Two thoughts.....

I've got two thoughts tonight for you to ponder.

The first...
Try NOT to take for granted the time you have with family and friends.

This past weekend, I had the opportunity to visit with family and friends that I hadn't seen in many a moon - actually some of the folks I hadn't seen in more than 10 years.

When I returned home I had a voice mail informing me a friend of mine had been in a car accident and may not make it. We usually don't think about those things as we muddle through life, but so much can happen in the blink of an eye. We tend to take the time we have with family and friends for granted - especially if they are not sick - and think that those we love and enjoy being around will be there all the time.

I think it is our nature to assume will be able to complete those conversations we started next time. That down the road, in the future I'll make sure that I say this or that... Truth is that the things you forgot to say could suddenly be lost and never said. This weekend I was blessed and had the chance to say those things with family - I had a second chance, next time I may not be so lucky.

So - let me step up on my soap box here - make sure you tell the people you love that you love them, hug those who need hugs and don't hold back. You'll never know if you'll have that second chance to say what needs to be said..... OK, I'm stepping down now.

The second thought.
If you've been tuning into the Olympics, you probably saw Michael Phelps win his third gold medal in the 200 meter freestyle this evening. And WOW he won by nearly TWO seconds - Two seconds is huge and what a a statement he made to the world! The other competitors looked like they were in a coma just after the race not wanting to believe they just got smoked.

I know the feeling - and yes, it does hurt.

As a result, Michael Phelps dream for EIGHT Gold medals in one Olympiad is still alive. I just saw a quote from Howard Schultz of Starbucks fame: "Who wants a dream that's near-fetched?" How true...

Yet, in Phelps case, his dream isn't looking as far-fetched as others once thought. One thing is for certain, the man is focused like a laser beam. And this level of focus does not come from lack of practice.

In fact, from age 12-17, Phelps didn't miss a day of practice. Not one. Regardless of the occasion. How many people can say that - about anything. When you look at Phelps you don't just see a physical being who is in peak condition - you see the mind set of a man who refuses to let anyone else talk him out of his dreams.

After he reads negative publicity saying "he can't do it" - Phelps clips out the article and puts it in his locker for inspiration. This is far better than listening to and believing your critics. Why not take their negativity and turn it into rocket fuel.

I think it is a better use of your time and energy.... Til next time.