This past week I had the opportunity to talk to a few young people about dealing with the inevitable hurts one encounters in life. One of the things every human being has in common is that we have all been hurt by someone in our lives. I wish it were not so, but being hurt by someone at some point in life is unavoidable.
What I was talking with these young folks about was how you deal with the hurt and live your life. We all change as a result of being hurt. However, I wanted them to understand that it is important to change for the better. It's too easy to change for the worst, and that is no way to live your life. For instance, when someone lies to us, it's to easy to decide to never trust anyone ever again. Now, let me be clear, I can completely understand when someone chooses to never trust again, but it is not a healthy way to live.
In professional sports, athletes often talk about playing through the pain; meaning, they have all been hurt at some point, but they make the effort to play at their best anyway. We will all be hurt at some point in life, but we must continue to do our best to live life to the fullest. If we do not, we risk becoming the hurt, angry, jaded version of ourselves who would rather shut the world out than risk being hurt again, and that's no way to live your life. We cannot completely avoid being hurt, but we can control how we react to the hurt. Never give anyone who has hurt you that much control over your life.
I often wonder how many opportunities we miss in life as a result of being hurt. I wonder how many dreams die for fear of being hurt again. I worry that far too many people choose to isolate themselves from the world rather than live, because they don't want to ever let anyone in. I'm not saying let people walk all over you; no, never do that, but you should make every effort to move forward and live the best life possible, even when you feel like you're not sure you can. We only get one shot at this thing called life, so live as full of one as possible.
Anyway, these are my thoughts this week. Take care, my friends. Have a wonderful week!
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Sunday, August 10, 2014
What a difference a day makes
This past week Hawaii braced for two major storms: Hurricane Iselle and Hurricane Julio. The Big Island took most of the impact. Many folks are still without electricity and basic supplies. I have many friends there, and so far each have said they are happy just to have made it through without any major issues. They are doing well for the most part. I thank God that they are all okay.
The rest of the islands fared considerably better. Over here on Oahu, there was some damage and flooding. A few folks lost their roofs in the winds. Many large trees and such were completely pulled out of the ground. But, overall, we are all okay. Moreover, we are incredibly fortunate that Hurricane Julio skirted over the islands this morning, so we are pretty much in the clear, as of the time of this writing.
For the past few days, I have witnessed nothing but damage, destruction, and terrifying weather. You can imagine my surprise when I awoke this morning to see perfect blue skies. My family and I decided to go to the beach, even though we heard a high surf advisory was issued. Every beach was so crowded today. I saw many old friends, some of whom I haven't seen years. There were many families enjoying the day. I saw nothing but beautiful skies, huge waves, and smiling faces as far my eyes could see.
Amazing how big of a difference one day can make. I think this is important to remember in life as well. In life, there are always some major storms. There are also many sunny days ahead. I know, in the middle of the storm, it's hard to see the silver lining, but if you can weather the storm, there is always another beautiful day ahead. Today, I got to enjoy the company of a bunch of folks who weathered the storm, and what a beautiful day it was.
Keep moving forward, my friends. Keep striving to reach those goals. Keep trying your best. Above all else, don't give up. Do everything you can to keep positivity in your life. We will all face bad days. We will all have to weather storms throughout our life. You can make it through. Find the silver lining and make the most of every moment. It will make a difference. Have a wonderful week, friends!
P.S. - Please keep everyone on the Big Island in your prayers. Many of them are still without power, water, and other basic necessities. Most of the folks I talk to are still keeping it positive, which is good. They are doing their best, but they still need help. Thanks everyone!
Sunday, August 3, 2014
Preparing for disaster
Today, I have been spending time preparing for Hurricane Iselle. It's expected to hit the islands as nothing more than a tropical storm, but I feel the need to prepare accordingly. I have to admit, I have never put together an emergency kit in my life. Like many folks here in Hawaii, I have survived two of the biggest hurricanes to hit the islands, multiple tsunami threats, and various other weather phenomenon that have struck our homes. As a result, many of us often feel like everything is going to be fine, so we never prepare properly, and any preparations we do make is usually done at the last minute.
I think a lot of us are guilty of living our lives this way. Many of us walk through life figuring that everything is going to be okay. Then, when something bad does happen, it completely throws everything out of sync. The slightest change makes it feel like the world is ending. True of natural disasters, but also true in a lot of other areas in life. Many people are ill-equipped to handle the little problems that life offers. As in preparing for a natural disaster, if we are to be ready for the dangers or difficulties we will face in everyday life, we need to put in the work needed to prepare properly.
Need to pass a big test, you better study. Want to write a book, better start writing. As for me, I need to prepare for hurricane season. My perspective on life is much different than when I was a teen going out to surf during tropical storms - which created enormous waves. My life isn't the only one I need to take care of, so I need to grow up and do the things responsible adults are supposed to do. So, like anything in life I don't know a lot about, I am starting with the basics: water, canned goods, batteries, hand crank emergency radio/flashlight, and other essentials.
When in doubt, start with the basics first, and then work your way up. Thanks for letting me blabber on about this new event in my life. For those of you who are also preparing for the storm, I'm leaving a list of some of the recommended emergency essentials below. A little preparation can save us from a lot of trouble further down the road. If I'm missing anything, please leave a comment below and I will add it in. Have a blessed week, everyone!
FEMA recommends the following items be in your emergency supply kit:
Fire Extinguisher - $19.97 on Amazon / Walmart $20.67
Prescription Medication, prescription glasses, contact lenses, contact lens solution
Water – One gallon per day per person (5 to 7 day supply) / I got a clear plastic 5-gallon at Walmart for $8.18
Non-perishable food (5 to 7 day supply)
Hand crank or battery-powered radio ($15) and a NOAA Weather Radio ($27) with tone alert and extra batteries
Flashlight & extra batteries
Whistle to signal for help
Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Manual can opener for food
Local maps ($5 on Amazon)
Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger
Pet essentials – food, water, medication
Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted, nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
Matches in Waterproof Container or Waterproof Matches
Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
Cash or traveler’s checks and change – If the power is out, ATMs will not be operational. If stores are open but the power is out they may only take cash.
Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container. You can use the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit – EFFAK (PDF – 977Kb) developed by Operation Hope, FEMA and Citizen Corps to help you organize your information.
Denture needs, extra eyeglasses
For more disaster preparedness information and to download a FEMA emergency supply kit list click HERE.
I think a lot of us are guilty of living our lives this way. Many of us walk through life figuring that everything is going to be okay. Then, when something bad does happen, it completely throws everything out of sync. The slightest change makes it feel like the world is ending. True of natural disasters, but also true in a lot of other areas in life. Many people are ill-equipped to handle the little problems that life offers. As in preparing for a natural disaster, if we are to be ready for the dangers or difficulties we will face in everyday life, we need to put in the work needed to prepare properly.
Need to pass a big test, you better study. Want to write a book, better start writing. As for me, I need to prepare for hurricane season. My perspective on life is much different than when I was a teen going out to surf during tropical storms - which created enormous waves. My life isn't the only one I need to take care of, so I need to grow up and do the things responsible adults are supposed to do. So, like anything in life I don't know a lot about, I am starting with the basics: water, canned goods, batteries, hand crank emergency radio/flashlight, and other essentials.
When in doubt, start with the basics first, and then work your way up. Thanks for letting me blabber on about this new event in my life. For those of you who are also preparing for the storm, I'm leaving a list of some of the recommended emergency essentials below. A little preparation can save us from a lot of trouble further down the road. If I'm missing anything, please leave a comment below and I will add it in. Have a blessed week, everyone!
FEMA recommends the following items be in your emergency supply kit:
EMERGENCY KIT ESSENTIALS
First Aid Kit - $22.87 for a 205 piece kit on Amazon / $17.47 at Walmart
Fire Extinguisher - $19.97 on Amazon / Walmart $20.67
Prescription Medication, prescription glasses, contact lenses, contact lens solution
Water – One gallon per day per person (5 to 7 day supply) / I got a clear plastic 5-gallon at Walmart for $8.18
Non-perishable food (5 to 7 day supply)
Hand crank or battery-powered radio ($15) and a NOAA Weather Radio ($27) with tone alert and extra batteries
Flashlight & extra batteries
Whistle to signal for help
Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Manual can opener for food
Local maps ($5 on Amazon)
Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger
Other supplies you may need
Baby essentials – formula, diapers, wipes, bottles, etc…
Pet essentials – food, water, medication
Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted, nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
Matches in Waterproof Container or Waterproof Matches
Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
Ready.gov also suggests:
Emergency information – first aid reference material, pamphlets, print outs (free publications)Cash or traveler’s checks and change – If the power is out, ATMs will not be operational. If stores are open but the power is out they may only take cash.
Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container. You can use the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit – EFFAK (PDF – 977Kb) developed by Operation Hope, FEMA and Citizen Corps to help you organize your information.
Denture needs, extra eyeglasses
For more disaster preparedness information and to download a FEMA emergency supply kit list click HERE.
Monday, July 21, 2014
Keep moving forward
Recently, I've been talking to a lot of folks that have me thinking about something. A lot of people I meet are interested in the way I live my life. I try to live life as best I can. I try to learn from everyone and every situation that comes my way. One of the most important things I do is I keep trying.
Sounds simple, right?
I think so, but for some reason, this concept sounds completely foreign to a lot of people. Let me tell you what I mean. More often than not, when people find out I am a writer, they will often tell me about an idea that they have for a story. They also tell me how they are impressed that I have two books out because they aren't sure they could write a book. I try to encourage everyone I meet, so I will usually ask, "Did you ever try?" You know what the most common response is: "No."
If you never try something, how will you ever know if you can do it or not? How about another example? A few weeks ago I decided to try my hand at skimboarding again, a water activity I have not done for over 20 years! Many people I meet on the beach, especially older guys, tell me how much they used to love skimboarding, but they just don't feel like they could do it again. My question for them is the same: How do you know, if you never tried?"
I worry that too many of us give up because we never try. I truly believe in living life to the fullest. We can't do that if we are too afraid to try. Maybe skydiving and extreme sports is too much for most people, but what about the simple things? If you have an idea for a book, you should try writing. I never thought I could write a book. That is the whole reason I did, and now I am about to finish my third book. I wasn't sure if I could skimboard again without seriously hurting myself, but I tried, and now I go all the time. I'm not sure why I ever stopped.
What is something in your life that you could do to make your life fuller, but you are too afraid to try? This week, at least give it another look. Maybe you want to travel, become a chef, write a book, or learn to swim. The possibilities are endless. Whatever you do, keep moving forward, keep trying. It's the advice we give children who are learning something new. I think it is still sound advice for many of us who are adults that are afraid to try.
Have a wonderful week, everyone!
Sounds simple, right?
I think so, but for some reason, this concept sounds completely foreign to a lot of people. Let me tell you what I mean. More often than not, when people find out I am a writer, they will often tell me about an idea that they have for a story. They also tell me how they are impressed that I have two books out because they aren't sure they could write a book. I try to encourage everyone I meet, so I will usually ask, "Did you ever try?" You know what the most common response is: "No."
If you never try something, how will you ever know if you can do it or not? How about another example? A few weeks ago I decided to try my hand at skimboarding again, a water activity I have not done for over 20 years! Many people I meet on the beach, especially older guys, tell me how much they used to love skimboarding, but they just don't feel like they could do it again. My question for them is the same: How do you know, if you never tried?"
I worry that too many of us give up because we never try. I truly believe in living life to the fullest. We can't do that if we are too afraid to try. Maybe skydiving and extreme sports is too much for most people, but what about the simple things? If you have an idea for a book, you should try writing. I never thought I could write a book. That is the whole reason I did, and now I am about to finish my third book. I wasn't sure if I could skimboard again without seriously hurting myself, but I tried, and now I go all the time. I'm not sure why I ever stopped.
What is something in your life that you could do to make your life fuller, but you are too afraid to try? This week, at least give it another look. Maybe you want to travel, become a chef, write a book, or learn to swim. The possibilities are endless. Whatever you do, keep moving forward, keep trying. It's the advice we give children who are learning something new. I think it is still sound advice for many of us who are adults that are afraid to try.
Have a wonderful week, everyone!
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Finding Christmas Spirit...in July
This past week a friend of mine told me she was watching Keepsake Week on the Hallmark Channel. "Christmas movies were going to be on all week," she said. Normally, the thought of Christmas, especially in July, would be more than enough to drive me insane. However, I've made it a point to learn what I can from every person and situation I come across, so I decided to grit my teeth and take a look. You know what, I actually learned something.
I've talked in previous posts about my dislike of Christmas. Up until a few years ago, I was the biggest Grinch on the planet. My children changed all that. I have been trying my best to provide the best Christmases possible for them. It isn't easy, so I am usually very happy when the season is over. You can imagine how thinking about Christmas in July isn't particularly appealing to me.
Now, back to this past week. What did I learn from watching Christmas movies in the Summer? As much as I dislike Christmas, I still enjoy watching Christmas movies. I did find that watching them in July still felt the same as watching them in December. It felt good to remember the joy of Christmas, even if it is Summer. I think I learned a valuable lesson: you can carry the Spirit of Christmas with you throughout the year.
At Christmastime, we often talk about how we should carry certain aspects of the season with us throughout life. We should always be giving. We should always carry joy with us. You know what I mean? We nod our heads in agreement, but as soon as the season is over, we completely forget. Watching these movies in July reminded me of all of this. Now, I'm not saying I will become one of these folks who tries to keep it Christmas year-round, but I do think we could all benefit from a little Christmas joy once in a while.
I think when it is Christmastime we all try to be a little nicer. We all try to be a little less selfish. We all try to spend time with family and/or friends. We all try to be little happier, even if it is for a short time. Why not try to be the better version of ourselves the whole year? I know, easier said than done. I'm a work in progress, too, but I do think it is worth the effort. Well, these are my thoughts this week. At the very least, it did feel nice to watch some feel-good holiday films for a week. Have a wonderful week, everybody!
I've talked in previous posts about my dislike of Christmas. Up until a few years ago, I was the biggest Grinch on the planet. My children changed all that. I have been trying my best to provide the best Christmases possible for them. It isn't easy, so I am usually very happy when the season is over. You can imagine how thinking about Christmas in July isn't particularly appealing to me.
Now, back to this past week. What did I learn from watching Christmas movies in the Summer? As much as I dislike Christmas, I still enjoy watching Christmas movies. I did find that watching them in July still felt the same as watching them in December. It felt good to remember the joy of Christmas, even if it is Summer. I think I learned a valuable lesson: you can carry the Spirit of Christmas with you throughout the year.
At Christmastime, we often talk about how we should carry certain aspects of the season with us throughout life. We should always be giving. We should always carry joy with us. You know what I mean? We nod our heads in agreement, but as soon as the season is over, we completely forget. Watching these movies in July reminded me of all of this. Now, I'm not saying I will become one of these folks who tries to keep it Christmas year-round, but I do think we could all benefit from a little Christmas joy once in a while.
I think when it is Christmastime we all try to be a little nicer. We all try to be a little less selfish. We all try to spend time with family and/or friends. We all try to be little happier, even if it is for a short time. Why not try to be the better version of ourselves the whole year? I know, easier said than done. I'm a work in progress, too, but I do think it is worth the effort. Well, these are my thoughts this week. At the very least, it did feel nice to watch some feel-good holiday films for a week. Have a wonderful week, everybody!
Sunday, July 6, 2014
Fun parenting moment
This past weekend was my son's last one before the end of his break. He returns to school tomorrow, so no more late night movies, which are his favorite thing to do on the weekends. I let him choose all of his movies this past weekend, and I couldn't have been more happy with his selections! We ended up watching some old school movies that totally reminded me of my childhood. These were movies I loved, and I was very happy to have the chance to watch them with him. I was even more happy to hear how much he loves these movies, too!
The first movie we watched was "The Goonies." I wasn't much older than my son is now when I first saw this movie. Of all the films, this one probably holds the most nostalgia for me. I can remember watching it every day for months on end. Now that I have thought about it, I may have watched this movie more times than any other movie in my lifetime. Back then, I think every kid thought they could go on an adventure just like them - truth be told, I still kind of wish I could.
The second movie we watched was "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory." I love this movie. I know all of the musical numbers, and who could forget the part of the factory that was edible? The movie is a lot of fun. When I was a kid, it was on television all the time. I'm not sure why, but I'm not complaining. I watched it a lot back then, and I still enjoy watching it now.
The last, of course, was "The Star Wars Trilogy." I have been a Star Wars fan for a very long time, so it was especially nice to hear my son say he liked the movies too. As a child, I had some of the toys, the lunch box, and blanket. I still have some movie items around my house. Those movies just never get old. I love them as much now as I did then. I'm also excited that they are going to make new ones pretty soon.
Honestly, I love every moment with my children. I'm a proud parent all the time, but there is something special about being able to share something with them from my childhood. It's also nice when they enjoy something from my childhood, too. I'm not sure how much of it is actually like it was back then, with editing, commercials, and humor from a totally different time, but it is still a fun experience - one of many that I cherish. So, that's my fun parenting moment. What are some of yours? What movies take you back? Which ones do you like to share with loved ones? Tell me about them. I'd love to hear from you.
The first movie we watched was "The Goonies." I wasn't much older than my son is now when I first saw this movie. Of all the films, this one probably holds the most nostalgia for me. I can remember watching it every day for months on end. Now that I have thought about it, I may have watched this movie more times than any other movie in my lifetime. Back then, I think every kid thought they could go on an adventure just like them - truth be told, I still kind of wish I could.
The second movie we watched was "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory." I love this movie. I know all of the musical numbers, and who could forget the part of the factory that was edible? The movie is a lot of fun. When I was a kid, it was on television all the time. I'm not sure why, but I'm not complaining. I watched it a lot back then, and I still enjoy watching it now.
The last, of course, was "The Star Wars Trilogy." I have been a Star Wars fan for a very long time, so it was especially nice to hear my son say he liked the movies too. As a child, I had some of the toys, the lunch box, and blanket. I still have some movie items around my house. Those movies just never get old. I love them as much now as I did then. I'm also excited that they are going to make new ones pretty soon.
Honestly, I love every moment with my children. I'm a proud parent all the time, but there is something special about being able to share something with them from my childhood. It's also nice when they enjoy something from my childhood, too. I'm not sure how much of it is actually like it was back then, with editing, commercials, and humor from a totally different time, but it is still a fun experience - one of many that I cherish. So, that's my fun parenting moment. What are some of yours? What movies take you back? Which ones do you like to share with loved ones? Tell me about them. I'd love to hear from you.
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Father's Day 2014
Father's Day really isn't my thing. However, I wanted to talk a little bit about why, instead of make people guess. I don't want to take up too much of your time, so I'll keep this post short.
Father's Day has always been a weird holiday for me. I normally don't think much about it, even though I am a father myself. Don't get me wrong, I love the gifts I get from my children, but for me it is important to be a part of their lives every day anyway. Today, I am seeing all the posts, updates, tweets, and messages everyone is putting up for their fathers. I see the joy in what they are sharing, but that is not my experience.
As far back as I can remember, I do not remember Father's Day being a big deal. I wouldn't say my relationship with my own father as a child was what I would consider good. I don't have the fond memories that others have. Usually, when I am asked to give a talk on Father's Day, I go with the "God is the only father you need" talk. However, as I think about things today, I realize my dad taught me the most valuable lesson I have ever learned about being a father: Be there for you children, always.
My children are everything to me, and that is the way it should be. So, let me take this opportunity to wish all the amazing fathers out there a Happy Father's Day! Keep doing what you are doing. I know Mother's Day is the big show and Father's Day always plays second string, but you should be recognized for being a good father, because let's face it, there are a lot of crappy dads out there that make everyone else look bad. Enjoy your day my friends, and have a wonderful week!
Father's Day has always been a weird holiday for me. I normally don't think much about it, even though I am a father myself. Don't get me wrong, I love the gifts I get from my children, but for me it is important to be a part of their lives every day anyway. Today, I am seeing all the posts, updates, tweets, and messages everyone is putting up for their fathers. I see the joy in what they are sharing, but that is not my experience.
As far back as I can remember, I do not remember Father's Day being a big deal. I wouldn't say my relationship with my own father as a child was what I would consider good. I don't have the fond memories that others have. Usually, when I am asked to give a talk on Father's Day, I go with the "God is the only father you need" talk. However, as I think about things today, I realize my dad taught me the most valuable lesson I have ever learned about being a father: Be there for you children, always.
My children are everything to me, and that is the way it should be. So, let me take this opportunity to wish all the amazing fathers out there a Happy Father's Day! Keep doing what you are doing. I know Mother's Day is the big show and Father's Day always plays second string, but you should be recognized for being a good father, because let's face it, there are a lot of crappy dads out there that make everyone else look bad. Enjoy your day my friends, and have a wonderful week!
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