Live Your Destiny

One of the reasons we wanted to live in the Iowa Great Lakes region full time was for the access to a wide variety of live music. 

Last year we went to the Bachman Turner Overdrive (BTO) concert in Okoboji.  It was a blast and provides what I think is a good thought for us all to remember. 

Randy Bachman’s unwavering passion for music is an inspiring testament to the enduring power of doing what you love.

At 79 years old, he continues to rock the stage, proving that age is no barrier when your heart is invested in your craft.

His dedication serves as a reminder that pursuing your passions can bring joy not only to yourself, but also to those who are fortunate enough to experience your artistry.

Bachman’s commitment to his music speaks volumes about the resilience and fulfillment that come from staying true to one’s creative calling.

By refusing to give up on his musical journey, he not only reaps personal rewards, but also spreads happiness and inspiration to generations of fans.

His story encourages us all to keep pushing forward in the pursuit of our dreams, regardless of obstacles or time.

Don’t give up on pursuing your dreams and living your destiny.  Live your purpose on purpose. 

I’m cheering for you.

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  How does Randy Bachman’s enduring passion for music illustrate the importance of staying true to one’s creative calling despite the challenges and passage of time?

2. In what ways can pursuing one’s passions positively impact not only the individual but also the broader community?

Fan into Flame: Embracing Your God-Given Calling

In life, we all possess unique gifts and callings that are meant to shine brightly, illuminating the path not only for ourselves but for those around us.  2 Timothy 1:6-7 reminds us to “fan into flame the gift of God” within us.

This powerful message encourages us to live out our God-given purpose with the spirit of power, love, and self-discipline given to us by God.

Just as Randy Bachman continues to rock the stage with unwavering passion, you too must stay committed to your divine purpose, regardless of the challenges or the passage of time.

Your dedication not only brings personal fulfillment but also spreads joy and inspiration to others.  Remember, age or obstacles are no barriers when your heart is invested in what you love.

So keep pushing forward, keep your flames burning bright, and live out your purpose with relentless faith, knowing that you are equipped and empowered by the Spirit of God.

Be Blessed!

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  How can you actively “fan into flame” the unique gifts God has given you, ensuring that you stay committed to your callings despite life’s challenges?

2.  In what ways can your dedication to nurturing your God-given talents positively impact those around you, spreading joy and inspiration?

The Pursuit of Purpose

Change.  Growth.  Dreams.  Moments.  Success.  Strength. 

We have talked about pursuing all of them over the past few weeks.  Now, as we close “The Pursuit” I want to share some thoughts on what I believe is the most fulfilling, yet the most challenging to maintain.  The Pursuit of Purpose. 

As you and I continue to live day by day, month by month, and year after year, time passes quickly and if we are not careful we end up with wasted time because we lose our purpose.  Time we can never get back. 

Finding our purpose is like discovering the light that guides us through the darkness, and the darkness can overwhelm us if we lose that light. 

It’s about unearthing what truly ignites our passion and gives our lives meaning.  Pursuing purpose isn’t just about achieving goals or fulfilling duties; it’s about understanding the profound impact we can have on the world and ourselves.

Each day is an opportunity to align our actions with our deepest values, to contribute positively in the lives of those around us, and to grow.

Embracing our purpose brings clarity, motivation, and a sense of fulfillment. It’s a path that encourages us to dream big, persevere through challenges, and celebrate our unique contributions.

Remember, purpose, like success, isn’t a destination but a lifelong journey of exploration and growth.  A lifelong journey. My goal, as I enter my 63rd year on this earth in a few weeks, is to never quit pursuing purpose. 

So join me, step boldly into the adventure of discovering and living your purpose, and watch as your life transforms into a testament of inspiration and impact.

Let’s Pursue Our Purpose!

I’m Cheering For You!

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  What actions or activities ignite your passion and give your life a sense of deeper meaning?

2.  How can you align your daily actions more closely with your core values and purpose to create a positive impact on the world around you?

Finding Comfort In Uncertainty

Some days you just never know, so live and appreciate each day, and those around you. Cherish the small moments, for they are often the most precious.

Everyone is likely going through something, and if not, something could happen in an instant to change that. 

Remember, you are not alone in your struggles, and others may need your kindness as much as you need theirs.

Then the question will be, what will you do? 
Will you be available to listen? To serve? To speak as needed?

In moments of uncertainty, the simplest acts of compassion can be the most profound.

In times of need, the only remedy that I know helps and brings peace and comfort is to turn closer to God and His love.  Trust in His plan, and lean on your faith.

Psalm 23:1-6 ESV
[1] The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. [2] He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.
[3] He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
[4] Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
[5] You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
[6] Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Remember, God’s love is unwavering, and His guidance is ever-present.  In Him, you will find solace and strength.

Take comfort in knowing that His goodness and mercy will follow you all the days of your life.

Be Blessed and Be A Blessing!

Loftier Ambition

I used to always use the “Golden Rule” in my classroom as a starting point for treating others.  “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

Now I believe there is something more.  

“Do for others what they can’t do for themselves.”

You have been given unique talents and gifts so it becomes important for you to use those to lift others up and help them get to places they cannot get to on their own. 

I believe that what we give away to others we get back in return and it is returned in abundance.  It is not given for the return but as a heart felt gift.  The return is a bonus.

Whether you have alot to give or just a little you have the ability and the opportunity to help someone do what they can’t do for themselves.  The important thing is that you give.

Lift someone higher today.  

I’m cheering for you. 

Limitations Are A Choice

People love to tell you what you should and should not do.  Too often we let other peoples opinions dictate what we believe we can and cannot do.  Don’t let that be case. 

When someone tells you that “you can’t do that” most of the time it is to protect themselves from looking bad due to their lack of initiative.  Don’t let someone else’s lack of initiative creep into your dreams and your desires for improvement. 

Difference makers are dreamers, creators, and doers.  They are intentional about being learners, thinkers, and getting better every day. 

There is no limit to what you can do if you believe, develop a plan, and dare to step out across the line that the majority of people will stay behind. 

If you are around people with no desire to grow then it may be time to be around a different group of people.  Seek out people who will believe with you, believe in you, support you, and will be an encourager in your life. 

The people who set limits on you have no vision and it is time to leave them behind because they are stuck by choice and they don’t get to choose that for you unless you let them. 

I’m cheering for you.