Thursday, January 31, 2008

MOTIVATING OTHERS

Vincci ladies' shoes - “Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way when you criticize them, you are a mile away from them and you have their shoes.”

There was once a small boy who banged a drum all day and loved every moment of it. He would not be quiet, no matter what anyone else said or did. Various attempts were made to do something about the child.

One person told the boy that he would, if he continued to make so much noise, perforate his eardrums. This reasoning was too advanced for the child, who was neither a scientist nor a scholar.

A second person told him that drum beating was a sacred activity and should be carried out only on special occasions. The third person offered the neighbors plugs for their ears; a fourth gave the boy a book; a fifth gave the neighbors books that described a method of controlling anger through biofeedback; a sixth person gave the boy meditation exercises to make him placid and docile. None of these attempts worked.

Eventually, a wise person came along with an effective motivation. He looked at the situation, handed the child a hammer and chisel, and asked, "I wonder what is INSIDE the drum?"

No more problem.

Good leaders know how to motivate others. They pique their curiosity and tickle their sense of wonder. They teach them to dream and tempt them to do more than they ever thought possible. They challenge them to be a part of something great.

Pilot and author Antoine de Saint-Exupery said, "If you want to build a ship, don't drum up the men to gather wood, divide the work, and give orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea."

Do that and there will be no limit to the wondrous places they can travel.

From Lifesupport.

Wednesday, January 30, 2008

HIPPEDY HOPPEDY RINGTONES

I just love to customize my mobile phone with fresh Hip Hop Ringtones. Making your own ringtone can be an arduous task with certain required skill set of editing audio on your computer. You also need a good sense for music rhythms to select the right portion of an audio track to convert to your Hip Hop Ringtones.


Why all the hassle and fuss when you can just get fantastic ready made Hip Hop Ringtones from FreeHipHopRingtones.net! And check it out guys, they even got an insightful section on Hip Hop News to keep you abreast of Hip Hop News that matter. Browsing for your desired ringtone is easy with the browse artists function sorted alphabetically.

A TOUCHING MOMENT

Toy tank - “The world is full of abundance and opportunity, but far too many people come to the fountain of life with a sieve instead of a tank car… a teaspoon instead of a steam shovel. They expect little and as a result they get little.”

Are you meeting a friend for lunch? Ac­cord­ing to "The Farmer's Almanac," if you are American you will probably touch each other twice an hour. If you are English, you may not touch each other at all. If you are French, you might touch each other 110 times an hour, and if you are Puerto Ri­can, you just might touch each other 180 times an hour.

There are obvious cultural differences in communication styles, but studies agree that touch­ing is important to human development. Psycholo­gist Wayne Dennis observed a group of babies in an orphanage where they were given practically no stimulation, including touch ("New Mind" by Robert Ornstein and Paul Ehrlich; A Touchstone Book, 1990). Most laid on their backs all day in bare cribs placed in bare rooms. They were touched only when their diapers were changed. At the end of one year, the children's de­velopment was about that of a six-month-old. The good news is that, once adopted into nurturing envi­ronments, these children quickly caught up to other children their age.

Human touch is vital. With it, we thrive. Without it, we wither. And it is good preventive medicine. It is simpler to hold a hand than to hold a consultation. A hanging head needs a shoulder un­der it. A back rub can be the easiest way to get a "monkey off someone's back." And the best way to get somebody's chin up is by lifting it with a gentle hand.

One of the best gifts you can give another may be an encouraging touch. And would you really mind if the gift were returned?

From Lifesupport.

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

A TEMPERATE RESPONSE

Chinese New Year auspicious decors - “One should try to take inspirations from great people and engage oneself in auspicious deeds.”

A young girl came into the house with a tear in her pants. Her mother was exasperated, as this had happened too many times before. At her wits end, she said to her daughter, "Now you go into your room, take off those pants, and sew up that tear!" The poor child had never held a needle in her life!

A little while later her mother saw the pants crumpled on the floor of her daughter's bedroom -- still torn. She looked around and...no little girl. Spying the basement light on, she called down the
stairs, "Are you down there running around with your pants off?"

A big voice boomed up, "No ma'am. I'm reading the gas meter."

Thomas Jefferson once advised, "When angry, count to ten before you speak; if very angry, count to 100."

Another way to say it is like this: When angry, slow down. Slow down and think. Slow down and calm down. A later response will be a more tempered response and usually a better one. Slow down and get some distance from the provoking incident. You'll see it more for what it is, and you'll often see that it never deserved your ire. Slow down and consider your best response.

On the other hand, don't forever hold it in. For anger does more damage to the vessel in which it is stored than the object on which it is poured. Uncontrolled rage will mostly hurt you. Slow down
before you let it out. But after you let it out, be sure to let it go.

And when you express your anger, keep your temper -- no one else wants it. Untold relationships, otherwise beautiful and full of promise, are ruined by rage. Countless careers and lives are brought down by harsh and thoughtless words.

Mahatma Gandhi had this motto on his wall at Sevagram:
"When you are in the right,
You can afford to keep your temper;
When you are in the wrong,
You can't afford to lose it."

Slow down -- and temper your anger with understanding.

Slow down -- and temper your ire with compassion.

Slow down -- and temper...your temper.

You'll be glad you did.

From Lifesupport.

Monday, January 28, 2008

TRADING LIFE STOCKS

Stock trading can be very lucrative, if you know what you are doing that is! Countless poor men and women have got their lives turned upside down because of the wrong choices they made in their stock trade activities.For those who are not keen on taking up a career as a stock trader but are still intrigued to find out more, I found just the right place for you! INO TV offers free video seminars by professional traders. Their videos touch on equities trading, futures trading, forex trading and mutual funds trading just to name a few.
You do not have to pay anything to access those insightful videos; only a free sign up is required!

THE FIRST SECRET OF SUCCESS

Red arc - “Little-minded people's thoughts move in such small circles that five minutes conversation gives you an arc long enough to determine their whole curve.”

"Success is dependent upon the glands - sweat glands," says motivational speaker Zig Ziglar. Here's a true story about a man who learned that lesson.

Harold was ready to retire. His wife Martha, however, was less enthusiastic. As she explained to a friend, "Harold has never done anything that required physical exertion. He never played golf, mowed the lawn or even washed the windows. When he retires, he will sit in his easy chair and expect me to bring him his food."

But to Martha's surprise, soon after he retired Harold joined a health club. And one night, when he arrived home from exercise class, he announced, "I signed up for the wrestling tournament. I am going to wrestle Friday night."

Martha was shocked. "Please don't do it, Harold," she begged. "You're not in shape. You will be so beat up they will have to carry you home!" However, he couldn't be dissuaded and she told him that if he went through with his "lame idea," she was not going to watch.

She stayed away that Friday evening as Harold wrestled. Then about 10:00 p.m., just as she predicted, two men practically carried Harold home. He lay down on the couch, every muscle strained and bruised. Before she could speak, he sputtered, "Don't say a word, Martha! This is not the worst of it. I won tonight. I have to wrestle again tomorrow night!"

Harold worked hard for his success, but he may not have been ready to succeed! He proved, however, that when you combine sweat with the belief that you can do a certain thing, tremendous results will often follow.

In fact, I believe Harold may have even surprised himself. As Dr. Norman Vincent Peale said, "People become really quite remarkable when they start thinking that they can do things. When they believe in themselves they have the first secret of success."

Have you discovered that secret?

From Lifesupport.

Sunday, January 27, 2008

RACING ADRENALINE RUSH

Horse betting is no child's play. You want professional advice or horse racing tips to back your money's worth. Yup, no more peeking over the shoulder of your fellow punter to see which horse he's betting on.Fancy getting instantaneous expert horse racing tips on your mobile phone? Hop on by to Protips. With Protips, you get to place bets on the same winners as professional punters.
But this really takes the cake. If you're worried about chalking up a hefty mobile phone bill for your horse racing tips, look no further than Protips. Protips only charges your mobile phone bill when their horse racing tips take the 1st place. Cool.

Saturday, January 26, 2008

ONLINE SHOPPERS REJOICE!

The internet has come a long way to become a shopper's paradise. Let's face it, there are many places you can shop online for almost everything that you desire. Too many until it has become an arduous task to find the best deals available!Do not fret! Get your coupon codes and promotional codes for more discounts online from CouponHeaven.com. With free coupon codes and online coupons from respected online merchants like Brookstone coupons and Godaddy coupons, you won't be disappointed with what CouponHeaven.com has on offer.

Friday, January 25, 2008

WEALTH OF WISDOM

Golden ornament statuette - “Education is the key to unlock the golden door of freedom”

One man said, "I had a brain scan and was told not worry --there was nothing there!" Which is all right because some of my best ideas over the years have come from others, anyway. And I have discovered that wisdom can be found in most any place and from most any person -- even the young­est of us.

It was a child who passed on this morsel: "If your sister hits you, don't hit her back. They always catch the second person." It is wisdom borne of hard experience.

Yet another child teaches us that "the best place to be when you are sad is in Grandma's lap."

Adults, too, have wisdom to share. One par­ent observed that "the best way to keep kids at home is to make the home a pleasant place to be... and let the air out of their car tires."

Wisdom can also be found among the youngest of us. And the most elderly will share it too, if we listen. I am related by marriage to a woman who is 103 years old. During her 100th year, "Aunt Pearl" was asked to speak to a group of high school students. She offered a century of wis­dom in a few short sentences: "Enrich your life by becoming a better per­son, a better student and an individual worthy of trust and faithful in your commitments. Aspire to help and not hinder in all your good and worthy undertakings. Use these words often: 'thank you,' 'please,' 'I'm sorry.' Af­ter living 100 years, I admonish you to think deeply, speak gently, work hard, give freely, pay promptly, pray earnestly and be kind."

Wisdom doesn't come much better than that.

From Lifesupport.

Thursday, January 24, 2008

YOUR LIFE IS AN INSIDE JOB

Garden pond - “I am not eccentric. It's just that I am more alive than most people. I am an unpopular electric eel set in a pond of goldfish.”

Taking his seat in his chambers, the judge faced the opposing lawyers. "So," he said, "I have been presented, by both of you, with a bribe."

The lawyers squirmed as he continued. To the one on his left he said, "You gave me $15,000." To the other, he said, "And you, gave me $10,000."

The judge reached into his pocket and pulled out some cash. Handing it to the first one, he said, "Now then, I'm returning $5,000 and we're going to decide this case solely on its merits."

Where is a person of character when you need one?

A whole and healthy life -- a life of character -- is cultivated on the inside. It has little to do with outward appearances, or even reputations. It's an inside job!

It is groomed from within. It grows from seeds of good decisions. Like always choosing to do the right thing, even when you're alone. Or standing up for what is good and decent, even if you run the risk of criticism.

A life of character is sometimes difficult to grow. But what else can you accomplish as worthwhile?

There is no work you'll ever complete;
no project you'll ever attempt;
no skill you'll ever master;
no book you'll ever write;
no race you'll ever run;
no sculpture you'll ever create;
no task you'll ever perform;
no structure you'll ever build;
nothing you'll ever do --
more important than the life you shape one day at a time.

Nurture your life on the inside and you'll never be disappointed with the fruit it bears.

From Lifesupport.

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

PECKING AWAY

Disco glitter ball - “Honest is how I want to look. The truth doesn’t glitter and shine

Do you know when to give up and when to keep trying? Former University of Alabama president, Frank Rose, used to tell a favorite story about a time, in the mid-1960s, when evangelist Billy Graham was invited to speak at an event in the university's football stadium. There were 18,000 people in attendance that evening. America's civil rights movement was well underway and the stadium crowd represented one of the largest racially integrated meetings ever held in the state.

As Rev. Graham was giving a message about easing racial tensions, a huge thunderstorm gathered overhead. Suddenly, lightening struck and a ball of fire seemed to emanate from the speaker's microphone and travel down the wire.

Graham immediately sat down. Then he leaned over and spoke to Alabama's legendary football coach, Bear Bryant. "Coach," he said, "you'd have stopped, too, if that lightnin' had hit you like that."

Bear said, "No sir!"

"What do you mean?" asked Graham.

"Well," he said, "if I was down on the one-yard line, I wouldn't have stopped until I scored."

At that, Rev. Graham returned to the microphone and finished his talk.

Safety considerations aside, the story reminds us of one of life's important lessons. In most of what we do, there is a time to stop, but there is also a time to score; a time to pack it in, but also a time to complete the task. The woodpecker owes its success to the fact that it uses its head and keeps pecking away until it finishes the job!

Today, will you quit? Or will you keep pecking away?

From Lifesupport.

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

LOVE IS UNDERSTANDING

Black notebook computer - “It isn't a matter of black is beautiful as much as it is white is not all that's beautiful”

You've heard it said: "Love is patient and kind." If love is patient, it may be because love is truly understanding.

Do you know what the most common craving is among pregnant women? (I'm sure this is factual.) The most common craving among pregnant women is not spicy food, pickles or ice cream. Not even close. It is for MEN to get pregnant.

Why? Because then they would know what it is like! Then they might be more patient. What most women need during times of cravings, discomfort, swollen ankles and morning sickness is... understanding.

Much of our conflict is simply misunderstanding. As a new bride, one woman moved into the small home on her husband's ranch in the mountains. She put a shoe box on a shelf in her closet and asked her husband never to touch it.

For 50 years he left the box alone, until his life partner was old and dying. One day when he was putting their affairs in order, he found the box again and thought it might hold something important.

Opening it, he discovered two doilies and $82,500 in cash. He took the box to her and asked about the contents.

"My mother gave me that box the day we married," she explained. "She told me to make a doily to help ease my frustrations every time I got mad at you."

Her husband was touched that in 50 years she'd only been upset enough to make two doilies.

"What's the $82,500 for?" he asked.

She explained, "Oh, well that's the money I've made selling the doilies."

Marge Piercy beautifully said, "Life is the first gift, love is the second and understanding is the third." But it is love that gives us life and understanding that brings about love.

Making doilies might take your mind off the problem, but it won't change anything. The path from conflict to love is not by way of arts and crafts. It is through the valley of understanding.

From Lifesupport.

Monday, January 21, 2008

LIST PROMOTION

So you have got the next "big thing" product fully equipped with wonderful bells and whistles. Now all you need to do is to promote it hoping that your message will reach your targeted audience. A task easier said than done!One of the most effective and cost efficient promotion method is by using carefully targeted telemarketing lists. You know you cannot just simply get your hands on a really huge telemarketing list and send your message across hoping for the best. That just would not do the job! What you need to do is find categorized specific telemarketing list like a mortgage mailing list if you are promoting a new mortgage service.
Here is the answer: The List Company can provide you with one of the largest databases of carefully targeted telemarketing lists. That way, with the strenuous task of obtaining your telemarketing list completed, you have more time and effort to work on your actual promotional message.

TELL TIME ON THEIR CLOCK

Golden bike clock - “You can't just sit there and wait for people to give you that golden dream. You've got to get out there and make it happen for yourself.”

"Find out what makes them tick, then tell time on their clock." This was one man's solution for getting along well with people. Find out what makes them tick - learn to understand them. Then tell time on their clock - identify with them and speak their language.

There is an old story which Mark Twain was said to have told first. It is about a Missouri farmer who ran five times for the state legislature without winning. It wasn't because he didn't practice his speeches. He rehearsed his campaign talks every day while milking. He referred to himself as "your humble aspirant." He referred to his audiences as "my enlightened constituents." He talked of "obtaining a mandate" for his "legislative mission."

Then one day even his cow balked at his speeches and kicked him in the teeth. With his front teeth knocked out, the farmer could speak only words of one syllable. The result was he won his next election and kept getting reelected.

However Twain felt about the electorate of his day, the story still sheds light on the importance of "telling time on their clock." A highly educated and eloquent politician may not relate to his/her constituency. Many hard working, plain folk appreciate straight talk in plain language. They distrust those who seem to "put on airs" and feel as if that candidate might just try to "put one over."

However, they can relate to one who speaks their language. This is a person who knows what makes them tick. This is someone who identifies with their plight and lets them know it.

The principle works well for non-politicians, too. If it is important to relate well to others, first learn what makes them tick. How well do you know that teenager in your life (or parent) or that client or even that supervisor? In this global community, how well do you know those of different backgrounds?

Then tell time on their clock. Let them know you understand. Speak their language. You may be amazed at the way others will respond!

From Lifesupport.

Sunday, January 20, 2008

SHOP BOPPERS

Shopbob is THE place to go for online shopping of women's clothings (or if you're strapped for cash, it's THE place to go to build up your wishlist)

But you may be overwhelmed by the staggering amount of clothes they carry at Shopbob. Heck, just look at the left scrolldown frame for the endless list of designers!You have two options. You can either browse through the pages of Shopbob yourself, or visit fashion blogs which may highlight an article of clothing or two from Shopbob.

But now you have a third option of browsing Shopbob at Stylehive. Yes, it's a dedicated section for the stuff they carry at Shopbob. What's interesting about it is that you can actually see what other people are interested in too. You like that Wave Print Halter Dress by Marc by Marc Jacobs? Well, 3 other persons like it too!

It won't take long to identity your fellow "hivers", whose style rocks your boat, so from there you get recommendations on stuff to buy at Shopbob. Plus, you'd get special offers from Shopbob that non-members of Stylehive won't enjoy. Sweet deal.

Saturday, January 19, 2008

WINE SENSES

I'm completely illiterate when it comes to wine. I have, however, gotten by so far by recommendations. Be it a website, a colleague or my neighbor, I'm all ears.But it's not until chancing upon tastevine.com, that I've realized that the wines I've been recommended all this while may not be an "accurate recommendation".
Recommendations at tastevine.com work like this. You are given a list of wines to rate and describe. Your "wine leanings", if I may, are then captured and you'll be given a "tasteID". This allows the folks at tastevine.com to make recommendations which are tailored to your taste buds!

So whether it's red wine you're looking for, or merlot, or chardonnay, you can't get a more accurate recommendation than at tastevine.com.

SOMETHING TO UNLOCK US

Gears and cogs - “Patience is the ability to idle your motor when you feel like stripping your gears.”

I have hear numerous comments like these: "I want my life to matter." "I want to make more of a difference to people." "Life is too short. I may not live a long life, but I do want to look back on a meaningful one." We live in a time when people are seeking more authentic ways to live.

We also live in a time when there is less interest in religion and more in spirituality. Less in denominations and more in global participation. There seems to be a public yearning for lasting answers to the gnawing emptiness so many feel within.

Television, movies and print media are tying into our universal attraction to all things spiritual. And so is the Internet. Just google the word "God." In English you will get several hundred million hits! More people are writing and talking about God than the world's wealthiest, most powerful and most well-known historical personalities. There is a great interest in spirituality, and for many people, a renewed quest for meaning.

In the wonderful Lewis Carroll story of "Alice In Wonderland," one of the characters is a lock. The lock is restless. It is busily hunting for something behind every rock and tree. As Alice watches the lock, her curiosity is aroused and she asks, "What is the matter?"

The lock replies, "I am looking for something to unlock me."

I think that is our quest -- looking for something to unlock us. Something to open us up to passion and purpose for living. We don't want to die before we ever truly LIVE! And we somehow know that our best answers will be spiritual ones; for we're finally unlocked when our hearts have been opened. It's a key...to peace.

From Lifesupport.

Friday, January 18, 2008

LOANING STUDENT LOANS

Life is tough. Life is even tougher without a college degree. Getting a good college education is not cheap.Luckily there is a good place for all your Student Loan Consolidation. Whether you are a college graduate or a graduate student or even a concerned parent, NextStudent has everything you need to go about your Student Loan Consolidation.
NextStudent has got a great section with helpful resources to point you in the right direction of securing your Private Student Loans. And with a free financial aid newsletter, anyone can get a headstart with Student Load Consolidation at NextStudent.

KEEPING HOPE ALIVE

Learning tables - “A table, a chair, a bowl of fruit and a violin; what else does a man need to be happy.”

We cannot live only on hope. But neither can we live without it. Nobody knew this better than John Chapman.

John Chapman was a man of great hope. He was born in 1774 in Massachusetts. In the early 1800's he got in on the opening of land in the Northwest Territory, as it was then called, of the new United States. He found small plots of land suitable for farming and cleared them by hand. He bought fruit seed in Pennsylvania every year and carried it to his many apple orchards, usually on his back.

When the trees were large enough to transplant, he sold them to settlers homesteading the West. Eventually, he had little apple orchards spread around what would become the states of Ohio, Michigan, Illinois and Indiana. Most people forgot, or never knew, his real name, and took to calling him Johnny the Apple Man or Johnny Appleseed.

Johnny was a gentle man with a big vision. He was liked by most people who knew him, the native Indians and white settlers alike. His vision was to spread the goodness of apple trees everywhere people settled. Apples, he believed, gave the promise of harvest and hope that the wilderness would become home. Every tree he grew was a symbol of hope.

Johnny had another curious habit. He loved books, but did not have the means to carry more than two, usually a Bible and a book of inspiration or theology. Because Johnny wanted to share his books, he carefully cut chapters out of whatever inspirational book he had available and loaned one or two chapters to families that wanted to read. He'd later swap those chapters for others when he came back through. In this way he left hope and encouragement wherever he traveled.

His grave can be found today in Fort Wayne, Indiana. It says, "Johnny Appleseed (John Chapman). He lived for others."

Johnny understood his greatest task in life: to keep hope alive. When we keep hope alive, then hope keeps us alive.

From Lifesupport.

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

FIXING PC HICCUPS

I recently had a haha.js living on my laptop for months and I didn't even know it.

Truth is, you can't really run away from the many hiccups that come by every now and then when you own a pc.

If the words "PC Repairs" or "Computer Repairs" conjure an image of not seeing your pc for weeks on end (while it sits idly in some office supposedly in the process of getting "repaired"), PC Ask Me is going to change all that.All you have to do is to call them up, and their Tech Geniuses (as they are known at PC Ask Me) will guide you through the repair process.

They have a flat rate for most of the services that they offer.PC Tune Up - $125. Peripheral Device Setup - $49.

But that's not all that they offer. They also have Adware Spyware Removal, Network Security Setup and much much more.

I think it's a good deal. For the price of say, $49, you pay to setup your network security AND learn how to do it at the same time.

HOW THIRSTY ARE YOU?

Utility tug ship model - “Nothing can have value without being an object of utility

A man had an operation, and the doctor, by mistake, left a sponge in him. A friend asked him if he had any pain because of it. "No," said the man, "but I sure do get thirsty."

It's true that the people who get thirsty - not for water or beverages - but thirsty to pursue a dream or achieve a goal, are the ones who will eventually succeed. Thirst, or desire, is paramount. Napoleon Hill has said, "Desire is the starting point of all achievement, not a hope, not a wish, but a keen pulsating desire which transcends everything."

Alan C. Elliott writes in his book A DAILY DOSE OF THE AMERICAN DREAM: Stories of Success, Triumph, And Inspiration (Rutledge Hill Press) that educator Benjamin Bloom reported the results of a five-year study that was undertaken to discover what made some people extraordinarily successful. The study consisted of detailed research into the lives of 120 of the nation's top artists, athletes, and scholars.

Bloom was surprised to find that natural abilities played only a small part in the development of those individuals. As children, they were often mediocre musicians, athletes or students, but Bloom found that they possessed a powerful drive to succeed. They practiced the piano hours every day, rose well before school every morning to swim, or spent hours alone working on science projects.

Parental support was also a key factor. The parents of the successful young people helped out, exposing their children to great ideas and influential persons. Many sacrificed to ensure that their offspring received good training. But in the end, it was their children's thirst to do well that made the difference.

How thirsty are you? Your success in any field you choose may hinge on your answer to that simple question.

From Lifesupport.

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

WAIT TRAINING

Paiky the dog laying down - “If you're still hanging onto a dead dream of yesterday, laying flowers on its grave by the hour, you cannot be planting the seeds for a new dream to grow today”

Perhaps you can relate. One man was to meet his wife downtown and spend some time shopping with her. He waited patiently for 15 minutes.

Then he waited impatiently for 15 minutes more.

After that, he became angry. Seeing one of those photograph booths nearby (the kind that accepts coins into a slot and takes four shots while you pose on a small bench), he had an idea. He assumed the most ferocious expression he could manage, which wasn't difficult under the circumstances, and in a few moments he was holding four small prints that shocked even him!

He wrote his wife's name on the back of the photographs and handed them to a clerk behind the desk. "If you see a small, dark lady with brown eyes and an apologetic expression, apparently looking for someone, would you please give her this?" he said.

He then returned to his office content that, if a picture is worth a thousand words, then four photos must be a full-blown lecture!

His wife saved those pictures. She carries them in her purse now. Shows them to anyone who asks if she is married...

How are you with patience? One person calls it "wait-training." It seems that there is always something we are waiting for. We wait on traffic and we wait in lines. We wait to hear about a new job. We wait to complete school or to retire. We wait to grow up or for maturity in a child. We wait for a decision to be made. We wait for someone to change his or her mind.

Patience is an essential quality of a happy life. After all, some things are worth waiting for. Every day presents plenty of opportunities for wait training.

We can resent waiting, accept it or even get good at it! But one thing is certain - we cannot avoid it. How is your wait training coming along?

From Lifesupport.

Monday, January 14, 2008

GOING BEYOND MAILBOXES

I don't know about you, but I still get a kick out of getting snail mail.If you're anything like me, you'll be sure to get a kick out of the fancy residential mailboxes they have over at Mailbox And Beyond.
If you're not ready to part with your current mailbox, but would like to give it a new look, the guys over at Mailbox And Beyond can customize it for you too.
Well, they ARE called Mailbox And Beyond, so they do have more than just mailboxes. Address plaques, anyone? Looking at their stylish address plaques have certainly gotten me thinking twice about the cheapo plastic number signs that I slap on the front gate that I got at my local Dollar Store (the number signs, NOT the gate, mind you!)

They have a whole lot more at Mailbox And Beyond, ranging from birdbaths to door knockers. Very drool-worthy household adornments, if you ask me.

A GAME ANYONE CAN PLAY

Black and white cat - “Cats always know whether people like or dislike them. They do not always care enough to do anything about it.”

The most miserable people live in their own little worlds of isolation. They do very little for others and rarely have much fun.

I heard of one older gentleman who was considered by the townspeople to be both rich and thrifty. His austerity earned him the reputation of a miser. When he died, everyone expected the authorities to find money stashed everywhere in his home. All they found were a few gallon cans filled with coins.

It came out that he had used most of his money to help put needy young students through college. And the coins filled his pockets as he walked down the streets of the business districts looking for cars whose parking meters had expired. When he found one, he would drop in a coin. One of his neighbors commented, "That explains why he looked so happy and contented!"

Of course! People who go out of their way to help others will always be happy.

When I lived in Denver, I decided to do the same thing. I always have more coins in my pockets than I need, so whenever I parked on a busy street I noticed the parking meters around me. If one was expired, I put in a coin.

Then I learned something disturbing. It is illegal to do that in Denver! (The government found a new way to take a bit of fun out of my life....) Once I learned that I was breaking the law, I quit looking for meters to feed. And I lost that extra bit of joy I used to receive every time I anonymously aided a fellow motorist.

I have moved away from Denver now and I just might go back to feeding an expired meter from time to time. I don't know how the city council feels about my little gifts to unsuspecting drivers, but I know how it feels to be unavoidably late returning to a parked car, and worrying about whether the meter has run out. And if I have to look over my shoulder before I deposit a coin, then somehow I think that may be more fun! It can be a game: do something good and don't get caught!

Everyone is allowed to play.

From Lifesupport.

Sunday, January 13, 2008

SEWING WITH SINGER

Sewing can be a great and profitable pass time. Whether you are sewing for fun or professionally, having a singer sewing machine can do wonders for you.Singer sewing machine was invented by Isaac Merritt Singer back in 1851. With a rich history of research and development, you can be sure that a singer sewing machine is of high quality and standard.
For those who just started to branch out for a singer sewing machine, you do not have to worry for every singer sewing machine has been made with the user's experience put at the utmost importance. Hence every singer sewing machine is easy to use and master.

Saturday, January 12, 2008

SNOWBOUND!

Flat white notebook - “Jump into the middle of things, get your hands dirty, fall flat on your face, and then reach for the stars.”

It was the heart of winter. A raging blizzard left the white stuff piled 30 inches deep - and deeper where wind had blown it into drifts. We were stranded in our mountain cabin for days. But with schools and businesses all closed due to the storm, where would we go even if we could have left?

I shoveled heavy, wet snow all day long. My back, arms and shoulders ached. I shoveled more the next day. But while I shoveled, I thought, "I can either grumble all day long or use the time to learn important life lessons." So I gave thanks and learned a few things about tough times in the process.

First, I was thankful that we received much-needed moisture. Sure, it came all at once, but after the summer's drought it was needed more than ever. There is usually some good in every problem. Look for it.

Second, I was thankful I was able to work. I had good health and the fresh air probably did me more good than a typical sedentary day. Be thankful you can solve problems! Only dead people are without difficulties.

I was also thankful that the snow was temporary. Problems may come, but it helps to remember that they almost always pass, too. Months from now your problem may be no more than a distant memory.

Finally, I was thankful for neighbors who helped one another clear a road to their homes. Adversity brought us together. Too many weeks had passed without much more contact than a nod or a wave - but those days we talked. Can your problems bring you closer to other people?

You've got problems? Be thankful!

From Lifesupport.

Friday, January 11, 2008

MOVING ON HAWAII

Hawaii is a nice vacation spot with its lush tropical surroundings and temperate climate. The best way to get about once in Hawaii is by getting a vehicle through Hawaii Car Rental so you can drive around freely as you please.Check this out: you are not required to pay anything for your Hawaii Car Rental reservation until you arrive in Hawaii! And unlike most sites, Hawaii Car Rental provides you with a confirmation number even without any credit card payment.
With one of the lowest Hawaii Car Rental rates on vehicles of all sizes and makes from minivans to convertibles, there is absolutely no extra fee for young drivers! That's brilliant I say.

DECIDING HOW TO LIVE

Twin happiness swans - “Love is the condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own.”

There was once a young man who, in his youth, professed his desire to become a great writer. When asked to define "great" he said, "I want to write stuff that the whole world will read, stuff that people will react to on a truly emotional level, stuff that will make them scream, cry, howl in pain and anger!"

He now works for a software company, writing error messages.

Those beautiful dreams we have for the rest of our lives too often don't materialize. And, again too often, we look back dissatisfied with the direction we took or the place we finally reached.

Frederick Buechner, in his book THE HUNGERING DARK (New York: Seabury Press, 1968), talks about looking back at high school yearbooks. He plays a sad game, remembering what all his classmates hoped and dreamed of becoming. "In my class, as in any class, at any school," he says, "there were students who had a real flair, a real talent, for something. Maybe it was for writing or acting or sports. Maybe it was an interest and a joy in working with people. Sometimes it was just their capacity for being so alive that made you more alive to be with them. Yet now, a good many years later, I have the feeling that more than just a few of them are spending their lives at work in which none of these gifts is being used. This is the sadness of the game .."

Matt Lamb could have been one of those people. Until 1987, Matt owned and ran his own funeral home in Chicago. But that year, a doctor told Matt that he had a fatal disease. So he closed the funeral home and pursued his true passion, painting.

Soon, Matt's art drew national attention. He became quite successful. Only after Matt had found success in his dream career did doctors discover that they had misdiagnosed him. He wasn't going to die after all.

A misdiagnosis may have saved him from a life of meaninglessness. Not that owning one's own small business is in any way unworthy, but it simply was not Matt's true passion. In his heart, he wanted to paint, and he would never be truly happy until he pursued that dream, wherever it finally led him.

What does it take to move us to follow our passions? Must we face a crisis before we step off the safe, known path onto the unknown trail of adventure we've dreamed of following all our lives?

Singer Joan Baez reminds us: "You don't get to choose how you're going to die. Or when. You can only decide how you're going to live." That decision is too important to put off another day.

From Lifesupport.

Thursday, January 10, 2008

FURNISHING MODERN LIFESTYLES

I've always been a fan of the IKEA modern furniture. But when it comes to actually putting stuff in my house, I wouldn't want my armchair to look just like my neighbour's.I love the nice selection of modern furniture they have over at eRoomService.com. Clean. Stylish. Modern.
What's wonderful about eRoomService.com is that you can actually place an order from the comfort of your own home. There may be skeptics of online furniture purchases. Sans smelling the leather yourself, or running your fingers through the fabric, how would you know if you actually like that piece of furniture without testing it out first?
Well, different strokes for different folks. But if what you got isn't exactly what you saw, rest assured as they have a 30 days return/exchange policy.

BE CHEERFUL

Clay pots shopping - “I always say shopping is cheaper than a psychiatrist.”

A doctor gave a 92-year-old man a physical exam. A few days later he happened to notice the man walking down the street with his arm around a gorgeous young woman and grinning from ear to ear.

The next time he encountered the man, the doctor said, "You are really doing great, aren't you?"

"Just doing what you said, Doc," the man agreed. "You said, `Get a hot mamma and be cheerful.'"

"I didn't say that," replied the doctor. "I said you got a heart murmur. And be careful."

I wonder if the advice to be cheerful may actually do him more good than to be careful! There is no shortage of self-help books and articles about taking care of yourself physically - from watching your diet to getting proper exercise. In other words, "Be careful!" But just as necessary is learning how to care for your mind and spirit. And cultivating a cheerful attitude can be an important part of the treatment.

Do you tend to focus on what is wrong with your life, or what is right? Are you known as an angry person, or are you known more for being up-beat and positive? Today you can be careful. But will you be cheerful?

From Lifesupport.

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

VEHICLES ON THE MOVE!

House moving is no easy task. There is the emotional trauma of saying goodbye to familiar surroundings and the people you have come to know. The last thing you need to worry about is how to auto transport your vehicle.National Car Shipping will take the heavy burden of car shipping off your shoulders. Whether you have got a car, a van or an over sized SUV, National Car Shipping provides one of the lowest car shipping rates.
And do not worry if you are moving overseas as National Car Shipping provides one of the best international car shipping services around. You can easily get your own instant free car shipping quote on National Car Shipping.

SETTING YOUR OUTLOOK

Decorative statue - “In every block of marble I see a statue as plain as though it stood before me, shaped and perfect in attitude and action. I have only to hew away the rough walls that imprison the lovely apparition to reveal it to the other eyes as mine see it.”

A man who fell off a skyscraper was heard to say as he passed the 12th floor, "So far, so good!" One might say he was an optimist.

I believe in optimism. I believe that there is great power in an optimistic attitude, especially when it is grounded in reality.

The late Brian Johnston, a well-known British broadcaster, demonstrated the power of an optimistic outlook. He delighted millions of listeners with his radio programs. He was also a top-class cricket commentator and enthusiast for the game. He once said, "I am a great optimist. Every time I go to a cricket match, I think it is going to be the best game I have ever seen. Of course, it never is, but what pleasure it gives me in anticipation!"

Is he simply playing silly mind games? I don't think so. Imagine how much more we might enjoy a meal, a book, an outing, a concert, a holiday -- if we think these just may be the best we have ever experienced! A strong, positive outlook can make all the difference.

The poet writes:

"One ship sails east, the other west
On the self-same winds that blow.
'Tis the set of the sails and not the gales
That determines the way she goes."

Set your mental outlook to always expect the best. You will often get exactly what you expect! And even if you don't, you will still get to enjoy the pleasure of anticipation.

From Lifesupport.

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

FAVORS FAVORS FAVORS FOR ALL OCCASSIONS!

It is a arduous task whenever you are planning any event involving a lot of guests and participants. To ease up some of the stress buildup on choosing the right anniversary favors or birthday party favors as souvenirs head on over to AllInOneFunFavors.com.Offering one of the most comprehensive selection of favors available online, AllInOneFunFavors.com is the place for great bridal shower favors and graduation cookies. For those golf lovers out there, there is a fantastic selection of golf party favors too!
AllInOneFunFavors.com also has baby shower favors, communion favors, winter favors and superb crystal baby favors.

HUG THAT MONSTER

Power fuse box - “A conviction of self-worth and passion for ideals fuse in a life attitude that is positive, free, noble and spiritually enhancing.”

One couple spent a holiday driving in the mountains. "Every time you race around one of those narrow curves," exclaimed the wife, "I just get terrified."

"Then do what I do," suggested her husband. "Close your eyes!" We are all afraid at times, but closing our eyes is not always a helpful way through fear. Better to open your eyes and face those fears head-on.

In 1972 David Miln Smith had such an opportunity. Smith, an adventurer, author and professional speaker, decided to spend a night alone in St. Michael's Cave on the island of Gibraltar as a test of courage. In his book HUG THE MONSTER (Kansas City: Andrews and McMeel, 1996), he tells of hearing strange sounds all around him as he lay there in the pitch-black, damp, deserted cave. Most frightening was the fact that he came to believe he was not alone!

Fear became panic and he was afraid he was losing his mind. Then suddenly, as he was approaching his psychological breaking point, Smith thought to himself, "Whatever the monster looks like, I will hug it." That simple, almost silly thought brought great relief to his restless mind. He soon fell into a deep and peaceful sleep until morning. He learned that embracing his fear, literally or figuratively, allowed him to subdue it.

We each have our nights of fear. We each encounter monsters of some sort. We may fear spiders or insects, heights or crowds, abandonment or loneliness, the future or death. And most of us are occasionally visited by shadows of these monsters in the dark of night.

The next time you're afraid, try "hugging the monster." Face that fear head-on, whatever it is, and embrace it. You may be surprised at how quickly it slips away and at how confident you begin to feel. Like that beautiful spirit Eleanor Roosevelt said, "You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you stop to look fear in the face."

Do you have a monster to hug?

From Lifesupport.

Monday, January 7, 2008

ACTING THANKFUL

Table lamp - “To keep the body in good health is a duty, for otherwise we shall not be able to trim the lamp of wisdom, and keep our mind strong and clear. Water surrounds the lotus flower, but does not wet its petals.”

Do you remember the story of the two men who were walking through a pasture and spotted an enraged bull? Instantly they darted toward the nearest fence. The storming bull followed in hot pursuit, and it was soon apparent they wouldn't make it in time. Terrified, one shouted to the other, "Put up a prayer, John. We're in for it!"

John answered, "I can't. I've never made a public prayer in my life."

"But you must!" panted his companion. "The bull is catching up to us."

"All right," agreed John, "I'll say the only prayer I know, the one my father used to repeat at the table: 'O Lord, for what we are about to receive, make us truly thankful.'"

Not a bad prayer, actually, at least in other circumstances. And not a bad attitude about life! But even as important as BEING truly thankful, it is necessary to ACT truly thankful.

Italian actor, director, singer-songwriter and poet Roberto Benigni believes in the importance of acting thankful. Benigni won the 1998 Academy Award for best actor for his performance in the controversial film "Life Is Beautiful." In his joy at receiving the honor, he actually danced over the tops of chairs and leaped up on stage, applauding the audience. The effusive Benigni believes that it's a sign of mediocrity when one demonstrates gratitude with moderation. And he is anything but moderate when showing gratitude!

How are you at showing your gratitude? Most of us are not as demonstrative as Benigni, but acting truly thankful can actually help us feel more grateful. And feeling plenty of gratitude it is one of the quickest paths to joy!

From Lifesupport.

Sunday, January 6, 2008

CANDY, CANDY OH SWEET CANDY!

Now and then we get the strong desire to pop some delicious candy in our mouths and savor the wonderful flavors! Usually when I am feeling down because of stress or tiredness, a little chocolate bar favors will brighten up my day.Personalized candy bars is the universal gift for most occassions. CandyUnderCover.com offers wonderful and fantastic looking personalized candy bars for all occassions! You want a great addition to a wedding, get some delicious edible wedding favors! You can also get some superb bridal shower candy bars while you are at it.
Here is a great tip: thank someone with candy bar thanks million! You bet they would not forget your kind gesture for a long time. Besides great looking candybar wrappers, CandyUnderCover.com also offers christening favors, personalized kids candy bars and bar mitzvah candy bars.
Head on over to CandyUnderCover.com and get your fix of bat mitzvah candy bars now.

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