“When you encourage others, you, in the process, are encouraged because you’re making a commitment and difference in that person’s life.  Encouragement really does make a difference.”    Zig Ziglar Our team of 11 gathers at Bienville Square in downtown Mobile to participate in the annual walk supporting an important fundraiser for fighting breast cancer, a common and deadly disease.  The very familiar designated color of pink is featured in various shades throughout all the apparel donned by … [Read more...]

“I can live two months on a good compliment.”    Mark Twain I love compliments. They actually mean more to me than a material gift.  I have told my children and grandchildren to no longer buy me presents for any of the notable celebrations like my birthday or Father’s Day.  No more Christmas presents. But, never once have I said to eliminate, or even reduce, compliments.  As someone who has enjoyed a certain level of success in life, one might conclude that I do not need any praise. Or, at … [Read more...]

“One thing about championship teams is that they’re resilient. No matter what is thrown at them, no matter how deep the hole, they find a way to bounce back and overcome adversity”. Nick Saban Zzzzzz . . . The distinctive sound of a singing drag, coupled with a severely bent rod, indicate a good-sized fish is on the end of Steve’s line.  He is my cousin-in-law, accompanying me on an inshore fishing trip along coastal Alabama in Orange Beach.  “That’s a nice fish!” I exclaim. Even though I … [Read more...]

“A joyful heart is good medicine . . .” Proverbs 17:22 We are standing in the back of a large room being used as the gathering place following Aunt Frieda’s funeral service. Dad and I had arrived just a few minutes late, and are now attending the reception. Being extremely busy, I was delayed in picking up my dad who lived 50 miles away. Compounding the late departure was the necessity of purchasing a new coat, and then driving another 200 miles to join our family.  Adding discomfort to … [Read more...]

“Thinking will not overcome fear but action will."  W. Clement Stone She lived a little over a block away from our home. On Halloween night, her home was in our geographical target area for Trick-or-treating. As kids, we heard the rumors . . . and we made up even more to scare each other!  The house was always dark on Halloween night, so naturally, we picked up our pace when passing by.  Our efforts to scare each other worked. Why were we afraid? Because someone told us to be afraid.  It … [Read more...]

“Never, ever underestimate the importance of having fun.”  Randolph F. “Randy” Pausch, Ph.D. I am on the phone talking with my sister, Brenda, about an upcoming presentation at a three-day retreat for cancer patients – those currently in treatment and those in remission – and many volunteers. The event, Camp Bluebird in Mobile, Alabama, is celebrating their 25th year. The reason for talking with my sister is to better understand my audience so that I can prepare a meaningful message. … [Read more...]