As a parent, how does one know when they've been successful raising their brood? When a child emerges from adolescence without a police record? When the children graduate college? When they land their first job? When the first grandchild is born?
Those are the rewards of successful parenting. They highlight milestones of years of great influence that led to those significant achievements. The parent that has a great relationship with a responsible, mature, adult child knows success. This was accomplished by day after day of responsible parenting, leading by example, and imparting influence that made an impression.
While the job really never ends, success leaves clues!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
I'll Be Your Round-About!
"There are no speed limits on the road to destruction (which may, in part, account for its popularity)."-Chris Brady (LIFE founder)
I'd be remiss if I didn't repeat this quote for everyone. It's a fantastic combination of truth and humor. An interesting point is there is usually no one blocking your path either. But every once in a while someone from the LIFE business gets over in the left hand lane and runs interference. Occasionally we are also capable of running that vehicle of destruction off the road, and point it in the right direction. It's like a bizarre version of non-demolition derby. I love what we do, the results are so gratifying. So those of you who have joined in this mission, let's get out there and be the round-abouts that redirect those vehicles of destruction!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
I'd be remiss if I didn't repeat this quote for everyone. It's a fantastic combination of truth and humor. An interesting point is there is usually no one blocking your path either. But every once in a while someone from the LIFE business gets over in the left hand lane and runs interference. Occasionally we are also capable of running that vehicle of destruction off the road, and point it in the right direction. It's like a bizarre version of non-demolition derby. I love what we do, the results are so gratifying. So those of you who have joined in this mission, let's get out there and be the round-abouts that redirect those vehicles of destruction!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, October 29, 2012
Define The Why!
It's interesting how the motivation involved behind a task changes the perspective. Very few of us would find the labor behind filling bags with dirt appealing. It's hard, dirty, back breaking labor. But if the cause was defined as using those bags to build a dike to keep a town from flooding, the work would take on a whole new appeal. Perhaps it's more the vision of what your laboring for that defines the tedium of the chore?
The assignment of purpose makes the medicine go down. We'd be hard pressed to find people to voluntarily become the operator of a shovel; it's simply work that most people find beneath them. Redefine the purpose to saving someone who's buried in a hole and those shovel operators are many and dedicated. We are creatures that seek significance. We need purpose to fulfill an assignment with vim and vigor. This is why it's so important as a leader to be able to paint the vision of purpose. Purpose drives people! Lack of purpose ignites a mediocre effort at best. Results are defined by the vision of the reward, and the reward has to invoke a sense of significance. Define the why!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
The assignment of purpose makes the medicine go down. We'd be hard pressed to find people to voluntarily become the operator of a shovel; it's simply work that most people find beneath them. Redefine the purpose to saving someone who's buried in a hole and those shovel operators are many and dedicated. We are creatures that seek significance. We need purpose to fulfill an assignment with vim and vigor. This is why it's so important as a leader to be able to paint the vision of purpose. Purpose drives people! Lack of purpose ignites a mediocre effort at best. Results are defined by the vision of the reward, and the reward has to invoke a sense of significance. Define the why!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Sunday, October 28, 2012
A Bountiful Harvest!
Last night I was inspired with the comment, "a seed that's not planted can never grow." What struck me in those words was how they relayed the potential inside each and everyone of us. We all have seeds of greatness within. The only thing that keeps us from our own victory is the transfer of that seed into an environment that inspires us to sprout. I'm in such an environment this weekend!
We all can hone our potential to achieve the results of say, Mother Theresa when it comes to faith and charity, or perhaps we want a "Father Knows Best" crop of family life. Maybe we'd like the financial genius of Warren Buffet, or the drive for freedom of Patrick Henry. It doesn't matter which of the eight "F's" we choose to excel in, the potential is right inside of us. The common denominator shared by everyone who excels is they got better information, and acted upon it. Greatness is not reserved for a certain class of people, it merely a matter of making a decision to cultivate the harvest that's buried deep inside of each and everyone of us.
You can't harvest that crop without taking the necessary steps. The soil must be tilled and fertile enough to support growth. It has to be sprinkled daily with information so it has the nutrition to extend its roots and not wither. The weeds of doubt and ego must be pulled to prevent the choking off of growth, and finally those seeds need daily sunshine and the warming input of love and nurturing. These are the keys to a bountiful harvest of exceptionalism! It's not a secret, it's a process!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
We all can hone our potential to achieve the results of say, Mother Theresa when it comes to faith and charity, or perhaps we want a "Father Knows Best" crop of family life. Maybe we'd like the financial genius of Warren Buffet, or the drive for freedom of Patrick Henry. It doesn't matter which of the eight "F's" we choose to excel in, the potential is right inside of us. The common denominator shared by everyone who excels is they got better information, and acted upon it. Greatness is not reserved for a certain class of people, it merely a matter of making a decision to cultivate the harvest that's buried deep inside of each and everyone of us.
You can't harvest that crop without taking the necessary steps. The soil must be tilled and fertile enough to support growth. It has to be sprinkled daily with information so it has the nutrition to extend its roots and not wither. The weeds of doubt and ego must be pulled to prevent the choking off of growth, and finally those seeds need daily sunshine and the warming input of love and nurturing. These are the keys to a bountiful harvest of exceptionalism! It's not a secret, it's a process!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Great Verses Ugly!
What an outstanding event! Surrounded by tens of thousands of like minded people, absorbing nuggets on leadership, freedom, faith, fun, fitness, finance, family, following, and friends! Bombshell ideas, and principle based teaching, that's designed to change our culture back to one of personal responsibility, and education.
That last part is key! How do we find our country in the mess it's currently in? Simple, we became ignorant and apathetic. It's time we got back to a level of understanding. Our citizens bear the personal responsibility of being informed and educated enough to know when we're being misled.
Being here in Ohio, a swing state, I cannot express the level of ignorance that the media is playing to, in order to attract votes. I made the mistake of turning on the radio in my rental car, and I have to tell you, if Washington and the media thinks the voting population is that dumb, we are cooked as a nation. One ad in particular really blew my mind. A democrat super-pac is imploring men of Afro-American heritage to vote for two unconscionable reasons. First, the guy running against the President is white, and as a black man you don't want a white individual telling you what to do. Their second point was all the black women have already cast their vote for the President and it's their responsibility as a male member of the black community to not allow women to outdo them. Now there are two valid reasons to elect someone. Is there any wonder why our nation is in total chaos?
We have a lot of educating to do. Principles are lost, and values have been abandoned. There is no reason for the above ignorance to even exist in our great nation. It's time to change the culture of our voting population and demand better. Last tidbit, turn off the media that's dumbing down America!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
That last part is key! How do we find our country in the mess it's currently in? Simple, we became ignorant and apathetic. It's time we got back to a level of understanding. Our citizens bear the personal responsibility of being informed and educated enough to know when we're being misled.
Being here in Ohio, a swing state, I cannot express the level of ignorance that the media is playing to, in order to attract votes. I made the mistake of turning on the radio in my rental car, and I have to tell you, if Washington and the media thinks the voting population is that dumb, we are cooked as a nation. One ad in particular really blew my mind. A democrat super-pac is imploring men of Afro-American heritage to vote for two unconscionable reasons. First, the guy running against the President is white, and as a black man you don't want a white individual telling you what to do. Their second point was all the black women have already cast their vote for the President and it's their responsibility as a male member of the black community to not allow women to outdo them. Now there are two valid reasons to elect someone. Is there any wonder why our nation is in total chaos?
We have a lot of educating to do. Principles are lost, and values have been abandoned. There is no reason for the above ignorance to even exist in our great nation. It's time to change the culture of our voting population and demand better. Last tidbit, turn off the media that's dumbing down America!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Friday, October 26, 2012
Time Flies!
It's that time again! Another leadership convention on the grounds of Ohio State University, where tens of thousands of like minded people will gather to remind themselves how important their role is in changing the culture of this nation.
I'm a little delayed in departing as this little weather event is putting into question if my departure is going to happen. It's not the first time weather has played a factor, but it's not usually fall, but winter that tries to impede our voyage into leadership. Snow, hurricanes, it doesn't matter. Leaders find a way to get things done, and be there I will!
This reminds me of a voyage into leadership a couple of years ago. Typing this as the power just went out, I recall flying into Atlanta, Georgia to meet my connecting flight to St. Louis. Just when it appeared we were going to be stranded because of airport closures due to snow, an alternative came to mind. We rebooked into Memphis, where the snow had yet to hit, rented a car and drove to St. Louis to arrive at oh- dark- thirty, but there none the less!
Leadership demands outside the box thinking! In order to be extraordinary, you'll be required to do the extraordinary. That's what separates the leaders from the herd. So bring it hurricane Sandy, leaders love a challenge!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
I'm a little delayed in departing as this little weather event is putting into question if my departure is going to happen. It's not the first time weather has played a factor, but it's not usually fall, but winter that tries to impede our voyage into leadership. Snow, hurricanes, it doesn't matter. Leaders find a way to get things done, and be there I will!
This reminds me of a voyage into leadership a couple of years ago. Typing this as the power just went out, I recall flying into Atlanta, Georgia to meet my connecting flight to St. Louis. Just when it appeared we were going to be stranded because of airport closures due to snow, an alternative came to mind. We rebooked into Memphis, where the snow had yet to hit, rented a car and drove to St. Louis to arrive at oh- dark- thirty, but there none the less!
Leadership demands outside the box thinking! In order to be extraordinary, you'll be required to do the extraordinary. That's what separates the leaders from the herd. So bring it hurricane Sandy, leaders love a challenge!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Our Choice!
I was reminded today the nothing good ever has to be forced. So as my mind pondered that thought, I was led to the greatest good of all, God. Although He has the power to force our obedience, it's optional. He also gave Adam and Eve the option to obey; they failed miserably, but they had the option.
So if government programs are "good" for us, why are they imposed and not freely accepted? A great example is the health care bill. Over 60% of America opposed this legislation, yet now we have it. Man was created and granted by his Creator the ability to choose what he deems best for himself. The greatest good in the universe has decided what is best for man, is for man to freely have options.
God helped us by giving mankind an outline of what is good behavior in The Ten Commandments, but didn't impose them upon us. We can freely disobey them as long as we are willing to accept eternal damnation. That was His form of government. It's not surprising our founding fathers stuck to this approach and wrote the Constitution to protect our right to choose. They never foresaw a time when the individual would cede his freedom for the "security" of allowing others to define their options, or lack of them. The principles of our nation were grounded in self reliance, and the charitable acts of the church and community to assist those who were unable to provide for themselves. The government's role was simply to provide for the security of that to come to fruition without intervention into the process.
Interestingly I encountered an individual the other day who was complaining about their taxes. He was certain that if a particular candidate was elected, his tax burden would increase. His concerns were he was already living well beyond his means, and there was no way he could lose another dollar of his income to the government. Yet he failed to understand that the reason for his tax burden was the overreach of the government and the programs outside the scope of their responsibility adding to that financial need from him. It didn't take long for me to logically explain to him how his tax dollar was being taken from him to be redistributed to others, and the more that occurred, the more taxes he'd have to pay. He immediately converted from a big government supporter, to a born again fiscal conservative. It's funny how quality information, applied lovingly, will lead people to the correct thinking.
Freedom needs to be taught with the passion that government dependency is. This big government mentality is a learned behavior. An indoctrination that is the result of a government run school curriculum. If you control the input of the youth, would you not promote your agenda? This is why government should have no role in education, and if you trace it back, you'll surely find the decline in America began the day we allowed government to assume the role of teacher.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
So if government programs are "good" for us, why are they imposed and not freely accepted? A great example is the health care bill. Over 60% of America opposed this legislation, yet now we have it. Man was created and granted by his Creator the ability to choose what he deems best for himself. The greatest good in the universe has decided what is best for man, is for man to freely have options.
God helped us by giving mankind an outline of what is good behavior in The Ten Commandments, but didn't impose them upon us. We can freely disobey them as long as we are willing to accept eternal damnation. That was His form of government. It's not surprising our founding fathers stuck to this approach and wrote the Constitution to protect our right to choose. They never foresaw a time when the individual would cede his freedom for the "security" of allowing others to define their options, or lack of them. The principles of our nation were grounded in self reliance, and the charitable acts of the church and community to assist those who were unable to provide for themselves. The government's role was simply to provide for the security of that to come to fruition without intervention into the process.
Interestingly I encountered an individual the other day who was complaining about their taxes. He was certain that if a particular candidate was elected, his tax burden would increase. His concerns were he was already living well beyond his means, and there was no way he could lose another dollar of his income to the government. Yet he failed to understand that the reason for his tax burden was the overreach of the government and the programs outside the scope of their responsibility adding to that financial need from him. It didn't take long for me to logically explain to him how his tax dollar was being taken from him to be redistributed to others, and the more that occurred, the more taxes he'd have to pay. He immediately converted from a big government supporter, to a born again fiscal conservative. It's funny how quality information, applied lovingly, will lead people to the correct thinking.
Freedom needs to be taught with the passion that government dependency is. This big government mentality is a learned behavior. An indoctrination that is the result of a government run school curriculum. If you control the input of the youth, would you not promote your agenda? This is why government should have no role in education, and if you trace it back, you'll surely find the decline in America began the day we allowed government to assume the role of teacher.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
The Whole Truth!
At some point Americans are going to find out the truth and be very angry at those who've been concealing and/or altering the information. The latest scandal in Libya is absolutely appalling. Apparently those in charge watched the incident in real time from both a drone camera, and security cameras on the compound. With a base that's a thirty minute flight away, staffed with special forces, why wasn't a fighter scrambled, and special operations dispatched to the scene? If they launched a drone to take pictures, wouldn't a fighter have been more effective?
Now that's just one of many deceptions plaguing this nation. Why it has become acceptable to mislead the public to achieve your agenda, speaks volumes to the quality of that agenda. Let's examine some historical facts that have been misrepresented....
Did you know that 52 of the 55 signers of The Declaration of Independence were orthodox,
deeply committed Christians? The other three all believed in the Bible as the divine truth,
the God of scripture, and His personal intervention.
It is the same congress that formed the American Bible Society. Immediately
after creating the Declaration of Independence, the Continental Congress
voted to purchase and import 20,000 copies of scripture for the people of this nation
Patrick Henry, who is called the firebrand of the American Revolution,
is still remembered for his words, 'Give me liberty or give me death.
But in current textbooks the context of these words is deleted. Here
is what he said:
“An appeal to arms and the God of hosts is all that is left us. But we shall not fight our battle alone. There is a just God that presides over the destinies of nations. The battle sir, is not of the strong alone. Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it almighty God. I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death.”
These sentences have been erased from our textbooks
Was Patrick Henry a Christian? The following year, 1776, he wrote this 'It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religion, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For that reason alone, people of other faiths have been afforded freedom of worship here.
Consider these words that Thomas Jefferson wrote on the front of his well- worn Bible: 'I am a Christian, that is to say a disciple of the doctrines of Jesus. I have little doubt that our whole country will soon be rallied to the unity of our Creator and, I hope, to the pure doctrine of Jesus also.
Consider these words from George Washington, the Father of our Nation, in his farewell speech on September 19, 1796:
'It is impossible to govern the world without God and the Bible. Of all the dispositions and habits that lead to political prosperity, our religion and morality are the indispensable supporters. Let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Reason and experience both forbid us to expect that our national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.'
Yet none of this is taught as history in the text books our children read. There are people who will attempt to change what is written in history when accounts don't serve their purpose. A great deal of what our children are taught isn't factually correct. Most of the accounts of the FDR administration is a liberal fairy tale, altered to conceal the huge failure he really was. Our history of today must be independently documented and saved for future generations so the truth be told.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Now that's just one of many deceptions plaguing this nation. Why it has become acceptable to mislead the public to achieve your agenda, speaks volumes to the quality of that agenda. Let's examine some historical facts that have been misrepresented....
Did you know that 52 of the 55 signers of The Declaration of Independence were orthodox,
deeply committed Christians? The other three all believed in the Bible as the divine truth,
the God of scripture, and His personal intervention.
It is the same congress that formed the American Bible Society. Immediately
after creating the Declaration of Independence, the Continental Congress
voted to purchase and import 20,000 copies of scripture for the people of this nation
Patrick Henry, who is called the firebrand of the American Revolution,
is still remembered for his words, 'Give me liberty or give me death.
But in current textbooks the context of these words is deleted. Here
is what he said:
“An appeal to arms and the God of hosts is all that is left us. But we shall not fight our battle alone. There is a just God that presides over the destinies of nations. The battle sir, is not of the strong alone. Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it almighty God. I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death.”
These sentences have been erased from our textbooks
Was Patrick Henry a Christian? The following year, 1776, he wrote this 'It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religion, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For that reason alone, people of other faiths have been afforded freedom of worship here.
Consider these words that Thomas Jefferson wrote on the front of his well- worn Bible: 'I am a Christian, that is to say a disciple of the doctrines of Jesus. I have little doubt that our whole country will soon be rallied to the unity of our Creator and, I hope, to the pure doctrine of Jesus also.
Consider these words from George Washington, the Father of our Nation, in his farewell speech on September 19, 1796:
'It is impossible to govern the world without God and the Bible. Of all the dispositions and habits that lead to political prosperity, our religion and morality are the indispensable supporters. Let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Reason and experience both forbid us to expect that our national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.'
Yet none of this is taught as history in the text books our children read. There are people who will attempt to change what is written in history when accounts don't serve their purpose. A great deal of what our children are taught isn't factually correct. Most of the accounts of the FDR administration is a liberal fairy tale, altered to conceal the huge failure he really was. Our history of today must be independently documented and saved for future generations so the truth be told.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
There Is No Debate!
Last night was the closing debate on the Presidential Campaign, and today the media and the people will decide who won. Personally, there was no need for debate, the results speak for themselves.
Libya just abused and killed out ambassador, Syria is murdering it's population, Egypt is in the hands of the Muslim Brotherhood and it's President is leading prayers calling for the destruction of Israel, there isn't a country in the Middle east under some kind of threat, and Iran is building a program to produce a nuclear weapon, North Korea is acting out and testing missiles, Mexico is angry at us for the gun running operation, Canada is upset with our denial of the building of the Keystone Pipeline, the European Union is on the verge of financial collapse, and Russia is passing us off as insignificant. There are issues with China manipulating it's currency, and Pakistan is a total mess, still harboring terrorists.
Now what was the reason for the debate, and who won?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Libya just abused and killed out ambassador, Syria is murdering it's population, Egypt is in the hands of the Muslim Brotherhood and it's President is leading prayers calling for the destruction of Israel, there isn't a country in the Middle east under some kind of threat, and Iran is building a program to produce a nuclear weapon, North Korea is acting out and testing missiles, Mexico is angry at us for the gun running operation, Canada is upset with our denial of the building of the Keystone Pipeline, the European Union is on the verge of financial collapse, and Russia is passing us off as insignificant. There are issues with China manipulating it's currency, and Pakistan is a total mess, still harboring terrorists.
Now what was the reason for the debate, and who won?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, October 22, 2012
Moral To A Point!
A great case for the limitation of government in our lives is laid out by Alex De Tocqueville when he notes in "Democracy in America,"
"Governments have but two means of overcoming the opposition of the governed: namely, the physical force that is at their own disposal, and the moral force that they derive from the decisions of the courts of justice."
So the will of the government is imposed at the point of a gun. This might make one wonder why we would want to be governed by something that has to be imposed upon us? The Bible is a form of government, with the guidelines listed in the Ten Commandments. It's a suggestion as to how to live, imposed by the Creator and enforced by the threat of damnation in hell. No force or guns applied. Your free to break as many Commandments as you like as often as you deem necessary as long as your willing to face the eternal consequences.
It took a long time to get to this point. Some religions still rely upon force to impose their doctrine, and it's as ineffective as government. Imposing violence is hardly the way to convince people to live a virtuous life, this begins in your upbringing, and is reinforced by the association you keep. Teach the culture how to live as free men and women by accepting their moral responsibility, and there'll be no need for justice imposed at the point of a gun. The responsibility lies with us.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
"Governments have but two means of overcoming the opposition of the governed: namely, the physical force that is at their own disposal, and the moral force that they derive from the decisions of the courts of justice."
So the will of the government is imposed at the point of a gun. This might make one wonder why we would want to be governed by something that has to be imposed upon us? The Bible is a form of government, with the guidelines listed in the Ten Commandments. It's a suggestion as to how to live, imposed by the Creator and enforced by the threat of damnation in hell. No force or guns applied. Your free to break as many Commandments as you like as often as you deem necessary as long as your willing to face the eternal consequences.
It took a long time to get to this point. Some religions still rely upon force to impose their doctrine, and it's as ineffective as government. Imposing violence is hardly the way to convince people to live a virtuous life, this begins in your upbringing, and is reinforced by the association you keep. Teach the culture how to live as free men and women by accepting their moral responsibility, and there'll be no need for justice imposed at the point of a gun. The responsibility lies with us.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Sunday, October 21, 2012
It Isn't So!
Occasionally I happen to cross paths with individuals that for some reason, feel the need to be self deprecating. I get the humility thing, but there is a point when it's taken just a tad too far. I don't know if it's because society has placed a label on those individuals, or they just cede this affliction as insurmountable, but it needs to stop. I'm referring to when one tells me they just aren't smart.
Now wisdom isn't reserved for the wise! It's freely available to anyone who can read or hear. It's not a dark secret kept away from John Q Public, locked away in secret vaults, reserved for only those who are worthy. It merely requires the inquisitiveness to want to know more. All that's required is the ability to discern if the input is coming from a credible source, and that leaves clues. Success in the particular field of discussion is one that can be relied upon as a marker of credibility. If something doesn't ring true about what your hearing, seek multiple sources that you deem credible.
When you encounter one of these people who declare ignorance, gently remind them that God doesn't make any junk. With that in mind, and the affirmation that we are made in His image, there is no place for the belief that they can't achieve any level of wisdom that they seek. It merely requires an effort. An effort that the Bible reminds us is our duty in Matthew 25:14-30.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Now wisdom isn't reserved for the wise! It's freely available to anyone who can read or hear. It's not a dark secret kept away from John Q Public, locked away in secret vaults, reserved for only those who are worthy. It merely requires the inquisitiveness to want to know more. All that's required is the ability to discern if the input is coming from a credible source, and that leaves clues. Success in the particular field of discussion is one that can be relied upon as a marker of credibility. If something doesn't ring true about what your hearing, seek multiple sources that you deem credible.
When you encounter one of these people who declare ignorance, gently remind them that God doesn't make any junk. With that in mind, and the affirmation that we are made in His image, there is no place for the belief that they can't achieve any level of wisdom that they seek. It merely requires an effort. An effort that the Bible reminds us is our duty in Matthew 25:14-30.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Your The Ship's Master!
Control what you think about and you can be the captain of your destiny! You set your course by what you read, watch, associate with, and listen to. So you don't drift off course, pour your energies into the direction you want your life to go, and you will see things you've never seen before. Remember boldness has genius, and the power of magic. A great example is Felix Baumgartner. How bold was it to ascend to the edge of space and throw yourself toward earth in an attempt to break the sound barrier while skydiving? His goal became his obsession, and achieved without a government dollar, or any government influence.
Your not condemned to live the rest of your life by the choices you've made in the past. Today begins anew, and your destination merely awaits you plugging in the coordinates and setting sail. It's never too late to begin and leave your regrets behind. There are two ways to live, one achieves significance, the other is spoken to by this movie quote from Achilles
"And that is why no one will ever remember your name!"
Make sure they know your name!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Your not condemned to live the rest of your life by the choices you've made in the past. Today begins anew, and your destination merely awaits you plugging in the coordinates and setting sail. It's never too late to begin and leave your regrets behind. There are two ways to live, one achieves significance, the other is spoken to by this movie quote from Achilles
"And that is why no one will ever remember your name!"
Make sure they know your name!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Friday, October 19, 2012
"Resolved Primer!"
What a morning! I woke up to a pre-dawn meteor shower while my dog and I took our morning stroll. What a beautiful display of God's creation as the particles from Halley's Comet lit up the sky like the attention grabbing sparkles from a celebratory skyrocket.
Speaking of outstanding! Life has just released a shorter version of Orrin Woodward's book, "Resolved." While I whole heartedly encourage everyone to read the original text, this condensed version, a Cliff Note style overview, is a great compilation and primer for the hesitant reader. John David Mann did an incredible job of revising the text into a quick reference handbook. The primer just encourages me to want to go back and reread the original. Without a double this work is a tool for promoting leadership and personal development, especially to the busy, and sometimes reluctant reader.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Speaking of outstanding! Life has just released a shorter version of Orrin Woodward's book, "Resolved." While I whole heartedly encourage everyone to read the original text, this condensed version, a Cliff Note style overview, is a great compilation and primer for the hesitant reader. John David Mann did an incredible job of revising the text into a quick reference handbook. The primer just encourages me to want to go back and reread the original. Without a double this work is a tool for promoting leadership and personal development, especially to the busy, and sometimes reluctant reader.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Wealth Creator Verses Paycheck Collector?
There is a stark difference between the political offerings for President of the United States during this election season. This night and day difference isn't understood by most of the nation.
On one hand we have a current President who doesn't understand how wealth is created. A couple of books bearing his name was authored an offered for sale, creating a residual income stream, whereby he became a man of wealth. Prior to that his career consisted of asking others for donations to support his bid to run for office. A beggar if you will. He lived off the generosity of others to fund his campaign bids, so after his elections he could collect a six figure salary. His efforts to earn a paycheck were aimed at collecting donors, a government welfare program if you will.
Now the challenger has a background of creating wealth. He collected investors, who were compensated for their trust, took their capital and created income.He knows how money works! He thinks like a 5% income earner, which frankly America does not. The 95% don't understand how this process works. They, like President Obama arrive at work and receive compensation for their attendance. The 5% arrive at work and create their compensation. Ask any business owner how this process works. They are the first to arrive, the last to leave, and the last to get paid. They think about money differently, they also have a different respect for the value of a dollar. Every dollar that leaves their control is potential profit, and that's how they are compensated. Employees don't have the same respect for their money, as politicians don't have any respect for our money. Herein lies the problem!
Politics, or political positions were never meant to be a career. They were meant to be a service to your country that was provided outside your job. It was entrepreneurs coming together to lend their expertise, to keep the nation solvent. We had a paradigm shift, and the industrial age found most entrepreneurs trading their business for jobs. So the understanding of wealth creation is passe'.
The choice is simple. Vote for a wealth creator, or a paycheck collector. Which serves this nation in it's time of need best?
God Bless
Capt. Bill
On one hand we have a current President who doesn't understand how wealth is created. A couple of books bearing his name was authored an offered for sale, creating a residual income stream, whereby he became a man of wealth. Prior to that his career consisted of asking others for donations to support his bid to run for office. A beggar if you will. He lived off the generosity of others to fund his campaign bids, so after his elections he could collect a six figure salary. His efforts to earn a paycheck were aimed at collecting donors, a government welfare program if you will.
Now the challenger has a background of creating wealth. He collected investors, who were compensated for their trust, took their capital and created income.He knows how money works! He thinks like a 5% income earner, which frankly America does not. The 95% don't understand how this process works. They, like President Obama arrive at work and receive compensation for their attendance. The 5% arrive at work and create their compensation. Ask any business owner how this process works. They are the first to arrive, the last to leave, and the last to get paid. They think about money differently, they also have a different respect for the value of a dollar. Every dollar that leaves their control is potential profit, and that's how they are compensated. Employees don't have the same respect for their money, as politicians don't have any respect for our money. Herein lies the problem!
Politics, or political positions were never meant to be a career. They were meant to be a service to your country that was provided outside your job. It was entrepreneurs coming together to lend their expertise, to keep the nation solvent. We had a paradigm shift, and the industrial age found most entrepreneurs trading their business for jobs. So the understanding of wealth creation is passe'.
The choice is simple. Vote for a wealth creator, or a paycheck collector. Which serves this nation in it's time of need best?
God Bless
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Post Debate Summary!
Interestingly last night's debate has been claimed to be owned by both sides. It's as if politicians and media think they can speak something into existence, just by proclaiming it's validity. Truth be told your world view determines what you saw last night, and the real winner will emerge by the poll shift, or lack of it, this week. Every partisan will declare his or her candidate a winner. Here's my take.
The debate was fraught with lies and excuses for non-performance. The moderator left her role as a neutral party when she wrongly backed the President's statement, which later turned out to be false. Mitt Romney offered no excuses, just the record of his results and achievements, which stands for itself. On content and truth, Mitt Romeny was far and away the clear cut winner.
So how does this play out? It depends on how informed the electorate is. Worse case scenario, I don't believe Mitt Romney hurt his cause, and I don't think the President helped his. The President fired up those who were already going to vote for him, but I'm not so sure he turned any true Independent voters heads.
Time will reveal the true winner!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
The debate was fraught with lies and excuses for non-performance. The moderator left her role as a neutral party when she wrongly backed the President's statement, which later turned out to be false. Mitt Romney offered no excuses, just the record of his results and achievements, which stands for itself. On content and truth, Mitt Romeny was far and away the clear cut winner.
So how does this play out? It depends on how informed the electorate is. Worse case scenario, I don't believe Mitt Romney hurt his cause, and I don't think the President helped his. The President fired up those who were already going to vote for him, but I'm not so sure he turned any true Independent voters heads.
Time will reveal the true winner!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
A Blast From The Past!
As you read this next paragraph, please consider how close we are to the fears of Alexis De Tocqueville coming to fruition. It's almost prophetic!
"Tocqueville's fearful second thoughts about the moral of his American experience led him to think that the individualism of Americans would lead, not to each individual being able to think for himself and to carve out his or her own view of the world, but to desperate isolation. Lost in the crowd of other individuals, we run the risk of having no resources save the domestic ones, and becoming absolutely dependent on government and public opinion for emotional, intellectual, and finally economic support."-Alan Ryan
Is the media forming public opinion? Did they not have a strong hand in electing the last President, and trying to do the same now? Are we not at an all time high for food stamps and government assistance? Does the federal government not control the curriculum in our public schools? Interesting that this was forewarned in the 1800's!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
"Tocqueville's fearful second thoughts about the moral of his American experience led him to think that the individualism of Americans would lead, not to each individual being able to think for himself and to carve out his or her own view of the world, but to desperate isolation. Lost in the crowd of other individuals, we run the risk of having no resources save the domestic ones, and becoming absolutely dependent on government and public opinion for emotional, intellectual, and finally economic support."-Alan Ryan
Is the media forming public opinion? Did they not have a strong hand in electing the last President, and trying to do the same now? Are we not at an all time high for food stamps and government assistance? Does the federal government not control the curriculum in our public schools? Interesting that this was forewarned in the 1800's!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, October 15, 2012
Part Of The Process!
"Equality of positions will perhaps inevitably be the enemy of glory, better at reducing misery than creating public splendor, more apt to give everyone some education than to throw off tremendous flashes of genius; but for many, these will be acceptable trades." -Alan Ryan
Curiously those words are penned in the introduction of "Democracy In America" an overview of the American experiment, written by a Frenchman in the early 1800's. Although Alan Ryan's words of wisdom were written in the 20th century, it rings a warning that foretells of a impending doom rearing it's head here in the early 21st century.
Leveling the playing field and attempting to achieve parody for all, is a path to mediocrity. Anyone who has achieved any level of success can testify that the process is, dream, struggle, victory. Without a struggle, there can be no victory. Victory is defined by overcoming. If you have no obstacle to defeat, how can you define your achievement? Participation is not a victory, it's merely a matter of attendance.
When we are fraught with struggle, we will do well to remind ourselves it's part of the process. In fact it's the last step prior to victory. So if your deep in the struggle, your win cannot be far off!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Curiously those words are penned in the introduction of "Democracy In America" an overview of the American experiment, written by a Frenchman in the early 1800's. Although Alan Ryan's words of wisdom were written in the 20th century, it rings a warning that foretells of a impending doom rearing it's head here in the early 21st century.
Leveling the playing field and attempting to achieve parody for all, is a path to mediocrity. Anyone who has achieved any level of success can testify that the process is, dream, struggle, victory. Without a struggle, there can be no victory. Victory is defined by overcoming. If you have no obstacle to defeat, how can you define your achievement? Participation is not a victory, it's merely a matter of attendance.
When we are fraught with struggle, we will do well to remind ourselves it's part of the process. In fact it's the last step prior to victory. So if your deep in the struggle, your win cannot be far off!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Sunday, October 14, 2012
A Word To The Wise!
Wisdom is glorious, never fades away, is easily seen by those that love wisdom, and is never withheld from those who seek it. He that rises early to seek wisdom, will not labor, for he'll find wisdom sitting at his door. To think, is to perfect understanding, and those that seek out wisdom, will quickly be secure. Wisdom is always on the hunt for those that search for it, and all that seek wisdom are worthy of it. The yearning of wisdom is the truest desire of discipline, for the lack of discipline is hardly wise. The adherence to discipline is the beginning of love; love of self and of others, and the path to a firm foundation of incorruption. When we live a life absent of corruption, will we not find ourselves closer to God? So it goes without saying the desire for wisdom will help us in our journey toward eternal life.
Now we know why self improvement is so darn important, and why it also brings us a sense of satisfaction when we embark down that path. Receive instruction from the right source, and it will be fruitful for your existence and your soul!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
This post relied heavily upon the teachings of "The Book of Wisdom."
Now we know why self improvement is so darn important, and why it also brings us a sense of satisfaction when we embark down that path. Receive instruction from the right source, and it will be fruitful for your existence and your soul!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
This post relied heavily upon the teachings of "The Book of Wisdom."
Saturday, October 13, 2012
"ME" Time!
"If people concentrated on the really important things in life, there would be a shortage of fishing poles!" - Doug Larson
Those are some very profound words! There is nothing that draws me into deep thought like a mindless task like fishing. Once I've mastered what it takes to convince my prey to consume the bait I'm offering, my mind has the opportunity to venture elsewhere. It's amazing what your mind can process when it's not overwhelmed with the daily grind. It's critical to personal development to take the "me time" required to empty your head of the nonessential, and ponder your purpose.
"Everybody can be great...because everyone can serve. You don't have to a college degree to serve. Your subject and verb don't have to agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace, and a soul generated by love."- Martin Luther King Jr.
Also profound words, worthy of that mindless thought time you need to make available to yourself to achieve your purpose. If we are caught up in the mundane, and that consumes our essence, we don't have time to serve others and reach our purpose. Take that quality time to come to the understanding of what that purpose is!
If you don't first think it, it can't come to fruition.
Results require focus, focus comes from thought, and thought is inspired by those quiet times when you can concentrate on what's important. You have to close out the world so it doesn't capture you attention and steal that special time when your alone with your thoughts.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Those are some very profound words! There is nothing that draws me into deep thought like a mindless task like fishing. Once I've mastered what it takes to convince my prey to consume the bait I'm offering, my mind has the opportunity to venture elsewhere. It's amazing what your mind can process when it's not overwhelmed with the daily grind. It's critical to personal development to take the "me time" required to empty your head of the nonessential, and ponder your purpose.
"Everybody can be great...because everyone can serve. You don't have to a college degree to serve. Your subject and verb don't have to agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace, and a soul generated by love."- Martin Luther King Jr.
Also profound words, worthy of that mindless thought time you need to make available to yourself to achieve your purpose. If we are caught up in the mundane, and that consumes our essence, we don't have time to serve others and reach our purpose. Take that quality time to come to the understanding of what that purpose is!
If you don't first think it, it can't come to fruition.
Results require focus, focus comes from thought, and thought is inspired by those quiet times when you can concentrate on what's important. You have to close out the world so it doesn't capture you attention and steal that special time when your alone with your thoughts.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Friday, October 12, 2012
Enough Debate, I'm Hungry!
Last night those of us who were watched the VP debate were treated to a leadership lesson, There was a questionable attempt by our current Vice President to assume a position of posture, violating every rule of etiquette known to man.
The first and most obvious was the over talking of another individual. Not limited to his opponent, but including the moderator. Because there was no substance to his posture, he relied on attempting to credible by being overbearing. Which leads me to the next rule violation...
You can be right at the top of your lungs, but your still wrong. Volume doesn't get your point across. It presents a position of desperation. The louder you become, the more you project a lack of emotional maturity.
Just these two points call into question the voter's ability to answer the question, "can we trust you?" Before people will be willing to follow someone's vision, or act on their initiatives.
The richness of the relationship between leaders and constituents, is like the relationship between the ingredients and a good sauce. Everything used to assemble that culinary treat must be blended and given time to simmer together. You cannot jeopardize the quality by violently disrupting that process, asserting yourself as the magic that makes the finished product happen. Instead of praising the quality of the ingredients, our current leadership looks for us to praise the pot washer. We have a recipe handed down through the generations that makes a beautiful marinara. It needs no tweaking, it just needs us to follow the process laid out 236 years ago. There shall be no debate about what gets put into the pot, how long it simmers, or a what temperature it needs to cook at.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
The first and most obvious was the over talking of another individual. Not limited to his opponent, but including the moderator. Because there was no substance to his posture, he relied on attempting to credible by being overbearing. Which leads me to the next rule violation...
You can be right at the top of your lungs, but your still wrong. Volume doesn't get your point across. It presents a position of desperation. The louder you become, the more you project a lack of emotional maturity.
Just these two points call into question the voter's ability to answer the question, "can we trust you?" Before people will be willing to follow someone's vision, or act on their initiatives.
The richness of the relationship between leaders and constituents, is like the relationship between the ingredients and a good sauce. Everything used to assemble that culinary treat must be blended and given time to simmer together. You cannot jeopardize the quality by violently disrupting that process, asserting yourself as the magic that makes the finished product happen. Instead of praising the quality of the ingredients, our current leadership looks for us to praise the pot washer. We have a recipe handed down through the generations that makes a beautiful marinara. It needs no tweaking, it just needs us to follow the process laid out 236 years ago. There shall be no debate about what gets put into the pot, how long it simmers, or a what temperature it needs to cook at.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Thursday, October 11, 2012
A Shine Like No Other!
I was studying a video the other day about how to restore the shine to aluminum and stainless steel. It's pretty cool how you can take something that's imperfect, start it on a process, and come out with a finished product of showroom quality. All it takes is effort and a level of determination. During the process the narrator made a statement that one should be careful as polishing can become addictive. I kind of blew that off as silly until I began the process on a piece that lacked the shine it was designed to have and was badly pitted.
I have to tell you I was skeptical, I was all but certain this piece was long gone and beyond salvaging. But I followed in the footsteps of the video and the shine began to return. It was a slow and laborious process, but because I knew what to look for I saw progress as outlined in the video, every step of the way. Soon I had a gleaming piece of polished aluminum, a masterpiece in anyone's eye. The process became addictive as forewarned because the results were so stunning, and that led to gratification. Results lead to conviction!
Then I began to realize that we are all just like that piece of pitted aluminum, and some of us have given up hope, not unlike the sentiment I had prior to the restoration process. What kept me persistent is, I was achieving results as outlined. This is the same way we should look at, and explain, personal development. First warn them that the process can, and will be, addictive. Then outline how to keep score, so they recognize when they are achieving the desired results. They'll push themselves harder against the polishing wheel until they, and others, see a shine like no other.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
I have to tell you I was skeptical, I was all but certain this piece was long gone and beyond salvaging. But I followed in the footsteps of the video and the shine began to return. It was a slow and laborious process, but because I knew what to look for I saw progress as outlined in the video, every step of the way. Soon I had a gleaming piece of polished aluminum, a masterpiece in anyone's eye. The process became addictive as forewarned because the results were so stunning, and that led to gratification. Results lead to conviction!
Then I began to realize that we are all just like that piece of pitted aluminum, and some of us have given up hope, not unlike the sentiment I had prior to the restoration process. What kept me persistent is, I was achieving results as outlined. This is the same way we should look at, and explain, personal development. First warn them that the process can, and will be, addictive. Then outline how to keep score, so they recognize when they are achieving the desired results. They'll push themselves harder against the polishing wheel until they, and others, see a shine like no other.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Your Purpose!
This morning my dog decided we needed to stretch our legs a little earlier than usual. I couldn't help but be amazed at the clear night sky, just full of stars and planets! The moon shone bright and there was a hint of the white fog of the Milky way cluster present. It made for quite an inspiring visual! As the vastness of this scenery took hold of my thoughts, I couldn't help but have an epiphany. How arrogant must mankind be to assume we even have an iota of how this all works? The orb we live on is but a pinhead of a speck in the universe. The expanse of the cosmos is so immense we define it as infinite, because we have no other term and it exceeds our imagination. Just like our Creator, the artist of this masterpiece, the whole concept is beyond the grasp of our capabilities to comprehend.
It's easy to come to a conclusion of insignificance when we are place against the magnitude of God's creation. But that would be a flawed assumption as each and everyone of us is of a special design. A design that is here for a purpose, a purpose we need to fulfill. While we seem small in the sum of the whole, the whole cannot exist without our participation, and the completion of our role as designed by the Grand Master. The engine will not run unless every nut, bolt, and washer is in place, and while it may seem like we don't matter in the grand scheme of things; the execution of our purpose serves to bring fruition the end result. You, and the reason you were put on the third rock from the sun, matter. Go and serve your purpose!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
It's easy to come to a conclusion of insignificance when we are place against the magnitude of God's creation. But that would be a flawed assumption as each and everyone of us is of a special design. A design that is here for a purpose, a purpose we need to fulfill. While we seem small in the sum of the whole, the whole cannot exist without our participation, and the completion of our role as designed by the Grand Master. The engine will not run unless every nut, bolt, and washer is in place, and while it may seem like we don't matter in the grand scheme of things; the execution of our purpose serves to bring fruition the end result. You, and the reason you were put on the third rock from the sun, matter. Go and serve your purpose!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Daily Leadership Examples!
I make a point to study leadership, it reveals where results come from. After all, aren't we all seeking the best possible results? Who in their right mind begins each day hoping for less than satisfactory results? So it behooves us to examine those with the fruit on the tree, and those who failed at leadership and why. One of the points that stands clear while being a student of leadership is you absolutely cannot be a manager. You will not get the desired results if you pop in once in a while and give a rah-rah speech, then disappear. Leadership is about serving others, and servant leadership is about spending time and investing energy to set a positive example. Case in point.
We are given a great example of how not to lead by our current President. Between games of golf and traveling the country side promoting himself, he finds it necessary to stand before us and offer excuses for a lack of performance. He's pass the job of leadership on to others! He stands before this great nation as a figurehead who manages the actions of a crew of credential packing academics with unproven theories. If a people are going to suffer in someway, the leader should show some sign of being inconvenienced as well. Personal participation in hardship, if you will, or at a minimum some level of empathy. A leader, leads by getting his hands dirty and being in the trenches. Whisking off to a golf outing, or hobnobbing with celebrity campaign donors at exclusive events clearly sends the wrong message.
You can see how this negative example is important to examine while learning to grow into a servant leader. Lessons come in all shapes and sizes, and it's important that we extract the do's and don'ts from everyday life. Guidance in your leadership journey cannot always be in person, but we are constantly surrounded by examples, some good, some not so much. They are there for a reason, learn and grow from them!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
We are given a great example of how not to lead by our current President. Between games of golf and traveling the country side promoting himself, he finds it necessary to stand before us and offer excuses for a lack of performance. He's pass the job of leadership on to others! He stands before this great nation as a figurehead who manages the actions of a crew of credential packing academics with unproven theories. If a people are going to suffer in someway, the leader should show some sign of being inconvenienced as well. Personal participation in hardship, if you will, or at a minimum some level of empathy. A leader, leads by getting his hands dirty and being in the trenches. Whisking off to a golf outing, or hobnobbing with celebrity campaign donors at exclusive events clearly sends the wrong message.
You can see how this negative example is important to examine while learning to grow into a servant leader. Lessons come in all shapes and sizes, and it's important that we extract the do's and don'ts from everyday life. Guidance in your leadership journey cannot always be in person, but we are constantly surrounded by examples, some good, some not so much. They are there for a reason, learn and grow from them!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, October 8, 2012
Mitt Comes to Town!
Curiosity overwhelmed me yesterday as I took the opportunity to attend a political function here in Port Saint Lucie. I'd heard that Mitt Romney was going to be here on his Victory Rally Tour, so after church was attended and the lawn was cut I grabbed my online ticket and headed on out.
The first thing I encountered was a bit eye opening. Two hours prior to the speaking engagement there was a traffic back up three lanes wide for two miles. Apparently this function was going to be well attended. So I battled my way through this inconvenience to find a parking place that was just a mile from the event. There were busses to shuttle the people, but it was a beautiful day and I was up for the walk. It really reminded me of going to a Dolphin's football game back in the day of the Orange Bowl, where most of the challenge is getting to the venue. The walk was worth the effort as I got to listen to different conversations and reflections of the attendees. I then was met by some crafty entrepreneurs who were selling election promotional paraphernalia. The venue had the same are as a live concert or a professional sporting event, and that's exactly why I chose to attend. When you hear a CD, or watch a game on TV, it doesn't have the feel for being at the live event. My hope was to get a feel for the heart of the speaker and to judge for myself. It was not a wasted effort!
After I made my way through airport type security, complete with TSA agents, I found myself once again in awe of my surroundings. The place was packed, the overflow was packed, and there was still a lengthly wait until the speech began. The crowd was diverse. There were seniors, bikers, minorities, families, college students, servicemen (current and retired), and some from the Birkenstock side of the fence. The place was crawling with media and cameras, who to no one's surprise seem to search out, interview, and photograph only the oddest of the bunch. I saw a man from the "Greatest Generation" proudly displaying his medals of combat in a frame, from the confines of his wheelchair. He would not be denied displaying his patriotism.
It became clear that this was a diverse crowd, and a large diverse crowd. Seniors were not buying the Meda-scare tactics, nor the threat of ending Social Security, as they were there in full force to support their candidate of choice. I saw a strong show of support from Catholics and other faiths adorning tee shirts saying, "I'm Catholic and I vote," or "I'm Christian and I vote." The place was filed with college age volunteers proudly wearing Romney/Ryan garb and assisting with any task at hand. Most importantly I saw families, lots of families! Parents felt safe bringing their children to this event, they also felt it important to expose their offspring to their values, and Mitt did not disappoint.
The campaign bus arrived, the speeches were made, and no one left disappointed. Well with the exception of the view. I'm sure by the craining necks there were a many who had hoped to get a better view, but the size of the crowd wouldn't allow for that. It's clear the Port Saint Lucie and the surrounding area is not a swinging vote. I was told there were 9000 in attendance, for a sleepy little retirement community, that's an outstanding turnout! One parting note; after all was said and done, the cleanup was minimal. Personal responsibility was apparent as most of the trash became trash, not litter.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
The first thing I encountered was a bit eye opening. Two hours prior to the speaking engagement there was a traffic back up three lanes wide for two miles. Apparently this function was going to be well attended. So I battled my way through this inconvenience to find a parking place that was just a mile from the event. There were busses to shuttle the people, but it was a beautiful day and I was up for the walk. It really reminded me of going to a Dolphin's football game back in the day of the Orange Bowl, where most of the challenge is getting to the venue. The walk was worth the effort as I got to listen to different conversations and reflections of the attendees. I then was met by some crafty entrepreneurs who were selling election promotional paraphernalia. The venue had the same are as a live concert or a professional sporting event, and that's exactly why I chose to attend. When you hear a CD, or watch a game on TV, it doesn't have the feel for being at the live event. My hope was to get a feel for the heart of the speaker and to judge for myself. It was not a wasted effort!
After I made my way through airport type security, complete with TSA agents, I found myself once again in awe of my surroundings. The place was packed, the overflow was packed, and there was still a lengthly wait until the speech began. The crowd was diverse. There were seniors, bikers, minorities, families, college students, servicemen (current and retired), and some from the Birkenstock side of the fence. The place was crawling with media and cameras, who to no one's surprise seem to search out, interview, and photograph only the oddest of the bunch. I saw a man from the "Greatest Generation" proudly displaying his medals of combat in a frame, from the confines of his wheelchair. He would not be denied displaying his patriotism.
It became clear that this was a diverse crowd, and a large diverse crowd. Seniors were not buying the Meda-scare tactics, nor the threat of ending Social Security, as they were there in full force to support their candidate of choice. I saw a strong show of support from Catholics and other faiths adorning tee shirts saying, "I'm Catholic and I vote," or "I'm Christian and I vote." The place was filed with college age volunteers proudly wearing Romney/Ryan garb and assisting with any task at hand. Most importantly I saw families, lots of families! Parents felt safe bringing their children to this event, they also felt it important to expose their offspring to their values, and Mitt did not disappoint.
The campaign bus arrived, the speeches were made, and no one left disappointed. Well with the exception of the view. I'm sure by the craining necks there were a many who had hoped to get a better view, but the size of the crowd wouldn't allow for that. It's clear the Port Saint Lucie and the surrounding area is not a swinging vote. I was told there were 9000 in attendance, for a sleepy little retirement community, that's an outstanding turnout! One parting note; after all was said and done, the cleanup was minimal. Personal responsibility was apparent as most of the trash became trash, not litter.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Spiritually Similar!
We live in a very tumultuous time in respect to religion. Never before have I seen such an uproar over not only religious freedom, but religious zealots demanding that their brand of worship be recognized over al others. It's a counterintuitive approach to respecting everyone's right to worship freely.
Now I have my set of beliefs, as do you. They are remarkably similar in the respect that we all worship our Creator. That Creator may have a different label, or our ceremonies to pay homage to our God may take a diverse ritual, but the objective is the same. We all praise that which brought us into being.
Now with that said, it is a solid assumption that our God is all powerful, and can impose His will in the blink of an eye. This too, every religion should recognize as truth. So why, oh why, would any one religion have to wage war or jihad on another? Our Creator is more than capable of defending Himself. By our own admission, He is all powerful. Our job is to spread His good word, not to impose His will. You see, God of every faith gave us choices. If this were not true, He would impose his will with daily discipline, unforgiving, and without excuse. After we exercise those options, we are held accountable when called to His presence.
Worship as you see fit. After all, your the one who will be held accountable come judgement day. Be the example your Creator designed you to be. We were all created in His image for a reason. It's because His image is one that attracts followers. You don't impose your beliefs at gunpoint, nor with legislation. You grow your spiritual community by attracting followers because your walked as the example of Him without sin.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Now I have my set of beliefs, as do you. They are remarkably similar in the respect that we all worship our Creator. That Creator may have a different label, or our ceremonies to pay homage to our God may take a diverse ritual, but the objective is the same. We all praise that which brought us into being.
Now with that said, it is a solid assumption that our God is all powerful, and can impose His will in the blink of an eye. This too, every religion should recognize as truth. So why, oh why, would any one religion have to wage war or jihad on another? Our Creator is more than capable of defending Himself. By our own admission, He is all powerful. Our job is to spread His good word, not to impose His will. You see, God of every faith gave us choices. If this were not true, He would impose his will with daily discipline, unforgiving, and without excuse. After we exercise those options, we are held accountable when called to His presence.
Worship as you see fit. After all, your the one who will be held accountable come judgement day. Be the example your Creator designed you to be. We were all created in His image for a reason. It's because His image is one that attracts followers. You don't impose your beliefs at gunpoint, nor with legislation. You grow your spiritual community by attracting followers because your walked as the example of Him without sin.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Say Cheese!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Friday, October 5, 2012
Proverbial Fishing!
Today's Blog is going to be short and sweet as it has been designated as a day of fishing by Orrin, so there is much to do this morning. I ran across this wonderful explanation about biblical proverbs, so I thought I'd share.....
"A proverb is an expression of practical wisdom that is drawn from the daily experiences of life. For example, in English we have the proverbs "Look before you leap," and " He who hesitates is lost." If you made those out to be absolutes, they would cancel each other out. The same would be true if we made all the proverbs in the Bible into absolutes."
It's best to remember there are but a few absolutes. The most important is God is your Creator and Jesus is your Savior.
Gone fishin....
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
"A proverb is an expression of practical wisdom that is drawn from the daily experiences of life. For example, in English we have the proverbs "Look before you leap," and " He who hesitates is lost." If you made those out to be absolutes, they would cancel each other out. The same would be true if we made all the proverbs in the Bible into absolutes."
It's best to remember there are but a few absolutes. The most important is God is your Creator and Jesus is your Savior.
Gone fishin....
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Fore!
Last night's debate reminded me of a heavyweight prizefighter's championship bout. In this corner we have the reigning champion, a solid credentialist, indoctrinated in theory by the finest learning institutions our nation has to offer, mired in academia. His glass jaw is his policies are grounded in theory with nary a shred of experience to offer proof of their validity.
In the other corner we have the challenger. Again a product of some of the finest learning institutions in America, a solid and proven performer in the private sector, with accolades of success to qualify him as the contender. His weak points are the media acts as his Achilles heal, and he is vulnerable in the like ability factor, exposing him to criticism.
So we had a bout of the proven performer verses the theory bound credentialist. The credentialist was handicapped right from the opening bell with four years of untested and under performing policies, caused by surrounding himself with advisors who were also credentialist's. His ringside support abandoned him before the championship bout when it became apparent the theory they espoused was full of holes and wasn't working. Back to the safety of academia they fled, leaving the champion to fend for himself. It was reminiscent of the scene in Rocky where his trainer died. The results were horrible as the champ looked like a worn out has been with no heart. It was apparent to all ringside that his retirement should have come prior to this one last match. There were a couple of good jabs, but in the end the stamina of the well trained and well conditioned challenger was overwhelming. Adrian! I mean, Michelle!!!!!
This is the challenge our nation is faced with. Are we going to be subjected to the theories of the untested credentialist, or led by a proven performer? While classroom time is invaluable, experience is, and always has been, the best teacher. President Obama got a full serving of experience last night. May his impending rounds of golf be more gracious to him!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
In the other corner we have the challenger. Again a product of some of the finest learning institutions in America, a solid and proven performer in the private sector, with accolades of success to qualify him as the contender. His weak points are the media acts as his Achilles heal, and he is vulnerable in the like ability factor, exposing him to criticism.
So we had a bout of the proven performer verses the theory bound credentialist. The credentialist was handicapped right from the opening bell with four years of untested and under performing policies, caused by surrounding himself with advisors who were also credentialist's. His ringside support abandoned him before the championship bout when it became apparent the theory they espoused was full of holes and wasn't working. Back to the safety of academia they fled, leaving the champion to fend for himself. It was reminiscent of the scene in Rocky where his trainer died. The results were horrible as the champ looked like a worn out has been with no heart. It was apparent to all ringside that his retirement should have come prior to this one last match. There were a couple of good jabs, but in the end the stamina of the well trained and well conditioned challenger was overwhelming. Adrian! I mean, Michelle!!!!!
This is the challenge our nation is faced with. Are we going to be subjected to the theories of the untested credentialist, or led by a proven performer? While classroom time is invaluable, experience is, and always has been, the best teacher. President Obama got a full serving of experience last night. May his impending rounds of golf be more gracious to him!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Here Is My Election Sample!
The last few days I've been taking a poll. I remember four years ago when you couldn't turn your head one way or another without seeing an Obama/Biden bumper sticker or yard sign. So I challenged myself to take note of who was getting the bumper vote, and I have to say the results were less than expected. Apparently the bumper sticker crowd isn't as fired up this election cycle as in previous contests. I could only find one Obama sticker and five Romney bumper style supporters. Now this could be attributed to an over sampling of vehicle that were not turned in to the "cash for clunkers" program, or it could be a sign of less than enthusiastic support. This is not a scientific poll, but then none of them are!
So I turned my attention to yard signs. They were a big indicator last time, and surely the "grass roots" support would be apparent, (pun intended). Luckily I did find one neighborhood who whole heartedly supported the yard sign business model, as they were strewn everywhere. Almost every yard had shown some type of support or another, but alas none were for the Presidential race, all local or state candidates. I did find 2 lone Obama headstones, er, I mean yard signs, and five supporting Romeny. Perhaps I over sampled homes with front yards?
I can only conclude that in these tough economic times there is a shortage of businesses that produce these political advertising tools. We've all been told by the media that polls have shown that our incumbent President has a substantial lead in this race and that would lead one to believe he also has those polled support. Since this isn't abundantly apparent on bumpers or though out neighborhoods, one can only conclude it's a shortage of materials. Unless of course you add the caveat that there are a ton of bumper stickers and yard signs for "Allen West for Congress" everywhere. Either Allen West has a monopoly on political advertisement paraphernalia, or this area isn't all that fired up about the President or his potential replacement. Perhaps Allen West should have run for President?
Bottom line, (if I were Joe Biden this would be a signal I was about to lie), There isn't much support for the Presidential candidates in this area, but there is an overwhelming show of support for the Republican Allen West. One might deduce that candidate West supporters could pull the lever for Mitt Romeny since they are already in the voting booth, and he is also a republican. Once again this is not a scientific analysis of the data, just an observation of the obvious!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
PS..Do you own poll and announce your results! Nothing better than on site input!
So I turned my attention to yard signs. They were a big indicator last time, and surely the "grass roots" support would be apparent, (pun intended). Luckily I did find one neighborhood who whole heartedly supported the yard sign business model, as they were strewn everywhere. Almost every yard had shown some type of support or another, but alas none were for the Presidential race, all local or state candidates. I did find 2 lone Obama headstones, er, I mean yard signs, and five supporting Romeny. Perhaps I over sampled homes with front yards?
I can only conclude that in these tough economic times there is a shortage of businesses that produce these political advertising tools. We've all been told by the media that polls have shown that our incumbent President has a substantial lead in this race and that would lead one to believe he also has those polled support. Since this isn't abundantly apparent on bumpers or though out neighborhoods, one can only conclude it's a shortage of materials. Unless of course you add the caveat that there are a ton of bumper stickers and yard signs for "Allen West for Congress" everywhere. Either Allen West has a monopoly on political advertisement paraphernalia, or this area isn't all that fired up about the President or his potential replacement. Perhaps Allen West should have run for President?
Bottom line, (if I were Joe Biden this would be a signal I was about to lie), There isn't much support for the Presidential candidates in this area, but there is an overwhelming show of support for the Republican Allen West. One might deduce that candidate West supporters could pull the lever for Mitt Romeny since they are already in the voting booth, and he is also a republican. Once again this is not a scientific analysis of the data, just an observation of the obvious!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
PS..Do you own poll and announce your results! Nothing better than on site input!
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Effective Messaging!
I was reminded of some interesting information yesterday that everyone can use. It's important these days to have our point absorbed by others, so I thought I'd highlight how we learn and retain information so we can be the most effective teachers of others.
We retain information through hearing, seeing, speaking, and repeating. The least effective method of retention is when we read. Our minds only retain 10% of that input. When we hear something our minds process it a little better as we absorb 20% of that message. It's also been noted that when someone is verbally instructed that after a three hour incubation period they can repeat 70% of the original message, but their recall after three days drops to a 10% retention level.
Now when we see something demonstrated the absorption rate rises to 30%, with a 72% recall after three hours and a 20% ability to repeat after three days.
When we see and hear a demonstration the rate spikes to 50%, and if we physically repeat the message it climbs to a 70% retention rate.
Here's the big boy! We have a 90% rate of retention of what we speak and demonstrate, with an 85% recall after three hours and a 65% after three days!
So to get your message across effectively have them repeat what you say as they are acting out a demonstration of the message! What a useful tool, especially with children! Say, do, repeat!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
We retain information through hearing, seeing, speaking, and repeating. The least effective method of retention is when we read. Our minds only retain 10% of that input. When we hear something our minds process it a little better as we absorb 20% of that message. It's also been noted that when someone is verbally instructed that after a three hour incubation period they can repeat 70% of the original message, but their recall after three days drops to a 10% retention level.
Now when we see something demonstrated the absorption rate rises to 30%, with a 72% recall after three hours and a 20% ability to repeat after three days.
When we see and hear a demonstration the rate spikes to 50%, and if we physically repeat the message it climbs to a 70% retention rate.
Here's the big boy! We have a 90% rate of retention of what we speak and demonstrate, with an 85% recall after three hours and a 65% after three days!
So to get your message across effectively have them repeat what you say as they are acting out a demonstration of the message! What a useful tool, especially with children! Say, do, repeat!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, October 1, 2012
A Celebration!
Today is the birthday of the compact disc. We celebrate thirty years of the evolution from cassette tapes and the hardly remembered eight track recordings, to the convenience of that little silver disc. Hard to believe it's been three decades! I know the information those little jewels have held in the recordings I've listened to have changed my life! But alas, nothing lasts for ever, and the shelf life of the CD is coming to a close. MP3's and other downloads will soon make the CD extinct, a distant memory, like the cassette and eight track tape. Perhaps some of the other creative uses for CD's will keep them alive just a bit longer. They seem to be popular ornaments when hung from a car's rearview mirror. I've also been told when suspended from a fruit tree they scare off the squirrels, and keep the fruit save from marauders. Who know what the future holds for the compact disc? We do know one thing, it's reached it's golden years when it comes to the storage of music and information. We'll all turn to the "cloud" soon for our storage needs till that too becomes obsolete. While it's a celebration of man's ingenuity, it's the epitaph of an industry.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
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