“If we always helped one another, no one would need luck.” Sophocles (996-906BC) The gallbladder surgery is over and Lucille, my mom, is now settled in her hospital room. After talking for a few minutes, it is apparent she wants to rest. My dad, Carol, my wife, and I go to the cafeteria for coffee and a snack. After a few minutes, Carol returns to check on Mom – an ultimately fateful decision. Dad and I stay behind, continuing our conversation. About 20 minutes later, after a short … [Read more...]
The Bombardier
“At times, our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” Albert Schweitzer, M.D., Ph.D. The explosive sound of sharp shrapnel piercing the thick metal signifies that his plane has been hit – struck multiple times. Damage is substantial. A certain crash is impending. As a bombardier, he automatically performs the first task that he was taught in training: immediately … [Read more...]
Angel Biscuits
“Our mistakes and regrets are not barriers to becoming who we can be; they are a necessary ingredient.” David Schnarch, Ph.D. I do not drink buttermilk. Just the thought of consuming this beverage is unpleasant. The last time I took a sip of this thick liquid was so long ago that I can’t actually remember specifics. But, the experience permanently sealed in my brain that this was not a drink for me. I only know one person who ever drank this stuff – my mom, who was probably the influence … [Read more...]
Pay Attention
“Even the simplest actions you take . . . matter beyond measure . . . and they matter forever.” Andy Andrews Source: The Noticer Close calls in death are not the only big moments we forever remember. Special occasions are usually not forgotten. Weddings, graduations, awards, games, birthdays, et cetera -- the list goes on. Within a single instant, we can remember when life changed for us. What about that moment when we learned an invaluable life lesson? If we add the close calls, plus … [Read more...]
Kite Flyer
“Pilots take no special joy in walking. Pilots like flying.” Neil Armstrong During a visit to our condo in Orange Beach, my sister Janice assembles a kite she bought at the local Al’s 5 & 10 Store. This kite is sophisticated and unlike the basic model flown by young kids every day . . . without their parents help. With sophistication comes some difficulty. Janice and I are joined by another of our sisters, Dianne, in an open grassy field. ‘Pilot Janice’ is holding the string while … [Read more...]
Long Hair
“How did you go bankrupt?” ‘Two ways. Gradually, then suddenly.’ ~ Ernest Hemingway, The Sun Also Rises “I’m not crazy. I have just been in a bad mood for 40 years!” bellows Quiser Bordeaux, the character portrayed by Shirley MacLaine in the popular 1989 movie, Steel Magnolias. My wife Carol loves this quote and I have heard her exclaim it on more than a few occasions when attitude was the central topic of a conversation. All of us have witnessed … [Read more...]
Go for the Gold
“You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old.” George Burns Whenever my dad decided something, you could pretty much guarantee that he would not change his mind. He was stubborn, to put it mildly. I remember an opportunity that arose when he was about 85 years old requiring him to modify his thinking – just a tad – to try something new that would make a huge difference in his life. He would have nothing to do with making a change. One day when visiting him, … [Read more...]
Empty The Tank
“ . . . full effort is full victory.” Mahatma Gandhi Did you get to see the recent Women’s World Cup Soccer Tournament? The USA Team won in the finals against Japan, with a score of 5 to 2. The same two teams faced each other in the finals four years ago, with Japan coming away with the victory. What caused the change in results? Carli Lloyd, a key USA player who scored three goals in the game, has been interviewed a number of times, before and after the game. During interviews and in … [Read more...]
Road Signs
“I am impressed when people do not get stuck. When you move, things change.” Dianne Watkins, R.N. (and my sister) There are a lot of road signs in our country. When you travel, you can’t help but notice them. Many cities have adopted ordinances restricting their placement. When a political campaign is on-going, it seems that signs multiply – no law can stop them. What is the purpose of a road sign? Some signs give instructions needed immediately; others tell us what to expect in the near … [Read more...]
Hello . . . . . Goodbye
“Happy trails to you, until we meet again.” Ʊ Dale Evans The Beatles recorded a song in the 60s that included these lyrics: “You say hello, and I say goodbye.” ‘Hello’ and ‘goodbye’ are words frequently spoken and heard in our daily lives. Leaving our homes to go to work or school, we say goodbye to other family members. In the first few seconds of seeing someone for the first time on any given day, our greeting is “Hi,” “Hello” or “How are you doing?” As we come and go throughout … [Read more...]
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