“Almost everyone knows that smoking causes cancer, emphysema, and heart disease; that it can shorten your life by 10 years or more; and that the habit can cost a smoker thousands of dollars a year. So how come people are still lighting up? The answer, in a word, is addiction.” Adapted from www.kidshealth.org
Smoking is one of those addictions that I believe the world does more to encourage it than anything else. Have you ever wondered why after all these years we still have most cars being made with cigar lighters? Let us say then that the car cigar lighter socket serves other purposes a part from lighting cigars. Then why have they retained the name, “Cigar lighters?”
I had a brother-in-law who died two years ago as a result of lung disease he developed from his terrible smoking addiction. We are being told today that second hand smoking is much more harmful than previously thought.
The health experts have blamed 'passive' smoking for the deaths of up to forty thousand non-smokers annually, in the US alone. That is almost the number of women who die each year from breast cancer.
The other truth is that no form of addiction is healthy. We do so much to protect our children from these evils, who are daily bombarded with these unnecessary temptations. This makes our job twice as difficult. If smoking is really so bad for us, then why does it seem the crusaders’ only intentions are to encourage this destructive habit?
As people who are committed to the survival of the institution called, “family”, then it behooves us to discourage our family members who struggle with this addiction. As a singer, smoking disturbs my singing mechanisms. I have also noticed that more than ever the younger children are adapting the habit of smoking. I am all for non-smoking.
Wealth determines what we can afford in life, but wisdom determines the quality. - Dr, J.D. Gordon www.jermainedgordon.com
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Friday, April 18, 2008
Thursday, April 17, 2008
You chat too much!
“You chat too much!”
The little boy shouted at the man standing by the road side, then walked away.
I was surprised, uncomfortable and by the time the little boy had walked away,I was RED. I have never seen such rudeness and blatant disrespect for an adult by a child. I am appalled by the degrading discipline among our young and the fact that some adults have taken a ‘hands off’ approach.
I said to the man, quite firmly. “A boy is a boy and a man is a man, you must put the little boy in his place.”
The man then responded, “We have gotten use to his talk, that’s just how he talks”
I was further infuriated, as I could not believe my ears. Someone once said that when he was growing up boys were afraid of men company but nowadays, men are afraid of boys’ company.
The boy must have been about age 12 or there about. Can you imagine what will he be like at age 16 or older?
Adults must take up their place. We cannot allow children to behave anyhow and get away with it.
Who will save our children?
The little boy shouted at the man standing by the road side, then walked away.
I was surprised, uncomfortable and by the time the little boy had walked away,I was RED. I have never seen such rudeness and blatant disrespect for an adult by a child. I am appalled by the degrading discipline among our young and the fact that some adults have taken a ‘hands off’ approach.
I said to the man, quite firmly. “A boy is a boy and a man is a man, you must put the little boy in his place.”
The man then responded, “We have gotten use to his talk, that’s just how he talks”
I was further infuriated, as I could not believe my ears. Someone once said that when he was growing up boys were afraid of men company but nowadays, men are afraid of boys’ company.
The boy must have been about age 12 or there about. Can you imagine what will he be like at age 16 or older?
Adults must take up their place. We cannot allow children to behave anyhow and get away with it.
Who will save our children?
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
I’ve got your back
A tribute to all my friends and family out there
When you feel you are going under and you need a shoulder,
I am here; I’ve got your back
I kneel to say a prayer and make sure to mention your name.
I know where you are planted is a hard soil,
And it is difficult to blossom and so difficult to bloom.
But I’ve got your back
The sun, I cannot change, the rain, I cannot hold.
But I can hold you and make you feel like you belong.
The struggles you face and the burdens you carry will not be too long
Sometimes you won’t say a word, sometimes you won’t even whisper
But I’m here; I’ve got your back
Allow the smiles around you to transform your gloomy days,
Take your pains away, and shower you with hope
In the mathematics of burden sharing; I share your burden evenly
Yet we each carry less than half.
The Angel has got my back and I’ve got yours
You cannot give up. You must not give in. You have to win.
Remember always my friend, I’m here and I’ve got your back
When you feel you are going under and you need a shoulder,
I am here; I’ve got your back
I kneel to say a prayer and make sure to mention your name.
I know where you are planted is a hard soil,
And it is difficult to blossom and so difficult to bloom.
But I’ve got your back
The sun, I cannot change, the rain, I cannot hold.
But I can hold you and make you feel like you belong.
The struggles you face and the burdens you carry will not be too long
Sometimes you won’t say a word, sometimes you won’t even whisper
But I’m here; I’ve got your back
Allow the smiles around you to transform your gloomy days,
Take your pains away, and shower you with hope
In the mathematics of burden sharing; I share your burden evenly
Yet we each carry less than half.
The Angel has got my back and I’ve got yours
You cannot give up. You must not give in. You have to win.
Remember always my friend, I’m here and I’ve got your back
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Do you listen with your mouth?
Most of us are guilty of this at some point or another. This is where you are in a discussion or just having a conversation with a friend and you do one of the following:
Think of what to say while the other person is still speaking.
This usually results in us not listening intensely and so we never hear all that the person has to say. This has the potential of giving a response that is inappropriate and gives the speaker the impression that you are not truly listening. These could be silent counter-arguments as the listener feels challenged by what they hear and may begin formulating their own counter-arguments. The listener has shifted focus to refuting what the speaker has said, whether mistakenly or otherwise.
Responding but to something totally different and way off course.
This happens especially when the listener’s mind is clouded with other stuff. I am not knocking my female friends but I find that this happen more often with the females. Incidentally I mentioned this to a few of my male friends and they were quick to agree. I guess the ladies may think otherwise. I wouldn’t mind hearing out their side. I call these Distractions as there are other things in the environment or in the listener’s own mind that get in the way.
Not allowing the speaker to complete their point.
You are more likely to misinterpret what is being said if you do not allow the speaker to complete their point. In our haste to share our own ideas and thoughts, we cut others off. This sometimes causes the speaker to feel that we are not interested and do not value what they have to say.
Good listeners will:
Not interrupt
Not change the subject,
Ask appropriate questions,
Empathize,
Look at the person speaking
If we make an extra effort to truly listen to those who desire to speak with us, it will help them to feel more appreciated. Beginning with me, I am making an effort to close my mouth and open my ears and heart.
A good listener listens with the heart as they also hear what isn’t said. Good listeners make good company. Our friends and family will begin to speak more if they feel that we are truly listening and value what they have to say. Even if what some have to say 'doesn't make much sense' in our opinion, we all like to feel valued.
Think of what to say while the other person is still speaking.
This usually results in us not listening intensely and so we never hear all that the person has to say. This has the potential of giving a response that is inappropriate and gives the speaker the impression that you are not truly listening. These could be silent counter-arguments as the listener feels challenged by what they hear and may begin formulating their own counter-arguments. The listener has shifted focus to refuting what the speaker has said, whether mistakenly or otherwise.
Responding but to something totally different and way off course.
This happens especially when the listener’s mind is clouded with other stuff. I am not knocking my female friends but I find that this happen more often with the females. Incidentally I mentioned this to a few of my male friends and they were quick to agree. I guess the ladies may think otherwise. I wouldn’t mind hearing out their side. I call these Distractions as there are other things in the environment or in the listener’s own mind that get in the way.
Not allowing the speaker to complete their point.
You are more likely to misinterpret what is being said if you do not allow the speaker to complete their point. In our haste to share our own ideas and thoughts, we cut others off. This sometimes causes the speaker to feel that we are not interested and do not value what they have to say.
Good listeners will:
Not interrupt
Not change the subject,
Ask appropriate questions,
Empathize,
Look at the person speaking
If we make an extra effort to truly listen to those who desire to speak with us, it will help them to feel more appreciated. Beginning with me, I am making an effort to close my mouth and open my ears and heart.
A good listener listens with the heart as they also hear what isn’t said. Good listeners make good company. Our friends and family will begin to speak more if they feel that we are truly listening and value what they have to say. Even if what some have to say 'doesn't make much sense' in our opinion, we all like to feel valued.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Love has hands
I was reminded today of my very own words which I published in my first book.
"LOVE HAS HANDS"
Love is labor.
The hands represent our ability to hold, hug, caress and give. Love does all these and more. The hand of love means that we are able to share and care for each other. We are able to show and to guide. My love has hands and so does everyone else.
We are challenge to use these pair of 'love hands' to build or to destroy. We are challenge to use these pair of 'love hands' to show love to those who can reciprocate and those who need it most.
Let us continue to use these pair of 'love hands' to touch the lives of those we come in contact with. I want my pair of 'love hands' to touch the world, begining with everyone around me, one at a time.
"LOVE HAS HANDS"
Love is labor.
The hands represent our ability to hold, hug, caress and give. Love does all these and more. The hand of love means that we are able to share and care for each other. We are able to show and to guide. My love has hands and so does everyone else.
We are challenge to use these pair of 'love hands' to build or to destroy. We are challenge to use these pair of 'love hands' to show love to those who can reciprocate and those who need it most.
Let us continue to use these pair of 'love hands' to touch the lives of those we come in contact with. I want my pair of 'love hands' to touch the world, begining with everyone around me, one at a time.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Idle hands, idle lands
Countries across the world are experiencing rising food prices. Among the factors driving the food prices is energy cost. Energy hits on two fronts: It is costing more to process food and it is also costing more to transport and distribute it.
The ethanol boom has driven corn prices over 70% last year alone. More land is being used to plant corn, and as such soybeans, wheat, oats, and barley prices have all gone up. In addition, higher corn prices mean higher prices for animals in the food chain that eat it - such as chickens, cows, and pigs. There are also increases in fertilizers and other resources required by farmers. These are all a part of a fundamentally inflationary environment.
I must also mention the "China effect" on energy prices. This also affects food. Food exports have grown as living standards in both China and India have risen. That is good for the economy but not for prices.
The question on everyone’s mind now is how do I feed myself and my family?
In times such as these we can choose from a few options which may include:
• Eating less
• Finding more economical substitutes
• Growing our own
I want to talk a little about the third option. One of my colleagues was quick to point out to me that the massive urbanization has contributed to far less persons growing what they eat.
As a child, I grew up seeing my father growing and producing almost everything we consumed. His list of cultivation included yam, banana, coco, pumpkin, fruits and vegetables. He would also rear goats, chickens, cows and pigs.
We in the Caribbean region have lost this fundamental principle, “Grow what we eat”. We have been blessed with beautiful sunshine for almost 365 days a year. We have good agricultural lands, and well capable hands. Yet we have become so dependent on someone else to feed us.
I am not for one minute purporting that growing our own will solve all our problems. But we would certainly be many times better off than we are today; economically and health wise.
At the end of the day, those who have the food dictate the terms. The supermarkets and grocery stores have become our “modern farming place.” If we have to go to Egypt for food, then it means we have not learned. Too many idle hands and too many idle lands in the Caribbean, starting with my native land Jamaica.
The ethanol boom has driven corn prices over 70% last year alone. More land is being used to plant corn, and as such soybeans, wheat, oats, and barley prices have all gone up. In addition, higher corn prices mean higher prices for animals in the food chain that eat it - such as chickens, cows, and pigs. There are also increases in fertilizers and other resources required by farmers. These are all a part of a fundamentally inflationary environment.
I must also mention the "China effect" on energy prices. This also affects food. Food exports have grown as living standards in both China and India have risen. That is good for the economy but not for prices.
The question on everyone’s mind now is how do I feed myself and my family?
In times such as these we can choose from a few options which may include:
• Eating less
• Finding more economical substitutes
• Growing our own
I want to talk a little about the third option. One of my colleagues was quick to point out to me that the massive urbanization has contributed to far less persons growing what they eat.
As a child, I grew up seeing my father growing and producing almost everything we consumed. His list of cultivation included yam, banana, coco, pumpkin, fruits and vegetables. He would also rear goats, chickens, cows and pigs.
We in the Caribbean region have lost this fundamental principle, “Grow what we eat”. We have been blessed with beautiful sunshine for almost 365 days a year. We have good agricultural lands, and well capable hands. Yet we have become so dependent on someone else to feed us.
I am not for one minute purporting that growing our own will solve all our problems. But we would certainly be many times better off than we are today; economically and health wise.
At the end of the day, those who have the food dictate the terms. The supermarkets and grocery stores have become our “modern farming place.” If we have to go to Egypt for food, then it means we have not learned. Too many idle hands and too many idle lands in the Caribbean, starting with my native land Jamaica.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Still a virgin at 21
“Everybody is talking about how is it that I am age 21, still a virgin and without child. I am annoyed by it and they even insinuate that I must be a ‘weirdo’”
These are the words of a bright and promising young girl from one of our inner city communities. She says that in her area where she lives, at age 21 she is suppose to have had her second child by now.
It was Shakespeare who said, "Company, villainous company, hath been the spoil of me.”One wonders just how many young girls live their lives on these ridiculous demands of the society. In my blog on Tuesday, April 8, 2008 entitled, “Real men needed,” I made the point that real men are not ashamed to live and act differently from the world in order to guard themselves.
Daily we all have to be strong and refuse to let our peers and the society dictate how we ought to live. There are principles outlined in the bible that some of us embrace and others refuse. At the end of it all, each of us will be held accountable for the choices we make and how we used our time.
There are some things that never change whether a virgin at age 21 or 42. When we take on certain responsibility before we are ready it usually comes with some very harsh consequences. When we ramble away from the model God has designed we usually fail. That is true, and so the final result is up to you.
I replied to the young lady by telling her that she is a diamond and in the eyes of those around her she is just a ‘rock’. Those around her don’t know and perhaps never will know her real value. But in the eyes of a diamond cutter or a diamond specialist she is more valuable than she could ever imagine, she is precious and she is to wait for her time to shine. At any time she can become like them, but they can never become like her. Diamonds are brilliant and that is just what they do, they shine.
These are the words of a bright and promising young girl from one of our inner city communities. She says that in her area where she lives, at age 21 she is suppose to have had her second child by now.
It was Shakespeare who said, "Company, villainous company, hath been the spoil of me.”One wonders just how many young girls live their lives on these ridiculous demands of the society. In my blog on Tuesday, April 8, 2008 entitled, “Real men needed,” I made the point that real men are not ashamed to live and act differently from the world in order to guard themselves.
Daily we all have to be strong and refuse to let our peers and the society dictate how we ought to live. There are principles outlined in the bible that some of us embrace and others refuse. At the end of it all, each of us will be held accountable for the choices we make and how we used our time.
There are some things that never change whether a virgin at age 21 or 42. When we take on certain responsibility before we are ready it usually comes with some very harsh consequences. When we ramble away from the model God has designed we usually fail. That is true, and so the final result is up to you.
I replied to the young lady by telling her that she is a diamond and in the eyes of those around her she is just a ‘rock’. Those around her don’t know and perhaps never will know her real value. But in the eyes of a diamond cutter or a diamond specialist she is more valuable than she could ever imagine, she is precious and she is to wait for her time to shine. At any time she can become like them, but they can never become like her. Diamonds are brilliant and that is just what they do, they shine.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Very strong emotions
Very strong emotions can distort our outlook on life. Love can sometimes be blind— hatred, fear and jealousy always are.
Copy right (c) 2008 J.D. Gordon All rights reserved
Copy right (c) 2008 J.D. Gordon All rights reserved
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Real men are needed
Last night I shared with a group of men on issues which affect men.
In my presentation I highlighted the need for us to redefine manhood.
We made a list of issues affecting men ranging from sexual issues, money, work pressures, just to name a few.
The ‘modern’ society and the culture of the day have distorted who a man is.
Our society is fast becoming cold, hard and callous. Sadly there are those who believe it
is manly to be tough and say unkind stuff and if you cry when harsh words are thrown at you then you are weak and perhaps considered a sissy.
You are considered less than a man if you use words such as sorry, excuse me and please.
I grew up in an age when manners and respect were more valuable than pocket money. It was taught in schools and by our parents the importance of respecting adults.
A few weeks ago I was in our company canteen placing an order for my lunch when this ‘guy’ came in and decided not to wait in the line. He stepped out ahead of me to be served next by the attendant. I signaled to her and informed her that I was in the queue long before this ‘rowdy’; of course I never did describe him as such.
The guy responded, “Ok then, you can serve this ‘soft man’ first.”
I never knew I was a soft man, nor was I sure who is a soft man.
I later learnt that a soft man use words such as please, thank you, I am sorry and excuse me. A soft man will wait in line and respect orders and instructions. He made it sounded as though it was such a bad thing. That is a technique they use, to make us men who do the right feel out of place and uncomfortable.
Now you can begin to imagine the type of world that will be created with an attitude like that.
We are in trouble. We need to redefine man; it can no longer be left up to the society. As a man, I feel an urgent need to train the younger men how to be responsible, how to be caring, to be protective of the females and children and to understand the value of work.
I wouldn’t even mention the way our men are dressing these days that one is definitely for another time. Real men are wise yet humble, responsible and can be corrected. Real men do not put others down with their actions, words or strength. But rather they affirm and build others up. They are not ashamed to live and act differently from the world in order to guard themselves.
Real men are needed.
In my presentation I highlighted the need for us to redefine manhood.
We made a list of issues affecting men ranging from sexual issues, money, work pressures, just to name a few.
The ‘modern’ society and the culture of the day have distorted who a man is.
Our society is fast becoming cold, hard and callous. Sadly there are those who believe it
is manly to be tough and say unkind stuff and if you cry when harsh words are thrown at you then you are weak and perhaps considered a sissy.
You are considered less than a man if you use words such as sorry, excuse me and please.
I grew up in an age when manners and respect were more valuable than pocket money. It was taught in schools and by our parents the importance of respecting adults.
A few weeks ago I was in our company canteen placing an order for my lunch when this ‘guy’ came in and decided not to wait in the line. He stepped out ahead of me to be served next by the attendant. I signaled to her and informed her that I was in the queue long before this ‘rowdy’; of course I never did describe him as such.
The guy responded, “Ok then, you can serve this ‘soft man’ first.”
I never knew I was a soft man, nor was I sure who is a soft man.
I later learnt that a soft man use words such as please, thank you, I am sorry and excuse me. A soft man will wait in line and respect orders and instructions. He made it sounded as though it was such a bad thing. That is a technique they use, to make us men who do the right feel out of place and uncomfortable.
Now you can begin to imagine the type of world that will be created with an attitude like that.
We are in trouble. We need to redefine man; it can no longer be left up to the society. As a man, I feel an urgent need to train the younger men how to be responsible, how to be caring, to be protective of the females and children and to understand the value of work.
I wouldn’t even mention the way our men are dressing these days that one is definitely for another time. Real men are wise yet humble, responsible and can be corrected. Real men do not put others down with their actions, words or strength. But rather they affirm and build others up. They are not ashamed to live and act differently from the world in order to guard themselves.
Real men are needed.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Big fish, small frying pan
What happened to me last night reminds me of a familiar story about two men who went on a fishing trip. One of the men was doing well, catching the very big fish. But every time he caught a big fish he would throw it back into the water. He did this a few times and it puzzled his friend then asked what was he doing and why. The man responded by saying he had to throw back the big fish because he had a small frying pan at home.
Yesterday I had a similar experience; I had purchased some very delectable parrot fish that I was preparing to fry. When I was about to place them in the frying pan, I realized that the frying pan was too small and pondered at least for a moment how I needed to ensure that my future purchases are smaller. Then I thought, perhaps not.
Maybe I should get a bigger frying pan. Surely that would solve the problem. But take a look at these two perspectives:
Limiting ourselves
If we only believe for those things we can handle and are prepared for, how will we grow? If we always ‘play it safe’ and swim on the shore all the time, how will we get beyond certain limits and explore the unknown? If we always just accept what we are told and never seek to investigate, how does this affect the way we live?
Over extending ourselves
On the other hand, this same story teaches us the importance of not taking on too much at any given point, which could be just as detrimental as limiting yourself. Stretch what can be.
One thing is certain this heading sets your thought into motion. You may even have several stories from your own life experiences which you could describe as the big fish, small frying pan experience.
If you have to cut your fish down to size, that is also an option, which is exactly what I did. My wife and I had a good laugh and a good bite. Cheers!
Yesterday I had a similar experience; I had purchased some very delectable parrot fish that I was preparing to fry. When I was about to place them in the frying pan, I realized that the frying pan was too small and pondered at least for a moment how I needed to ensure that my future purchases are smaller. Then I thought, perhaps not.
Maybe I should get a bigger frying pan. Surely that would solve the problem. But take a look at these two perspectives:
Limiting ourselves
If we only believe for those things we can handle and are prepared for, how will we grow? If we always ‘play it safe’ and swim on the shore all the time, how will we get beyond certain limits and explore the unknown? If we always just accept what we are told and never seek to investigate, how does this affect the way we live?
Over extending ourselves
On the other hand, this same story teaches us the importance of not taking on too much at any given point, which could be just as detrimental as limiting yourself. Stretch what can be.
One thing is certain this heading sets your thought into motion. You may even have several stories from your own life experiences which you could describe as the big fish, small frying pan experience.
If you have to cut your fish down to size, that is also an option, which is exactly what I did. My wife and I had a good laugh and a good bite. Cheers!
Friday, April 4, 2008
Fighting Fires
Like me most of you probably never thought of becoming a fire fighter, but hey! we are.
We all are fighting fires in our families, in our homes, in our work places and in our
communities. Ask me whether I would have become a fire fighter when I was a child and
I would have told you No way. But that is exactly who I am today. I am a fire fighter.
I thought I may as well equip myself to fight.
The first and most important thing about fighting fire is the cardinal rule which is –
Life preservation. – Life over property every time
Take a look here I have created Ten Rules for Fighting Fire:
1 Do all within your power to prevent a fire from starting
2 If a fire does get started, do not waste energy and time trying to figure out who started it or why, while everything is burning to ash.
3 The more oxygen or energy a fire gets, the more it will blaze. So try not to fuel the fire be it consciously or unconsciously.
4 Make sure you know exactly what is burning – It helps with deciding on the most appropriate solution.
5 Know the stage of the fire, some fires spread very quickly and sometimes evacuation is the only option. Remember to close all doors and windows behind you.
6 Know when you need help or back-up. 911 is always an option.
7 If the fire is worth fighting it is worth fighting well.
8 Make sure you have more water than fire. You will need to cool things down as well.
9 Some day the fire may get you, but don’t let it happen because you weren’t thinking.
10 Share your survival strategies with others who could also teach you a thing or two.
If you follow the rules above you will avoid being burnt out, because who knows, you may have to fight a fire everyday.
We all are fighting fires in our families, in our homes, in our work places and in our
communities. Ask me whether I would have become a fire fighter when I was a child and
I would have told you No way. But that is exactly who I am today. I am a fire fighter.
I thought I may as well equip myself to fight.
The first and most important thing about fighting fire is the cardinal rule which is –
Life preservation. – Life over property every time
Take a look here I have created Ten Rules for Fighting Fire:
1 Do all within your power to prevent a fire from starting
2 If a fire does get started, do not waste energy and time trying to figure out who started it or why, while everything is burning to ash.
3 The more oxygen or energy a fire gets, the more it will blaze. So try not to fuel the fire be it consciously or unconsciously.
4 Make sure you know exactly what is burning – It helps with deciding on the most appropriate solution.
5 Know the stage of the fire, some fires spread very quickly and sometimes evacuation is the only option. Remember to close all doors and windows behind you.
6 Know when you need help or back-up. 911 is always an option.
7 If the fire is worth fighting it is worth fighting well.
8 Make sure you have more water than fire. You will need to cool things down as well.
9 Some day the fire may get you, but don’t let it happen because you weren’t thinking.
10 Share your survival strategies with others who could also teach you a thing or two.
If you follow the rules above you will avoid being burnt out, because who knows, you may have to fight a fire everyday.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Have You ever Wanted a Change of Life?
I was sitting in my living room a while ago and I just thought for a moment, if I were to change my life, really really change my life to be someone or something else, what would I want to be...ah!...ah!.. I am not sure exactly.
If I could no longer be me, would I want to be a President, a Movie star or what? What would I want to be?
I got it!...I GOT IT!...After much contemplation I think I want to continue to be me... A star...for that is exactly what we all are. We just all shine in different ways and in different places.
So if I really wanted a change, I would want to be a bigger brighter star so I could shine not just for those near but even for those a far.
If I could no longer be me, would I want to be a President, a Movie star or what? What would I want to be?
I got it!...I GOT IT!...After much contemplation I think I want to continue to be me... A star...for that is exactly what we all are. We just all shine in different ways and in different places.
So if I really wanted a change, I would want to be a bigger brighter star so I could shine not just for those near but even for those a far.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Wait
Wait! That is a word many of us don't like to hear, but look at this:
Most of the weight we carry around in life are due to an unwillingness to wait
Copy right (c) 2008 J.D. Gordon all Rights Reserved
Most of the weight we carry around in life are due to an unwillingness to wait
Copy right (c) 2008 J.D. Gordon all Rights Reserved
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Finding Your Passion
If you feel you have not found your passion, it could mean that you are not paying life the attention it requires. Once you give life some thought, it usually rewards you with the answers for the questions you have.
When you truly desire that thing which brings exhilarating joy and the feelings of fulfillment you deserve.
Then start with that thing which you would do just for the love of it. You would do it even if no one pays you to do it.
You would do it just for the way it makes you feel and others just love it when you do it.
When you wake up in the morning if all you can think about is to sing, then sing.
When you wake up in the morning if all you can think about is to write, then you should write.
Spend more time giving attention to those things and people that are important to you.
Pay more attention to those things that you love dearly and allow them to bring out some of God’s greatest treasures hidden inside of you. The more you do it, the better you will get. Once you start getting better, the quality of your life will improve and words can not explain the joys you will begin to experience.
Finding that thing can be a challenge for some people, but I know you have the gusto, the will, the fire and the oomph, so go for it.
When you truly desire that thing which brings exhilarating joy and the feelings of fulfillment you deserve.
Then start with that thing which you would do just for the love of it. You would do it even if no one pays you to do it.
You would do it just for the way it makes you feel and others just love it when you do it.
When you wake up in the morning if all you can think about is to sing, then sing.
When you wake up in the morning if all you can think about is to write, then you should write.
Spend more time giving attention to those things and people that are important to you.
Pay more attention to those things that you love dearly and allow them to bring out some of God’s greatest treasures hidden inside of you. The more you do it, the better you will get. Once you start getting better, the quality of your life will improve and words can not explain the joys you will begin to experience.
Finding that thing can be a challenge for some people, but I know you have the gusto, the will, the fire and the oomph, so go for it.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Feeling wanted, feeling used
How do you feel about someone using you?
Do you mind?
Well if the truth be told, we don’t like to feel ‘used’ but on the other hand we don’t mind being wanted.
Usually we associate the word, ‘used’ with expressions such as ‘I feel exploited’ or you may have heard others complain, ‘The only reason you paying me any attention is simply because of what you want from me’
‘Ouch!’
That is not good at all.
Some persons don’t like feeling used yet often times they do it to others.
I have realized too, that we are much more acceptable of feeling wanted or needed by someone, but not used.
Feeling used v Feeling wanted
Used: Persons usually feel unappreciated and not listened to
Wanted: Persons feel appreciated and their concerns are aired
Used: Many inhibitions, feels disconnected, closed circuit
Wanted: Freely gives, usually no hang-ups, open circuit
Used: Feels cheated and disrespected
Wanted: Happy to have made someone else day bright, feels treasured and valued
Used: Normally want out
Wanted: Wants to be around forever
People are so important we shouldn’t treat them like things or stuff. Take time out to care for each other and share a moment. It is already a vicious world out there, so let us not add any further power to that. The bridge between feeling used and feeling wanted is built with understanding, supported by listening and maintained by a willingness to change for the better.
A good place for us to begin is to start appreciating everyone and everything around us.
Do you mind?
Well if the truth be told, we don’t like to feel ‘used’ but on the other hand we don’t mind being wanted.
Usually we associate the word, ‘used’ with expressions such as ‘I feel exploited’ or you may have heard others complain, ‘The only reason you paying me any attention is simply because of what you want from me’
‘Ouch!’
That is not good at all.
Some persons don’t like feeling used yet often times they do it to others.
I have realized too, that we are much more acceptable of feeling wanted or needed by someone, but not used.
Feeling used v Feeling wanted
Used: Persons usually feel unappreciated and not listened to
Wanted: Persons feel appreciated and their concerns are aired
Used: Many inhibitions, feels disconnected, closed circuit
Wanted: Freely gives, usually no hang-ups, open circuit
Used: Feels cheated and disrespected
Wanted: Happy to have made someone else day bright, feels treasured and valued
Used: Normally want out
Wanted: Wants to be around forever
People are so important we shouldn’t treat them like things or stuff. Take time out to care for each other and share a moment. It is already a vicious world out there, so let us not add any further power to that. The bridge between feeling used and feeling wanted is built with understanding, supported by listening and maintained by a willingness to change for the better.
A good place for us to begin is to start appreciating everyone and everything around us.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
The power of WORDS
If you have ever said something to anyone and had it repeated to you in your very own words, then you know how powerful this can be. You are more likely to want to give in, once they use back your words at you.
A case in point, a father reprimanded his little girl for taking too much ice cream from the refrigerator. The little girl responded to him by saying, "Daddy you have always said I am a princess, and the princess gets whatever she wants"
Now, I am not a father but I imagined that the father would have no alternative but to agree. If those were his exact words and was not being taken out of context, then one can hardly argue with the Princess.
We often use this same method with the word of God whenever we pray. We use God's word back at Him and the bible does rightly encourage us to do just that. God is bound by his words. He honors His words.
I have just realized that we too are bound by our very own words. When it is returned to us, we have no alternative but to accept it. If our children master this technique when dealing with us, you can begin to imagine the power they will command
A case in point, a father reprimanded his little girl for taking too much ice cream from the refrigerator. The little girl responded to him by saying, "Daddy you have always said I am a princess, and the princess gets whatever she wants"
Now, I am not a father but I imagined that the father would have no alternative but to agree. If those were his exact words and was not being taken out of context, then one can hardly argue with the Princess.
We often use this same method with the word of God whenever we pray. We use God's word back at Him and the bible does rightly encourage us to do just that. God is bound by his words. He honors His words.
I have just realized that we too are bound by our very own words. When it is returned to us, we have no alternative but to accept it. If our children master this technique when dealing with us, you can begin to imagine the power they will command
Thursday, March 20, 2008
This generation should be most grateful
I have never lived before and I would imagine that none of us has ever lived before either. However some may argue otherwise. What is true too is that we can never be sure of the finer details of the life styles and the circumstances which faced those who were before us. Our fore fathers journey, we’ll never fully know.
I am however very cognizant that we are now living in an age where most of what we wish for or pray for we get. This is true for me and the people I see around me. What about your life? Is it true for you too?
We can conceptualize an idea or a thought and have it created or executed within seconds, minutes, days, weeks or months.
This ought to be one of the most grateful generations ever. Despite what others may say and seek to convince us, we have got so much to be thankful for.
Today, one of my colleagues shouted out in the office, “I wish I could have a slice of roast breadfruit now”
Roast Breadfruit and red herring or salt fish is a well loved dish in our culture.
I heard his request and called him over. I had spent the night putting together roast breadfruit and red herring for my lunch. I offered him two slices of breadfruit and made this same point to him. We get most of what we ask for.
Some persons will never be able to enjoy their life for this simple reason; they have not learnt the art of giving thanks. I am giving thanks for every blessing sent.
I am however very cognizant that we are now living in an age where most of what we wish for or pray for we get. This is true for me and the people I see around me. What about your life? Is it true for you too?
We can conceptualize an idea or a thought and have it created or executed within seconds, minutes, days, weeks or months.
This ought to be one of the most grateful generations ever. Despite what others may say and seek to convince us, we have got so much to be thankful for.
Today, one of my colleagues shouted out in the office, “I wish I could have a slice of roast breadfruit now”
Roast Breadfruit and red herring or salt fish is a well loved dish in our culture.
I heard his request and called him over. I had spent the night putting together roast breadfruit and red herring for my lunch. I offered him two slices of breadfruit and made this same point to him. We get most of what we ask for.
Some persons will never be able to enjoy their life for this simple reason; they have not learnt the art of giving thanks. I am giving thanks for every blessing sent.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Follow The Leader
Have you ever had the opportunity of driving behind someone en route to your desired destination? Maybe you have not. But I’m sure you have had to be led by someone in some way or another. Well the lessons here are appropriate in either case.
Today I traveled behind one of my friends after we were returning from picking up my car at the repair shop.
As we turned unto each road, I wondered why he chose certain roads over others. This resulted in some interesting stuff passing through my head, check these out:
1. Leadership doesn’t mean that the Leader knows best at all times nor does it assume that the leader is the most knowledgeable.We often times see this playing out especially if from our perspective we see either more efficient, feasible or better options.
Caution: We don’t all have the same wisdom. A good leader is one who is apt to teach.
2. There will always be this question in our minds or a churning in the stomach.
'How on earth did he/she get to that position?” There isn’t just cause here to rebel. Things are not always what they seem.
Caution: I have noticed that wherever there is rebellion, there are many rulers
3. In many cases, we choose who we want to lead us and so the option always remains to remove the leader. But what about those circumstances where the choice simply isn’t ours?Leaders become leaders either because they were appointed or we have opted to follow them.
Caution: If we cease to follow the leaders then they are no longer leading us. That is why leadership needs support at all times.
It may be safe grounds therefore, to admit that if you are not a good follower, you won’t make a good leader.
The highest order of leadership is that of a servant.
Leading and serving are really not two words we often find in the same sentence. There will always be misunderstanding, a better way of doing things and improved leadership skills.
Regardless of whether we are the one leading or following at the end of it all, how we deal with each other is of paramount importance.
I took the journey all the way with my friend; we both parked at the same time, and walked back to our office together. I’m sure it feels better than getting back five minutes earlier and walking up alone or sitting wondering why is he taking so long
Today I traveled behind one of my friends after we were returning from picking up my car at the repair shop.
As we turned unto each road, I wondered why he chose certain roads over others. This resulted in some interesting stuff passing through my head, check these out:
1. Leadership doesn’t mean that the Leader knows best at all times nor does it assume that the leader is the most knowledgeable.We often times see this playing out especially if from our perspective we see either more efficient, feasible or better options.
Caution: We don’t all have the same wisdom. A good leader is one who is apt to teach.
2. There will always be this question in our minds or a churning in the stomach.
'How on earth did he/she get to that position?” There isn’t just cause here to rebel. Things are not always what they seem.
Caution: I have noticed that wherever there is rebellion, there are many rulers
3. In many cases, we choose who we want to lead us and so the option always remains to remove the leader. But what about those circumstances where the choice simply isn’t ours?Leaders become leaders either because they were appointed or we have opted to follow them.
Caution: If we cease to follow the leaders then they are no longer leading us. That is why leadership needs support at all times.
It may be safe grounds therefore, to admit that if you are not a good follower, you won’t make a good leader.
The highest order of leadership is that of a servant.
Leading and serving are really not two words we often find in the same sentence. There will always be misunderstanding, a better way of doing things and improved leadership skills.
Regardless of whether we are the one leading or following at the end of it all, how we deal with each other is of paramount importance.
I took the journey all the way with my friend; we both parked at the same time, and walked back to our office together. I’m sure it feels better than getting back five minutes earlier and walking up alone or sitting wondering why is he taking so long
Friday, March 14, 2008
Everybody's got their friend
I believe that without a friend your life is incomplete and you are missing out on some of the great joys of life.
There is a saying which says, "A good friend is better than pocket money."
I have often wondered what type of person does not have a friend.
That someone you can share, connect and be yourself with. The bible even tells us that a friend loves at all times. A true friend will be honest with you. They will share in your good times and the ills of life. Just like a family, friendship is one of God's great inventions or institutions.
I looked around and noticed that even the weirdest of persons have their friends. Have you noticed?
Friendship, like everything else comes at a cost. There are things you would perhaps never do for money that you readily do for a friend.
I once heard of a man who had an expensive painting at his home office. One day, a business associate came in, saw the picture and offered to purchase it for $250,000. The owner refused even after much pleading by his associate.
A few weeks later, one of the owner’s friends entered his office and saw the same painting on the wall.
He exclaimed, “Wow, I have been looking for a painting like this one for some time now!”
The owner then asked, “Would you like this one?”
His friend replied, “Sure I would like it.”
The owner took the picture down and handed it to his friend.
Money is essential, education is a must; but with friendship life still can be beautiful, even in the absence of money and the lack of an education. Life can be so worthwhile when there are people close and dear, persons with whom we can share, persons we call friends.
There is a saying which says, "A good friend is better than pocket money."
I have often wondered what type of person does not have a friend.
That someone you can share, connect and be yourself with. The bible even tells us that a friend loves at all times. A true friend will be honest with you. They will share in your good times and the ills of life. Just like a family, friendship is one of God's great inventions or institutions.
I looked around and noticed that even the weirdest of persons have their friends. Have you noticed?
Friendship, like everything else comes at a cost. There are things you would perhaps never do for money that you readily do for a friend.
I once heard of a man who had an expensive painting at his home office. One day, a business associate came in, saw the picture and offered to purchase it for $250,000. The owner refused even after much pleading by his associate.
A few weeks later, one of the owner’s friends entered his office and saw the same painting on the wall.
He exclaimed, “Wow, I have been looking for a painting like this one for some time now!”
The owner then asked, “Would you like this one?”
His friend replied, “Sure I would like it.”
The owner took the picture down and handed it to his friend.
Money is essential, education is a must; but with friendship life still can be beautiful, even in the absence of money and the lack of an education. Life can be so worthwhile when there are people close and dear, persons with whom we can share, persons we call friends.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Broken Homes
Why can't we all just get along?
The number of marriages that have gone sour in 2007 is amazing. I learnt recently that one of the easiest ways to bring people together is to give them a common goal. Yes that’s true. I am surprised, however at just how many homes are broken.
Are we fighting the same battles? Are we on the same side? Is the enemy clearly identified and defined?
I have made a list of what I believe to be some of the main causes why families do not enjoy healthy relationships:
I also realize that we all live with something which we aim to get better at, just as I must live with your faults, you should be willing to live with mine. I exercise patience when dealing with you and you when dealing with me. I know it isn’t all that simple. But for F-A-M-I-L-Y it is worth it.
F-ather
A-nd
M-other
I-n
L-ove and
Y-ou
The number of marriages that have gone sour in 2007 is amazing. I learnt recently that one of the easiest ways to bring people together is to give them a common goal. Yes that’s true. I am surprised, however at just how many homes are broken.
Are we fighting the same battles? Are we on the same side? Is the enemy clearly identified and defined?
I have made a list of what I believe to be some of the main causes why families do not enjoy healthy relationships:
Selfishness
Lack of Trust
Greed
Fear
Poor Communication
Lack of Persistence
Stubbornness
Lack of self control
I also realize that we all live with something which we aim to get better at, just as I must live with your faults, you should be willing to live with mine. I exercise patience when dealing with you and you when dealing with me. I know it isn’t all that simple. But for F-A-M-I-L-Y it is worth it.
F-ather
A-nd
M-other
I-n
L-ove and
Y-ou
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