Masterful Living

"The winds and waves are always on the side of the ablest navigators." ~ Edward Gibbon Wise is the man who uses every type of circumstance to greatest possible advantage. When others complain, he handles the discomfort quietly while looking for the openings. When others curse he gives thanks, no matter how grim the outlook. …

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Dominion versus Domination

Whether you believe that man was created to have dominion over the earth or that he evolved to dominate the food chain through a process of natural selection, it is in man's best interest to exercise control in a way that promotes balance, sustainability and prosperity. Being at the top of the food chain has …

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The New Life

La Vita Nuova by Dante Alighieri In that book which is My memory . . . On the first page That is the chapter when I first met you Appear the words . . . Here begins a new life If you are looking to do something meaningful in life, look first to be an …

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Humility and Repentance

"I confess that there are several parts of this Constitution which I do not at present approve, but I am not sure I shall never approve them. For having lived long, I have experienced many instances of being obliged by better information, or fuller consideration, to change opinions even on important subjects, which I once …

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On seeking and offering advice

In giving advice, seek to help, not please, your friend. ~ Solon Some of the hardest things I've had to hear about myself came clothed as advice. Advice, pointers, tips and hints stream from every direction on a regular basis, if you are listening. Delivered by the mouths and pens of both friends and strangers, …

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The Greatest Virtue

Of all the virtues, righteousness is the greatest. No amount of patience, generosity, earnestness, friendliness, diligence, kindness or humility will provide the counterweight necessary to overcome the gravitational pull of vice. Of all the virtues, righteousness is greatest. Righteousness is the quality that inspires to greatness, when nothing less will do. Righteousness is the quality …

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A Tribute to John Wooden (1910-2010): A Century of Greatness

Coach John Wooden brought honor, dignity and humility to the profession of coaching in a way that will likely never be matched. His coaching achievements speak for themselves and when Coach Wooden spoke, everybody listened. I thought you would enjoy this link sent to me the other day of one of the hundreds of interviews given …

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Progress, Obstacles and a New Approach

Personal trainers and fitness coaches are a special breed of people.  They are "people people," observant, good listeners, effective planners and capable of adjusting the plan on the fly, but most of all a good trainer is good at creating and maintaining motivation in his or her clients.  An excellent trainer is all that and more.  Like good …

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The Virgin Experience: Business Leadership

Dyslexic as a child and a poor student who left school at the age of 15, Richard Branson now runs the largest group of private companies in Europe.  With annual revenues topping $25 billion, Branson's family of "Virgin" companies look to turn conventional business wisdom on its head. Business has grown to be one of the most powerful forces …

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George Washington, Humility and Strength by Gregg Hake

There is no harm in always leaving room for the possibility that your perspective may be limited, even if you have done your very best. Humility averts the pitfalls of hubris, prejudice and fanaticism. Humility is the harbinger of nobility and dignity. In true humility lies a fountain of inexhaustible strength and determination.