On the Temporary Surrender of Security

Posted on July 23, 2023 by Mike Reuter

Gail Sheehy wrote, “Growth demands a temporary surrender of security.” Our pursuit of personal growth and development often necessitates stepping outside our comfort zones and embracing uncertainty. It is in these moments of surrendering our security that we embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and expansion. It requires that we push beyond the boundaries of what we know and challenge ourselves to explore uncharted territories. It compels us to relinquish the familiar and venture into the realm of the unknown.

At the heart of this surrender lies the recognition that security, while comforting and essential for stability, can also breed complacency and stagnation. We find ourselves clinging to the safety of routine, familiar surroundings, and predictable outcomes. True growth, however, lies beyond these confines in the unexplored possibilities that lie on the horizon. Our decision to surrender security is not an easy one. It demands courage, resilience, and a willingness to embrace discomfort. It requires us to confront our fears, step into uncertainty, and embrace the inherent risks that accompany personal growth. In this surrender, we shed the layers of self-imposed limitations, allowing our true potential to unfold.

We remind ourselves that our temporary surrender of security is not an act of recklessness, but rather a conscious choice driven by an inner longing for progress. It signifies a deep-seated desire to evolve, expand our knowledge, and discover new dimensions of ourselves. In this surrender, we learn to navigate the terrain of the unknown, developing resilience, adaptability, and a heightened sense of self-awareness. We discover untapped strengths, talents, and passions that may have remained dormant in the comfort of security. We cultivate a growth mindset, embracing challenges as opportunities for learning and personal development.

May you continue to release your grip on security and embark on a voyage of self-discovery. Open yourself up to a world of infinite possibilities and unlock the true potential that lies within you. Mark Zuckerberg reminds us, “A comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing ever grows there.” André Gide wrote, “Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” As these quotes suggest, it is through discomfort and the willingness to challenge ourselves that we can unlock new opportunities, reach our full potential, and create a life filled with purpose and fulfillment. May you continue to discover those new oceans and enjoy the beauty and magnificence of all of life’s discoveries.

Have a beautiful day and a magnificent week?!

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On Living a Life Without Limits

Posted on July 16, 2023 by Mike Reuter

Nick Vujicic, born without arms and legs, overcame his disability to live a life of richness and happiness, a life without limits. He said, “Live a life without limits, for the only thing holding you back is your own choice.” When we embrace a mindset that we are not bound by the constraints imposed by our own fears, other’s opinions or society’s, we unlock the immense potential within ourselves. Each day is an opportunity to realize our extraordinary potential as we break free from the limitations we place on our dreams and aspirations. Christopher Reeve reminds us, “So many of our dreams at first seem impossible, then they seem improbable, and then, when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable.” His message is to let go of self-imposed boundaries, take that leap of faith, and let your relentless determination guide you to a life of unending possibilities for growth.

When we remove the self-imposed limits from our lives, we open ourselves up to a world of endless possibilities. Helen Keller said, “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” By challenging the status quo and refusing to settle for mediocrity, we embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. It means recognizing that failure is not an endpoint but a stepping stone towards success. Embracing this mindset, we can achieve greatness, redefine our boundaries, and inspire others to do the same.

Christian Larson wrote, “Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle.” Choose to tap into the incredible power and potential that resides within you. Maya Angelou counsels, “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated.” Trust in your abilities, nurture your strengths, and cultivate a mindset that refuses to settle for mediocrity. Remember, you have the ability to shape your own destiny and create a life that knows no boundaries. Live boldly, live passionately, and embrace the exciting and awesome possibilities that await you.

Henry David Thoreau wisely said, “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.” Embrace the unknown, embrace the challenges, and embrace the growth that comes from pushing beyond your comfort zone. Only then will you truly experience the joy and fulfillment of a life lived without limits.

Have a beautiful day and a magnificent week!!!

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On “What Is a Moment”

Posted on July 9, 2023 by Mike Reuter

Albert Einstein said, “The best preparation for the future is to live as if there were none.” A moment is a fleeting instance in time, a brief period that holds significance or captures our attention. It is a fragment of existence that possesses the power to shape our memories, emotions, and even our lives. It can be an ephemeral instance of happiness, sorrow, love, or any emotion that leaves an indelible mark on our memories and shapes our perceptions of the world. Moments are like individual threads, weaving together to create the fabric and mosaic of our lives.

Thinkers, writers, and artists, throughout history, have contemplated the nature of moments seeking to capture their essence and richness.

“Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.” Dr. Seuss
“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” Maya Angelou
“If you pay close attention to each day, you discover the magic moment.” Paulo Coelho
“Life is a succession of moments. To live each one is to succeed.” Corita Kent
“The moments of happiness we enjoy take us by surprise. It is not that we seize them, but that they seize us.” Ashley Montagu
“The moment you give up is the moment you let someone else win.” Kobe Bryant
“We don’t remember days, we remember moments.” Cesare Pavese
“Life is about moments. Don’t wait for them, create them.” Tony Robbins
“Be happy for this moment. This moment is your life.” Omar Khayyam
“Life is no ‘brief candle’ for me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.” George Bernard Shaw

Moments, with their ephemerality and significance, shape our existence in countless ways. They are the catalyst for growth, the source of inspiration, and reminders of our humanity. Be fully present and embrace them. Deepen your connection to life and cultivate a profound appreciation of the fleeting beauty that surrounds you. They are the magnificent building blocks of the rest of your life. Make your mosaic of your life’s moments an extraordinary one.

Have a beautiful day and a magnificent week!!!

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On Our Life-Long Impacts on Others and Their Impact on Us

Posted on July 2, 2023 by Mike Reuter

Carl Sagan wrote, ““Who are we, if not measured by our impact on others? That’s who we are! We’re not who we say we are, we’re not who we want to be – we are the sum of the influence and impact that we have, in our lives, on others.”

Charles Schulz, creator of the ‘Peanuts‘ comic strip, captures the reality of the impact we have on others and them on us with a simple set of questions.

You don’t have to actually answer the questions. Just ponder them.

    1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
    2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
    3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America pageant.
    4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
    5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
    6. Name the last decade’s worth of World Series winners.

How did you do?

The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday.
These are no second-rate achievers.
They are the best in their fields.
But the applause dies…
Awards tarnish.
Achievements are forgotten.
Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here’s another quiz. See how you do on this one:

    1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
    2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
    3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
    4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special!!
    5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier?

The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money or the most awards. The differences are simply made by the ones who care the most and are there for you.

May your list of remembered people and their lists of you fill books of extraordinary memories of giving and gratitude. May your list grow each day. Live a life of love, selfless giving and caring, of being there for people. Their remembrance and gift to you will be their caring and love in return.

Have a beautiful day, a magnificent week and a Happy Fourth of July!!!

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Make It One Heck of a Summer

Posted on June 25, 2023 by Mike Reuter

At the onset of summer, we recall Philip Humbert’s article, “Make It One Heck of a Summer,” and its message of “carpe diem“. I share this at the beginning of each summer as it continues to serve us well as a moment of reflection on the great possibilities and joys of the coming summer. In his article, he talks about how he and his wife seemed to always have the same conversation about summer in October: “Oh, no! Where did the summer go?” Moments later the house was filled with whining and moaning, a few complaints and exclamations that, “I can’t believe we let it get away again!” I believe his experience is similar to most of ours, and that, come October, we may look back with similar regrets… if we don’t purposefully choose a summer filled with fun, relaxation and infinite possibilities for joy and happiness.

Humbert reminds us that we are in control. Our summer and how we will spend it are in our hands. It is about goal setting – a plan, getting things on our calendar and locking in on them. Human beings, by nature, he says, are “goal-setting and goal-achieving creatures.” We set goals every day – from the planning of our daily schedule to planning what we will eat during the week. So, if we are to have the greatest summer of our lives, we need to plan to make it the greatest yet. Start today. Circle dates on the calendar and mark it with things you want and love to do. Fill it up and let it overflow. Live this summer as the greatest you have ever hadyet!

It is your beautiful and special life to live to its fullest. Stretch yourself to do new things and discover new possibilities and happiness – for you, your family and those around you. Set goals and make a checklist of all those things you want to do, and do them. And in October, look back proudly with joy, happiness and extraordinary satisfaction at what you have achieved, learned and experienced. Happiness and success are in your choosing and doing. Choose wisely; choose well! Life is so very beautiful and good. Make yours one heck of a summer, my very dear friends! May it be your best yet.

Have a beautiful day, a magnificent week and a joyous, awesome one heck of a summer!!!

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Because We Love the Music

Posted on June 18, 2023 by Mike Reuter

In his weekly note, Gary Burnison shares an insightful moment of pause for each of us to reflect on our life’s purpose and meaning.

The concert hall was packed, and a massive grand piano stood in the spotlight. We gave a thunderous round of applause when the pianist sat down and began to play. Then, halfway through Rachmaninoff’s Third Piano Concerto, this world-famous artist suddenly stopped in the middle, rose to his feet, and announced he simply couldn’t play any longer.
It happened years ago, but I can still remember the stunned silence hanging over that concert hall. Punctuating this surreal moment, the conductor left the podium and slowly approached the pianist, whispering a few words that nobody heard. After a moment, the pianist gathered himself, then resumed playing with a passion and vigor we had not heard all evening.
Throughout the rest of the concert, one question was on my mind: What did the conductor say to the pianist. Later I learned of his simple but profound words … “We do it because we love the music.”
That message is a timeless gift to all of us. For the pianist, it is the music. For the artist, it is the painting. And for all of us, it is remembering why we do what we do.

May Burnison’s words be a whisper in your ears, “We do it because we love the music,” a thoughtful reminder of why we do what we do. For us, it is about an unconditional, selfless serving of others. It is about our continuing pursuit of being more than we ever dreamed we could be… and more… so much more. With passion and joy continue to find and listen to your music. Let your song be heard. Be the dream weavers in the lives of others that they, also, find and live to their greatest potential.

Have a beautiful day, Happy Father’s Day and a magnificent week!!!

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On the Gifts of Daring

Posted on June 11, 2023 by Mike Reuter

What if you thought that everything you wanted to do was impossible? What if you thought that everything that you want to do was possible? Your world would change exponentially in its depth, meaning, purpose, joy, excitement and beauty. Theodore Roosevelt wrote, “Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to take rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much, nor suffer much, because they live in the gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat.”

Our purpose is not to bask in the twilight of comfort, untouched by neither victory nor defeat. Rather, we intentionally choose to venture beyond the familiar and the ordinary. We ready ourselves to face the uncertainties and challenges that lie ahead. For it is through these experiences that we grow stronger, more resilient, and more capable of achieving our life’s purpose and meaning and leave our lasting legacy.

Each beautiful morning, embrace the spirit of daring. Challenge the ‘what is’ to discover the magical ‘what can be.’ Choose to pursue bodacious goals. Take roads less traveled; blaze new paths and leave footprints that others may follow. It is not the timid souls who leave lasting legacies, but those who refuse to settle for mediocrity. Embrace the power of your boldness, the strength of your resilience, and the beauty and passion of your perseverance. Be the beacon of inspiration for others. Enjoy your life’s beautiful adventure to its fullest. Your best is yet to come.

Have a beautiful day and a magnificent week!!!

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On Change, the Magical Key to Happiness and Wisdom

Posted on June 4, 2023 by Mike Reuter

Confucius said, “They must often change, who would be constant in happiness or wisdom.” His words are a powerful reminder that in order to further unlock our journey’s joy and enlightenment, we must open ourselves to the transformative power that life’s challenges, possibilities and opportunities offer.

The pursuit of happiness and wisdom is a journey filled with continuing change. It is a winding journey of self-discovery and learning. Change, while sometimes daunting and challenging, provides an opportunity to step out of our comfort zones and confront the unknown. It is this step that opens our eyes, mind and hearts to new possibilities within ourselves, life and the abundance of the world we do not yet know.

It is during these moments, however, that our resilience and determination are put to the test. Hold tightly to your goals and dreams. Remember Nelson Mandela’s wise counsel, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” Embrace change with an open heart and an indomitable fearless spirit. Remember the words of Rumi, “Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.” With unwavering intentionality and resilience, overcome obstacles and continue to achieve your greatest potential.

May Confucius’ words echo in your heart, “They must often change, who would be constant in happiness or wisdom.” Remember always that life’s journey is not about finding a fixed state of happiness or wisdom, but rather it is a constant process of growth and adaptation.

Pause now for a moment… just a brief moment. What change will you choose that will further your happiness and wisdom? Take the road less traveled? Make your own road? There is so much left to discover. Your best is yet to come!

Have a beautiful day and a magnificent week!!!

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Worry Changes Nothing

Posted on May 28, 2023 by Mike Reuter

Life’s journey is filled with moments beyond our control, moments of apprehension, concern, and even foreboding, about what a situation, event or person could produce. They are imagined “could happen” scenarios which create stress and drain energy. Worry, in itself, has no value. It does not create change nor solutions. It does, however, take away precious moments of your life’s happiness and peace.

Winston Churchill wrote, “When I look back on all my worries, I remember the story of an old man who said on his deathbed that he had a lot of troubles in his life, most of which never happened.” Erma Bombeck adds to his thought writing, “Worry is like a rocking chair; it gives you something to do, but it never gets you anywhere.” May you be wise and cautious in your moments of worry. Pause to test its reality. Get out of the rocking chair. Is it a “could happen” or something beyond your control that will happen? Remember that the product of most worries never happens. Don’t spend a lot of time worrying. As Mark Twain said, “Worrying is like paying a debt you don’t owe.” May you choose always to capture and live life’s precious moments of happiness.

Have a beautiful day, a Happy Memorial Day Weekend and a magnificent week!!!

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The Search for Okay

Posted on May 21, 2023 by Mike Reuter

An unknown author wrote that “sometimes the best thing you can do is not think. Not wonder. Not imagine. Not obsess. Just breathe. And have the faith that everything will turn out okay.” Yet, just having faith that everything will workout, however, is not a preferred alternative. Arriving at that state of ‘okay’ sometimes requires courage and perseverance, a commitment to achieve a goal or right a situation. The journey to ‘okay’ is one of becoming, a movement from now to then. The action can be a simple hanging in there and not giving up, or a matter of self-control related to the circumstances.

John Lennon said, “Everything will be okay in the end. If it’s not okay, it’s not the end.” Yes, okay is the destination. Yet, it is the journey getting there that counts, a journey of positivity, drive, patience and a belief that, regardless of whatever the situation, you will be okay. May you remember A. A. Milne’s wise counsel, “Promise me you’ll always remember: You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” Holding that promise, you will know that your best is yet to come.

Have a beautiful day and a magnificent week!!!

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