To Serve well

Serving with Excellence for a Life of Excellence

Inspiration

Point out someone’s BRILLIANCE

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GRADUATION IS by far one of my favorite times of the year, and I love this pic coupled with one of my favorite bible verses.  (One that I have to remind myself of often, and also a “mom” favorite!)

Once again this year, we have several friends and family members graduating, from high school and college. What a great time of celebration and hope for a bright future.

I wanted to share a story that meant the world to me last year at my boys’ graduation. I have some neighbors,-turned-friends who have been long time supporters of me and the boys. I am especially close to Susie. Her husband Sid is one of those super cool guys my boys have always loved to be around, and more importantly a spiritual leader type of guy that has a way of encouraging even when we don’t know we need it. In 12 years, he has been a great encourager to me two key times and graduation was one. (I share that it was two times because I feel like it is important to note that it doesn’t have to be daily, or weekly, but any encouragement is important). In short, he pulled me aside and spent a good 10 minutes just “talking into” me God’s words of wisdom and celebration and assurance of a job well done… I was stopped in my tracks at their graduation party and had to take a moment to just soak in those words. It was powerful.

Why does this matter? Your words are powerful. You have the power to lift someone up and TAKE THEM TO A NEW LEVEL.

TAKE THE TIME. We have all had those moments when we felt something inside of us urging us to stop and take a few minutes to POINT OUT SOMEONES BRILLIANCE, or to truly embrace their moment of success. TAKE THE CLUE and pull them aside and speak God’s love over them. It will impact and inspire both them and you!

(Photo credit: We Heart It)

How to achieve amazing creativity

blog_796598_2900889_1462993889You might start by asking what does Menlo Park have to do with anything? One of my favorite motivational teachers is a guy by the name of Robin Sharma. He has a series of mastery sessions, and last month he did a great one by a similar title where he shared the story of a PBS special featuring Thomas Edison and how he inspired the world. Please follow the link if you want to listen to the full session, it’s terrific!

In short, Thomas Edison made Menlo Park his laboratory for creating. If you read the Wikipedia insert below, it’s now a museum which is pretty cool. (I had no idea!) As you know, his creation of the first incandescent light bulb is one of the greatest inventions of all time. That and the phonograph were created in the Menlo Park warehouse.

In order to “CREATE” in the best way, we must go about creating an environment that allows our minds to think freely and elaborate on those ideas that pop in and out of our minds throughout our days. I just loved this.

Here are some highlights….

  1. Create a separate space to work on creativity, DISTRACTION FREE. It may be a coffee shop, Cabin in the woods, a space you’ve carved out in your home, or business… No matter what, make sure it inspires you.
  2. Make sure your space is INSPIRATIONAL. What is that to you? Sunlight, comfy chair, white walls and markers? Inspiring quotes? Fresh flowers? Some terrific instrumental music? Make sure it is as clutter free as possible, so there is “free space” to think.
  3. Consider new places! Travel if you can, “A change of space = a change of perspective” (Batterson) is one of my favorite quotes.
  4. Schedule time in your “Menlo Park.” I just did this after being inspired by this video. I already do my writing generally at a local coffee shop on Saturday mornings, but I also scheduled a “creativity” retreat for July which I’m excited about. It is definitely true that what gets scheduled gets done. I am thinking two a year will be a great start.

I’d love to hear your ideas. I hope this inspires you as it did me!

EXTRAS:
– Thomas Edison PBS Special
– Wikipedia page on Menlo Park, an unincorporated community located within Edison Township in Middlesex County, New Jersey.

(Photo Credit: Pinterest)

What is that one thing…

blog_795784_2899388_1462807567What an awesome picture! This week I am tackling creativity. The term “creativity” just seems to go hand in hand with “childhood.” I’ve been going through the masses of everything I have kept from the boys’ childhood and it has been a BLAST. (Not a fan of the dust and “uck” that accumulates in those basement boxes… but it’s worth it!)

The works from preschool all of the way up to probably middle school has been a treat in seeing their creativity. It makes you wonder why we ever stop using construction paper and glue!

So, today, I think we all need a JOLT of creativity. Let’s have a bit of fun and have everyone think of one thing they miss from their childhood and let us all know in the comments. I struggled with whether mine was the neighborhood kickball games, Marco Polo in the pool, tether ball with my sister (I’m pretty sure I won – hahaha) OR, SWINGING! It’s definitely swinging! For some reason I loved the wind in my hair and using my energy to go higher and higher. I loved this picture, because perhaps the very act of SWINGING allows your mind to think bigger.

Thursday we will talk about some specific ways to get creative as adults. As a hint, it starts with getting yourself in a creative environment. There is some cool information out there and I’ll share some highlights. In the meantime, this CNN article is truly a worthwhile read for us all and a great reminder that we need to encourage creativity!

Maybe my college boys won’t mind having some family nights coloring this summer? HMMM…. Not sure that is going to happen, but I’m drumming up some other ideas to keep the creative energy high! After all, our lives are made up of things dreamed of and dreams often happen when we are exercising our minds!

Definitely read this CNN article if you have time, or bookmark it for later!

(Photo credit: We Heart It)

Books you might just love

blog_793981_2896884_1462383689At the end of last year, I posted a list of my top books for 2015. I had so many people that reached out to me that they really liked this, so I decided I’d post my list throughout the year as well, since they are top of mind!

My plan is to do a post like this three times a year: May, September and January for the prior 4 months. During the January post I’ll list my all time favorites for the year, too!

As you may know by now, I’m a huge reader! I’m an advocate for reading and constantly learning. I will have to say that I’m not much of a fiction reader however, but perhaps someday I will be. So here it goes… My favs from January 1 – April 30:

  1. Seven Women & the Secret of their Greatness, by Eric MetaxasWhat I loved: Corrie Ten Boom, Rosa Parks, Hannah More, Joan of Arc… Some I knew and some I didn’t, but learning about women who have literally changed our world is downright inspiring.
  2. Throught the Eyes of a Lion, by Levi LuskoWhat I loved: Levi and his family lost a little girl unexpectedly. With great sadness, Levi is able to shine a light on God’s grace and share the painful details but also inspire hope.
  3. Seven Men, by Eric MetaxasWhat I loved: Again, Eric crafts an amazing read which outlines how a handful of men exemplify true excellence. He profiles George Washington, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Jackie Robinson and others. SO GOOD!
  4. Wake Up Happy, by Michalael StrahanWhat I loved: Practical information and fun stories that share about his life. His “Strahan Rules” include “Don’t pre-judge” and that help will come from the most unexpected places. It has a ton of advice and it’s just fun.
  5. The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up, by Marie KondoWhat I loved: It took me forever to actually buy this book that has been on bestseller lists since it came out. It’s a bit weird, but the idea of simplifying and only have items in your home and life that bring you joy is compelling.
  6. Originals, by Adam GrantWhat I loved: Everything! This is my favorite. It’s both a business read and one that will definitely make you a better person in every segment of your life. The insights and breaking down of myths on how we think and act are very cool.
  7. Being Mortal, by Atul GawandeWhat I loved: Dr. Gawande has written many great books, but this one tackles the tough issues of ethics and practical realities in the process of the end of our lives. Educational and thought-provoking.
  8. A Fellowship of Differents, by Scot McKnightWhat I loved: This book is about the pursuit of UNITY. The book talks about God’s desire for our church and communities to be diverse in order to achieve our true calling.
  9. The Lemon Tree, by Sandy TolanWhat I loved: I read this book at the recommendation of Pastor Adam Hamilton in preparation for my Holy Land trip in February. This book is a terrific real life story that illustrates the Palestine/Israeli conflict.
  10. H3 Leadership, by Brad LomenickWhat I loved: Brad is a a terrific author. The three “Hs” are Be Humble, Stay Hungry and Always Hustle. He categorizes 20 leaderships under these three areas. It’s easy to read and practical. I passed this one on to my boys who could embrace this as they grow in their college years and develop leadership skills that will help them in their careers and as spiritual leaders in their homes.

I hope you’ll pick out one or two that appeal to you and jump in!

(Photo credit: We Heart It) 

Time to stir the nest!

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I just had to write this blog because I have been hit over the head, so to speak, with this concept about three times in less than two weeks. So I figured the universe is trying to tell me something. Ever have that happen? First it was sermon illustration, then a podcast, then on the radio…

So, check out the D.C. Eagle Cam and you will be amazed. You may have to check in a few times but it’s worth it. This is a live camera feed on the “First Lady” and “Mr. President’s” baby eaglets, which just were named this week: Freedom and Liberty. I love stories like this and today’s technology which enables us to take part in the experience.

Today, the idea of “Stirring the Nest” can be best illustrated by how the “First Lady” will eventually have to get those young babes out of the nest and ready to fly on their own. After all, they can’t live their forever! blog_793974_2896877_1462244166

By the way, we can’t live where we are, in the comfort of our habits, and grow at the same time. We have to be stirred to push through to the next level that God has planned for us. So, just like the mama Eagle, the feathers sometimes are taken away and we find outselves sitting atop a downright”thorny” situation, and we have to look over the edge of the nest (so to speak) and develop our faith, then jump out to what’s next. We also should know that just like the mama will soar down and ensure the babies won’t fall to their deaths, that God has put people in our lives that help ensure we land safely.

I have been thinking about this idea of what area in my life needs stirred.  Honestly I think it’s a few.  What are those areas that are getting a bit “thorny” for you? Health? Friends that aren’t really making you a better person? Laziness? Your career? Just realize that whatever it is, you will not only fly, but SOAR like an Eagle if it’s time to launch!

(Photo credit: Pinterest via stop.com)

Hello, May!

blog_793625_2896171_1462115574It’s May! Woohoo!

A year ago this month I was in deep preparing for the boys high school graduation. (To my friends going thru this right now… I’m praying and cheering for you! If you need help, just holler!) It seems like all of the emotion and the excitement combined make times like these feel both overwhelming and invigorating!

My advice… Focus on the JOY and let others help you so you can enjoy it! It’s truly a special occasion and one that deserves your utmost attention. (I’d say preschool graduation deserves the same level of JOY!)

Today, a year past that, not as much drama, but a brief moment in time to step back and truly be JOYFUL for the month that lies ahead!  Here’s why:

  • May not only truly does bring “flowers,” but times for great celebration.
  • May brings us graduation and the launch of the wedding season… A season of new beginnings and DELIGHT!
  • May ALWAYS has Mother’s Day… What a great day to love on those mother’s in your life!  I know I not only was blessed with my mom, but many others that have played a key role in my life… Love that God puts the right people in your life and just the right time!
  • May HONORS those fallen soldiers that died while serving in our country’s armed forces. How amazing our country is and I can’t wait to approach this subject later this month. All I can say is that lump in my throat never goes away when I think of these men and women. #BlessedbeyondtoliveintheUSA

(Photo credit: We Heart It)

3 ways to give strength

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  • Love
  • Good Vibes
  • Strength

How can we give these in the best possible way? Question of the day for me is on strength! That’s been a bit of the theme this week… Here are some thoughts:

We can give others strength by:

  1. BELIEVING IN THEM… Truly believing in them. As a leader I have always loved to have the underdog on my team. Most underdogs aren’t underdogs at all. They are SUPERHEROS who needed someone to believe in them. As a friend or a leader or whatever our role, it is our duty to find the best in people and bring that out!
  2. CELEBRATING THEM… Yep, that’s right. Who in your world do you need to celebrate today? Who may not have had an encouraging word given to them directly in weeks? God created all people to be beautiful and even those that have made some bad choices and maybe seem to be a lost cause, quite honestly are not. It may take some thoughtful “digging” to identify but take the time. It’s worth it.
  3. SUPPORTING THEM… Celebrating them is really huge! I think we need to go a step further and offer our support. Ask someone today, how can I serve you the best? Where do you need someone to step in and help? In a mentoring relationship this is huge and we all should both me a mentor and have mentors. Maybe they need a simple introduction to someone to get that first job, or someone who can be honest with them and move them past hurdles… Every last one of us need support!

(Photo credit: I Heart It)

Get out there and bring others with you!

blog_792239_2894125_1461621496Jeep ran a campaign I believe in 2007 that had the tag line “Have fun out there.” Nature Valley ran one “Get out there” a few years earlier. Honestly, I got them confused and thought “Get out there” was Jeep, which I think is absolutely BRILLIANT!

Regardless of who gets credit for the idea, my vision is that WE NEED TO GET OUT “THERE” to realize the fullness of life.

Sunday I talked a bit about being as strong as “Caleb” at 85 years old. In order to live a strong life we have to get out and explore the world. I had the opportunity to take my first bike ride of the season yesterday and honestly, we have some pretty cool places to explore right in our own neighborhoods. We need to model this for our families, in the workplace and wherever God has placed us. No matter your age or situation, get OUT!

Here’s another thought… Do you know someone that perhaps can’t necessarily get out there? If so, do everything in your power this week to get them out if at all possible. Even if it means pushing them around the block in a wheelchair or visiting a park, the zoo, or anything really. Help get others out who may not feel they have that ability. If you don’t know anyone in that situation, just give me a call or a message, I’ll hook you up!

Let’s all be AMBASSADORS in this category this week both for ourselves and for others. I promise your life will be richer for the effort.

(Photo credit: We Heart It)

Adventure calls

blog_786682_2885967_1460298022Pure Beauty. I daydream, if you want to call it that, of taking a long road-trip adventure (In my mind that is what this gal is doing!) where you just go out and try to hear what God says about so many things.

What I have figured out along the way, and why this quote stood out to me, is that God seems to mold us during the “everyday adventures” if we are willing to listen and if necessary look back and own it.

I have a bold prayer today that both myself and all of my friends and family will be open to God’s plan for us through the big and small adventures that make up the days of our lives! Love you all! Listen deeply!

(Photo credit: We Heart It)

SevenDays: A conversation that matters

blog_787945_2888090_1460593470Tuesday was the kick-off to the annual SevenDays events in Kansas City. I attended a terrific session on Tuesday night to hear Rabbi Alon Goshen-Gottstein speak on the topic of Interfaith and why it matters. I wanted to provide an overview of that session for you, but I also wanted to share a quick story on the topic.

I asked one of my boys to attend the session Tuesday night explaining why this idea of Interfaith is important. He was confused because in his mind he is certainly open to all races and religions and as far as he was concerned there was not a good reason to learn more about the topic. I loved that, because I think it explains how many feel. Not long ago most of our country could say that they embraced all others. As generations have become educated and society progresses we have indeed made great strides forward.

I have to admit that I also didn’t like this response at all, because I personally know that there is so much more. It wasn’t until just a few years ago (well into my 40s) that I attended a friend’s Passover Seder, which was an important step in understanding her faith. I still haven’t made the steps necessary to learn about my Muslim neighbors, and the list goes on. So, yes, we have made progress, but we have to do more to make the impact that is possible and necessary.

This summary below is just that, a high level overview… I’d love to hear your thoughts and also if you have questions, I’d be happy to moderate getting those to the Rabbi.

Why Interfaith? A lot of reasons, but in our current environment, understanding is the imperative to solving global issues that didn’t really exist prior to the current fast-paced communication and social media opportunities that ensure we have at our ready world-wide news and can react and respond right away.

A great example he gave:  In our country we enjoy freedom of religion, which is why my son answered as he did – makes sense. Unfortunately other countries do not enjoy freedom of religion. It is important for us all to understand the implications of this on world peace.

4 keys ways we can inspire each other in interfaith:

  1. ENCOUNTER one another – Yep, invite your Muslim neighbor over, or if you are Muslim, invite your Christian neighbor over to begin a conversation of understanding.
  2. STUDY other countries, religions, beliefs – We must challenge ourselves to understand fully the traditions of others to truly understand them.
  3. PRAYER–  The Rabbi included this and I thought it was great. This may seem like an easy list, but it isn’t. Even taking the first step seems some how beyond our ability to just jump out and make it a priority. We need to pray that God would give us a passion for understanding.
  4. SERVICE – Perfect that he ended with this. The idea being that once we come together we can translate that into ACTION that makes our communities and countries stronger.   Let’s contemplate that today!

In case you didn’t read Tuesday’s blog, there are some great activities/events happening in KC this week as a part of SevenDays. Check out the website for the full details.  And if you want to know more about Rabbig Goshen-Gottenstein’s interfaith work, check it out here.

Have a strong wrap to your week!