall anything that if I ignored it, ever actually going away.
The second manner of addressing problems is somewhat similar to the first. It's changing course and heading in a totally different direction. It's usually accompanied by the statement, "It isn't what I wanted anyway." The problem is deflected, pushed to the side and your attention is focused is sent off on another path. Basically you turn your entire momentum toward a different course and place the existing problem on the shelf. Once again avoiding the issue, trying to seem less cowardly, because your on a new track. It doesn't matter......
Retreat is the answer to those who define our next category. Run as fast away from the confrontation as possible. My guess is these cowards think that if they keep moving away from it, the problem will never catch up with them. The Army calls it AWOL, or a deserter. The problem being, not only does this create multiple other problems, you eventually run out of space to avoid the initial problem. It'll find you, you can run but you cannot hide.
The last way we address a problem is by confronting it. This is the way of a leader! Call upon all your resources and put it behind you. Why give anything that's bothering you anymore prudence than you need to. We all feel better whenever a problem is addressed and dealt with. It's the angst leading up to it that causes distress. Confront it and move on! One is in control of his or her circumstances when they confront and resolve the issues in their life, promptly and confidently.
Remember the strength you need is but a prayer away!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
The second manner of addressing problems is somewhat similar to the first. It's changing course and heading in a totally different direction. It's usually accompanied by the statement, "It isn't what I wanted anyway." The problem is deflected, pushed to the side and your attention is focused is sent off on another path. Basically you turn your entire momentum toward a different course and place the existing problem on the shelf. Once again avoiding the issue, trying to seem less cowardly, because your on a new track. It doesn't matter......
Retreat is the answer to those who define our next category. Run as fast away from the confrontation as possible. My guess is these cowards think that if they keep moving away from it, the problem will never catch up with them. The Army calls it AWOL, or a deserter. The problem being, not only does this create multiple other problems, you eventually run out of space to avoid the initial problem. It'll find you, you can run but you cannot hide.
The last way we address a problem is by confronting it. This is the way of a leader! Call upon all your resources and put it behind you. Why give anything that's bothering you anymore prudence than you need to. We all feel better whenever a problem is addressed and dealt with. It's the angst leading up to it that causes distress. Confront it and move on! One is in control of his or her circumstances when they confront and resolve the issues in their life, promptly and confidently.
Remember the strength you need is but a prayer away!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Saturday, March 12, 2011
How To Be Sharp As A Tack!
In this age of nuclear medicine, and unsurpassed break through's in caring for the emotional id, I came across this parable that I thought reflected some of the problems created by an over medicating, over sympathetic Freudian mind set.
The once was a young man who sat on a tack. As one might imagine that caused him considerable pain. So in an effort to relieve himself of this excruciating pain he visited a physician. The physician applied his years of medical training, and all the current technology available to relieve his patient of this pain. His best course of action was to prescribe medication to numb the pain in the affected area. Being a wise healer he also issued the patient a referral to a psychologist to see if he could find the root of the pain.
The psychologist was well versed in Freud and Rogerian theory, and was certain that the pain was caused by some repressed memory creating psychosomatic pain. He prescribed many, many visits and took his patient back to the past, in search of the wrong caused this individual, that created the pain he was feeling. He probed the patient's relationship with his parents, exploring the bond between mother and child, and questioned his relationship with our victim's father. The pain continued......
Our patient finally stumbled upon someone who led a life void of pain. He wanted the life he saw portrayed before his very eyes. So as a wise student might do, he sought counsel with the one who had what he wanted. The mentor saw immediately what the cause of the pain was, because he sought to find out what the problem was, not why. The mentor suggested the student remove the tack that was causing the misery. Since our student was sharp as a tack, he followed the advice, and now live a life free from pain. He's no longer a over medicated victim of circumstance, but a well healed, well advised contributor to society.
What is the problem?
What will it take to rectify the problem?
Don't do it again!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
The once was a young man who sat on a tack. As one might imagine that caused him considerable pain. So in an effort to relieve himself of this excruciating pain he visited a physician. The physician applied his years of medical training, and all the current technology available to relieve his patient of this pain. His best course of action was to prescribe medication to numb the pain in the affected area. Being a wise healer he also issued the patient a referral to a psychologist to see if he could find the root of the pain.
The psychologist was well versed in Freud and Rogerian theory, and was certain that the pain was caused by some repressed memory creating psychosomatic pain. He prescribed many, many visits and took his patient back to the past, in search of the wrong caused this individual, that created the pain he was feeling. He probed the patient's relationship with his parents, exploring the bond between mother and child, and questioned his relationship with our victim's father. The pain continued......
Our patient finally stumbled upon someone who led a life void of pain. He wanted the life he saw portrayed before his very eyes. So as a wise student might do, he sought counsel with the one who had what he wanted. The mentor saw immediately what the cause of the pain was, because he sought to find out what the problem was, not why. The mentor suggested the student remove the tack that was causing the misery. Since our student was sharp as a tack, he followed the advice, and now live a life free from pain. He's no longer a over medicated victim of circumstance, but a well healed, well advised contributor to society.
What is the problem?
What will it take to rectify the problem?
Don't do it again!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Friday, March 11, 2011
Catching Up!
Okay the fast is over, it's time to vent about current affairs!
First, the stupidest story in the news. Dear Charlie Sheen....If you have to tell people your, "winning," your not! The scoreboard is obvious
Now to the NPR scandal, I totally support public broadcasting, but it's time it supports itself. The name alone dictates that the government not be involved. The only public broadcasting the government should support financially is NOAA radio, all the rest are charities. They tell you on those stations when they ask for your contributions, that it's a charitable tax deduction. Government shouldn't take your money and use it to determine what charities survive. That's part of the whole freedom of choice thing the country was founded upon. If the government dictates where your contributions to charity go, your not a free man. You would think the intellectual elites who operate these charitable entities would be capable of grasping that!
Now the union controversy. Let me be clear, I'm not against a private sector union. I even give them a pass for ruining the steel industry in Pittsburgh, and Allentown. They get forgiven for the demise of Detroit and all it's suburbs, after pricing the auto industry out of competition. I'll ignore the negative impact they've had on Ohio and how they slaughtered a great deal of the industry there. I will not allow them to bankrupt and destroy our government.
Unions have pointed out how wonderful they are for workers rights and the working man's job conditions. They tout the forty hour work week, and overtime pay as accomplishments. Thank you! Now we have agencies that oversee workplace safety and insure workers rights, and they are given backbone by legislation to prevent abuse. I think most Americans will agree, we've paid our debt back to you. Like the buggy whip, it's time you take your place in history and fade away.
It's 180 degree opposite of the principles our nation was founded on to allow you to ignore our freedom of choice and demand people not only join your unions to become employed, but then automatically remove income from their take home pay for that right. That in itself exposes you for the socialist dictatorship you really are.
We know your in trouble when you pervert the first amendment right to peaceably assemble, with your destructive and bullying actions because you don't get your way. You've turned into a mob of labor terrorists. Your irrational and disrespectful behavior speaks volumes to the "benefits" you bring to the table. America will not be bullied. May the jails where you cause these actions be full, and the tasers depleted of their voltage. I can only pray those violators are prosecuted and sentenced with the maximum penalties passed down. This is not US Steel your assaulting, it's "We the People." Shame on you!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
PS While I'm on the subject. Since some of you are teachers, what are you teaching our children?
First, the stupidest story in the news. Dear Charlie Sheen....If you have to tell people your, "winning," your not! The scoreboard is obvious
Now to the NPR scandal, I totally support public broadcasting, but it's time it supports itself. The name alone dictates that the government not be involved. The only public broadcasting the government should support financially is NOAA radio, all the rest are charities. They tell you on those stations when they ask for your contributions, that it's a charitable tax deduction. Government shouldn't take your money and use it to determine what charities survive. That's part of the whole freedom of choice thing the country was founded upon. If the government dictates where your contributions to charity go, your not a free man. You would think the intellectual elites who operate these charitable entities would be capable of grasping that!
Now the union controversy. Let me be clear, I'm not against a private sector union. I even give them a pass for ruining the steel industry in Pittsburgh, and Allentown. They get forgiven for the demise of Detroit and all it's suburbs, after pricing the auto industry out of competition. I'll ignore the negative impact they've had on Ohio and how they slaughtered a great deal of the industry there. I will not allow them to bankrupt and destroy our government.
Unions have pointed out how wonderful they are for workers rights and the working man's job conditions. They tout the forty hour work week, and overtime pay as accomplishments. Thank you! Now we have agencies that oversee workplace safety and insure workers rights, and they are given backbone by legislation to prevent abuse. I think most Americans will agree, we've paid our debt back to you. Like the buggy whip, it's time you take your place in history and fade away.
It's 180 degree opposite of the principles our nation was founded on to allow you to ignore our freedom of choice and demand people not only join your unions to become employed, but then automatically remove income from their take home pay for that right. That in itself exposes you for the socialist dictatorship you really are.
We know your in trouble when you pervert the first amendment right to peaceably assemble, with your destructive and bullying actions because you don't get your way. You've turned into a mob of labor terrorists. Your irrational and disrespectful behavior speaks volumes to the "benefits" you bring to the table. America will not be bullied. May the jails where you cause these actions be full, and the tasers depleted of their voltage. I can only pray those violators are prosecuted and sentenced with the maximum penalties passed down. This is not US Steel your assaulting, it's "We the People." Shame on you!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
PS While I'm on the subject. Since some of you are teachers, what are you teaching our children?
Catching Up!
Okay the fast is over, it's time to vent about current affairs!
First, the stupidest story in the news. Dear Charlie Sheen....If you have to tell people your, "winning," your not! The scoreboard is obvious
Now to the NPR scandal, I totally support public broadcasting, but it's time it supports itself. The name alone dictates that the government not be involved. The only public broadcasting the government should support financially is NOAH radio, all the rest are charities. They tell you on those stations when they ask for your contributions, that it's a charitable tax deduction. Government shouldn't take your money and use it to determine what charities survive. That's part of the whole freedom of choice thing the country was founded upon. If the government dictates where your contributions to charity go, your not a free man. You would think the intellectual elites who operate these charitable entities would be capable of grasping that!
Now the union controversy. Let me be clear, I'm not against a private sector union. I even give them a pass for ruining the steel industry in Pittsburgh, and Allentown. They get forgiven for the demise of Detroit and all it's suburbs, after pricing the auto industry out of competition. I'll ignore the negative impact they've had on Ohio and how they slaughtered a great deal of the industry there. I will not allow them to bankrupt and destroy our government.
Unions have pointed out how wonderful they are for workers rights and the working man's job conditions. They tout the forty hour work week, and overtime pay as accomplishments. Thank you! Now we have agencies that oversee workplace safety and insure workers rights, and they are given backbone by legislation to prevent abuse. I think most Americans will agree, we've paid our debt back to you. Like the buggy whip, it's time you take your place in history and fade away.
It's 180 degree opposite of the principles our nation was founded on to allow you to ignore our freedom of choice and demand people not only join your unions to become employed, but then automatically remove income from their take home pay for that right. That in itself exposes you for the socialist dictatorship you really are.
We know your in trouble when you pervert the first amendment right to peaceably assemble, with your destructive and bullying actions because you don't get your way. You've turned into a mob of labor terrorists. Your irrational and disrespectful behavior speaks volumes to the "benefits" you bring to the table. America will not be bullied. May the jails where you cause these actions be full, and the tasers depleted of their voltage. I can only pray those violators are prosecuted and sentenced with the maximum penalties passed down. This is not US Steel your assaulting, it's "We the People." Shame on you!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
First, the stupidest story in the news. Dear Charlie Sheen....If you have to tell people your, "winning," your not! The scoreboard is obvious
Now to the NPR scandal, I totally support public broadcasting, but it's time it supports itself. The name alone dictates that the government not be involved. The only public broadcasting the government should support financially is NOAH radio, all the rest are charities. They tell you on those stations when they ask for your contributions, that it's a charitable tax deduction. Government shouldn't take your money and use it to determine what charities survive. That's part of the whole freedom of choice thing the country was founded upon. If the government dictates where your contributions to charity go, your not a free man. You would think the intellectual elites who operate these charitable entities would be capable of grasping that!
Now the union controversy. Let me be clear, I'm not against a private sector union. I even give them a pass for ruining the steel industry in Pittsburgh, and Allentown. They get forgiven for the demise of Detroit and all it's suburbs, after pricing the auto industry out of competition. I'll ignore the negative impact they've had on Ohio and how they slaughtered a great deal of the industry there. I will not allow them to bankrupt and destroy our government.
Unions have pointed out how wonderful they are for workers rights and the working man's job conditions. They tout the forty hour work week, and overtime pay as accomplishments. Thank you! Now we have agencies that oversee workplace safety and insure workers rights, and they are given backbone by legislation to prevent abuse. I think most Americans will agree, we've paid our debt back to you. Like the buggy whip, it's time you take your place in history and fade away.
It's 180 degree opposite of the principles our nation was founded on to allow you to ignore our freedom of choice and demand people not only join your unions to become employed, but then automatically remove income from their take home pay for that right. That in itself exposes you for the socialist dictatorship you really are.
We know your in trouble when you pervert the first amendment right to peaceably assemble, with your destructive and bullying actions because you don't get your way. You've turned into a mob of labor terrorists. Your irrational and disrespectful behavior speaks volumes to the "benefits" you bring to the table. America will not be bullied. May the jails where you cause these actions be full, and the tasers depleted of their voltage. I can only pray those violators are prosecuted and sentenced with the maximum penalties passed down. This is not US Steel your assaulting, it's "We the People." Shame on you!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Thursday, March 10, 2011
What, Not Why!
Holy cow, eight whole days without a political rant, and it's not like there wasn't plenty to blog about! Believe it or not, I'm going to extend my fast of criticism for yet another day. I'm just praying I don't explode!
I ran across an interesting concept the other day, and I have to share. What is your first reaction when someone does wrong? When you confront them, what is the first question you have for them? If your like most people your first query of them is; why? Inquiring minds want to know what thought process brought you to this behavior.
Here's a secret, it doesn't matter. When you open that door and question why, you've pulled back the curtain, and asked them to begin a performance of excuses to rationalize bad behavior. Contrary to the Freudian concept of digging back into someone's past, it's not worth the effort. First of all your not going back far enough. The behavior has nothing to do with how your momma treated you, or if your father was indifferent to your feelings when you were going through adolescence. It has nothing to do with the difference between a breast fed and a bottle fed baby. When you do this you've relieved them of the one thing that can stop the bad behavior and offered them an excuse to avoid....personal accountability.
Instead of asking why, ask them what! What did you do? The next logical step is to then ask, what can you do to make this right? That is the solution to resolving bad behavior. Hold the individual personally accountable, then seek atonement or restitution for the action. When they are held accountable, then they realize actions have consequences, consequences can be enjoyable or they can be painful. The individual has the freedom to make that decision based on his or her behavior. Good begets good, bad begets bad, this is the reason you ask what did you do, verses, why did you do that?
If your still wondering the why of someone's behavior, what I'm about to tell you is going to put a lot of psychiatrists our of business. The why is very simple...Man is born in sin, period. Once you come to that realization, the rest of the excuses are irrelevant. Wether you were dropped on your head at an early age, or a breech baby doesn't matter a lick. We all share the same excuse, we were born in sin.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
I ran across an interesting concept the other day, and I have to share. What is your first reaction when someone does wrong? When you confront them, what is the first question you have for them? If your like most people your first query of them is; why? Inquiring minds want to know what thought process brought you to this behavior.
Here's a secret, it doesn't matter. When you open that door and question why, you've pulled back the curtain, and asked them to begin a performance of excuses to rationalize bad behavior. Contrary to the Freudian concept of digging back into someone's past, it's not worth the effort. First of all your not going back far enough. The behavior has nothing to do with how your momma treated you, or if your father was indifferent to your feelings when you were going through adolescence. It has nothing to do with the difference between a breast fed and a bottle fed baby. When you do this you've relieved them of the one thing that can stop the bad behavior and offered them an excuse to avoid....personal accountability.
Instead of asking why, ask them what! What did you do? The next logical step is to then ask, what can you do to make this right? That is the solution to resolving bad behavior. Hold the individual personally accountable, then seek atonement or restitution for the action. When they are held accountable, then they realize actions have consequences, consequences can be enjoyable or they can be painful. The individual has the freedom to make that decision based on his or her behavior. Good begets good, bad begets bad, this is the reason you ask what did you do, verses, why did you do that?
If your still wondering the why of someone's behavior, what I'm about to tell you is going to put a lot of psychiatrists our of business. The why is very simple...Man is born in sin, period. Once you come to that realization, the rest of the excuses are irrelevant. Wether you were dropped on your head at an early age, or a breech baby doesn't matter a lick. We all share the same excuse, we were born in sin.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
FREEDOM!!!!!!
The final of the eight F's is far from being the least important. I placed it last because all the other F's are based upon it.
Freedom
There are two types of freedom, and living intentionally for excellence allows you the full measure of both personal freedom, and the freedom granted to you by our founding fathers.
Your personal freedom begins the second you awaken and become aware. I don't know about you but my first thought is one of gratefulness that the good Lord allowed me another day. Then the next thought you have defines your level of personal freedom. Chris Brady tells us that is your second, second. Is you second, second one of terror? What time is it? Am I late for work? What are my responsibilities for the day? Or maybe you just sum it all up with, "Oh crap, I have to go to work." Personal freedom allows you to have a different kind of second, second. One that brings a smile to your face when you realize you've done the work to create a passive residual income that allows you to roll over, go back to sleep, with the inner peace realized that your beholden to no man, or slave to any job. You get to roll over and wrap you arms around your significant other, knowing they can be the most important part of your morning. You've achieved and earned your personal freedom. You've defined the thought that runs through your head when the realization of the second, second hits you.
You have the financial freedom to give to the causes you feel strongest about. You charity isn't defined by the government doling out you tax dollars and redistributing your income to causes you don't agree with.
Your children or grandchildren know the pleasure of your company. You, and not a stranger at a day care center, get to define and instill their values. Maybe you'd like to insure they get a quality education and home school, not influenced by the liberals who've infected the public school system. You have the freedom to define how that script is written. The fruit of your loins can have their morals defined by the environment you design for them.
Maybe you want to have the freedom and the means to travel. To leave for months at a time and return secure that the work you've done has duplicated itself and provided more income when you return than when you departed.
It's all up to you to design. Because you made a choice, a choice that made you free!
Now their is the issue of the freedom granted to us by our founders, based upon the freedoms and the rights intended to ours by our Creator. As someone living intentionally for excellence you get to help others realize those freedoms. How can our nation help but be a stronger more self reliant country with citizens who are independent and not bound by the constraints of income? Are we a stronger nation dependent on entitlements, or grounded in self reliance? You have the ability to make that difference. You are the example by living intentionally for excellence they look up to and strive to become. You hold the keys to personal and civil liberty.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Freedom
There are two types of freedom, and living intentionally for excellence allows you the full measure of both personal freedom, and the freedom granted to you by our founding fathers.
Your personal freedom begins the second you awaken and become aware. I don't know about you but my first thought is one of gratefulness that the good Lord allowed me another day. Then the next thought you have defines your level of personal freedom. Chris Brady tells us that is your second, second. Is you second, second one of terror? What time is it? Am I late for work? What are my responsibilities for the day? Or maybe you just sum it all up with, "Oh crap, I have to go to work." Personal freedom allows you to have a different kind of second, second. One that brings a smile to your face when you realize you've done the work to create a passive residual income that allows you to roll over, go back to sleep, with the inner peace realized that your beholden to no man, or slave to any job. You get to roll over and wrap you arms around your significant other, knowing they can be the most important part of your morning. You've achieved and earned your personal freedom. You've defined the thought that runs through your head when the realization of the second, second hits you.
You have the financial freedom to give to the causes you feel strongest about. You charity isn't defined by the government doling out you tax dollars and redistributing your income to causes you don't agree with.
Your children or grandchildren know the pleasure of your company. You, and not a stranger at a day care center, get to define and instill their values. Maybe you'd like to insure they get a quality education and home school, not influenced by the liberals who've infected the public school system. You have the freedom to define how that script is written. The fruit of your loins can have their morals defined by the environment you design for them.
Maybe you want to have the freedom and the means to travel. To leave for months at a time and return secure that the work you've done has duplicated itself and provided more income when you return than when you departed.
It's all up to you to design. Because you made a choice, a choice that made you free!
Now their is the issue of the freedom granted to us by our founders, based upon the freedoms and the rights intended to ours by our Creator. As someone living intentionally for excellence you get to help others realize those freedoms. How can our nation help but be a stronger more self reliant country with citizens who are independent and not bound by the constraints of income? Are we a stronger nation dependent on entitlements, or grounded in self reliance? You have the ability to make that difference. You are the example by living intentionally for excellence they look up to and strive to become. You hold the keys to personal and civil liberty.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Ya Gotta Have.....Friends!
........And in that following you will find our next F.
Friends!
The bonds you create in the following you have will lead you to some of the greatest friends a man, or woman, could ask for. Friends who share the same world view. Friends who exude the same character and integrity. You'll find friends like Bruce Feiler eludes to in his book, "The Council of Dads" that you can trust in the company of your children. Friends who will step in and insure the fruit of your loins have role models and mentors in the event of your demise.
Here's the best part.....
You've likely not even met or believed these people existed yet!
Friends who contribute to living life intentionally for excellence. Attractors not detractors! They understand and live the principles of the eight F's. Relationships that are mutually beneficial, assets to you and your family. Those are the friends waiting out there when you begin the journey.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Friends!
The bonds you create in the following you have will lead you to some of the greatest friends a man, or woman, could ask for. Friends who share the same world view. Friends who exude the same character and integrity. You'll find friends like Bruce Feiler eludes to in his book, "The Council of Dads" that you can trust in the company of your children. Friends who will step in and insure the fruit of your loins have role models and mentors in the event of your demise.
Here's the best part.....
You've likely not even met or believed these people existed yet!
Friends who contribute to living life intentionally for excellence. Attractors not detractors! They understand and live the principles of the eight F's. Relationships that are mutually beneficial, assets to you and your family. Those are the friends waiting out there when you begin the journey.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, March 7, 2011
If You Lead, They Will Follow!
The next F is ...
Following!
As you grow personally your going to become a people magnet. The personal development program you embark upon brings out the absolute best in you. That bright shining star will naturally attract people who want to be around a person of character, integrity, and success. Your spouse will find you even more attractive, your children will have someone to admire and emulate. This can only be described as a win/win for everyone.
Relationships will blossom. It's been said birds of a feather flock together, and you'll find yourself in the company of others who share the same qualities as you. Bonds are formed cemented by mutual admiration, and suddenly you find yourself in the company of people you can count on!
As this journey progresses you'll find that the positives begin to outweigh the negatives in your life. What used to consume your thoughts and drive your worries, vanishes. All you have to dwell upon is surrounding yourself with all these great new people with positive outlooks and a sense of values your just not used to. The critics and detractors that filled your existence, assume their place of insignificance. That's when you realize you and all your followers are on the path to success. Bring along as many as you can, the comradery is fantastic!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Following!
As you grow personally your going to become a people magnet. The personal development program you embark upon brings out the absolute best in you. That bright shining star will naturally attract people who want to be around a person of character, integrity, and success. Your spouse will find you even more attractive, your children will have someone to admire and emulate. This can only be described as a win/win for everyone.
Relationships will blossom. It's been said birds of a feather flock together, and you'll find yourself in the company of others who share the same qualities as you. Bonds are formed cemented by mutual admiration, and suddenly you find yourself in the company of people you can count on!
As this journey progresses you'll find that the positives begin to outweigh the negatives in your life. What used to consume your thoughts and drive your worries, vanishes. All you have to dwell upon is surrounding yourself with all these great new people with positive outlooks and a sense of values your just not used to. The critics and detractors that filled your existence, assume their place of insignificance. That's when you realize you and all your followers are on the path to success. Bring along as many as you can, the comradery is fantastic!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Sunday, March 6, 2011
What's Your Score?
This next piece of our F puzzle is an easy one. It simply falls into place effortlessly and all by itself! It's a by product of living the eight F's.
When you have your faith, and you also have an incredible relationship with your family, your finances are disciplined and in order, and your keeping yourself fit and healthy, wouldn't it be natural for life to become, fun? There you have it folks, the fifth F is fun. I remember way back when dating a girl who used to tell me, "if it's not fun, what's the point?" I think we can all agree that applies here. All of this, living life intentionally for excellence has to have a reward!
The great part is...you get to design your fun. Put together the biggest, most audacious dream you can muster and use the TEAM system to achieve that goal. A great example of this is one of the goals of TEAM. We are going to buy our own private tropical island. How would you like to have a piece of that paradise? Maybe your idea of fun differs, that's the beauty of being independent by following the eight F's. Your the master of your fate, and you get to determine the scope and depth of your fun.
Living life intentionally for excellence leads to financial freedom, relieving you from the constraints of a traditional job. Think about the fun you can have with a time schedule that's designed by you, and the financial ability to have the freedom to do as you please. Now that's fun! You get to spend as much time with who you want, where you want, doing what you want.
Isn't this really boiling down to an IQ test?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
When you have your faith, and you also have an incredible relationship with your family, your finances are disciplined and in order, and your keeping yourself fit and healthy, wouldn't it be natural for life to become, fun? There you have it folks, the fifth F is fun. I remember way back when dating a girl who used to tell me, "if it's not fun, what's the point?" I think we can all agree that applies here. All of this, living life intentionally for excellence has to have a reward!
The great part is...you get to design your fun. Put together the biggest, most audacious dream you can muster and use the TEAM system to achieve that goal. A great example of this is one of the goals of TEAM. We are going to buy our own private tropical island. How would you like to have a piece of that paradise? Maybe your idea of fun differs, that's the beauty of being independent by following the eight F's. Your the master of your fate, and you get to determine the scope and depth of your fun.
Living life intentionally for excellence leads to financial freedom, relieving you from the constraints of a traditional job. Think about the fun you can have with a time schedule that's designed by you, and the financial ability to have the freedom to do as you please. Now that's fun! You get to spend as much time with who you want, where you want, doing what you want.
Isn't this really boiling down to an IQ test?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
What's Your Score?
This next piece of our F puzzle is an easy one. It simply falls into place effortlessly and all by itself! It's a by product of living the eight F's.
When you have your faith, you've got an incredible relationship with your family, your finances are disciplined and in order, and your keeping yourself fit and healthy, wouldn't it be natural for life to become, fun? There you have it folks, the fifth F is fun. I remember way back when dating a girl who used to tell me, "if it's not fun, what's the point?" I think we can all agree that applies here. All of this, living life intentionally for excellence has to have a reward!
The great part is...you get to design your fun. Put together the biggest, most audacious dream you can muster and use the TEAM system to achieve that goal. A great example of this is one of the goals of TEAM. We are going to buy our own private tropical island. How would you like to have a piece of that paradise? Maybe your idea of fun differs, that's the beauty of being independent by following the eight F's. Your the master of your fate, and you get to determine the scope and depth of your fun.
Living life intentionally for excellence leads to financial freedom, relieving you from the constraints of a traditional job. Think about the fun you can have with a time schedule that's designed by you, and the financial ability to have the freedom to do as you please. Now that's fun! You get to spend as much time with who you want, where you want, doing what you want.
Isn't this really boiling down to an IQ test?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
When you have your faith, you've got an incredible relationship with your family, your finances are disciplined and in order, and your keeping yourself fit and healthy, wouldn't it be natural for life to become, fun? There you have it folks, the fifth F is fun. I remember way back when dating a girl who used to tell me, "if it's not fun, what's the point?" I think we can all agree that applies here. All of this, living life intentionally for excellence has to have a reward!
The great part is...you get to design your fun. Put together the biggest, most audacious dream you can muster and use the TEAM system to achieve that goal. A great example of this is one of the goals of TEAM. We are going to buy our own private tropical island. How would you like to have a piece of that paradise? Maybe your idea of fun differs, that's the beauty of being independent by following the eight F's. Your the master of your fate, and you get to determine the scope and depth of your fun.
Living life intentionally for excellence leads to financial freedom, relieving you from the constraints of a traditional job. Think about the fun you can have with a time schedule that's designed by you, and the financial ability to have the freedom to do as you please. Now that's fun! You get to spend as much time with who you want, where you want, doing what you want.
Isn't this really boiling down to an IQ test?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Fiscal Discipline!
The fourth piece of the F puzzle is one of the most difficult to master. The art of finance! You can't live life for excellence intentionally if your finances are a wreck! No one will follow a leader with broken fiscal policies long. It exudes a lack of discipline when the bill collectors are barking at the door. If you can't get your finances in order, then what other gaffs are hiding in your closets?
This post could go on for ever, because it's such a challenging subject! We'll just hit the highlights. One of the keys to financial order is to define the difference between a need and a want. Then it's critical to make those into a priority list. You need shelter and electricity, but you only need electricity if the rent or mortgage is paid! It's kind of senseless to have your electric bill current, and your rent or mortgage in arrears.
I've never met a broke person who didn't have cable, and usually Internet service. I hate to be the bearer of bad news but these aren't priorities. While the liberals in our government insist that high speed Internet service is a right, they neglect to tell you it's available at your local library. Pumping it into your home is a convenience, and we're going to address conveniences right now.
Anything that doesn't fit the definition of food, shelter, and basic clothing needs is defined as an accessory or a convenience, and needs to be place appropriately on the priority list. When you've earned the money to afford such accessories and your debts are paid, then, and only then, do you set goals for them. Until that time your income is devoted to the priorities and debt reduction.
Then to insure your financial education is complete, it's mandatory to learn to save. No matter how bleak your situation you must discipline yourself to put away something, even if it's just a quarter a pay period. Also it's good financial discipline to learn to tithe, a little investment in your eternal future.
Money is like oxygen, if you have it you never really think about it. If you don't it's a major concern! Why not take that pressure off your life, so you can live life intentionally for excellence? It's a simple matter of priorities and discipline. Trust me, you'll feel odd at first, but then going against what the herd is doing usually does. Here's the key...The herd's broke!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
This post could go on for ever, because it's such a challenging subject! We'll just hit the highlights. One of the keys to financial order is to define the difference between a need and a want. Then it's critical to make those into a priority list. You need shelter and electricity, but you only need electricity if the rent or mortgage is paid! It's kind of senseless to have your electric bill current, and your rent or mortgage in arrears.
I've never met a broke person who didn't have cable, and usually Internet service. I hate to be the bearer of bad news but these aren't priorities. While the liberals in our government insist that high speed Internet service is a right, they neglect to tell you it's available at your local library. Pumping it into your home is a convenience, and we're going to address conveniences right now.
Anything that doesn't fit the definition of food, shelter, and basic clothing needs is defined as an accessory or a convenience, and needs to be place appropriately on the priority list. When you've earned the money to afford such accessories and your debts are paid, then, and only then, do you set goals for them. Until that time your income is devoted to the priorities and debt reduction.
Then to insure your financial education is complete, it's mandatory to learn to save. No matter how bleak your situation you must discipline yourself to put away something, even if it's just a quarter a pay period. Also it's good financial discipline to learn to tithe, a little investment in your eternal future.
Money is like oxygen, if you have it you never really think about it. If you don't it's a major concern! Why not take that pressure off your life, so you can live life intentionally for excellence? It's a simple matter of priorities and discipline. Trust me, you'll feel odd at first, but then going against what the herd is doing usually does. Here's the key...The herd's broke!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Friday, March 4, 2011
"F" Number Three!
Well we've worked our way to the third F. With faith and family being the foundation and the cornerstone in our journey to live life intentionally for excellence, this next F is the mortar that holds it all together! Fitness is the next piece of the puzzle, because without your health, nothing from this point on that I talk about matters. Every king, every queen, every Hollywood star, every sport athlete, every musician, and every icon that has graced the media, they all have one thing in common. They soon found out that as their health declined so did their ability to enjoy life.
So shouldn't we take every step possible to guard our health? Keeping you body fit is also a message to others, it transmits a sense of discipline. If you take proactive steps to keep your body fit through some sort of fitness awareness, your by definition, living life intentionally for excellence. It begins with watching what we put in our bodies, and continues with some daily form of getting out of the chair or off the couch and exercising.
All of us yearn to be there to share the victories our families have earned. Who would want to be present when the fruit of their loins takes that all important stroll down the isle to marriage? How does one miss the birth of their grandchildren, or great grandchildren? There is always more victories to enjoy, so we must do all we can to remain fit and healthy.
I'd encourage you to research the health products offered by Mona Vie and eagerly consumed by the members of TEAM. We believe along with a consistent exercise program it's the best nutrition with the least amount of expense and hassle you can ingest. From weight to cholesterol management, to bolstering your immune system, they cover the gambit. It's why we partnered with the Mona Vie, they give us the tools to fill the third F's void. Dallin Larsen, the founder of Mona Vie, has been honored by Ernst and Young as the entrepreneur of the year, which is no small deal.
Twenty-five years of inspiration
Our belief that entrepreneurs can transform economies, drive innovation and indeed, change communities, has been proven true year after year.
So as we embark on the 25th anniversary of the Entrepreneur Of The Year® Program, we do so with celebration and in the company of more than 8,000 of the most creative and inspirational entrepreneurs from around the globe. And we invite the entrepreneurs of tomorrow to join us at the table with your drive and best ideas.
Our vision, a celebration of the world’s most influential and innovative entrepreneurs, began in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1986. Twenty-five years later, the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year is the world’s most prestigious business award for entrepreneurs. Our global program now spans more than 140 cities and 50 countries worldwide, and the US Program has grown from one program to twenty-six.
We couple that with the #7 and the #12 leadership guru's in the world at the helm of the TEAM leadership development engine and it's like the marriage of chocolate and peanut butter. How can you not live life intentionally for excellence, with that kind of support?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
So shouldn't we take every step possible to guard our health? Keeping you body fit is also a message to others, it transmits a sense of discipline. If you take proactive steps to keep your body fit through some sort of fitness awareness, your by definition, living life intentionally for excellence. It begins with watching what we put in our bodies, and continues with some daily form of getting out of the chair or off the couch and exercising.
All of us yearn to be there to share the victories our families have earned. Who would want to be present when the fruit of their loins takes that all important stroll down the isle to marriage? How does one miss the birth of their grandchildren, or great grandchildren? There is always more victories to enjoy, so we must do all we can to remain fit and healthy.
I'd encourage you to research the health products offered by Mona Vie and eagerly consumed by the members of TEAM. We believe along with a consistent exercise program it's the best nutrition with the least amount of expense and hassle you can ingest. From weight to cholesterol management, to bolstering your immune system, they cover the gambit. It's why we partnered with the Mona Vie, they give us the tools to fill the third F's void. Dallin Larsen, the founder of Mona Vie, has been honored by Ernst and Young as the entrepreneur of the year, which is no small deal.
Twenty-five years of inspiration
Our belief that entrepreneurs can transform economies, drive innovation and indeed, change communities, has been proven true year after year.
So as we embark on the 25th anniversary of the Entrepreneur Of The Year® Program, we do so with celebration and in the company of more than 8,000 of the most creative and inspirational entrepreneurs from around the globe. And we invite the entrepreneurs of tomorrow to join us at the table with your drive and best ideas.
Our vision, a celebration of the world’s most influential and innovative entrepreneurs, began in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1986. Twenty-five years later, the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year is the world’s most prestigious business award for entrepreneurs. Our global program now spans more than 140 cities and 50 countries worldwide, and the US Program has grown from one program to twenty-six.
We couple that with the #7 and the #12 leadership guru's in the world at the helm of the TEAM leadership development engine and it's like the marriage of chocolate and peanut butter. How can you not live life intentionally for excellence, with that kind of support?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Thursday, March 3, 2011
The Second F!
The next F in our journey to live life intentionally for excellence is.....
FAMILY
This in my mind is second to only faith. It's also likely the most challenging on your road to excellence. The only people that know you better than you know yourself is your family. Every falter, guffaw, faux paw, and screw up you've ever made they are privy to. They can be your biggest supporter, or your harshest critic. One thing for sure, they are yours, and yours to deal with! So if your going to convince others your leading a life of excellence intentionally, you better start here!
Everything begins at home, to be an effective leader it's critical to start there. Not many people will follow someone who cannot display a family life that exudes order. If you don't master your own dominion, you have no place mentoring others on theirs. People tend to accept advice from others who actually have the fruit on the tree. So if your life is truly lived intentionally for excellence, you home life has to reflect that.
I know, I know, we all have those "special" individuals that share our gene pool. The one's that keep you asking if a DNA test isn't really such a bad idea. Very few of us are blessed without such family members, in fact I have a couple. If you do find that person is missing in your family unit, go look in the mirror and certify they aren't staring back at you! See, those people are what makes living life intentionally for excellence such a great goal, it's challenging! Not everyone can do it! That, by definition, is what makes it exceptional! So put on your "big boy" boots and go seek the proper information to help you deal with these "special" family members, even if they turn out to be you.
Once you've mastered your family challenge, there will be no greater satisfaction, or stronger supporters. They also begin to see the value in living life intentionally for excellence, and it begins to affect others. Your circle of friends will begin to be influenced and before too long it'll spread like wildfire! With that kind of support you can conquer the world. With out it, not so much. So mastering your faith and then your family are the first two stepping stones to the path to a life of excellence!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
FAMILY
This in my mind is second to only faith. It's also likely the most challenging on your road to excellence. The only people that know you better than you know yourself is your family. Every falter, guffaw, faux paw, and screw up you've ever made they are privy to. They can be your biggest supporter, or your harshest critic. One thing for sure, they are yours, and yours to deal with! So if your going to convince others your leading a life of excellence intentionally, you better start here!
Everything begins at home, to be an effective leader it's critical to start there. Not many people will follow someone who cannot display a family life that exudes order. If you don't master your own dominion, you have no place mentoring others on theirs. People tend to accept advice from others who actually have the fruit on the tree. So if your life is truly lived intentionally for excellence, you home life has to reflect that.
I know, I know, we all have those "special" individuals that share our gene pool. The one's that keep you asking if a DNA test isn't really such a bad idea. Very few of us are blessed without such family members, in fact I have a couple. If you do find that person is missing in your family unit, go look in the mirror and certify they aren't staring back at you! See, those people are what makes living life intentionally for excellence such a great goal, it's challenging! Not everyone can do it! That, by definition, is what makes it exceptional! So put on your "big boy" boots and go seek the proper information to help you deal with these "special" family members, even if they turn out to be you.
Once you've mastered your family challenge, there will be no greater satisfaction, or stronger supporters. They also begin to see the value in living life intentionally for excellence, and it begins to affect others. Your circle of friends will begin to be influenced and before too long it'll spread like wildfire! With that kind of support you can conquer the world. With out it, not so much. So mastering your faith and then your family are the first two stepping stones to the path to a life of excellence!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
The First Of Eight!
In yesterday's post I eluded to the eight F's, and promised to explain them at a later time. So with that in mind I'll explain what the eight F's bring to the table. The eight F's represent a guideline of priorities, so the order is up to the individual, but the first one is on top of my priority list, and for good reason!
FAITH
This is the cornerstone of leadership. Just as you wouldn't build a skyscraper on a soft sandy foundation, you'll never achieve any height in leadership without a foundation of faith. When your grounded in a sense of principles, supplied by a moral compass, people can believe in you. They can buy into your vision, and take stock in the hope you present to them. Because if you can't offer people hope, why, oh why, would they follow you?
A great example of this is found in the Bible...imagine that! Ezekiel the prophet tells us the Spirit of the Lord brought him into a valley. A Valley of bones, and he was asked. "Son of man can these bones live?" And Ezekiel answered,"O Lord God you know." Again He said to me," Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, O dry bones hear the word of the Lord. Thus says the Lord God to these bones: Behold I will cause breath, and you shall live. And I will lay sinews upon you and cover you in skin and put breath in you, and you shall live; and you shall know that I am the Lord."-Ezekiel 37:1-6
Ezekiel does as he was told and he tells us there was a great noise and the bones came together. And as he watched skin was formed, but there was no spirit in them. So the Lord told Ezekiel..."
"Prophesy to the spirit, prophesy son of man, and say to the spirit., "Thus say the Lord God: Come from the four winds, O spirit, and breath upon these slain, that they may live." So he did as he was told and they stood on their feet and lived and they said. "Our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost."-Ezekiel 37: 7-11
Leadership is not only influence of others, it's the presence of hope. If we do not offer hope, aren't their bones dried up? When you lead people follow in hope that you'll bring them to a better place, otherwise what's the point of following you? They might as well wander aimlessly just as they were before they found you. By definition faith is hope, so to be an effective leader, make your true north....faith!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
FAITH
This is the cornerstone of leadership. Just as you wouldn't build a skyscraper on a soft sandy foundation, you'll never achieve any height in leadership without a foundation of faith. When your grounded in a sense of principles, supplied by a moral compass, people can believe in you. They can buy into your vision, and take stock in the hope you present to them. Because if you can't offer people hope, why, oh why, would they follow you?
A great example of this is found in the Bible...imagine that! Ezekiel the prophet tells us the Spirit of the Lord brought him into a valley. A Valley of bones, and he was asked. "Son of man can these bones live?" And Ezekiel answered,"O Lord God you know." Again He said to me," Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, O dry bones hear the word of the Lord. Thus says the Lord God to these bones: Behold I will cause breath, and you shall live. And I will lay sinews upon you and cover you in skin and put breath in you, and you shall live; and you shall know that I am the Lord."-Ezekiel 37:1-6
Ezekiel does as he was told and he tells us there was a great noise and the bones came together. And as he watched skin was formed, but there was no spirit in them. So the Lord told Ezekiel..."
"Prophesy to the spirit, prophesy son of man, and say to the spirit., "Thus say the Lord God: Come from the four winds, O spirit, and breath upon these slain, that they may live." So he did as he was told and they stood on their feet and lived and they said. "Our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost."-Ezekiel 37: 7-11
Leadership is not only influence of others, it's the presence of hope. If we do not offer hope, aren't their bones dried up? When you lead people follow in hope that you'll bring them to a better place, otherwise what's the point of following you? They might as well wander aimlessly just as they were before they found you. By definition faith is hope, so to be an effective leader, make your true north....faith!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
It's All About You!
Today I just have to crow a little bit, I got a promotion, of sorts. You see my mentor Orrin Woodward has just been catapulted to the #7 top leadership guru position. That in itself being a wonderful statement of success, is not the only good news. His partner and co writer Chris Brady has also been elevated from the #22 spot to the # 12 position. So the TEAM leadership development engine now enjoys two leaders in the top 15 positions worldwide. None of the others represented in the list have achieved that! That's quite a testament to the duplicatable system that Orrin Woodward has developed to create leadership development. You can easily access both these leaders words of wisdom by clicking on the links to their blogs over>>>>>>there.
TEAM is big on acronyms, TEAM being one itself.
Teaching
Everyone
About
Meaning
And this is done by yet another acronym, LIFE.
Living
Intentionally
For
Excellence
We do that by using a priority system we like to call the eight F's. I'll address them in a future blog! TEAM's stated goal is to inspire a million people into our leadership engine. A million that will teach this philosophy to their children, and bring about the change we so desperately need. Can you imaging a country run by people of character and integrity? A country where people are encouraged to be accountable to themselves, independent and enjoying the liberty brought on by self reliance? Our product at TEAM is you. A better and healthier, you. A wiser and financially free, you. A loving and nurturing, you. All brought about by simply pointing you to the education and wisdom from those who achieved success before us. Success in faith, finance, relationships, all the tools you need to build a community of leaders too. With that person who stares at you in the mirror every morning being our focus, it makes you wonder how anyone could possibly not want to take advantage of this opportunity. After all who doesn't want to be the best you, you can be?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
TEAM is big on acronyms, TEAM being one itself.
Teaching
Everyone
About
Meaning
And this is done by yet another acronym, LIFE.
Living
Intentionally
For
Excellence
We do that by using a priority system we like to call the eight F's. I'll address them in a future blog! TEAM's stated goal is to inspire a million people into our leadership engine. A million that will teach this philosophy to their children, and bring about the change we so desperately need. Can you imaging a country run by people of character and integrity? A country where people are encouraged to be accountable to themselves, independent and enjoying the liberty brought on by self reliance? Our product at TEAM is you. A better and healthier, you. A wiser and financially free, you. A loving and nurturing, you. All brought about by simply pointing you to the education and wisdom from those who achieved success before us. Success in faith, finance, relationships, all the tools you need to build a community of leaders too. With that person who stares at you in the mirror every morning being our focus, it makes you wonder how anyone could possibly not want to take advantage of this opportunity. After all who doesn't want to be the best you, you can be?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
