Jack’s Winning Words 10/26/07
“Faith is much better than belief. Belief is when someone else does the thinking.” (R. Buckminster Fuller) I believe that this is true. 100 years ago, Bucky, the visionary, was concerned as to whether or not mankind could survive on planet earth. What goes around comes around. BTW, no Winning Words ‘til after Halloween. Scarey! ;-) Jack
FROM B.G. IN MICHIGAN: This is a very good WW. I am focusing on faith as trust, rather than saying what we "believe". Radical concept, eh?!?
FROM BB IN ILL: I saw Bucky at Harper College in the late 70's or early 80's. He was amazing. Humorous, brilliant, humble. The children have done different projects for school on his inventions over the years. Perhaps one day they'll read him too! Happy Halloween!
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Belief is faith.
FROM E.D. IN AZ: I have not heard that name "R. Buckminster Fuller" since my mineralogy class in college. Chemists named these really cool spherical carbon structures "Buckyballs" after him - im guessing because of his architectural obsession with geodesic spheres ( i.e. Epcot)... Just a random thought,
FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: Beliefs are conclusions of the mind - faith is the action of the person - what we sometimes call the heart.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I never met the man, but many people I admire have. This quote is from Futurist Magazine http://www.gooddebt.com/bucky.pdf Oct 2006. Even years after his death he still inspires and teaches. I quoted him often in my MBA papers on Leadership. For leaders striving to “make the world work for 100% of humanity,” there is no better model of leadership than that of “comprehensive thinker” R. Buckminster Fuller.
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: Mr. Fuller once designed a transparent dome to cover East St. Louis.
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: Bucky did indeed talk about developing a huge dome to cover the heart of a city. I don't recall which city, but i doubt that it was East St. Louis. He was at St. Louis several times, participating on projects with the students at Washington University. He was there for several weeks when I was in the School of Architecture, and a small dome was designed and built by the students on the grounds of our School. (There's little reason to believe he wanted to cover East St. Louis, because it was already in decline back in the 50's, and it had no balanced urban life. It was mostly an area of dirty industry.) Doing it over St. Louis itself is more likely. Bucky was remarkable. He was in (I would guess) his 60's then, but had the spirit of being 30. He was gregarious, loving to talk with everyone, for any length of time. Not only did he have the determination to make practical use of dome technology, but he was always thinking and positing about new, simple solutions to common problems of our society. I attended a couple evening lectures, which were crowded with the public because so many had heard about him. After going on and on with facts, inventive ideas, and humor, he stopped about 11 pm. He considerately suggested that anyone who had enough might want to leave, and then he started up again (with about half the crowd) and talked until midnight. He was quite unforgettable.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: That is definitely true.....I don't get caught up in belief....just faith. I have my own faith, I don't use someone else's belief!
Friday, October 26, 2007
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Jack’ Winning Words 10/25/07
“In love, one and one are one.” (Jean-Paul Sartre) Do the math and send this to someone who is very important in your life. I was going to save it until Valentine’s Day, but that’s too long to wait. J-P was a French existential philosopher. His writings make for interesting reading. ;-) Jack
FROM E.A. IN MICHIGAN: Very very true after 55 years of married life.
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: I truly like this one. What a nice way to start the day!
FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: Only a true idealist would buy into that one! When couples lit the wedding candles, I always had them leave their individual candles burning along with the mrriage candle because life is not so idyllic as the aboe person believes. Only in the essential I/Thou relationship do we begin to "approach" anything like that. I think it is a greater miracle that two "individuals" can work together as one as often as some couples do. That is to me a better view of what is really happening in this world.
FROM N.K. IN THE U.P.: HOW FITTING !!!! ( for yesterday) Kal and I cellebrated our 54 th. And describing our conditions- Kal says WE HAVE BECOME ONE
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: I think I told all my children to be very carefull when falling in love. It is such a strong force that it will hold you for a life time, and teamwork bonded by love is so strong a bond that real success is assured. and it will spill over into the lives of the children.
MORE FROM B.S.: Wow, what a bright gent, he must have been a real pleasure to know
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Leave it to a Frenchman to have nothing but love on his mind.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Glad you didn't wait until Valentine's Day. It's perfect for everyday too!
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: “If you want to read about love and marriage, you’ll have to buy two books.” Says Alan King.
Marriage can mean two becoming one, hopefully “of one purpose” not one brain. I have often seen couples that appear to be sharing one brain. In Good Debt, Bad Debt I wrote about marriage, mostly, from the financial perspective but I like what this early 20th century author had to say: “Marriage may make or mar your entire life. It can build you up or tear you down. It can ennoble every phase of your character, or it can make you a cringing failure. It is a perilous mistake that so few men or women receive any sort of correct instruction about the problems of married life.” So wrote Bernarr MacFadden in his 1937 book Be Married and Like It. You might say that marriage imitates a Dickens passage with equal chance of becoming the best of times or the worst of times. Marriage and personal finance require considerable research, forethought, and planning (p.210).
MORE FROM GOOD DEBT JON: My beautiful wife will graduate from Capital Law School just a month before our 25th anniversary. I am very proud of her.
FROM J.D. IN MINNESOTA: I THINK IT WAS SARTRE WHO SAID "I WOULD BECOME A CHRISTIAN IF I EVER MET ONE" OR SOMETHING TO THAT EFFECT. HE ALSO SAID, "LIFE IS MEANINGLESS AND DEATH IS THE FINAL ABSURDITY."
REPLY TO THIS FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I have heard the “never met a Christian quote before,” and my reply is: you cannot meet a finished one, only a work-in-progress, at least, according to the Bible. Perhaps Sartre meant reading his work [life]is worthless—though far more thought provoking than an IRS pamphlet. It would be instructive to all us occasional doubters to know if Sartre’s absurdity was final—or if he indeed made a whore of his soul that is paying the price of nihilism.
“In love, one and one are one.” (Jean-Paul Sartre) Do the math and send this to someone who is very important in your life. I was going to save it until Valentine’s Day, but that’s too long to wait. J-P was a French existential philosopher. His writings make for interesting reading. ;-) Jack
FROM E.A. IN MICHIGAN: Very very true after 55 years of married life.
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: I truly like this one. What a nice way to start the day!
FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: Only a true idealist would buy into that one! When couples lit the wedding candles, I always had them leave their individual candles burning along with the mrriage candle because life is not so idyllic as the aboe person believes. Only in the essential I/Thou relationship do we begin to "approach" anything like that. I think it is a greater miracle that two "individuals" can work together as one as often as some couples do. That is to me a better view of what is really happening in this world.
FROM N.K. IN THE U.P.: HOW FITTING !!!! ( for yesterday) Kal and I cellebrated our 54 th. And describing our conditions- Kal says WE HAVE BECOME ONE
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: I think I told all my children to be very carefull when falling in love. It is such a strong force that it will hold you for a life time, and teamwork bonded by love is so strong a bond that real success is assured. and it will spill over into the lives of the children.
MORE FROM B.S.: Wow, what a bright gent, he must have been a real pleasure to know
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Leave it to a Frenchman to have nothing but love on his mind.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Glad you didn't wait until Valentine's Day. It's perfect for everyday too!
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: “If you want to read about love and marriage, you’ll have to buy two books.” Says Alan King.
Marriage can mean two becoming one, hopefully “of one purpose” not one brain. I have often seen couples that appear to be sharing one brain. In Good Debt, Bad Debt I wrote about marriage, mostly, from the financial perspective but I like what this early 20th century author had to say: “Marriage may make or mar your entire life. It can build you up or tear you down. It can ennoble every phase of your character, or it can make you a cringing failure. It is a perilous mistake that so few men or women receive any sort of correct instruction about the problems of married life.” So wrote Bernarr MacFadden in his 1937 book Be Married and Like It. You might say that marriage imitates a Dickens passage with equal chance of becoming the best of times or the worst of times. Marriage and personal finance require considerable research, forethought, and planning (p.210).
MORE FROM GOOD DEBT JON: My beautiful wife will graduate from Capital Law School just a month before our 25th anniversary. I am very proud of her.
FROM J.D. IN MINNESOTA: I THINK IT WAS SARTRE WHO SAID "I WOULD BECOME A CHRISTIAN IF I EVER MET ONE" OR SOMETHING TO THAT EFFECT. HE ALSO SAID, "LIFE IS MEANINGLESS AND DEATH IS THE FINAL ABSURDITY."
REPLY TO THIS FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I have heard the “never met a Christian quote before,” and my reply is: you cannot meet a finished one, only a work-in-progress, at least, according to the Bible. Perhaps Sartre meant reading his work [life]is worthless—though far more thought provoking than an IRS pamphlet. It would be instructive to all us occasional doubters to know if Sartre’s absurdity was final—or if he indeed made a whore of his soul that is paying the price of nihilism.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/24/07
“I glory in this world of men and women, torn with trouble, yet living on to love and laugh through it all.” (Carl Sandburg) Fires, floods, tornadoes, water shortages, wars, foreclosures, hunger, global warming…Trouble all around us! I admire those who are able to persevere. My father lived in Galesburg, Illinois, when Sandburg lived there in the early 20th century. Those were hard times, too. And, yet, there was love and laughter among those tough old Swedes. ;-) Jack
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: I don't think we can exist without challenges of some kind - sometimes they can be mis-directed but still serve a purpose. Galesburg is living in hard times again - the 2 largest businesses closed in the past few years.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Fires, floods, water shortages, wars, hunger, global warming, sound like problems from Moses' day. Yes, global warming, that has been a problem several times in this earth's short life, as has ice ages, it's all cyclic. But, with God's help, man perseveres. The will to survive is deeply embedded in each one of us. The will to smile and love and survive is the key. Many cancer survivors, many acts of nature survivors, war survivors, everyday survivors, claim the reason they survived was for their loved ones and their strong will. I pray I go out laughing, full of love for life!
“I glory in this world of men and women, torn with trouble, yet living on to love and laugh through it all.” (Carl Sandburg) Fires, floods, tornadoes, water shortages, wars, foreclosures, hunger, global warming…Trouble all around us! I admire those who are able to persevere. My father lived in Galesburg, Illinois, when Sandburg lived there in the early 20th century. Those were hard times, too. And, yet, there was love and laughter among those tough old Swedes. ;-) Jack
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: I don't think we can exist without challenges of some kind - sometimes they can be mis-directed but still serve a purpose. Galesburg is living in hard times again - the 2 largest businesses closed in the past few years.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: Fires, floods, water shortages, wars, hunger, global warming, sound like problems from Moses' day. Yes, global warming, that has been a problem several times in this earth's short life, as has ice ages, it's all cyclic. But, with God's help, man perseveres. The will to survive is deeply embedded in each one of us. The will to smile and love and survive is the key. Many cancer survivors, many acts of nature survivors, war survivors, everyday survivors, claim the reason they survived was for their loved ones and their strong will. I pray I go out laughing, full of love for life!
MORE FROM J.L.: Well, God is still here....are they looking??? That's the problem. I was listening to a Christian radio station and the question of the day was "Is the United State of America domed, and if so, when will it end?" Everyone but one fellow calling in said yes, and within 20 - 50 years. Interesting....
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: I believe that's because all the things that are truly vital to human survival can't be destroyed by "fires, floods, tornadoes, wars..." and all those other troubles you mentioned that confront
us. (FROM JACK: See. Here's something from Boston that concerns the World Serious.)
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: Tough life, gosh, you can say that again. kids today don't know what tough is. I remember grandma Hammer saying to me, Bobby, chop me some wood with knots in it, because at 5 in the am, the knots are still glowing and I can then start another fire. Grdma and Grndpa were in their 80"s and looked very frail. They didn't have a stove in their room, the stove was outside their door in the front room, so their heat came from the external source. The heat in my room came through a 10 x 12 grate in the floor "deck", from the one kerosene ( coal oil ) stove in the room below my bedroom. But in 1941 I was young, and wonder if the exposure to all that cold is the reason for my arthritis today.
FROM E.A. IN MICHIGAN: One could always see the optimism in Sandberg's writings. I however look about me and wonder----are the fires and floods and global warming, and foreclosures and global warming AND STARVING CHILDREN(ldo not even include wars) themselves not signs of the prophosy of Apocolypse?.
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: And we thought we held the franchise on trouble. Even in Carl's day
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I wonder if we reminisce about tough times for reference or comparative glory, to “bask” in how far we have come. I believe we live in the best time period possible. Certainly troubles abound, but the list of life threatening catastrophes that affect us is far shorter than at any other period in history (30 was an old man in the Renaissance). I had this conversation a few days ago with a friend about the early years; I decided to file those memories as “happy times, I do not miss.” Ancora Imparo.
MORE FROM GOOD DEBT JON: I am always amazed at how some people recall the bad things [first] about the past; it is a heavy burden to bear and I have worked hard to leave the past behind (at least the unhappy parts). I hope I can grow old without saying, “Kid’s nowadays don’t know what rough is.” Every generation in recorded history has been saying this, and in many respects it is true. I am by nature a pessimistic person, so it is an effort to be positive. H.L. Mencken said, “A pessimist is someone that when he smells a flower turns to look for the casket.” It is hard to live the lessons of Ecclesiastes; there is a time for everything under the sun. One thing I know, I am blessed far beyond what I deserve and I would not change a thing—not even my father’s death. After he was gone more than 30 years (he died when I was 10), I realized that I could not have become the person I am without passing over some of the unpaved road I was tasked to travel. It is pure fantasy and time wasted to regret or lament the past—the best we can do is use the past to become bitter or better.
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: You said earlier you admire those who persevere. Well that's the Red Sox all right. Despite that, I don't take the Series Seriously!
FROM C & A IN MICHIGAN: I remember little as a youngster during World Warll,but it had to be hard on my Parents maintaining a household and raising kids.Only thing I ever heard my Dad complain about was people not turning out lights during airraid warnings;he was a Warden!
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/23/07
“Just to stir things up seemed a great reward in itself.” (Sallust) If you haven’t figured it out yet, my daily WWs are a great reward. Is there anything that you do to stir things up? …besides sending a clever response to what I have written? ;-) Jack
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: But stirring things up just to create controversy in itself does little good. One thing my mother said, "If you can't say something nice about a person, don't say anything at all." Some people enjoy doing putdowns at others' expense.
RESPONSE FROM JACK: >> Where was it that you learned to stir things up? I learned it on the >> basketball court. I used to enjoy holding on to the shorts of the >> player I was guarding, in such a way that the ref couldn't see it. I >> also fouled out quite frequently....but I loved the game, especially >> when I stirred things up.
FROM K.B. IN MICHIGAN: Sometimes I have such a propensity to stir things up that I feel like a blender.
FROM S.H. IN MICHIGAN: Glad your daily WWs are a great reward. It's fun to read them every day and learn something. Just now I looked up Sallust's biography. My own reward comes from fellowshipping among people who seem to be a little marginal--people who, for one reason or another, do not seem to get a lot of attention or concern for them. Sometimes it's because they are quiet and nondescript; sometimes it's because people don't want them; sometimes it's because if a person gets to know them it's going to require some time and energy and people are busy with their own group. However it happens, life gets stirred up from getting to know these sorts of people who seem to be a little marginal like I feel often too. Guess we're all just wandering around this world trying to find our way home and when a little bit of an inkling that we've arrived at home comes, it is a great reward.
FROM E.A. IN MICHIGAN: Easily. I could disagree with and take the opposite position on every WW you presented.--------------but I wouldn't.
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Sallust read my mind. Great good fun to stir the pot.
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: One way to get things stiredup is to p[oke your head in the chicken tent at the Wilmot Fair (Kenosha County Fair ) and crow like a rooster as loud as you can, about four times.
Try it, you will get things stirred up-
Some day I'll tell you how my daughter and her friends caught a catfish on Hoocker lake, Wisc, way back when. Have you ever tried to fish in a car top boat with seven girls-, that is the most fun-
FROM MOLINER, EFP: Hi. Several years ago, my daughter, Gisela, somehow spun off (eliminated) my old screen name. We spent literally one day trying all sorts of (we thought) clever new screen names, only to find each time that 1200 other people had the same original idea.
Alas! Icre8havoc. No one else had thought of it yet. Named in honor of the little girl who continues to create havoc. Just for the fun of it, I often think...
FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: i have what i call, "seed planters". they are usually one or two-liners that stir the thoughts. i thank you for daily winning words. they stir my thoughts!
FROM MOLINER, J.T.: You really don't stir things up, but you do open a door for deep (somtimes lite) conversations.
“Just to stir things up seemed a great reward in itself.” (Sallust) If you haven’t figured it out yet, my daily WWs are a great reward. Is there anything that you do to stir things up? …besides sending a clever response to what I have written? ;-) Jack
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: But stirring things up just to create controversy in itself does little good. One thing my mother said, "If you can't say something nice about a person, don't say anything at all." Some people enjoy doing putdowns at others' expense.
RESPONSE FROM JACK: >> Where was it that you learned to stir things up? I learned it on the >> basketball court. I used to enjoy holding on to the shorts of the >> player I was guarding, in such a way that the ref couldn't see it. I >> also fouled out quite frequently....but I loved the game, especially >> when I stirred things up.
FROM K.B. IN MICHIGAN: Sometimes I have such a propensity to stir things up that I feel like a blender.
FROM S.H. IN MICHIGAN: Glad your daily WWs are a great reward. It's fun to read them every day and learn something. Just now I looked up Sallust's biography. My own reward comes from fellowshipping among people who seem to be a little marginal--people who, for one reason or another, do not seem to get a lot of attention or concern for them. Sometimes it's because they are quiet and nondescript; sometimes it's because people don't want them; sometimes it's because if a person gets to know them it's going to require some time and energy and people are busy with their own group. However it happens, life gets stirred up from getting to know these sorts of people who seem to be a little marginal like I feel often too. Guess we're all just wandering around this world trying to find our way home and when a little bit of an inkling that we've arrived at home comes, it is a great reward.
FROM E.A. IN MICHIGAN: Easily. I could disagree with and take the opposite position on every WW you presented.--------------but I wouldn't.
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Sallust read my mind. Great good fun to stir the pot.
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: One way to get things stiredup is to p[oke your head in the chicken tent at the Wilmot Fair (Kenosha County Fair ) and crow like a rooster as loud as you can, about four times.
Try it, you will get things stirred up-
Some day I'll tell you how my daughter and her friends caught a catfish on Hoocker lake, Wisc, way back when. Have you ever tried to fish in a car top boat with seven girls-, that is the most fun-
FROM MOLINER, EFP: Hi. Several years ago, my daughter, Gisela, somehow spun off (eliminated) my old screen name. We spent literally one day trying all sorts of (we thought) clever new screen names, only to find each time that 1200 other people had the same original idea.
Alas! Icre8havoc. No one else had thought of it yet. Named in honor of the little girl who continues to create havoc. Just for the fun of it, I often think...
FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: i have what i call, "seed planters". they are usually one or two-liners that stir the thoughts. i thank you for daily winning words. they stir my thoughts!
FROM MOLINER, J.T.: You really don't stir things up, but you do open a door for deep (somtimes lite) conversations.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/22/07
“That they may have a little peace, even the best dogs are compelled to snarl occasionally.” (William Feather) Snarl is one of those onomatopoeian words. It sounds like what it describes. I hope you don’t have to use a snarl to bring peace, but who’s to know what you will face today. A smile might work. I saw an article this past week that says dogs smile. Have you ever seen such a thing?. :;-) Jack
“That they may have a little peace, even the best dogs are compelled to snarl occasionally.” (William Feather) Snarl is one of those onomatopoeian words. It sounds like what it describes. I hope you don’t have to use a snarl to bring peace, but who’s to know what you will face today. A smile might work. I saw an article this past week that says dogs smile. Have you ever seen such a thing?. :;-) Jack
FROM AL & CLAUDIA IN ROYAL OAK: No but We have a new Kitty that fetches! Ill work on the smile!
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Jack - Funny you should ask. I had a Black Lab who smiled on command. Honest. Notice That I used "who"...because she was really people. or so she thought. Maybe she was. But a truely good friend. ask. I'm not sure she snarled, but she did growl at the proper times.
FROM J.B.: I have seen a dog smile! The dog was smiling at my son Jay when he was a little boy.
FROM G.T. IN N.Y.: Well, I don't know about those smiling dogs you wrote about today--but our "tiny" 80-pound puppy ran up the stairs while I was bent over wiping them a few days ago--he thinks he's small--anyway, as I'm calmly trying to clean each stair, he comes running up like a bullet and squeezes past me under my arm and chin--knocking my chin up into my teeth. Now, I have a nice bruise there. Chuck says I really should stay out of those bar fights on Friday nights .
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: Yes, indeed,their is a bigdifference between a smile and anarl, and yes I can tell the difference. Just ask a chickie if she "needs" to hold hands et al.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/19/07
“However beautiful the strategy, you should occasionally look at the results.” (Churchill) Here’s advice from a world renowned leader and strategist. It can work in business enterprises, in volunteer organizations and in our personal life. What are the results? That’s the key question. ;-) Jack
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: Remember the words of Peter Drucker: "People give money to results." Not needs, for there are needs everywhere. But they want their giving to bear fruit.
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: In alll that I do I get excelllent resullts
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Proverbs 14:15: The gullible believe anything they're told; the prudent sift and weigh every word. It is not enough to occasionally look at the results, we must think our actions through to their ultimate conclusions—to sift and weigh every word. Are the 14 or more Rent Seekers, of both parties, pandering for President so mesmerized by the beauty of their vision that they will forgo considering the consequences to the nation as a whole? If Marx was correct that “religion is the opium of the masses,” then, perhaps, political campaigns are the Prozac of the Electorate—with the side effects of: loss of memory, inability to read or understand history, inability to add negative numbers, and yet with enough medicinal effect to overcome apathy to vote for he or she who panders best.
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: Irene is on the phone right now telling Mr Feeney, and Mr. Martinez how to vote on various subjects. earlier in the week she spoke with Mr. Mica. She always adds and I speak for My husband. She has told me many times she thinks M r .Chruchhill was exceptionally brilliant. So you see we do have agreements on certain people. So, O.K., I fully agree with Mr Churchhill and hope other people get to recognize this brilliant person. What a gift to the people from the Good Lord., may he give us more gifted people, especially those who will share with us. A good example of how the Swedes are spening the money made on dynamite that is blowin g apart the world, is the noble prizes. It is rather ironic, I think.--
FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: With our ultra liberal leadership in the ELCA, the results are steady decline....do you suppose that is simply coincidence??? We very much need to look at the results....but not at them alone....there are several bottom lines for us in the church....the biggest is faithfulness. I think that the membership decline, however, points to a lack of faithfulness.
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: How can you avoid seeing the results if the strategy is so beautiful? Results is what prompts strategy.
FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: I don't know if I mentioned it, but I am reading the book FRANKLIN AND WINSTON by Jon Meacham. One of the points in the book is how Winston was so adept at using strategy to accomplish his own agenda. The delay in opening the 'western' front until 1944, for which Stalin was so insistent, was accomplished by Churchill, even when Roosevelt and the American Generals agreed with Stalin.
“However beautiful the strategy, you should occasionally look at the results.” (Churchill) Here’s advice from a world renowned leader and strategist. It can work in business enterprises, in volunteer organizations and in our personal life. What are the results? That’s the key question. ;-) Jack
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: Remember the words of Peter Drucker: "People give money to results." Not needs, for there are needs everywhere. But they want their giving to bear fruit.
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: In alll that I do I get excelllent resullts
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Proverbs 14:15: The gullible believe anything they're told; the prudent sift and weigh every word. It is not enough to occasionally look at the results, we must think our actions through to their ultimate conclusions—to sift and weigh every word. Are the 14 or more Rent Seekers, of both parties, pandering for President so mesmerized by the beauty of their vision that they will forgo considering the consequences to the nation as a whole? If Marx was correct that “religion is the opium of the masses,” then, perhaps, political campaigns are the Prozac of the Electorate—with the side effects of: loss of memory, inability to read or understand history, inability to add negative numbers, and yet with enough medicinal effect to overcome apathy to vote for he or she who panders best.
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: Irene is on the phone right now telling Mr Feeney, and Mr. Martinez how to vote on various subjects. earlier in the week she spoke with Mr. Mica. She always adds and I speak for My husband. She has told me many times she thinks M r .Chruchhill was exceptionally brilliant. So you see we do have agreements on certain people. So, O.K., I fully agree with Mr Churchhill and hope other people get to recognize this brilliant person. What a gift to the people from the Good Lord., may he give us more gifted people, especially those who will share with us. A good example of how the Swedes are spening the money made on dynamite that is blowin g apart the world, is the noble prizes. It is rather ironic, I think.--
FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: With our ultra liberal leadership in the ELCA, the results are steady decline....do you suppose that is simply coincidence??? We very much need to look at the results....but not at them alone....there are several bottom lines for us in the church....the biggest is faithfulness. I think that the membership decline, however, points to a lack of faithfulness.
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: How can you avoid seeing the results if the strategy is so beautiful? Results is what prompts strategy.
FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: I don't know if I mentioned it, but I am reading the book FRANKLIN AND WINSTON by Jon Meacham. One of the points in the book is how Winston was so adept at using strategy to accomplish his own agenda. The delay in opening the 'western' front until 1944, for which Stalin was so insistent, was accomplished by Churchill, even when Roosevelt and the American Generals agreed with Stalin.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/18/07
Love is, or it ain’t. Thin love ain’t love at all.” (Toni Morrison) What is your definition of love? Better yet, do you have a definition of “thin” love? I’ve never heard the expression before, but my mind knows what it means. Ladies Home Journal named Toni one of the 30 most powerful women in America. She was born in Ohio, and was named Chloe. In college she became Toni. Chloe reminds me of Spike Jones. ;-) Jack
Love is, or it ain’t. Thin love ain’t love at all.” (Toni Morrison) What is your definition of love? Better yet, do you have a definition of “thin” love? I’ve never heard the expression before, but my mind knows what it means. Ladies Home Journal named Toni one of the 30 most powerful women in America. She was born in Ohio, and was named Chloe. In college she became Toni. Chloe reminds me of Spike Jones. ;-) Jack
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Thin love is love that is not deep or lasting. Thin love is weak and porous, you can see through it. Thin love keeps its options open—solid love endures. Solid love stands the test of time and you cannot see through it—you just know it will be there. Thin love is self-interested. Solid love is wanting the best for the one you love because they want the best for you. Fortunately, for me, my wife of 24 years is my solid love. Solid love is when you can say, “I like me best when I am with you.”
See the lyrics to Ashford and Simpson’s song: Solid I saw a great TV interview with them a few years ago. One of the best husband and wife song writers and artists in the business.
ASHFORD AND SIMPSON'S SOLID: And for love’s sake, each mistake, ah, you forgaveAnd soon both of us learned to trustNot run away, it was no time to playWe build it up and build it up and build it upAnd now it’s solidSolid as a rockThat’s what this love isThat’s what we’ve got, oh, mmm…Solid (Oh)Solid as a rockAnd nothing’s changed it (Ooh)The thrill is still hot, hot, hot, hot, hot, hot, hot, hotOh…oh…oh…ah…You didn’t turn awayWhen the sky went graySomehow we managedWe had to stick together (Ooh…ooh…ooh…ooh…)You didn’t bat an eyeWhen I made you cryWe knew down the lineWe would make it better (Ooh…ooh…ooh…ooh…)And for love’s sake, each mistake, ah, you forgaveAnd soon both of us learned to trustNot run away, it was no time to playWe build it up and build it up and build it up
FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: i think some people come into the world with the ablility to fully love. others come still learning how to fully love, the intention is there but the ability is not. i think love is the unconditional kindness and caring part of one's spirit. the part that houses only positive-no negativity. love holds the most power and potential in the world-with it there is contentment, non-judgement, and peace. without it there is discontent, pain and conflict. maybe thin love is not opening the kind and caring part of the spirit to all.
FROM M.U. IN MICHIGAN: My definition of love is respect. Respect for everything that a person does and stands for. If we can't respect someone for who they are, what they do and how they treat others, the love we have for them is superficially "thin" and trivial.
FROM J.T. IN MICHIGAN: I like Toni Morrison. She had a rough life and developed a tough shell. A wonderful writer.It was good seeing you yesterday! Sorry I couldn't have a conversation with you.I walked into the libarary and there you were, sitting by the computer, smiling. What's it like to go from being a jailbird to poster boy???Do you take computer classes thru the libarary? If so, I''d like to know more about it.
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: -REPLY: Yes, yes, we agree. You either love a person,( or pet )(or object: house, garden,fishing) or you don't . This business of "thin love" is not really love. It may not always be gushy, but it should be persistant, and intense, and reliable. and these churches that don't send out some form of help, Ya, well, I shouldn't judge adversely. My Ma wouldn't like that
FROM M.H. IN MICHIGAN: I think that Toni is saying "Think love ain't love at all"
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/17/07
“I think you’re not a human being unless you have doubts and fears.” (Coach K) It’s comforting to know that we’re all in the same boat. What I’d like to know is how you have been able to keep doubt and fear from taking up permanent residence in your life. That should make for an interesting and helpful blog. ;-) Jack
FROM S.H. IN MICHIGAN: Now that I just have shared my doubts and fears with you, here comes along Henri Nouwen's meditation on the Church--God's talking to me explaining the situation (telling me don't expect perfection in the Church I guess) this is very comforting in helping me deal with my doubts and fears.
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: Certainly there are rational things to fear and threats to our physical well being depending on our occupation or geographical location. The hard part for me is to keep from using irrational fear, worry, or doubt as an excuse for not doing what we know we should do. “I’ll try,” has become the battle cry of the mediocre. “I’ll try” is generally excusing failure in advance. I find taking action dissipates fear, worry, and doubt. Inaction encourages its growth.
FROM EMTSINGS: Another of my "Thoughts for the Day" was this: "Take care of each other, we're all in the same boat amd some of us don't swim so well!" Thanks for giving me a chance to "write".
FROM JACK: It''s hard to argue with K's success, using his philosophy.
MORE FROM GOOD DEBT: Our fatigue is often caused not by work, but by worry, frustration and resentment. Dale Carnegie.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: I guess the key is not to let doubts and fears take over your life. When Gary started flying every week, I had a choice...be worried about it, or not. I chose not. Sometimes, when the weather was bad, I'd look out the window and fear would step in. With God's help, I would remember my choice. God is with us and with Gary and that is the way I look at everything I face. Now, I would be a lair if I told you I'm not afraid anymore of anything, because spiders can terrify me!! Unreasonable, but true. It's the little jumpy ones that get to me!
FROM N.E. IN MICHIGAN: You would be assuming that all have been able to keep doubt and fear from taking up permanent residence in their lives. Personally, I do have a couple of nagging ones.
FROM MOLINER, A.E.: At Cross trainers this morning 130-140 guys from perhaps 35 different denominations assembled this morning and listened to a former Davenport Basket Ball Coach, Mike Reid remind us, and I share in part what we learned from our Father who art in heaven, who according to Mike: we must share what we are told by James the step brother of Jesus who writes in the first Chapter of:
James 1:12-27 (NIV)12 Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: I doubt that, I fear.
FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: Probably the #1 help to me has been the support of my family and friends. Physical work helps /cleaning,laundry,gardening and my mothers' favorite.... scrubbing floors on my hands and knees. Exercise (I like yoga) ,dancing , singing and praying helps too. So far, with all of these things sustaining me, Fear and Doubt have not become my permanent roommates.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/16/07
“Maybe the most any of us can expect of ourselves isn’t perfection, but progress.” (Michelle Burford) I saw a tee shirt advertised with this slogan: “I’m not perfect, but I’m so close, it scares me.” Do you want to know where to order one? I think that most of us are just satisfied to make a little progress each day. Good luck! ;-) Jack
FROM D.R. IN MICHIGAN: Joyce Meyers has a saying “I may not be where I’m suppose to be but, I thank God I’m not where I used to be.” The idea is we are all just a work in progress and with God’s help we can change and grow into better people. Just enjoy the journey!
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: FROM NIGHTINGALE.COM "Be where you are. That's an important part of living a centered life. When your life is in balance, your access to the optimal emotional state is easy and effortless." Nick Hall
This doesn’t have much to do with today’s quote, but I like it. It’s hard to be where you are.
FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: "Be ye perfect even as our Father in Heaven is perfect!"
FROM E.D. IN AZ: Reminds me of the movie "What about Bob?" When Bill Murray famously repeated "baby steps, baby steps, baby steps" which was suppose to help him slowly deal with his phobias..
FROM REV. J.D. IN MINNESOTA: WHERE CAN I BUY A T SHIRT WHICH SAYS " I'M NOT PERFECT AND NEVER WILL BE."
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: All it takes is just a little progress each day. And today, I made progress! I have been having computer problems and with my son's help, was able to actually fix it! A major point for me, a computerly challenged person! A little progress but positive progress none-the-less. Blessings!
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Isn't that a defeatist attitude?
FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: Good one.....moving forward is very satisfying. In fact, the idea of perfection can actually inhibit our progress, don't you think?.
FROM EMTSINGS: That reminds me of something called "Pot Shots" that appeared in the Traverse City (and other places I'm sure) paper some years ago. He wrote a couple little books that contained collections of these little gems. The cover on one of the books featured a man wearing a Tee shirt that said I May Not be Totally Perfect But Parts Of Me Are Excellent, it also added on the cover "and other brilliant thoughts by Ashleigh Brilliant". Another book of his is entitled Appreciate Me Now and Avoid the Rush. These little sayings were always accompanied by some very interesting drawings. Thanks for reminding me of that very funny man!
“Maybe the most any of us can expect of ourselves isn’t perfection, but progress.” (Michelle Burford) I saw a tee shirt advertised with this slogan: “I’m not perfect, but I’m so close, it scares me.” Do you want to know where to order one? I think that most of us are just satisfied to make a little progress each day. Good luck! ;-) Jack
FROM D.R. IN MICHIGAN: Joyce Meyers has a saying “I may not be where I’m suppose to be but, I thank God I’m not where I used to be.” The idea is we are all just a work in progress and with God’s help we can change and grow into better people. Just enjoy the journey!
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: FROM NIGHTINGALE.COM "Be where you are. That's an important part of living a centered life. When your life is in balance, your access to the optimal emotional state is easy and effortless." Nick Hall
This doesn’t have much to do with today’s quote, but I like it. It’s hard to be where you are.
FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: "Be ye perfect even as our Father in Heaven is perfect!"
FROM E.D. IN AZ: Reminds me of the movie "What about Bob?" When Bill Murray famously repeated "baby steps, baby steps, baby steps" which was suppose to help him slowly deal with his phobias..
FROM REV. J.D. IN MINNESOTA: WHERE CAN I BUY A T SHIRT WHICH SAYS " I'M NOT PERFECT AND NEVER WILL BE."
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: All it takes is just a little progress each day. And today, I made progress! I have been having computer problems and with my son's help, was able to actually fix it! A major point for me, a computerly challenged person! A little progress but positive progress none-the-less. Blessings!
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Isn't that a defeatist attitude?
FROM G.G. IN INDIANA: Good one.....moving forward is very satisfying. In fact, the idea of perfection can actually inhibit our progress, don't you think?.
FROM EMTSINGS: That reminds me of something called "Pot Shots" that appeared in the Traverse City (and other places I'm sure) paper some years ago. He wrote a couple little books that contained collections of these little gems. The cover on one of the books featured a man wearing a Tee shirt that said I May Not be Totally Perfect But Parts Of Me Are Excellent, it also added on the cover "and other brilliant thoughts by Ashleigh Brilliant". Another book of his is entitled Appreciate Me Now and Avoid the Rush. These little sayings were always accompanied by some very interesting drawings. Thanks for reminding me of that very funny man!
Monday, October 15, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/15/07
“I’ve learned that you can’t have everything and do everything at the same time.” (Oprah) Monday’s here, and it’s time to prioritize our week, or at least our day. Let’s see; what is it that we want to do first? I’m going to have to think about that for a while. How does Oprah do it? ;-) Jack
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: My daughter and I have been having that conversation. "You can do a lot in your life, just not all at the same time. Right now you're working and raising your daughter. The rest can come when she is off on her own."
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: As Steven Wright says, “You can’t have everything, where would you put it?”
FROM J.T. IN MICHIGAN: Oprah has cooks, cleaning ladies, personal trainers, chauffeurs, hairdressers, and lots of personal assistants. I'm glad my life isn't that complicated.
“I’ve learned that you can’t have everything and do everything at the same time.” (Oprah) Monday’s here, and it’s time to prioritize our week, or at least our day. Let’s see; what is it that we want to do first? I’m going to have to think about that for a while. How does Oprah do it? ;-) Jack
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: My daughter and I have been having that conversation. "You can do a lot in your life, just not all at the same time. Right now you're working and raising your daughter. The rest can come when she is off on her own."
FROM GOOD DEBT JON: As Steven Wright says, “You can’t have everything, where would you put it?”
FROM J.T. IN MICHIGAN: Oprah has cooks, cleaning ladies, personal trainers, chauffeurs, hairdressers, and lots of personal assistants. I'm glad my life isn't that complicated.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/12/07
“The best is yet to be.” (Robert Browning) This a line from the poem, Rabbi Ben Ezra. Did you know that the rabbi was one of the great scholars of the 12th century? I didn’t. It’s a lengthy poem, but worth reading. Google it; it’s worth it! Browning makes liberal use of paradox. I like paradox, perhaps because I like puzzles. Even today’s quote is a puzzling one. The best is yet to be? What do you think about that? ;-) Jack
“The best is yet to be.” (Robert Browning) This a line from the poem, Rabbi Ben Ezra. Did you know that the rabbi was one of the great scholars of the 12th century? I didn’t. It’s a lengthy poem, but worth reading. Google it; it’s worth it! Browning makes liberal use of paradox. I like paradox, perhaps because I like puzzles. Even today’s quote is a puzzling one. The best is yet to be? What do you think about that? ;-) Jack
MORE FROM JACK: Some asked: "What did you learn yesterday?" Well, yesterday I learned that a friend of mine is going to attend a Service of Dedication at a medical school. Her mother, at her death, donated her body to the school to be used for research. Her family has been invited to come to the service.
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: If the best is yet to be, I'm not sure I can take it --- it's already too good! I'm off to google the entire poem. I'll probably find a whole different context.
FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: i think pollyanna read this poem.
FROM P.H. IN MINNESOTA: this is really a very comforting thought. especially if you happen to be having a really rotten day!! (which I am not)
FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: This is the kind of optimism that we who are aging and are aged need - given how doctor appointments and medical procedures and daily exercises take over more and more of our time.
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: The "best" is not Al Gore winning the Nobel Peace Prize - an inconvient untruth. Oh well, he can use the money to heat his TN home for a year.
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: That is a puzzler. As Bill Clinton once said, "It depends on the meaning 'is'".
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/11/07
“I am still learning.” (Michelangelo) Next to my computer, I have the iconic image of the hand of God giving life to Adam. As I look, I can almost see the spirit of one going to the other. Michelangelo was a genius. Maybe it’s the truly smart person who is able to say: “I am still learning.” Let’s see; what shall I learn today? ;-) Jack
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: Ancora Imparo is engraved in the brickwork on my garage; in Latin it translates to "I am still learning".
FROM EMT SINGS IN MICHIGAN: I absolutely think that you learn something new every day. Like yesterday I learned that you can not put a hot iron on a counter top and not have it do serious damage. Even if you were doing 10 things at once and thought you were hurrying! I do a lot of that these days, but talk about lessons learned! It won't happen again. And truly, through the years it seems like the lessons that stuck the most were the ones that were learned the hard way! What do you think? Take care!
FROM C.H. ON CAPE COD: Don't forget to let us know tomorrow morning!
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: I just learned that Jack is still learning. He also a good teacher. But, I already knew that.
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: Oh gosh --- there's just so much, isn't there? And it's interesting to keep learning about oneself. Every time I think I know me, I get another surprise.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: He was a genius! He was one of my favorites to study. The parents always said, "If you aren't learning, you're dead." That is so true! As my friend Sarah says, "Be Blessed!"
FROM S.H. IN MICHIGAN: You know the Michelangelo painting is fascinating--God's and Adam's fingers touching. Especially noting that Michelangelo set his whole self to expressing the relationship--do you suppose he prayed continuously for God to touch his own hands to enable him to paint the genius way he did? Hands blessed to do God's work here on earth and further His Kingdom.
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: You bet I am still learning.AT&T has changed the format of this E-mail, and I hope I have figgured out how to reply to you. Our dear leader in Pharmacy school said in Freshman Forum, "you will continue learning all you life because Pharmacy is continually changing. Thank goodness, that meant our reasearch pharmacists are continuing to develop new solutions to problem new and old. Hopefully when it is discovered how to treat pain and arthritis without drowsiness and constipation our reasearc hers will share the solutions with us. It has been said that the Good Lord waists youth on the young. Well I am glad people are youngand vibrant, however we old folks need a lot of that spring in he knees and in the mind. We would appreciate the principal of sharing. Bob, Lord I am asking you for help, please, help.
FROM A.S. IN MICHIGAN: Just got off jury duty for first time; quite a learning experience as it was a criminal case!
FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: live and learn...
FROM JEANNE B.: Hi "Word Man" A weird puzzle just came to me as I was folding laundry today - why do we say a pair of pants or blue jeans or underwear when we have just one piece of fabric in our hands? Is it because both legs go into these garments? If that is so why don't we say a pair of shirts since both arms go in? Just wondering! Part of my continuing learning from yesterdays Winning Words.
FROM J.F. IN NOVA SCOTIA: Reminded me of a couple of cartoons about the Sistine Chapel ceiling. I think the first one may have been a Chas. Adams in the New Yorker. Anyhow, M. is up on the scaffold putting on the finishing touches, and someone in robes comes in below and says, "Hey, Michaelangelo, you can come down now--the Pope has decided to wallpaper."The second one came to me on a ham radio QSL card from a contact in Italy. It shows the same scene, but God looks shocked and the cherubims and seraphims or whatever they were look appalled.God is about to touch fingers with Homer Simpson.
Sometimes the second one seems all too true.
“I am still learning.” (Michelangelo) Next to my computer, I have the iconic image of the hand of God giving life to Adam. As I look, I can almost see the spirit of one going to the other. Michelangelo was a genius. Maybe it’s the truly smart person who is able to say: “I am still learning.” Let’s see; what shall I learn today? ;-) Jack
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: Ancora Imparo is engraved in the brickwork on my garage; in Latin it translates to "I am still learning".
FROM EMT SINGS IN MICHIGAN: I absolutely think that you learn something new every day. Like yesterday I learned that you can not put a hot iron on a counter top and not have it do serious damage. Even if you were doing 10 things at once and thought you were hurrying! I do a lot of that these days, but talk about lessons learned! It won't happen again. And truly, through the years it seems like the lessons that stuck the most were the ones that were learned the hard way! What do you think? Take care!
FROM C.H. ON CAPE COD: Don't forget to let us know tomorrow morning!
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: I just learned that Jack is still learning. He also a good teacher. But, I already knew that.
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: Oh gosh --- there's just so much, isn't there? And it's interesting to keep learning about oneself. Every time I think I know me, I get another surprise.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: He was a genius! He was one of my favorites to study. The parents always said, "If you aren't learning, you're dead." That is so true! As my friend Sarah says, "Be Blessed!"
FROM S.H. IN MICHIGAN: You know the Michelangelo painting is fascinating--God's and Adam's fingers touching. Especially noting that Michelangelo set his whole self to expressing the relationship--do you suppose he prayed continuously for God to touch his own hands to enable him to paint the genius way he did? Hands blessed to do God's work here on earth and further His Kingdom.
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: You bet I am still learning.AT&T has changed the format of this E-mail, and I hope I have figgured out how to reply to you. Our dear leader in Pharmacy school said in Freshman Forum, "you will continue learning all you life because Pharmacy is continually changing. Thank goodness, that meant our reasearch pharmacists are continuing to develop new solutions to problem new and old. Hopefully when it is discovered how to treat pain and arthritis without drowsiness and constipation our reasearc hers will share the solutions with us. It has been said that the Good Lord waists youth on the young. Well I am glad people are youngand vibrant, however we old folks need a lot of that spring in he knees and in the mind. We would appreciate the principal of sharing. Bob, Lord I am asking you for help, please, help.
FROM A.S. IN MICHIGAN: Just got off jury duty for first time; quite a learning experience as it was a criminal case!
FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: live and learn...
FROM JEANNE B.: Hi "Word Man" A weird puzzle just came to me as I was folding laundry today - why do we say a pair of pants or blue jeans or underwear when we have just one piece of fabric in our hands? Is it because both legs go into these garments? If that is so why don't we say a pair of shirts since both arms go in? Just wondering! Part of my continuing learning from yesterdays Winning Words.
FROM J.F. IN NOVA SCOTIA: Reminded me of a couple of cartoons about the Sistine Chapel ceiling. I think the first one may have been a Chas. Adams in the New Yorker. Anyhow, M. is up on the scaffold putting on the finishing touches, and someone in robes comes in below and says, "Hey, Michaelangelo, you can come down now--the Pope has decided to wallpaper."The second one came to me on a ham radio QSL card from a contact in Italy. It shows the same scene, but God looks shocked and the cherubims and seraphims or whatever they were look appalled.God is about to touch fingers with Homer Simpson.
Sometimes the second one seems all too true.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/10/07
“Know how to give without hesitation, how to lose without regret, and how to acquire without meanness.” (George Sand) As you can see, there are three parts to this quote. I’m trying to think what it is that ties them together. (ponder, ponder) BTW,
did you know that George was a woman who lived in France in the 19th century? You’ll find that her life story is truly an interesting one. She smoked a pipe. ;-) Jack
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: Grace. Grace is what ties them together.
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: The first 2 have a pretty straightforward tie, but I'm going to ponder how the 3rd one fits on my morning walk (45 mins. after I put my granddaughter on the school bus --- I'm loving this retirement routine!)
FROM A.M. IN MICHIGAN: All three go beyond self; second great commandment acted out.
FROM D.P. IN MINNESOTA: I think all three relate to being grateful as opposed to being selfish.
FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: You got me interested in him (her) so I read a brief biography - from what I read I don't think she would have been called 'gorgeous' . . . but George for sure!
“Know how to give without hesitation, how to lose without regret, and how to acquire without meanness.” (George Sand) As you can see, there are three parts to this quote. I’m trying to think what it is that ties them together. (ponder, ponder) BTW,
did you know that George was a woman who lived in France in the 19th century? You’ll find that her life story is truly an interesting one. She smoked a pipe. ;-) Jack
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: Grace. Grace is what ties them together.
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: The first 2 have a pretty straightforward tie, but I'm going to ponder how the 3rd one fits on my morning walk (45 mins. after I put my granddaughter on the school bus --- I'm loving this retirement routine!)
FROM A.M. IN MICHIGAN: All three go beyond self; second great commandment acted out.
FROM D.P. IN MINNESOTA: I think all three relate to being grateful as opposed to being selfish.
FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: You got me interested in him (her) so I read a brief biography - from what I read I don't think she would have been called 'gorgeous' . . . but George for sure!
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/9/07
“The world is full of abundance and opportunity. Too many come with a teaspoon instead of a steam shovel.” (Ben Sweetland) Talk about picturesque language…Can’t you just see it? Is that you with the steam shovel? There are so many opportunities out there, if we’ll just take the time to dig in. Sweetland has also written a book: “Grow Rich While You Sleep.” Keep the shovel beside your bed. ;-) Jack
“The world is full of abundance and opportunity. Too many come with a teaspoon instead of a steam shovel.” (Ben Sweetland) Talk about picturesque language…Can’t you just see it? Is that you with the steam shovel? There are so many opportunities out there, if we’ll just take the time to dig in. Sweetland has also written a book: “Grow Rich While You Sleep.” Keep the shovel beside your bed. ;-) Jack
FROM M.U. IN MICHIGAN: I don't think that there is much doubt that I operate a steam shovel.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: I use a steam shovel, but I still probably miss quite a bit! And, I must get his book....if there is anything I do well, it's sleep! I only sleep about 4-5 hours a night....do you think I would only be half as rich if I read it???
MORE FROM J.L.: I know I'm rich, but I don't know that his rich is as I haven't read his book. I'm rich in the things that count....love, family, friends, house over my head, food to eat, church to worship in, and FREEDOM!
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: I've never said, "I wish I had..........." But I've had a lot of, "I wish I hadn't said..........."
FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: reminds me of a song .
"we're all just seeds in god's hands.
we start the same, but where we land is sometimes fertile soil, sometimes sand.
we're all just seeds in god's hands."
written by ? algers
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: A world of opportunities...how true! What happens to all the missed opportunities? Are they somehow recycled? Is there a world of hand-me-down opportunities, which are passed to someone else?
MORE FROM R.I.: I think all "opportunities" are part of the support system from our Lord. Just as we are provided all the basics that enable us to survive, there is a world of abstract content available which enables us to thrive. That content comprises the many "opportunities" in our lives, which when pursued expand us, fulfill us, and exemplify the stewardship which God expects from each of us.
FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: A rabbi wrote once . . . "we know how to fly like birds and we know how to swim like fish, but we do not know how to live on earth like humans" There is a lot of know about how to live like humans - including taking advantage of the gifts, the opportunities, and the grace of God.
Monday, October 08, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/8/07
“When in doubt, mumble; when in trouble, delegate; when in charge, ponder.” (James Boren) This is a good one for those of you going to work today. Post it in a prominent spot. Boren once ran for President as the Bureaucrat’s Candidate. His slogan: “I’ve got what it takes to take what you’ve got.” ;-) Jack
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: You're kidding (about the slogan), right?!
FROM THE JUDGE IN MICHIGAN: One of your better ones
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Reminds me of one I loved when I was in a very competitive business, "Screw the other guy...let him wonder what you are up to.
FROM B.B. IN ILLINOIS: These quotes are both great; thought provoking, probably worthwhile to execute and funny at the same time.
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: "...when reproached, deny; and when everything else confronts you, disappear." Is there anyone around who will simply take responsibility?
FROM MOLINER, J.T.: Also good for those of us who are not going to work today.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: This is a good message for October 8! (My birthday....I have officially stopped having them, except for the parties.) But one of my favorite words is ponder! And I loved this message...mumble, delegate and ponder. Words to live by if you are in Congress or the Senate, or any political office.
“When in doubt, mumble; when in trouble, delegate; when in charge, ponder.” (James Boren) This is a good one for those of you going to work today. Post it in a prominent spot. Boren once ran for President as the Bureaucrat’s Candidate. His slogan: “I’ve got what it takes to take what you’ve got.” ;-) Jack
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: You're kidding (about the slogan), right?!
FROM THE JUDGE IN MICHIGAN: One of your better ones
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Reminds me of one I loved when I was in a very competitive business, "Screw the other guy...let him wonder what you are up to.
FROM B.B. IN ILLINOIS: These quotes are both great; thought provoking, probably worthwhile to execute and funny at the same time.
FROM R.I. IN BOSTON: "...when reproached, deny; and when everything else confronts you, disappear." Is there anyone around who will simply take responsibility?
FROM MOLINER, J.T.: Also good for those of us who are not going to work today.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: This is a good message for October 8! (My birthday....I have officially stopped having them, except for the parties.) But one of my favorite words is ponder! And I loved this message...mumble, delegate and ponder. Words to live by if you are in Congress or the Senate, or any political office.
Friday, October 05, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/5/07
“I like coincidences. They make me wonder about destiny, and whether free-will is an illusion.” (Chuck Sigars) I know someone keeps a notebook in which she records unusual things that have happened in her life. The title is: “Coincidences or Miracles?” I’ll bet we could all keep such a book. Look for one or the other today. ;-) Jack
“I like coincidences. They make me wonder about destiny, and whether free-will is an illusion.” (Chuck Sigars) I know someone keeps a notebook in which she records unusual things that have happened in her life. The title is: “Coincidences or Miracles?” I’ll bet we could all keep such a book. Look for one or the other today. ;-) Jack
FROM LH.H. IN WISCONSIN: Free-will is not an illusion. It is a gift from God. I remember a minister at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in Michigan often saying that the two things God gave us are His Grace and Free-will. Free-will allows us to make choices, good and bad, and His Grace gives us forgiveness for the bad choices, if we ask him to (this last sentence is my interpretation). If you think free-will is an illusion, maybe you should look at some of those old sermons.
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: Didn't Martin Luther write, Bondage of the Will?
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: “We have to believe in free-will, we have no choice.” Isaac Singer. Perhaps Isaac was predestined to write that.
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: I like her idea!
FROM K.B. IN MICHIGAN: I love coincidences and am sometimes a little "freaked out" by them. A friend once reminded me that coincidences are God's way of remaining anonymous
FRIM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: What a coincidence, I was just thinking of this tonight. Miracles are all around us and sometimes we call them coincidences!
FROM J.F. IN MICHIGAN: I had one of those "coincident" days yesterday (the day of your quote):
I usually try to arrive at the office between 6:30 and 7:00 so I can get a few things done while the office is relatively quiet. Yesterday, I actually needed to be there by 7:00 because my boss had called a 7:30 meeting and I needed time to get logged in, check my voice-mail, etc. Somehow I over-slept by half an hour -- not irreparable, just no time to unload the dishwasher and do a load of laundry before work like I usually do (my hair wouldn't be perfectly styled, either, but that's why someone invented barrettes).
As I emerged from the shower, Paul came in to confess that he had wet the bed (a rare, but not entirely unprecedented, occurance). "Okay, sweetheart. Thanks for telling me. I'll strip the bed." (Now I was definitely behind schedule.)
"Mommy?. . ." "Oh, Lydia, what do YOU need?" "Just a hug." (Well, if that doesn't make you slow down, I don't know what will!)
As I got in the car, I was relieved to see that I wasn't as far behind schedule as I feared. However, as I approached M-5, traffic on Pontiac Trail came to a stop. "Oh, for heaven's sake! It's barely 6:30! How can traffic be stopped already?!" I thought to myself. As I inched up, I saw it -- the fender bender. Nothing serious, but definitely a bad day for those two drivers. "Thank you, God." I whispered. If not for a few delays, that very well could have been me.
I continued on, in better spirits, figuring I was meant to be a bit late. Traffic was a little heavy, but I was making up time and would be close to arriving right at 7:00. I exited 696 at Orchard Lake Road and headed east on 12 Mile. I was halfway between Middlebelt and Inkster when traffic stopped. "Whatever." I thought with a sigh. (My need to rush was now gone.) Then I saw two deer running across the yard beside me. Right after that, I realized why traffic had really stopped. A third deer had hit the car two cars in front of me. "Wow!" I thought. "That was really close!" Another whispered prayer and I was on my way.
My boss pulled into the parking lot next to me. "You're never going to believe the morning I've had . . ." I said.
I actually go back and forth between my thoughts of "that was meant to be" and my thoughts of "everything is the result of our choices". When a friend lost her 4-month-old to a rare liver disorder, I had a hard time believing it was "meant to be". Yesterday, I had a hard time believing those delays weren't meant to be.
FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: synchronisity and miracles, period.
FROM N.C. IN ILLINOIS: I was looking at some of my old saved quotes; "Free will is not the liberty to do whatever one likes, but the power of doing whatever one sees ought to be done, even in the very face of otherwise overwhelming impulse. G. MacDonald
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/4/07
“All we have is the present moment.” (Marcus Aurelius) Marcus was of the most important of the Roman stoic philosophers. His statement here causes me to wonder about time and about our place in the scheme of things. Do you have the answer? I will use some of the present moment to think about it. ;-) Jack
FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: There is no past from which to learn? There is no future for which to prepare. Sounds Stoic to me. Both the Hebrew scriptures and the Socratic thinkers think otherwise.
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: Hmmm --- something to ponder while I'm making a special dinner and cake for my daughter's birthday today! (This move to Brighton to live with her and my granddaughter seems to be the right thing, at least for the present moment.)
FROM C.R. IN MARYLAND: ....that's true, and if it's even tolerable, we should celebrate it.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: I disagree. On this earth we only have the moment, but in Heaven, we have eternity. And, we also have a future to look forward to. Maybe we won't wake up tomorrow, but we always have that hope. Hope is what we have, not just a moment in time!
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Marcus had it wrong. We also have the past. That's how we learn.
RESPONSE FROM JACK: My Step-Father always used to say:
“FORGET ABOUT YESTERDAY,
PLAN A LITTLE BIT FOR TOMORROW,
AND LIVE LIKE H--- TODAY.”
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: Love it!
FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: I fel sorry for your stepfather. He missed out on the opportunity to learn from our past. I think Geo. W. Bush must live by the same motto as your stepfather.
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: Jack, you'd fit in well in our Bible Study.
MORE FROM G.S.: We have history....................maybe to learn from & guide us?
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: Odd, my friend George Page (deceased), a contemporary of Eddie Rickenbacker (WWI) never failed to say, “Work like hell, and save your money!”
Anytime you saw George that would be his parting comment. He held commercial pilot license number #08. Charles Lindberg or Rickenbacker held license number 1.
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: He was nearly right. I'd change the word "forget" to"don't worry". If we forget yesterday, we make the same mistakes over and over.
FROM M.U. IN MICHIGAN: My philosophy has always been, "there is nothing like the present," "the time is NOW." I have always been fascinated with the concept of time. I fooled around writing a book long ago about two simultaneous lifetimes and I spend a week with my daughter that exists 20 years from now, before the two lifetimes become "unmerged." A big hit movie came out about 10 years later called Frequency. Have you seen it?
MORE FROM GOOD DEBT JON: According to Dr. Abraham Maslow, “The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness.” So you are on the right track. The present moment is all we have; we cannot change yesterday, and are not promised tomorrow.
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: REPLY: wELL, i MUST THINK ABOUT THAT. I think he was referring to a specific instance, not regarding the future. afterall, one plants a pear tree for their grandchildren consumption. If you want to enjoy fruit, one would plant a cherry tree, interspersed between apple trees.
“All we have is the present moment.” (Marcus Aurelius) Marcus was of the most important of the Roman stoic philosophers. His statement here causes me to wonder about time and about our place in the scheme of things. Do you have the answer? I will use some of the present moment to think about it. ;-) Jack
FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: There is no past from which to learn? There is no future for which to prepare. Sounds Stoic to me. Both the Hebrew scriptures and the Socratic thinkers think otherwise.
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: Hmmm --- something to ponder while I'm making a special dinner and cake for my daughter's birthday today! (This move to Brighton to live with her and my granddaughter seems to be the right thing, at least for the present moment.)
FROM C.R. IN MARYLAND: ....that's true, and if it's even tolerable, we should celebrate it.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: I disagree. On this earth we only have the moment, but in Heaven, we have eternity. And, we also have a future to look forward to. Maybe we won't wake up tomorrow, but we always have that hope. Hope is what we have, not just a moment in time!
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: Marcus had it wrong. We also have the past. That's how we learn.
RESPONSE FROM JACK: My Step-Father always used to say:
“FORGET ABOUT YESTERDAY,
PLAN A LITTLE BIT FOR TOMORROW,
AND LIVE LIKE H--- TODAY.”
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: Love it!
FROM REV. J.S. IN MICHIGAN: I fel sorry for your stepfather. He missed out on the opportunity to learn from our past. I think Geo. W. Bush must live by the same motto as your stepfather.
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: Jack, you'd fit in well in our Bible Study.
MORE FROM G.S.: We have history....................maybe to learn from & guide us?
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: Odd, my friend George Page (deceased), a contemporary of Eddie Rickenbacker (WWI) never failed to say, “Work like hell, and save your money!”
Anytime you saw George that would be his parting comment. He held commercial pilot license number #08. Charles Lindberg or Rickenbacker held license number 1.
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: He was nearly right. I'd change the word "forget" to"don't worry". If we forget yesterday, we make the same mistakes over and over.
FROM M.U. IN MICHIGAN: My philosophy has always been, "there is nothing like the present," "the time is NOW." I have always been fascinated with the concept of time. I fooled around writing a book long ago about two simultaneous lifetimes and I spend a week with my daughter that exists 20 years from now, before the two lifetimes become "unmerged." A big hit movie came out about 10 years later called Frequency. Have you seen it?
MORE FROM GOOD DEBT JON: According to Dr. Abraham Maslow, “The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness.” So you are on the right track. The present moment is all we have; we cannot change yesterday, and are not promised tomorrow.
FROM B.S. NEAR ORLANDO: REPLY: wELL, i MUST THINK ABOUT THAT. I think he was referring to a specific instance, not regarding the future. afterall, one plants a pear tree for their grandchildren consumption. If you want to enjoy fruit, one would plant a cherry tree, interspersed between apple trees.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/3/07
“If you’re bored, you aren’t paying attention.” (Unknown) I like this one, because it’s a reminder to me that there’s stuff out there in the world that I should be noticing. When I get up from this PC, I’ll begin paying attention, and we shall see what we shall see. ;-) Jack
“If you’re bored, you aren’t paying attention.” (Unknown) I like this one, because it’s a reminder to me that there’s stuff out there in the world that I should be noticing. When I get up from this PC, I’ll begin paying attention, and we shall see what we shall see. ;-) Jack
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: I’ve read a lot of 19th century books in the past few years and noticed the use of the word ennui in place of the modern version of boredom. Ennui seeps into the fringes of hopelessness along with boredom.
The more words we know the better we can sort, interpret, and share our world. Boredom (to me) seems like less of a linguistic threshold to reach than ennui—if you are paying attention.
MORE FROM JON: I think ennui is used to connote long term boredom, almost desperation. They have different uses; it was probably a bad comparison. It would be like the difference between a pre 1950’s conservative and what passes for (or is labeled) conservative today. They are totally different.
I’ll bore no further.
FROM K.B. IN MICHIGAN: I am so seldom bored that when I am I almost enjoy it.
Let me share with you a quote form someone's email signature that I find particularly thought provoking:
"Character is doing it when you don't want to..."
FROM C.B. IN MICHIGAN: It reminds me of when my girls were little. The few times they said they were bored, I'd reply, "Gosh that's too bad. It's up to you to use your imagination to not be bored." And I'd pick up the laundry or resume my task and let them own it. To this day, they don't watch t.v. and I don't think they are ever bored and believe me they aren't boring - they are great young women!
FROM MOLINER, G.S.: You're how old? I never thought of you as one who was ever bored - always doin', goin'. :-
FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: when my children were young and bored, there was always a floor to be scrubbed or some dusting to be done. they learned not to be outwardly bored pretty quickly!
FROM E.A. IN MICHIGAN: I'm only bored when I am sleeping.
FROM RETIRED PREACHER, C.R.: but, if you're paying attention and the preacher IS boring, then what?
FROM MOLINER, C.F.: And if you pay attention, you're liable to learn something to stave off future boredom,
FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: If you are bored, you aren't writing, talking, seeking, seeing, corresponding with other people . . . or with God!
FROM EMT SINGS: I could not agree more. That is why one of my grandsons says to me, "Don't say 'isn't that interesting' one more time!" To me, there is not one thing that is not interesting.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/2/07
“A little more laughter; a little less worry; a little more kindness; a little less hurry.” (seen on a plaque) More or less? It’s a decision that we have to make every day. What will you laugh at today? Who will benefit from your kindness? So…. Grab your coat and get your hat Leave your worries on the doorstep Life can be so sweet On the sunny side of the street. ;-) Jack
“A little more laughter; a little less worry; a little more kindness; a little less hurry.” (seen on a plaque) More or less? It’s a decision that we have to make every day. What will you laugh at today? Who will benefit from your kindness? So…. Grab your coat and get your hat Leave your worries on the doorstep Life can be so sweet On the sunny side of the street. ;-) Jack
FROM P.O. IN MICHIGAN: Gosh, those would make great song lyrics.
FROM D.P. IN MINNESOTA: Todays words are very winning!
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: Oh how wise is him, Who knows when to laugh and when only to grin
When to trust and when to doubt, When to start a fire and when to put one out.
When to work and when to worry When to go slow and when to hurry
When to ignore and when to care I can be that man, if I dare
I’m not much of poet these days, but I like the first couple of lines, your WW reminded me of a time recently I laughed out loud and hurt someone’s feelings. This was a time when my wry Norwegian grin would have been the better choice. Temperance is the watch word. “Saying and doing the right things, at the right times, for the right reasons.”
FOLLOW UP FROM JON: I was scolded for using “him” where “he” would be proper grammar, by a good friend. I pleaded the poets prerogative, besides it would not rhyme with my original thought—that I should sometimes grin and keep my mouth shut.
FROM S.G. IN FLORIDA: A great philosophy......
FROM M.L. IN ILLINOIS: at pre-school, we use the phrase, "no hurry no worry". it's great when i hear them remind each other when neccesary.
FROM J.L. IN MICHIGAN: We all need more laughter and less offense in our lives! Starting today!
FROM EMT SINGS: I am singing along with you. I have been up in T.C. so I am reading it late. Mother goes with us, of course, and loves the time up there.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Jack’s Winning Words 10/1/07
“We don’t know a millionth of one per cent about anything.” (Edison) This great inventor should know what he’s talking about. His truism applies not only to science and history, but to theology, too. I’m always suspicious of those who seem to have all the answers. I relate best to those who find this world, enigmatic. ;-) Jack
FROM T.S. IN MICHIGAN: Would you say that a difference between worldly knowledge and theology is that in theology we have the advantage of knowing where to find the answers?
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: Yet, how bold we are with the little we know! Have you ever argued to nearly the end of your own knowledge, hoping the other guy hits bottom before you do? People that hit bottom quickly generally resort to personal attacks or widening (or changing) of the topic to keep going.
FROM J.C. IN HONG KONG: I once knew a proctologist who found this world, enematic. He was always trying to get to the bottom of things.
FROM THE CURMUDGEON, C.R.: .....I think that we know more about what isn't than what is.
FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: your daily 'winning word' certainly reinforces the truth of Edison's quote - your selected words cover the whole water front of knowledge! And they prompt the receiver of your words to clean out the cobwebs! Keep up the good work!
FROM E.D. IN AZ: Amen to that! That quote should be the title of a field report that i am writing!!
“We don’t know a millionth of one per cent about anything.” (Edison) This great inventor should know what he’s talking about. His truism applies not only to science and history, but to theology, too. I’m always suspicious of those who seem to have all the answers. I relate best to those who find this world, enigmatic. ;-) Jack
FROM T.S. IN MICHIGAN: Would you say that a difference between worldly knowledge and theology is that in theology we have the advantage of knowing where to find the answers?
FROM GOOD DEBT JON IN OHIO: Yet, how bold we are with the little we know! Have you ever argued to nearly the end of your own knowledge, hoping the other guy hits bottom before you do? People that hit bottom quickly generally resort to personal attacks or widening (or changing) of the topic to keep going.
FROM J.C. IN HONG KONG: I once knew a proctologist who found this world, enematic. He was always trying to get to the bottom of things.
FROM THE CURMUDGEON, C.R.: .....I think that we know more about what isn't than what is.
FROM F.M. IN WISCONSIN: your daily 'winning word' certainly reinforces the truth of Edison's quote - your selected words cover the whole water front of knowledge! And they prompt the receiver of your words to clean out the cobwebs! Keep up the good work!
FROM E.D. IN AZ: Amen to that! That quote should be the title of a field report that i am writing!!
Jack’s Winning Words 10/1/07
“We don’t know a millionth of one per cent about anything.” (Edison) This great inventor should know what he’s talking about. His truism applies not only to science and history, but to theology, too. I’m always suspicious of those who seem to have all the answers. I relate best to those who find this world, enigmatic. ;-) Jack
“We don’t know a millionth of one per cent about anything.” (Edison) This great inventor should know what he’s talking about. His truism applies not only to science and history, but to theology, too. I’m always suspicious of those who seem to have all the answers. I relate best to those who find this world, enigmatic. ;-) Jack
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