The RICHEST Place in the World

If you haven't done so, be sure and go back to the last article that I posted entitled, "Live Full and Die Empty". It goes "hand in hand" with this article and the thoughts included in this article. 

After you have read it (maybe you need to "refresh" even if you have already read it), then look at this very somber - but TRUE - statement made below... 

""The richest place in the world is the graveyard.
You know why?
Because in the graveyard, you will find...
Inventions never invented
Books never written
Ideas never nurtured - And dreams never lived."

"Remember Your Dream" by "Motivational Instinct" CLICK HERE to watch on youtube 

Like I said with the last article, I don't want to die with regrets. I don't want to die with things left undone that I had opportunity to GET done.

Now then, chances are, if I have goals and dreams that I am constantly and consistently working towards then there WILL be some things left "undone" but, my friend (and this is a very important point!) I will have left this earth MOVING TOWARDS something MORE in and for my life! That, in my opinion, would qualify as "dying EMPTY" with NO REGRETS!

For ALL of us...for you and for me...the ONLY way that we can accomplish this is by doing all we can TODAY! 

In the Bible, the writer of the book of Hebrews (or the letter that he wrote to the church there) needed to help the Christians there "stay together" and help each other remain strong in their faith. In Hebrews 3:13 he emphasizes this by saying, "but exhort (encourage) one another daily, while it is called “Today...”

Notice he said to do it DAILY but - don't put it off - do it while it is still called "TODAY".  

Listen friend, I'll say it again: The ONLY way that we can accomplish living our lives fully and leaving no regrets is by doing all we can TODAY!

One way that helps tremendously (the writer of Hebrews refers to it as well later on in chapter 10 in verses 24 and 25) is based on those that make up our "circle". 

We'll talk about that part of the picture in the next article.

Until then, remember...

YOU'RE HERE FOR A REASON and, whatever you do, always be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

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Cherish Your Relationships

Today, January 26, 2020, the world learned of the unexpected death of sports legend, Kobe Bryant and his young daughter, Gigi in a helicopter crash. Several others also lost their lives in the crash.

Due to his celebrity status the news of this tragic loss is being discussed by many on several different television outlets as well as radio and social media. This blog article is proof of that very point. I also plan to do a short podcast as well.

Here's my simple point that I'd like to make: ALL of our relationships are precious in their own ways and we should NEVER take them for granted. However, we do just that, don't we? We become used to those people always being there and we just don't even think about the possibility of talking to them one morning and then having them gone just a few hours later. Never to return.

I want to encourage you to do all that you can to get in the habit of appreciating the relationships that you have in your life and, at the same time, expressing that appreciation to those that make up the relationships in your life. Some are closer than others and they all have different "feelings" connected to them. 

Whether it is telling someone how much you value and appreciate their friendship or telling someone that you love them, get in the habit of doing just that.

Life is too short and the future is never promised. Take the time today to say what needs to be said. Take advantage as soon as you get the opportunity and, perhaps, MAKE the opportunity because friend, you just never know.

Thank you for being a part of my life -

Mike Spillman

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Mike's Quotes #19: Life is Like...

"Life is a lot like females. Just when you think you have it figured out, 
it will throw you a curve ball." - Mike Spillman (8.26.11)

I believe that I should make sure that I don't have any ladies coming after me because of that quote! The way I see it, ladies, it should serve as a compliment to all of you. You are all unique and are so mysterious that we (the guys) are unable to get you figured out. That's a good thing, right? :)

Now that I have that "self-preservation" paragraph out of the way, let's talk about the point that is being made with that quote.

Bottom line: Life is like a roller coaster with all kinds of ups and downs as well as twists and turns.

Life is not fair nor is it easy. If anyone ever told you that it was either of these then, friend, they were just flat out lying to you!

But, it's not about what happens TO you that matters. It's about how you REACT and RESPOND to what happens to you. THAT'S what matters and THAT is what will determine the course of your future. 

I know of those that worked faithfully for the same company for many years only to have the rug jerked out from under them when that company either decided to start laying off workers or the company decided to move to another country. Either way, I've seen those that have devoted their life to said company get tossed aside because it was not "feasible" to keep them on due to their age. What then?

All of us can likely point out some in the area of sports that seemed to have it all in perfect fashion as far as their future. The money and the fame seemed to be a sure bet. And we can all likely remember those that, due to some injury or just their own stupidity, had it all taken away from them. Gone.

As I type this article I think of one college player that has been projected to be at the top of the NFL draft. However, a couple of games ago he was unexpectedly injured during a game and, who knows, may not ever play again. For sure it is known that he is out for the rest of the season and, as far as his future? That is still to be determined. 

I have a friend that went to his Mother's house on Thanksgiving Day last week only to find that she had passed away while preparing the family feast that many were to enjoy later that same day. 

Yes, life is absolutely unpredictable.

But friend, you have two choices and the decision is yours.  You can give up on life or you can decide that you MUST continue on to your future.

Easier said than done? Absolutely!

As one guy said once, "Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're going to get!" Though true, I disagree to a point. At least with a box of chocolates, even though you don't know what you're going to get, IT'S ALL STILL SWEET!

The same cannot be said about life at all times. 

But, remember, "As long as there is breath, there is hope!"

Sure, you can give up on life but you must understand that there are others out there that are depending on YOU to get up, dust off, and keep LIVING LIFE, regardless of the struggles that may come your way from time to time. 

And ladies, thanks for keeping us guys on our toes! You help keep our lives interesting and, for that, we are thankful. 

Until next time, always be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

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ACTION: The Only Way to Stay "FRESH"

 Stagnant - 1. not flowing or running, as water, air, etc. 2. stale or foul from standing, as a pool of water. 3. characterized by lack of development, advancement, or progressive movement: a stagnant economy.  4. inactive, sluggish, or dull.

And, as a matter of interest, here is a list of words that describe the opposite of being stagnant: active, alert, busy, energetic, lively, mobile, moving, spirited, working.

Allowing any area of your life to become stagnant is very similar to allowing yourself to get into a rut, as we discussed in the last article.

Honestly, no matter what your situation, you MUST do whatever it takes to prevent stagnation in your life! Remember, "No activity equals DEATH!" 

Take a look at that body of water in the above picture. My guess would be that, if there were any fish in that body of water before, many - if not all - have already died due to the lack of fresh water that would continue the life in that water. 

Many would be shocked if they were able to see a visual image like this picture as it described their own life and the lack of activity found therein. 

Just as a charging dog could cause one to be paralyzed by fear and just as the "deepness" of one's rut can do the same, so it is with taking the needed action to prevent themselves from becoming stagnant! 

However, if you desire to live a productive life and if you wish to improve your life in all areas then it is an absolute necessity that you do whatever it takes to bring in "new life" INTO your life in order for it to remain "fresh" and "alive".  

It will not happen over night and it will not happen by itself. It will require YOU to make a decision to take action and it will also require you to actually put that decision into gear by TAKING action. 

Here's the kicker...some people actually are AFRAID of their life improving. What??? I know, as odd as it may seem, there are actually people out there that are fearful of their lives improving for the better.

WHY? Well, as best as I can figure out, it is because it is sometimes easier to live a life of stagnation and  a life in a rut so that one can use that as an excuse for their circumstances. For some, it is easier to blame their lack of action and activity in their life on the very things that are a result of the lacking activity.

Strange, isn't it? But, let's get real here - what about you? Again, as has been discussed in every article in this series, YOU MUST BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF before any advancement can be made.

Read and/or listen to those that can help stimulate your mind and your ideas. Spend time around those people that do the same and spend less time - if any at all - around those that do the opposite.

You MUST begin to bring in some "freshness" to your life if it has become stagnant. You must bring in some "fresh air" to help clear out and clean out the stagnant air that you have become used to.

So, again (from previous articles in this series) what is your WHY or your PURPOSE? What is it that you wish to accomplish?

Bottom line, get moving and take ACTION because it is the ONLY way to stay "fresh".

Tomorrow, we'll discuss the topic: "ACTION: It Becomes Easier With Momentum!"

Until then, whatever you do, always be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

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As You Get Older

I don't remember how long ago I wrote the following words for today's blog article...I wish I had included the date at the bottom of the writing. But, I did not.

I would GUESS that it was five or six years ago which would put it around 2013 or 2014 and, I may be off on that as well.

In my own life, much has changed over those past five or six years and, if I live long enough to experience another five or six years, much more will change as well.

I hope you enjoy reading this but, more importantly, I pray that you will TAKE NOTICE of what is said and allow it to make an impact on your life now and "as you get older".

(You may need to click on the image to enlarge it if you can't read it as is)

I'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic. Please share them with me on my Facebook page (link found below). 

And, as you go through each passing day, always be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

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The Old Barn and Miss Jeannine

The barn that you see in the picture above is one that I had planned to stop and take a picture of for a long time. I literally would pass by this old barn every day on my way to work and, many times, on my way back from work, depending upon which route I would take.

It actually became a running joke with my wife when we would pass by the barn - on days that I wasn't on my way to work - and I would say, "One of these days I'm going to stop and take a picture of that old barn!". The reason it became a running joke is because I said that for about a year and a half.

And then, one day I finally did it! I finally pulled over on my way to work one morning and took a couple of pictures of this old barn. I love pictures of old barns and other buildings like this and I finally did it! THEN my next plan was to take a picture of it for each of the four seasons. As you can likely tell from the picture, this one was taken this past Spring.

About a month or so I passed by and noticed what you see in the picture below. That's right, the old barn had collapsed and, shortly after, was completely removed to where you could not even tell that the barn had ever been there at all.

I'm so glad that I did finally pull over and take that picture that I had talked about for so long because, little did I know at the time, I would not have many more chances to do so before it's collapse. 

Now for Miss Jeannine. I didn't post a picture of her but she has been a dear friend to my wife and I for about the past twelve years. We first met her when we moved to a new town back in late 2005 and got to know her very well over the course of the 5+ years that we lived in that town. Even after we moved from there we stayed in touch and even got to see her from time to time even after she moved from there as well.

She spent the last year or so in a nursing home and we would stop by and see her whenever we had the chance to do so and I would even stop by when I was by myself and on my way somewhere related to my work.

The last few times we got to visit with Miss Jeannine were a bit disconcerting to us because she was starting to struggle with maintaining a good mind and, once, when I stopped to see her by myself, I spent a bit of time helping to calm her down because she didn't know where she was and who all the people were that were there. They were the other residents of the nursing home.

My wife and I saw her towards the end of this past March...about four months ago and have talked about how we NEEDED to go see Miss Jeannine again. But, for whatever reason, "things" came up and we just never got it done.

Last week I received word that she had been placed in the hospital with pneumonia and, then, the day after that they were going to be placing her in hospice. My wife and I were trying to arrange our schedule to where we could go see her and hoped that she would be able to know that we were there. We received word that they actually had placed her in hospice on Monday and we finally figured out that we would go see her on the following Friday.

On Tuesday I received word that she had passed.

There were no longer any more chances to go visit with our dear friend. Ever.

We attended her funeral this past Saturday and we both talked about how much we wished we had gotten the chance to see her "one more time".

The old barn is one example and Miss Jeannine is another but, friend, there are situations and examples like that around you each and every day.

We tend to get complacent and we tend to take things for granted but I want to encourage you to make a sincere effort to "wake up" from that complacency and to take action TODAY and EVERY DAY!

Stop putting off whatever it is that you keep saying that you need to do and just do it.
Stop saying you need to call or go visit someone and just do it.

Stop forgetting to tell someone that you love them and how much they mean to you and just do it.

Stop talking about "one of these days" and do it TODAY while you still have the chance.

If you don't you will likely regret it and if you do, you will be glad that you did.

With that in mind, whatever you do, always be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

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CHANGE Happens!

I have already posted the Vlog and podcast that I did for this topic earlier this week and I'm just now getting to this blog article. So, that being said, you need to BE SURE to listen/watch one or the other. WHY? Because I don't have a script that I follow and there will be different/additional thoughts and ideas shared in the podcast and Vlog than there will be with this article. (Check out the links at the end of the article).

I'm not sure how much I've shared via my blog articles about the changes that have taken place in my life since the start of this year (2018). I did not label them as "New Year's Resolutions" but, rather, just a "redefining of my direction" and my future. 

Just a quick review: I have been in the insurance business off and on for several years now and joined up with an agency shortly after the start of the year that I believe will be the best connection that I could have possibly made in this industry. Along with that, I have also made positive plans to be a part of the John Maxwell Team by the end of 2018. 

This insurance business is the "vehicle" that I have chosen as my way of getting from where I started the year to where I want to be at the end of the year. (Go back and read the articles about "What Do YOU Want" and the "Journey" series for more information).

This past Monday morning I found out that the person that was my "manager" and was also the one that hired me into this particular "branch" of this agency had quit. Boom! Immediate and with no warning. WOW!

A few years ago that would have thrown me for a loop and caused me to stress out about what was going to happen next! And, I'm sure it probably has done that to some people in this group. 

Why do I say that? Because CHANGE is something that makes us very uneasy and it is also something that, many times, we do not know how to handle.

Look at that graphic at the top of the article again. If you have lived for very long then you know that what is said there is absolutely true! One of the few constant things in life is CHANGE!

Everybody and every thing changes every single day. (Listen to the podcast or watch the Vlog for a more in depth discussion of that thought).

What do YOU do when CHANGE comes your way? And friend, if you say that it hasn't - it WILL.

This next statement is also a FACT - "With change comes opportunity." And, many times (if you are determined to approach it with a positive attitude) that opportunity can be a BETTER opportunity.

That is the case with the change that has taken place this week with my insurance business. It has now ended up to where the person that is now my "manager" is, to be honest, a better equipped person to do so. He already has infused "new blood" into this whole thing which will provide me with even more opportunities to be successful. 

Again friend, CHANGE WILL COME. Prepare your mindset in a way that will keep you from "freaking out" or crumbling under the pressure that COULD come with that change. Preparation is the key to this situation as it is with most every situation that you face each and every day. 

What will you do? What have you done? I'd love to hear your comments on how you have handled change in your life. You can leave them here but I would prefer that you leave them on the fan page on Facebook .

May you find a better opportunity before you with each change that comes your way.

Until next time...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

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Learning To Live OR Waiting to Die?

Read the graphic and then read (or re-read) the title and ask yourself about BOTH of them, "Is that such an odd question?"

 

The fact is, friend, that it is NOT an odd question at all because many people are just "existing" and not truly living and loving life.

 

I don't know about you but I think that is just sad. And unnecessary.

 

Too many people have given up on their dreams long ago and have just "accepted" a life that is far less than what they had envisioned.

 

Did you know that TRAVEL is one of the most remembered and most enjoyed activities that individuals and families participate in? Special trips and vacations create LIFE-LONG memories that can bring smiles on faces for years and years into the future.

 

Yet, most people never travel or they have to save for years in order to do so. Oh, they may "travel" but it's usually to visit a relative somewhere. Know what I mean?

 

Let me ask you a question: In today's blog, would you rather me talk about DEATH or LIVING LIFE? Would you rather talk about FUNERALS or FUN?

 

Now those ARE odd questions!

 

A couple of years ago I was working in the life insurance industry. Don't anyone get all worked up with what I'm going to talk about because - right up front let me say that life insurance is INDEED a needed and valuable product that should be taken advantage of by ANYONE and EVERYONE that can do so! Get it? Got it? GOOD!

 

However, I struggled with it and didn't do very well. It just wasn't me, know what I mean? Information will tell you that, even though are many successful agents that sell life insurance, most people (even though they realize and understand that they DO need it) don't want to talk about it. Think about it, they will talking about DEATH and, more specifically, their OWN death and what will happen after they are gone. Necessary? ABSOLUTELY! But not much fun to talk about.

 

So, I will leave that to others to do that part of life - or the end of it!

 

Me? I'd rather talk about "living life" and "fun"!

 

My wife, Janan, and I have recently started a travel business selling travel packages that offer incredible deals. We are determined to help get people traveling and making those life-long memories NOW while they still can. We are determined to help get people out of the house and LIVING LIFE before they can no longer do so.

 

So let me direct you to the information for YOU to consider taking advantage of this. I thank you in advance for taking a look and sharing the information with others.

 

GO HERE to access our travel Facebook page. We have a special promotion going on for all those who "LIKE" this page between now and midnight CST on Thursday, July 31, 2014. For every 100 "likes" we will be giving away one trip. That's right, 1 trip for every 100 likes! NOTICE: You must ALSO leave a comment in order to be entered into the drawing. (You can also find a couple of videos that show just how big the savings can be!).

 

GO HERE to read up on our current special promotions. Besides the promotion that I just mentioned in the above paragraph, we also have a SPECIAL PROMOTION going on for anyone that becomes a customer between now and 9:00 p.m. CST on Thursday, July 31, 2014. Check out the even BIGGER BONUS for those that are in my FIRST FIVE customers during that time period! **You can also find out about our special "referral" promotions for those who purchase a package as well as those that don't purchase a package.

 

GO HERE to check out all of our products, read some testimonials as well as see how many businesses use these trips as incentives for their employees and also as appreciation for their customers.

 

Bottom line is this: IF you feel that you are not really "living life" then ask yourself what is it going to take to change that? Get real and get serious with yourself on this and remember, "As long as there is breath, there's hope!". Every day that you are alive is a day to be LIVED. Every day that you are alive is a day to LOVE and to BE LOVED.

 

Don't forget that and, contact me if you'd like to talk about it...I'll do what I can to help!

 

And, as always, as you go about each and every day "LIVING LIFE", be sure to...

 

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

 

Mike

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Start Here

My guess is that we've all seen stories of people that rose up from horrible circumstances to experience incredible success which inspires all that find out about such a person.

Usually, when I see such stories shared, it's with the idea of, "Look at what they have been able to accomplish - what's YOUR excuse?" And it IS powerful. Very powerful.

Yet, for many of us, we've not had to fight such huge difficulties BUT, at the same time, many of us still struggle with setbacks of our own. (No, I'm not comparing "apples to apples" and I understand that).

You can have the best background in your life and still struggle with current circumstances. You may have had the best childhood possible but, your adult years may have put you in circumstances that you never thought you'd experience.

Here's the focus of the message for today (from the graphic above): "Your present circumstances don't determine where you can go, they merely determine WHERE YOU START."

So, here you are. "Current circumstances" may have you stunned and/or feeling discouraged, depressed and even defeated.

"As long as there is breath, there's hope." is a quote I have used often since coming up with it back on March 2, 2009. THERE IS HOPE!

It may not happen overnight but you CAN move on from where you are now. And you can begin that process now as well. Hey, we can all fuss and complain about it not being fair or how angry we may be or whatever the emotions may evoke due to your current circumstances. BUT, where you are is where you are. This is where you must start regardless of what has been fair or not fair.

START HERE!

It is what it is but also remember WHO YOU ARE and what you are capable of. You are one that has been created with tremendous resilience and potential in spite of setbacks.

So, friend, get up and go - REGARDLESS.

And, as you do so, be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

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T.I.M.E.

                                Tomorrow  It  May  End

 

I know, I know. Some of you are still thinking after yesterday's blog article that I am on some sort of negativity kick.

 

Not at all.

 

As a matter of fact, I am on a major MOTIVATIONAL kick! That's right - if the fact that time is passing by and can never be reclaimed doesn't or won't get you motivated then, friend, NOTHING will!

 

I talk to people every day that "say" they are serious about the need to make a change in their lives. I have people tell me literally every day that they are ready and willing to do "whatever it takes" in order for those changes to take place in their lives.

 

But, the truth is this: few ever take action.

 

And, yes, that is their choice but, one day - one of the days that these people still allow to pass by - will be their last day and then there will be no more chances or opportunities to better the lives of their family.

 

At least not for THEM to have the opportunity to impact that change.

 

Most people - at least those that have families - say that they desire to make a change for their family. They say that they want to make a difference in the type of lifestyle that they (their family) are living and also they say that they want to improve the future for their family.

 

That is an awesome "why" or "reason" for wanting to make a change.

 

Yet, so many people let days, weeks, months and years continue to pass by without ever really making that change happen for them and/or their families.

 

The short conversation that I had with a lady today brought all of this to mind. Now, realize that I do understand that she was more or less "brushing me off" but, still, it was quite interesting.

 

I simply asked this lady - who had been visiting my work from home business website - if she had a pen and paper handy to write a couple of things down. Her response was, "No, I don't right now." I then asked if she could go ahead and get one and she said, "Well, could you give me about an hour?"

 

Now, again, I know she was just "blowing me off" but it still stuck out to me that she was actually using the excuse that she needed an hour to look for a pen and a piece of paper.

 

See what I mean?

 

Real or not, the idea of "call me back in an hour" in order to pass up information that could possibly change her life is so common. Yes, I understand that once you fill out information on line that you receive a lot calls and other contact and it can get burdensome, but that is not the point that I am making in this article.

 

How many times do you find yourself saying that you need to do something and that you'll "do it in minute" only to find the rest of the day pass by without that particular thing getting done?

 

"Tomorrow it may end."

 

TODAY is all that you have. RIGHT NOW.

 

I've heard others say it but I do remember hearing the late Jim Rohn say it as well: "No matter what you do, five years are going to come and go. YOU decide what happens during that time." (That is a not an exact quote).

 

So, what are YOU waiting for?

 

Oh yeah, I still hear that train that we talked about in the last article! You had best "get on", "get out of the way" or "get run over".

 

Your move.

 

And as you contemplate that move, be sure to...

 

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

 

Mike

 

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The POWER of ONE DAY! (part 6: The Day of Your Death)

In this series we have talked about many things. We have talked about events in history that most anyone would know due to the impact that it had in history. I talked about the assassination of John F. Kennedy but we could also talk about the assassination of Abraham Lincoln.

 

We have talked about the importance in understanding the IMPACT that each of us - YOU and I - have on those around us. What we do, either good or bad, positive or negative, can make all the difference in the world FOR the world of those that cross our paths every day.

 

We have discussed this idea and how it relates to the problem of bullying. I hope and pray that this part of the series, in particular, will be something that will help SOMEONE along the way.

 

In our last blog post I even talked about the POWER of the day of your BIRTH! Go back and read it if you haven't done so already.

 

As a matter of fact, if you haven't had the chance, take some time and read each of these that have been posted so that you can "feel" the thought behind everything that has been shared.

 

Now, today is going to be a little different. Today we are going to discuss the POWER of ONE DAY with that day being the day that you die.

 

Sounds morbid, I know but I hope you will stay with me and follow along with my reasoning.

 

Can I share something personal first? As I type this out on a Monday I do so following news that my Dad passed away last night. He had been battling with cancer and I got to visit with him last Tuesday. I'm not going to say much more about it but, please know that when I speak on this topic it is FRESH in my mind and in my thoughts, okay?

 

Yes, more than likely, the day that you die may be a sad day for those that know you. I mean, YOU HOPE SO, RIGHT? I have actually been to a few funerals where there were no more than two or three "mourners" which, to me, is a sad thing to see.

 

In reality, what I'm talking about is not actually the fact that the day of your death is so powerful as much as it is a marking of your LEGACY that is so powerful!

 

Did you notice that the picture of the tombstone at the top of this entry is BLANK? And so it is with your life, friend. Sure, you could go ahead and have your name and the date of your birth put on ahead of time - you know those. However, you do not know the day that you will die and, even though this is not "written" on the tombstone, what is said ABOUT you with that tombstone has not been written - or FINISHED being written - yet.

 

A person's death can do many things. I've seen many times where a person's death actually brought a family back together when there has been separation due to arguments or other division. Even if not that, a family is brought together and, even though the situation may be sad, the family gets to visit and catch up with what has been going on in the lives of those gathered.

 

Here's the main thing I want to address and I am not going to spend a lot of time on it: THE POWER OF THE DAY OF YOUR DEATH POINTS TO YOUR LEGACY!

 

There is POWER in what is possible to live on through the lives of your children and grandchildren. There is POWER in the influence that you are able to leave on and in the lives of those that you have had contact for a period of time.

 

Friend, we NEVER know the full impact of the lives that we have touched and we will NEVER know. However, this kind of influence and impact is often seen when people gather to remember one who has passed.

 

What about YOU?

 

Are you leaving a legacy of positive impact? Or are you leaving a legacy (yes, it is still a legacy) of "well, I'm glad to see him gone!"? That's sad, but it's real!

 

As I talked about in yesterday's entry, each and every day that you wake up and take a breath YOU have the chance for a "do-over". YOU have a chance to correct what may need to be changed concerning your legacy. Each and every day!

 

Every day YOU have the opportunity to allow your LEGACY to grow and expand to those that you may not ever even meet. It is called "the ripple effect".

 

Yes, the POWER of ONE DAY!

 

But do NOT miss this point. The one day that is being discussed in this post is a combination of each and every day that has come BEFORE the day of your death.

 

That's how this works.

 

I did not see eye to eye on a lot of things with my Dad. But I am thankful that my Dad - my father - instilled many strong and powerful characteristics that have served me well and have actually been passed along to my own sons.

 

And I believe they will be continued to be passed along and instilled for generations to come.

 

THAT'S AWESOME!

 

So, friend, take advantage of TODAY so that "that day" - the day of your death - will show "the POWER of ONE DAY" as those gathered remember your life that came before that final day.

 

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

 

Mike

 

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A Day at the Hospital

 

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I spent most of today at the hospital today. My mother-in-law had surgery yesterday and, due to a crowded room, I sat in the lobby for the most of today and did some “people watching” from my chair as people came and went.

Here’s a brief view of what I observed throughout the course of the day:

1. I watched a young couple load up their newborn and it brought a smile on my face and many warm memories to my mind of the three times that my wife and I brought our sons home from the hospital. The start of a new life and many memories to come for this family.

2. I just saw a teenage couple come in all wrapped up with each other. You know, like each are afraid that the other person can’t stand upright unless THEY hold them up. But now, for me, makes me think if my wife and I tried to walk like that it would be like trying to run in a 3 legged sack race!

3. And now I observe a family gathering and mourning the death of a family member. So sad to see. Today I’ve observed parents taking a newborn home and now the impact of the death of a loved one.

Dare I make this point again? Sure I do – it’s my blog!

TODAY.

No need to say any more about that. You do the rest and make it count.

And, as you do, be sure to…

“Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)”

Mike

This entry was posted in Empower Network



 

Choice Three: STRENGTHEN

I know that what I'm about to say is an over-simplification but consider it anyway: "Life is a series of choices."

Now, again, I didn't say you had to AGREE with my statement, I just asked that you consider it which, in and of itself is a choice, is it not? Your consideration is a choice and your agreeing or disagreeing is a choice. You made a choice to read this article right now instead of doing something different. You have a choice to either keep on reading this article or to go on and do that "something else". You made a choice to get out of bed this morning or, if you are still in bed for whatever reason, you still made a choice to do something besides just lay in bed sleeping or watching television at this moment.

Yeah, I really COULD go on and on with this pointing out how many choices we make each and every day several times a day - but I won't. It was a choice that I had and I chose NOT to follow through with that. (There I go again!).

And, yes, when bad things happen in our lives we have choices that we must make. Among those are how we will allow this "bad thing" to impact us. We can either let it DEFINE us, DESTROY us or STRENGTHEN us. We've already talked about the first two and, today, I'll discuss the last one as I conclude my thoughts on this topic.

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I've said it many times in the discussions on this topic but I feel the need to say this again - please do not take it that I am "making light" of any tragedy that may have taken place in your life or the life of someone you know. Perhaps you are going through that that tragedy right now and NONE of this will make any sense to you at all and, likely, may even make you angry. BOTTOM LINE - I understand that what I am saying is over-simplified. But, even in the midst of crazy events in our lives it still all boils down to the simplicity of choices.

Oh, believe me, I understand that the fact there are choices to be made is a simple fact but the CHOICES TO BE MADE is what makes it all so difficult.

Don't let bad things define you or destroy you - we've covered that already and, as always, if you haven't had the chance to read those, you might want to read them BEFORE you read this installation. So, WHY NOT let even the bad things in life STRENGTHEN you or make you stronger?

Anyone that has done ANY type of strength training can tell you that it is NOT easy! Hey, anytime I (you, them, whoever, right?) have tried to do ANYTHING that was some sort of change to my habits (diet, exercise) it was NOT easy to do! And, when you start talking about trying to become stronger (which usually incorporates diet AND exercise) you have to stay with it and fight the pain knowing that the strain and resistance against your muscles will make them stronger.

The apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 4:13 said the following, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Now, again, I realize that all of you reading this may not be believers but I feel the need to share this anyway because, for many people in our world, their FAITH is a HUGE FACTOR in their ability to keep going and to gain strength even in the midst of these "storms".

But, beyond the powerful thing that Paul said in that verse is what is found in the preceding verses describing some ups and downs that Paul, himself had experienced. Notice this in the same chapter, but in verse 12..."I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."

FAITH - FRIENDS - FAMILY...the cornerstone for many people and especially when bad things happen in their lives. Have you utilized these resources in YOUR life recently? If not, maybe you need to do so BEFORE the "storms" hit (we talked about the need for preparation in one of the earlier articles in this series).

You CAN do this! You CAN make it through and you CAN survive another day and then another and then another. YOU CAN! YOU MUST!

"As long as there is breath, there is hope!"  Don't ever forget that!

Again, always feel free to contact me at any time (mike@futureyouuniversity.com) - I'd love to hear from you. And, whatever you do, where you go, be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

Choice One: DEFINE

Kelly Clarkson currently has a song out that has the following line in it, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger". We've all heard that saying before, right? And, by the way, I DO love that song! It's kind of hard to sit still when she kicks that chorus in!

I do understand the idea behind that saying but I'm not sure it's 100% accurate. If you are in a car accident and are paralyzed from the neck down are you STRONGER than before? No. However, you may become stronger mentally and attitudinally. But, that may not always be the case either. I'm sure you can add your own examples along that same thought line.

Yet, at the core of that saying lies this truth that I've been sharing for the past three years: "AS LONG AS THERE IS BREATH, THERE IS HOPE!"

Don't ever forget that and, along with yesterday's introductory article, "When Bad Things Happen" we need to remember that we have some choices. The first of these that I'll be addressing today is, "LET IT DEFINE YOU".

Who are you? Why are you "who" you are? What has made you who you are? Yes, I understand that all of our experiences have been a part of making us "who" we are but, again, don't miss this point - YOUR PAST DOES NOT DETERMINE YOUR FUTURE!

Currently, my wife and I are working with kids in foster care and there are some horrible and heart-wrenching stories behind the lives of some of these young people. However, it is so important for me to emphasize to them that their past DOES NOT determine their future! The mistakes of those that were supposed to love and care for them DOES NOT determine a continued future of hurt and distrust! Their own mistakes - OUR OWN MISTAKES - does NOT determine the same for their (our) future!

Too many people give up thinking that there is NOTHING that they can do to change this direction of their life and, my friend, there is NOTHING further from the TRUTH!

I talk on the podcast (iTunes -  http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/mike-spillmans-future-you/id423660739 and the RSS feed - http://mikespillman.hipcast.com/rss/futureyouuniversity.xml  ) about those that are dealing with or have dealt with tragic loss in their lives. I can't even imagine what it would be like to lose a child or to lose my wife. I came close to losing my wife a couple of years ago due to a "one-in-a-million" occurrences with her heart. The thought of going on and living life without her was unbearable! So, I want to emphasize again that I AM NOT criticizing anyone that is struggling with moving on after such a tragic event.

However, please hear me as I say this with complete compassion and caring - this, as well, does not have to define the rest of your life. Will it always be there? YES! Will it forever impact every area of your life for the rest of your life? YES! But it does not have to define and control the rest of your life.

You've often heard it said that the person that has passed would want you to go on and LIVE your life! I'm guessing that this is true but hard for us to think about when we go through such things. Please hear this in the way it is intended...at some point in time we must CEASE living the life of a victim and begin to live the life of a VICTOR!

You can. You must.

I, along with many others, am here to help in any way that I can by doing all I can to encourage you with these positive podcasts and articles. It IS possible to survive and thrive in spite of any bad thing that may have happened in your life.

When bad things happen they DO NOT have to define your life.

Join me tomorrow as we continue on with the next part, "LET IT DESTROY YOU". Until then, be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

When Something Bad Happens

As I begin this 4-part series today, I want to make sure you notice that the saying above is not, "IF bad things happen..." but, instead it is, "WHEN something bad happens...".

Friend, as bad as this may sound it is a fact of life that the longer you live you WILL experience something "bad" happening in your life. That's just part of being alive. Many of you have already experienced bad things happening in your life and, for some of you, maybe even too early in your life.

As I put this together there were many tornadoes that ripped through parts of our country last week that destroyed the lives of many people due to destruction and/or death. Storms come and go in our lives and it's not always the kind of storm that is defined by wind and rain.

As we go through this 4-part discussion we will ask ourselves if we will let these episodes in our lives DEFINE us, DESTROY us or STRENGTHEN us. For those of you that either have been or ARE going through bad times, what impact is it having on your life? Are you handling it - did you handle it - in a way that you wanted to? Hey, don't get me wrong - NO ONE wants anything bad to happen in their life, right? But, again, it is a fact that these things WILL come and we DO have a choice as to how we handle them.

Before we get into this whole discussion let me first of all say that I am NOT here to judge anyone on how they have handled or are handling a crisis in their lives. Too many people find it too easy to do just that - lay down "judgment" on something that they, themselves, either are not going through or have never gone through OR think everyone should handle the way that THEY handled it in their own situation.

We are all different! We all work through and handle things differently. This series is simply designed to be a means of encouragement to those that have been or are going through tough times due to "bad" things happening. It is also meant to be a way to encourage us all to PREPARE for these times before they arrive!

A football team (or any sports team) does not wait until the start of a game to prepare for that game. They begin their preparation MONTHS and MONTHS before that game is even scheduled to take place. The time for us to prepare ourselves for the "storms" that WILL come into our lives is NOT when the wind is trying to blow our door down!

The time to prepare is NOW. And, friend, if you've been there, I'd love to hear from you. I'd love you to share your story with me. I won't use any part of it unless you give me permission to do so, but you may just want to share with me, alone. I'd love to hear from you.

Remember, it's not IF but WHEN. Sure, it'd be great to avoid all things "bad" that may come along the way but, then again, we'd miss out on a lot of good as well.

Think about it and join me again tomorrow.

Until then, be sure to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike

Joy in the Journey

Today is "Fun Friday!" How appropriate that this day is tagged in such a way on the same day that today's podcast and blog is entitled, "Joy in the Journey". Have some FUN today!

Gas prices. Flat tires. Hotel rates. Road construction. Confusing signs. Detours. Cancelled flights. Wrong flights. Expensive flights. Screaming kids. Screaming adults. Yuck.

Missed deadlines. Others unenthused about your brilliant idea. Job loss. Behind on bills. Credit collectors calling. Sickness. Disease. Broken bones. Broken hearts. Loss due to death. Loneliness.

I've just described situations that may be a part of two different types of journeys. One is obviously connected to some trip or journey we may take in an automobile or plane or any other type of transport. The other, life's journey.

Now friend, if we were to just stop and take a look at these two paragraphs, let me ask you this: would YOU want to be a part of EITHER of these two journeys?

Let's go back to the first one and add some more: Smiling faces. Beaming faces. Children's laughter. Your OWN laughter. Pictures taken to keep those images alive. Sights and sounds shared. Awe. Inspiration. Time spent that will be remembered for a lifetime. Why don't YOU add some more to that list?

And the second one - our journey of life? Let's do the same and add some more descriptive words: Laughter. Love. Memories. Awe. Inspiration. Smiling faces. Beaming faces. Children's laughter. Your OWN laughter. Pictures taken to keep those images alive. Sights and sounds shared. Awe. Inspiration. Time spent that will be remembered for a lifetime. Again, why don't YOU add some more to THIS list?

Isn't it interesting how BOTH of these journeys can be described in much the same way when we consider the JOYS of such a journey?

Sure, there are hurts and disappointments that come and go in life, but don't miss that word...LIFE!

And, in the same way, as you move toward your goals and dreams, don't miss out on the JOY that is in THIS journey as well. Remember, you have had and hopefully still have a PASSION for WHY your are moving toward these goals and dreams. Remember the PURPOSE!

Don't forget to laugh along the way and to share your passion with those around you as you move ever closer to these goals and dreams.

Bottom line: DON'T GET BOGGED DOWN IN THE SET-BACKS! It's all a part of the progress, right?

Whatever you do, in ANY area of life, be sure to FIND JOY IN THE JOURNEY!

And, part of that is being sure to remember to...

"Make it an AWESOME day! (Who else is going to do it for you?)"

Mike
(podcast: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/mike-spillmans-future-you/id423660739 )