If You Try

If You Try

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Growth is Pain (But turns to Strength)

oak tree Pictures, Images and Photos

The benefit of the end result is what most people envision and desire. We are motivated by reaching a better quality of life mentally, physically, spiritually, financially,relationally, etc. I could go on and on. The hard truth though is that we must undergo some pain to reach greater heights. The painful process involved in realizing our potential has the wonderful affect of making us humble, appreciative, and level headed (at least it should). Growth in any area of life makes us vulnerable and this is why most people are unable to grow. They don't want to go through the humiliation, confusion, sorrow, and loneliness (sometimes) that growth requires. It is human nature to run from pain and pursue pleasure. But there is no way we can escape experiencing pain in this life. Furthermore, no one could know real pleasure without going through pain. Think of a time that you overcame a painful time in your life. Didn't it make you stronger? Doesn't it give you greater confidence knowing that you overcame? Well then, a challenge I pose to you friends (as well as myself) is to attempt to embrace pain and realize that it is a fundamental and imperative component of our growth. I know it's easier said than done. Even as I write this, I shudder to think of having to undergo more painful experiences. But in the end friends, we will be as strong and beautiful as the oak tree, able to provide shelter, wisdom, and strength to those who look up to us that are also going through their growth process.

Monday, March 29, 2010

Man Up Soldier!!!

Conquer

The old saying goes "You reap what you sow". Yet many people don't want to face the consequences of what they have planted. Or they don't want to sow what is necessary for future success. To be specific, there are many young men who get girls pregnant and don't want to take on the responsibility of raising the child. Further, there are people who love to shop with borrowed money, but do not want to deal with paying their debts back. The point is, we have to get to the point where we embrace accountability for the choices we have made and deal with them, rather than waiting on others to rescue us or choosing not to deal with them all together. One sign of maturity is being willing to accept the outcome of one's actions whether good or bad. We do ourselves and others a tremendous disservice when we refuse to take ownership of our choices. Proof of this is found in all of the single mother homes, failed relationships, failed business ventures, etc. We all at some point have to Man Up and face reality. Only when we do this, can we walk a higher path that is worth being emulated by others.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

New Beginnings in Long Beach

Hey Friends, just wanted to give you guys a little update on what's going on in my neck of the woods. My wife and I just relocated to the beautiful city of Long Beach. We live downtown, right in the thick of it all, which is my cup of tea. Maybe some of you have been wondering why you haven't seen a blog or tweet from me for a minute, well now you know why. We are still settling in, so my communication may be a little slower over the next couple of months, but rest assured I got plenty of ideas and new inspiration to deliver to everyone when everything comes together. This is a very exciting time for me and it feels good to be closer to my origins. With that said, thanks for the love and support. Stay tuned.

R.E.B.E.L.