Beginning Within

Two stories demonstrate how the choice is in our hands as to whether our circumstances will define our reality or whether we will define our circumstances. It's the difference between enslavement and freedom.

The difference between an issue and non-issue person is one thing. What is the objective? The issue person always makes themselves the objective. The non-issue person remains focused on the true objective.

When our relationship with another, with our religion or with G-d is shutting us down and not expanding us, it's an unhealthy relationship.

Discipline is one of the greatest gifts we can give our children. As long as it's given lovingly. Don't shy away from creating rules, responsibilities and structure. Do make sure you do so from a place of love, not negative emotion.

The only thing between our current reality and a more expansive one is a thin veneer. It looks fearfully large and intimidating. Yet, it is nothing more than a veneer.

There is a simple thing you can do to turn around your marriage. You can even do it without your spouse's participation. Yes, it feels magical and works wonders.

"We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world."
What we see in sports players are individuals who refuse to play it small. There's a deep yearning within each and everyone one of us to do the same.

Optimism isn't a fantasy hope for a better future. Optimism must be grounded in the reality of your circumstances. US Navy Admiral Jim Stockdale taught this in what has come to be called The Stockton Paradox.

We have all been violated after sharing a piece of our inner world. We must not let that stop us from sharing our true selves with others. This is the only path to deep and meaningful relationships.

Trying to warm up the outside world on a freezing cold day would be very foolish. Warming ourselves would be the wise thing to do. Trying to change someone else is just as foolish. Changing ourselves would be the wise thing to do.