Where Are You Going?

"Having an exciting destination is like setting a needle in your compass. From then on, the compass knows only one point -- its ideal. And it will faithfully guide you there through the darkest nights and fiercest storms." 

Daniel Boone

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 Whether you have a physical destination, or have set a goal, like Daniel Boone, you need to set your sights on it and just keep moving toward it. You'll never get there if you don't start. 

Take that step in faith and get going! 

He Who Fights With Monsters

"He who fights with monsters should look to it that he himself does not become a monster. And when you gaze long into an abyss the abyss also gazes into you."

Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche, “Beyond Good and Evil", Aphorism 146 (1886) 

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All too often, as you fight with monsters, whether in war, or inside yourself, you sacrifice the good with the bad, trying to rid that space of the darkness that threatens to overwhelm. You risk destroying the very things that you're trying to protect. 

My apologies, I don't know who created this wonderful picture. 

If you know, please let me know ASAP so I can properly credit it

or remove it if the artist objects.

All That Is Gold Does Not Glitter

“All that is gold does not glitter,
Not all those who wander are lost;
The old that is strong does not wither,
Deep roots are not reached by the frost.

From the ashes a fire shall be woken,
A light from the shadows shall spring;
Renewed shall be blade that was broken,
The crownless again shall be king.”

  J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring

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One of my favorite books, the epic story of good and evil -- and redemption. 

Even Sauruman had a chance at redemption, and he made the choice to continue in his evil ways. And  thus, although he thought he had it all under control, he was still removed from his high position and in the end, paid the price.

Set a Goal -- Then Take Action!

"There are several paths to success; We are given multiple opportunities to achieve our potential throughout our lives. Some get there a little faster than others. But one thing is for sure; NO ONE gets there without first having a goal then taking action and LOTS of it!”

 Rachael Bermingham

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Without setting goals, you're drifting through life. 

Set some small goals for today, even if it's just washing the dishes or walking the dog. 

Set some larger goals for the future. 

In 1 year - Save some money

In 5 years - A new car

In 10 years - Buy a house

Whatever it is you're dreaming about, stop dreaming and set a goal!!

(OK, not the Lotto. You're more likely to be struck by lightning...)

Freed from Slavery

On October 18, 1775 - African-American poet Phillis Wheatley was freed from slavery

On Being Brought from Africa to America

'Twas mercy brought me from my Pagan land,
Taught my benighted soul to understand
That there's a God, that there's a Saviour too:
Once I redemption neither sought nor knew.
Some view our sable race with scornful eye,
"Their colour is a diabolic die."
Remember, Christians, Negro's, black as Cain,
May be refin'd, and join th' angelic train.

Phillis Wheatley

 

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Phillis Wheatley was stolen from her homeland in West Africa when she was a small child, perhaps seven or eight, and sold directly from the ship to John and Susanna Wheatley. While a slave, they found her writing on a wall with chalk, and taught her to read and write. 

Despite her poetry, she died a poor woman -- but she died free.

Step Back

“While you'll feel compelled to charge forward it's often a gentle step back that will reveal to you where you and what you truly seek.”

Rasheed Ogunlaru

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Oh, that's a tough one.

I do tend to charge forward, don't I? If I'd take a step back and look at the whole picture before racing ahead, I'd be far better off...

Positive Energy

“Positive energy is your priceless life force. Protect it. Don't allow people to draw from your reserves; select friends who recharge your energies . . . I'm not asking you to cut people out of your life, but I am asking you to invest your time with people who will push you to be your best. Winners love to see other people win.” 

Chalene Johnson

PUSH: 30 Days to Turbocharged Habits, a Bangin' Body, and the Life You Deserve! 

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And isn't that the truth? 

You should hang out with positive people who can bring you up, not drag you down. 

Yes, we all have friends who, well, they're downers and WE are their positive people who bring them up. Don't leave them by the side of the road, but don't let their negativity drag you down into the ditch. Hold onto your Path and drag them along with you if you must. 

And for you, find more positive people who can help you to recharge your own batteries.