READY… “Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else. ~Judy Garland
AIM… I am a firm believer that you need to live this life as the person God created you to be. So many people I know walk around wearing disguises and should really get an award for their acting skills. Why on earth would you want to put on an act and try to be someone or something you clearly are not? It must be exhausting to worry day after day which mask you’re going to wear with which person and when. Friends, if you cannot enjoy life as the person you are and appreciate the talents, gifts and personality God blessed you with, then I’m sorry to say you will live a very unfulfilled and unsatisfied life. You will never achieve greatness because you will constantly be pursuing the goals and dreams everyone expects from you…except yourself. Stop chasing the acceptance and approval of others who can’t or don’t like you for you. If you have to change your behavior, your wardrobe, or lie about your family, career or lifestyle to impress others or gain friendship from others, then you are not only fooling other people, but you are lying to yourself. Embrace your uniqueness! Love yourself! Once you shed the costume and allow your true self to be known, you will see what a liberating feeling you have. Don’t worry if some “friends” drop by the wayside. Real friends love you for you; warts and all. Start being a first-rate version of yourself today.
FIRE! Write down a list of all the things you do well. Are there personality traits that attract others to you? Post that list in a place where you will be reminded of the positive creation you have become. Commit to being the best version of yourself you can be every day and enjoy the freedom of being the REAL you.
Be Excellent!
Lori
April 12, 2012
April 4, 2012
"Son"shine
READY… “The thief cometh not but to steal and to kill and to destroy. I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10 NKJV
AIM… I had one of the most insane weeks last week. Just as it seemed nothing else crazy could happen, it did! The week started out fantastic because my eight year old daughter decided to get baptized. Hooray! There was a party in heaven on Sunday and in all of our hearts as well. However, as the week progressed, each day I was faced with one obstacle after another. Monday, we had to pay $1800 in taxes for our new car – surprise! Tuesday, there was a bomb threat at my son’s school and they had to evacuate. Wednesday, my daughter missed the bus and I was late getting to work, where I experienced a computer glitch and various other obstacles. Thursday, I discovered I had a flat tire when pulling out of the garage and had to hurry up and change it so I could make my doctor’s appointment. Friday, I locked myself out of the house and thankfully got our spare key from the neighbor. I know, seriously?!? Each day, after each challenge, I kept saying, “It’s gotta get better from here.” Truly, I was believing life to get better each day and yet, each day something happened that attempted to sway my positive attitude. Ugh!! It wasn’t until Friday when I was talking to my mother that she brought it to my attention that after Alyssa’s obedience to God by getting baptized, the devil was most likely upset and starting attacking our family in any vulnerable way possible. Yes, those incidents were thankfully minor, but in the grand scheme of things, they added up to much frustration on my part. It’s true; the devil is alive and working against us in many ways.
Take 2 minutes to listen to the predictions in this clip from Paul Harvey’s radio broadcast back in 1965. Scary to realize the connection to everything we are experiencing in 2012, isn’t it? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJc8Mzg0C-c&feature=player_embedded
This week, as Christians prepare their hearts for Easter celebrations and the joy of Jesus’ resurrection, take time to reflect on the greater purpose of this important holiday. While the devil attempts to ruin our lives, Jesus died to wipe the slate clean and cover ALL the mistakes from our past, present and future so we could live positively, successful and amazing lives full of blessings. I’m so glad I know my life is better this week and with each new day because the SON is shining down on me.
FIRE! When life gets crazy, stay positive. I think Helen Keller put it best, “If you keep your face to the sun, you cannot see the shadows.” So when the devil is lurking in your neck of the woods, let the SON shine through and light up the darkness you are feeling.
Be Excellent!
Lori
AIM… I had one of the most insane weeks last week. Just as it seemed nothing else crazy could happen, it did! The week started out fantastic because my eight year old daughter decided to get baptized. Hooray! There was a party in heaven on Sunday and in all of our hearts as well. However, as the week progressed, each day I was faced with one obstacle after another. Monday, we had to pay $1800 in taxes for our new car – surprise! Tuesday, there was a bomb threat at my son’s school and they had to evacuate. Wednesday, my daughter missed the bus and I was late getting to work, where I experienced a computer glitch and various other obstacles. Thursday, I discovered I had a flat tire when pulling out of the garage and had to hurry up and change it so I could make my doctor’s appointment. Friday, I locked myself out of the house and thankfully got our spare key from the neighbor. I know, seriously?!? Each day, after each challenge, I kept saying, “It’s gotta get better from here.” Truly, I was believing life to get better each day and yet, each day something happened that attempted to sway my positive attitude. Ugh!! It wasn’t until Friday when I was talking to my mother that she brought it to my attention that after Alyssa’s obedience to God by getting baptized, the devil was most likely upset and starting attacking our family in any vulnerable way possible. Yes, those incidents were thankfully minor, but in the grand scheme of things, they added up to much frustration on my part. It’s true; the devil is alive and working against us in many ways.
Take 2 minutes to listen to the predictions in this clip from Paul Harvey’s radio broadcast back in 1965. Scary to realize the connection to everything we are experiencing in 2012, isn’t it? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJc8Mzg0C-c&feature=player_embedded
This week, as Christians prepare their hearts for Easter celebrations and the joy of Jesus’ resurrection, take time to reflect on the greater purpose of this important holiday. While the devil attempts to ruin our lives, Jesus died to wipe the slate clean and cover ALL the mistakes from our past, present and future so we could live positively, successful and amazing lives full of blessings. I’m so glad I know my life is better this week and with each new day because the SON is shining down on me.
FIRE! When life gets crazy, stay positive. I think Helen Keller put it best, “If you keep your face to the sun, you cannot see the shadows.” So when the devil is lurking in your neck of the woods, let the SON shine through and light up the darkness you are feeling.
Be Excellent!
Lori
March 21, 2012
Leaving A Legacy
READY… “Our days are numbered. One of the primary goals in our lives should be to prepare for our last day. The legacy we leave is not just in our possessions, but in the quality of our lives. What preparations should we be making now? The greatest waste in all of our earth, which cannot be recycled or reclaimed, is our waste of the time that God has given us each day.” ~ Bill Graham
AIM… The typical answer to the question “What have you been doing lately?” is – “I’ve been so busy.” What are you busy doing? Are you busy working, running kids to activities, studying, updating Facebook or cleaning the house and doing laundry? Whatever it is that’s sucking away your time, recognize it, call it out and make a pact to change it.
We Americans are so stressed out and we choose to put ourselves in stressful situations time and time again. Why? Because we are unsatisfied with our lives and are not content with our current status or the things we’ve been given. We want more! However, in the wake of our stress-filled attempt to pursue success, fame and fortune, we are leaving behind a legacy of broken relationships and empty promises.
What kind of legacy are you leaving behind? Most people, children, spouses, friends, family members really just want one thing: Your TIME. I think Dolly Parton says it best, “Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.” Are you burning the candle at both ends in an attempt to chase the dream of acknowledgement, satisfaction and contentment? Is stress something you just deal with day in and day out? Stop. Don’t go another day convincing yourself that it’s all going to be ok. Decide right now that you are going to spend time making the most of your life so you have a legacy to leave behind for your loved ones. After all, the alternative is an early grave and a headstone inscription about what a hard worker you were, how many titles you held or how much money you made. Really? You were made for more than that.
FIRE! Think about your legacy. What are you doing today to contribute toward leaving a positive legacy for your friends and family? Would they agree with your approach? Ask a few trusted friends to help you reprioritize your life so you can stress-less, live longer and enjoy life to the fullest.
Be Excellent!
Lori
AIM… The typical answer to the question “What have you been doing lately?” is – “I’ve been so busy.” What are you busy doing? Are you busy working, running kids to activities, studying, updating Facebook or cleaning the house and doing laundry? Whatever it is that’s sucking away your time, recognize it, call it out and make a pact to change it.
We Americans are so stressed out and we choose to put ourselves in stressful situations time and time again. Why? Because we are unsatisfied with our lives and are not content with our current status or the things we’ve been given. We want more! However, in the wake of our stress-filled attempt to pursue success, fame and fortune, we are leaving behind a legacy of broken relationships and empty promises.
What kind of legacy are you leaving behind? Most people, children, spouses, friends, family members really just want one thing: Your TIME. I think Dolly Parton says it best, “Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.” Are you burning the candle at both ends in an attempt to chase the dream of acknowledgement, satisfaction and contentment? Is stress something you just deal with day in and day out? Stop. Don’t go another day convincing yourself that it’s all going to be ok. Decide right now that you are going to spend time making the most of your life so you have a legacy to leave behind for your loved ones. After all, the alternative is an early grave and a headstone inscription about what a hard worker you were, how many titles you held or how much money you made. Really? You were made for more than that.
FIRE! Think about your legacy. What are you doing today to contribute toward leaving a positive legacy for your friends and family? Would they agree with your approach? Ask a few trusted friends to help you reprioritize your life so you can stress-less, live longer and enjoy life to the fullest.
Be Excellent!
Lori
March 14, 2012
You Are Amazing!
READY… “Happiness and satisfaction are found when you love the real you and embrace who you are.” ~ Anonymous
AIM… Did you know that you matter in this world? You have a divine purpose. You, my dear friend, were created to accomplish amazing things. Each and every day, you make a difference in the life of another person. Beyond all else, you are unique, special and absolutely incredible. You were designed in God’s own image to be a beautiful lady or handsome man. You are intelligent and clever. You make wise decisions with thoughtful discernment. Blessings surround you and good fortune follows you wherever you go. You are successful and can accomplish anything you set out to do. Kindness comes automatically for you and others feel refreshed spending time in your presence. More than anything, you are loved by many…including me. Thanks for being YOU!
FIRE! Talk positively to yourself and take time to do something special this week just because it’s for you. Get pampered, treat yourself to a special dessert or just take a walk outside and enjoy feeling the sunshine warm your face. Enjoy a moment just for you and remind yourself that you are loved.
Be Excellent!
Lori
AIM… Did you know that you matter in this world? You have a divine purpose. You, my dear friend, were created to accomplish amazing things. Each and every day, you make a difference in the life of another person. Beyond all else, you are unique, special and absolutely incredible. You were designed in God’s own image to be a beautiful lady or handsome man. You are intelligent and clever. You make wise decisions with thoughtful discernment. Blessings surround you and good fortune follows you wherever you go. You are successful and can accomplish anything you set out to do. Kindness comes automatically for you and others feel refreshed spending time in your presence. More than anything, you are loved by many…including me. Thanks for being YOU!
FIRE! Talk positively to yourself and take time to do something special this week just because it’s for you. Get pampered, treat yourself to a special dessert or just take a walk outside and enjoy feeling the sunshine warm your face. Enjoy a moment just for you and remind yourself that you are loved.
Be Excellent!
Lori
March 6, 2012
Illumination
READY… “And God saw that the light was good. Then he separated the light from the darkness.” Genesis 1:4 NLT
AIM… I’ve been sensing a stirring deep in my being lately. A stirring about the dark corners of your soul; the place where you keep your innermost secrets and silent fears. Yes, I’m not just talking about me, I’m talking about you. I’ve been sensing that you need to bring some of those secrets and fears out of the dark and into the light. There is freedom to be experienced, along with peace and relief, by illuminating your spirit with the release of unpleasant memories, petty grudges and bitter unforgivenesses. Allowing those areas of your life to be let go of just might stir up some difficult conversations or a few uncomfortable feelings. However, how on earth are you ever going to grow, mature and move forward in life if you continue to allow those secrets and fears to hold you back? I know this message may have you squirming in your chair right now. That’s good. That means you know you have stuff to address and issues to be faced. We all do. Let’s agree, together, that we aren’t going to live one more day in bondage to those things that control us without our permission. Are you with me? I didn’t say it was going to be easy or pain free. I do know, without a doubt, the initial sting will be worth the long-lasting benefits and freedom you will experience. I believe in you, my friend. Shine brightly and be free!
FIRE! Lord, I ask for blessings of guidance, wisdom and grace to be with my dear friends. Give them the courage to step out in faith and face their fears and those dark secrets that they might experience the freedom and relief of letting go. I thank you for the strength, support and love of trusted friends and family members as they grow brighter in your light. And may their paths always be illuminated by the love you show us freely and unconditionally. Amen.
Be Excellent!
Lori
AIM… I’ve been sensing a stirring deep in my being lately. A stirring about the dark corners of your soul; the place where you keep your innermost secrets and silent fears. Yes, I’m not just talking about me, I’m talking about you. I’ve been sensing that you need to bring some of those secrets and fears out of the dark and into the light. There is freedom to be experienced, along with peace and relief, by illuminating your spirit with the release of unpleasant memories, petty grudges and bitter unforgivenesses. Allowing those areas of your life to be let go of just might stir up some difficult conversations or a few uncomfortable feelings. However, how on earth are you ever going to grow, mature and move forward in life if you continue to allow those secrets and fears to hold you back? I know this message may have you squirming in your chair right now. That’s good. That means you know you have stuff to address and issues to be faced. We all do. Let’s agree, together, that we aren’t going to live one more day in bondage to those things that control us without our permission. Are you with me? I didn’t say it was going to be easy or pain free. I do know, without a doubt, the initial sting will be worth the long-lasting benefits and freedom you will experience. I believe in you, my friend. Shine brightly and be free!
FIRE! Lord, I ask for blessings of guidance, wisdom and grace to be with my dear friends. Give them the courage to step out in faith and face their fears and those dark secrets that they might experience the freedom and relief of letting go. I thank you for the strength, support and love of trusted friends and family members as they grow brighter in your light. And may their paths always be illuminated by the love you show us freely and unconditionally. Amen.
Be Excellent!
Lori
February 29, 2012
Another Chance
READY… “There was just a part of me that just wanted to lie back in my bed, close my eyes, and find myself waking up to another chance.” ~ Author Unknown
AIM… Today is a special day. Happy Leap Year Day! We’ve been blessed with twenty-four extra hours, so…whatcha gonna do with your extra time? For most of us, today will just be another ordinary day at work, at school or hanging at home. However, how many times have you, or someone you know, said “I wish there were more hours in the day” ? Here’s your chance, friends! You’ve been given twenty-four more hours. You have another chance to do something amazing and incredible. You have another chance to tell your family and friends you love them. You have another chance to chase your dreams or make someone else’s dreams come true. You have another chance to say “I’m sorry.” So, seize the day and come back to tell us what you did with your bonus day this Leap year.
FIRE! Take a LEAP of faith today and do something totally outrageous! I can’t WAIT to hear about what you did with your extra chance hours on your Leap Day!
Be Excellent!
Lori
AIM… Today is a special day. Happy Leap Year Day! We’ve been blessed with twenty-four extra hours, so…whatcha gonna do with your extra time? For most of us, today will just be another ordinary day at work, at school or hanging at home. However, how many times have you, or someone you know, said “I wish there were more hours in the day” ? Here’s your chance, friends! You’ve been given twenty-four more hours. You have another chance to do something amazing and incredible. You have another chance to tell your family and friends you love them. You have another chance to chase your dreams or make someone else’s dreams come true. You have another chance to say “I’m sorry.” So, seize the day and come back to tell us what you did with your bonus day this Leap year.
FIRE! Take a LEAP of faith today and do something totally outrageous! I can’t WAIT to hear about what you did with your extra chance hours on your Leap Day!
Be Excellent!
Lori
February 14, 2012
Happy Valentine's Day!
READY… "How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
I love thee to the level of everyday's
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love thee with a passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints, --- I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life! --- and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.”
~ Elizabeth Barrett Browning
AIM… Happy Valentine’s Day to all my Arrows of Integrity sweethearts and friends! Are you prepared for a day full of mushy, gushy, lovey-dovey, ooey-gooey, happy hearts with singing birds and romance? After all, that IS what Valentine’s Day is all about, right? I was thinking about the commercialism of this holiday and the fact that it often takes a special day like today for people to remember to tell each other they love one another. Our society has taught us that love is: heart-shaped boxes of chocolates, a dozen red roses perfectly arranged in a vase, lacy lingerie, candlelit dinners, cards with beautifully written sentiments and crunchy candy hearts that say “Text Me” or “U R GR8.” Superficially, those are all things we can use to express our love to our significant other. However, on this Valentine’s Day, what does love mean to you?
As I was thinking about all my readers, friends, family members and people I come in contact with on a daily basis, these are some things I think best describe love.
Love is…a homemade Valentine card displayed on the refrigerator…eye contact and a smile from across a crowded room…a hug from your teenager in front of his friends…a warm, home-cooked meal enjoyed with your family…sitting on the same side of the booth in a restaurant after years of marriage…a husband or wife who crawls in bed to snuggle with YOU every night…a five minute phone call home from a military father who is stationed in Afghanistan…silent prayers from your closest friends…holding hands with your honey while walking around in the shopping mall…sitting at the bedside of a loved one after a surgical procedure waiting patiently for the doctor’s results…turning down an event on your social calendar to spend quality time with your family…a real hug using both arms, body contact and a sincere heart.
Love is SO many more things than those examples I listed above. How are you going to express your love this Valentine’s Day? Don’t fall prey to all the superficial, commercialized gifts and gadgets. If you dare to get creative, I guarantee you’ll experience some real love.
FIRE! Be someone’s Valentine today! If you already have the obligatory sentimental card, chocolates and/or flowers, that’s fine, just figure out a creative way to use those tools to express your heartfelt feelings in a memorable way. You’ll be sure to have a love-filled day!
♥ Click here for a special Valentine Message from me ♥ http://ecards.dayspring.com/ecards/card.asp?id=13457286-49EF7
Be Excellent!
Lori
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
I love thee to the level of everyday's
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love thee with a passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints, --- I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life! --- and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.”
~ Elizabeth Barrett Browning
AIM… Happy Valentine’s Day to all my Arrows of Integrity sweethearts and friends! Are you prepared for a day full of mushy, gushy, lovey-dovey, ooey-gooey, happy hearts with singing birds and romance? After all, that IS what Valentine’s Day is all about, right? I was thinking about the commercialism of this holiday and the fact that it often takes a special day like today for people to remember to tell each other they love one another. Our society has taught us that love is: heart-shaped boxes of chocolates, a dozen red roses perfectly arranged in a vase, lacy lingerie, candlelit dinners, cards with beautifully written sentiments and crunchy candy hearts that say “Text Me” or “U R GR8.” Superficially, those are all things we can use to express our love to our significant other. However, on this Valentine’s Day, what does love mean to you?
As I was thinking about all my readers, friends, family members and people I come in contact with on a daily basis, these are some things I think best describe love.
Love is…a homemade Valentine card displayed on the refrigerator…eye contact and a smile from across a crowded room…a hug from your teenager in front of his friends…a warm, home-cooked meal enjoyed with your family…sitting on the same side of the booth in a restaurant after years of marriage…a husband or wife who crawls in bed to snuggle with YOU every night…a five minute phone call home from a military father who is stationed in Afghanistan…silent prayers from your closest friends…holding hands with your honey while walking around in the shopping mall…sitting at the bedside of a loved one after a surgical procedure waiting patiently for the doctor’s results…turning down an event on your social calendar to spend quality time with your family…a real hug using both arms, body contact and a sincere heart.
Love is SO many more things than those examples I listed above. How are you going to express your love this Valentine’s Day? Don’t fall prey to all the superficial, commercialized gifts and gadgets. If you dare to get creative, I guarantee you’ll experience some real love.
FIRE! Be someone’s Valentine today! If you already have the obligatory sentimental card, chocolates and/or flowers, that’s fine, just figure out a creative way to use those tools to express your heartfelt feelings in a memorable way. You’ll be sure to have a love-filled day!
♥ Click here for a special Valentine Message from me ♥ http://ecards.dayspring.com/ecards/card.asp?id=13457286-49EF7
Be Excellent!
Lori
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