History has many accounts of men and women whose work and influence changed the world, but whose beginnings were less than impressive. At the end of their lives, the list of accomplishments undeniably challenged their humble, often failing records as children, which in some instances followed them into adulthood. Winston Churchill, the man considered England’s most extraordinary prime minister of the 20th century, was not a bright student as a young man. He performed poorly in every subject Continue Reading
Expecting Change without Changing = Insanity {Recharge Wednesday}
“You know when you are sailing, and you lose the wind? What do you do? You try a different tack. You need to try a different tack with your son.” I hit the pause button on the episode of my favorite TV show and picked up a notepad. The powerful visual was too good to dismiss. It is true and I could certainly relate. I used to sail in a bay on the shores of South Brazil, and what the character described is precisely what often happened when I reached the open ocean with my small Laser boat. As Continue Reading
When Anxiety is a Focus Issue {The Atlanta Journal-Constitution}
We have all been around overly anxious people. Some have good reason to feel anxious. Facing unemployment or severe illness, concerns about basic needs, life and death may fill their minds and rob their peace. Others may experience extreme stress brought up by somebody else’s decisions. Likewise, many people suffer from a chemical imbalance in their brain caused by prolonged stress, chronic disease, or an immune system disorder, creating an afflux of erratic thoughts, fear, and Continue Reading
The “He Would Love First” Movement {The Atlanta Journal Constitution}
I did not realize it was a movement. I had seen the bracelet in my daughter’s wrist, similar to the one I wore in the late ‘90s — W.W.J.D. (What Would Jesus Do) — but this one had a different acronym: H.W.L.F. (He Would Love First). She showed me a website filled with gear containing the letters — from bracelets to hoodies — a movement embraced by her generation of Christian teenagers and young adults seeking to answer the question: “What Would Jesus Do?” Curious that I am, I found the Continue Reading
Focus on the Right Voice {The Atlanta Journal-Constitution}
“His coach said he’s a little dog who thinks he’s a big dog.” The ESPN broadcaster words stood out among the other commentators’ insights. It was perhaps the biggest highlight of Georgia Bulldogs’ senior Christopher Smith’s college career. A 74-yard interception return against the Clemson Tigers on Sept. 4 became the deciding play on a game with an outcome that challenged all predictions. My bulldogs were the underdog (pun intended), and yet, the focus, boldness, and determination of a Continue Reading
Refuse to Give in to Discouragement and Fear {Recharge Wednesday – The Atlanta Journal-Constitution}
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Prophet Isaiah, chapter 40. Much can be said about the importance of one’s point of focus when it comes to life’s disappointments and hardships. The fact is, life is filled with moments and Continue Reading
