Ripples v6.48: Ripples of MAGICAL, INTANGIBLE GIFTS!
Monday, December 20, 2004
Your FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Life is the first gift, love is the second, and understanding the third.
-Marge Piercy, submitted by Charlene G., PA
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The best thing to give an enemy is forgiveness;
To an opponent, Tolerance;
To a friend, your Ear;
To your child, a good Example;
To a father, Reverence;
To your mother, Conduct that will make her proud of you;
To yourself, Respect;
And to all, Charity.
-Benjamin Franklin, submitted by Jim Cissell
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
As many of us celebrate a holiday season that includes exchanging gifts, I hope we can all take a moment this week to be grateful for the many intangible gifts that we have received throughout the year. Sometimes even tiny gestures can be magical gifts: a few days ago I was spending a lazy afternoon in a cafe with a wonderful book and some hot cocoa. As I was staring out the window in a meandering stream of consciousness, I realized that someone walking by had stopped when she noticed my far off gaze. I don\'t know how long she had been standing there before I focused on her huge, warm smile that was clearly meant to encourage my daydreaming, but I know that by the time she continued on her journey, her infectious smile lifted by day beyond measure. Even as I describe this brief encounter to you days later, a grin creeps across my face and I wonder how many other people have been impacted by this friendly stranger.
Can you think of someone who has freely offered a gift of love, hope, kindness, sharing, laughter, smile, friendship, patience, or caring this year? I dare you to acknowledge this gift by telling us about it in our community section:
http://theripplesproject.org/forums/viewtopic.php?p=518#518.
Peace,
Paul
p.s. No Ripples next week...we\'ll see you in 2005!!
Sunday, December 19, 2004
Monday, December 13, 2004
Ripples v6.47: Ripples of COMING ALIVE!
Ripples v6.47: Ripples of COMING ALIVE!
Monday, December 13, 2004
Your FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
What a wonderful day to be Alive.
-source unknown, submitted by Linda H., Pewaukee, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Don\'t ask yourself what the world needs;
ask yourself what makes you come alive.
And then go and do that.
Because what the world needs
is people who have come alive.
-Harold Whitman, submitted by Carrie S., Indianapolis, IN
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
As we wind down 2004, I thought it could be powerful to spend these last few weeks of the year motivating each other to create an incredible 2005. Here is the question: What ACTIONS or ACTIVITIES you could begin doing in 2005 that would help you feel more Alive?
Be specific, and lets see if we can get at least 20 members to post something by Wednesday!
Post Here:
http://TheRipplesProject.org/forums/viewtopic.php?p=468#468
Peace,
Paul
Monday, December 13, 2004
Your FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
What a wonderful day to be Alive.
-source unknown, submitted by Linda H., Pewaukee, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Don\'t ask yourself what the world needs;
ask yourself what makes you come alive.
And then go and do that.
Because what the world needs
is people who have come alive.
-Harold Whitman, submitted by Carrie S., Indianapolis, IN
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
As we wind down 2004, I thought it could be powerful to spend these last few weeks of the year motivating each other to create an incredible 2005. Here is the question: What ACTIONS or ACTIVITIES you could begin doing in 2005 that would help you feel more Alive?
Be specific, and lets see if we can get at least 20 members to post something by Wednesday!
Post Here:
http://TheRipplesProject.org/forums/viewtopic.php?p=468#468
Peace,
Paul
Saturday, December 4, 2004
Ripples v6.46: Ripples of WONDER!
Ripples v6.46: Ripples of WONDER!
Monday, December 6, 2004
Your FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The wonder that shows itself today, tomorrow, and yesterday can never be relived.
Once you understand this, life can get a whole lot more interesting.
-Bernard S. King , submitted by John M., Mt Horeb WI.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
May your mind forever sparkle like a star,
your heart remain pure as new fallen snow, and
your spirit forever sense the wonderment of a child.
-Mary Summer Rain, submitted by Melanie H., Central CIty, IA
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week I traveled to the Pacific Northwest to participate in two different events for \"professional helpers.\" Both audiences were filled with remarkable souls who consistently strive to help other people improve their lives. Sometimes, of course, we helpers forget our own needs, and this week I\'d like you to focus on a powerful antidote to burnout: wonder. Can you find something that takes your mind off all the challenges and stress you\'re currently facing? Maybe watching a sunset, strolling through an art museum, or reading an inspirational book/movie/song can help you experience WOW! and allow your soul to refuel.
If you have suggestions on great ways to experience wonder, please help your fellow ripplers by posting a message here:
http://TheRipplesProject.org/forums/viewtopic.php?p=451#451
Peace,
Paul
Monday, December 6, 2004
Your FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The wonder that shows itself today, tomorrow, and yesterday can never be relived.
Once you understand this, life can get a whole lot more interesting.
-Bernard S. King , submitted by John M., Mt Horeb WI.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
May your mind forever sparkle like a star,
your heart remain pure as new fallen snow, and
your spirit forever sense the wonderment of a child.
-Mary Summer Rain, submitted by Melanie H., Central CIty, IA
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week I traveled to the Pacific Northwest to participate in two different events for \"professional helpers.\" Both audiences were filled with remarkable souls who consistently strive to help other people improve their lives. Sometimes, of course, we helpers forget our own needs, and this week I\'d like you to focus on a powerful antidote to burnout: wonder. Can you find something that takes your mind off all the challenges and stress you\'re currently facing? Maybe watching a sunset, strolling through an art museum, or reading an inspirational book/movie/song can help you experience WOW! and allow your soul to refuel.
If you have suggestions on great ways to experience wonder, please help your fellow ripplers by posting a message here:
http://TheRipplesProject.org/forums/viewtopic.php?p=451#451
Peace,
Paul
Sunday, November 28, 2004
Ripples v6.45: Ripples of YOUR BEST LIFE!
Ripples v6.45: Ripples of YOUR BEST LIFE!
Monday, November 29, 2004
Your FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Three grand essentials to happiness in this life are
something to do, something to love, and something to hope for.
-Jose Addison, submitted by Pat J. Wauwatosa, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Live your best life.
Caretake this moment.
Immerse yourself in its particulars.
Respond to this person, this challenge, this deed.
Quit the evasions.
Stop giving yourself needless trouble.
It is time to really live;
to fully inhabit the situation you happen to be in now.
-Epictetus, submitted by Sandy R. from Olympia, WA
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The ultimate goal of this little email is larger than a tiny splash of inspiration on Monday mornings; we strive to create waves of ACTION that continue impacting your life (and the lives of those around you) in all kinds of ways. We hope our online community creates a dialogue among members to magnify our ripply potential. So each week, we\'ll post a question at the website and we hope you will post a message at least once!!
This week\'s question is inspired by the pebble above:
What ACTION (something you do), PASSION (something you love), or WISH (something you hope for) helps you feel more alive?
click here to post: http://www.theripplesproject.org/forums/viewtopic.php?p=429#429
Peace,
Paul
Monday, November 29, 2004
Your FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Three grand essentials to happiness in this life are
something to do, something to love, and something to hope for.
-Jose Addison, submitted by Pat J. Wauwatosa, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Live your best life.
Caretake this moment.
Immerse yourself in its particulars.
Respond to this person, this challenge, this deed.
Quit the evasions.
Stop giving yourself needless trouble.
It is time to really live;
to fully inhabit the situation you happen to be in now.
-Epictetus, submitted by Sandy R. from Olympia, WA
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The ultimate goal of this little email is larger than a tiny splash of inspiration on Monday mornings; we strive to create waves of ACTION that continue impacting your life (and the lives of those around you) in all kinds of ways. We hope our online community creates a dialogue among members to magnify our ripply potential. So each week, we\'ll post a question at the website and we hope you will post a message at least once!!
This week\'s question is inspired by the pebble above:
What ACTION (something you do), PASSION (something you love), or WISH (something you hope for) helps you feel more alive?
click here to post: http://www.theripplesproject.org/forums/viewtopic.php?p=429#429
Peace,
Paul
Sunday, November 21, 2004
Ripples v6.44: Thanksgiving Ripples!
Ripples v6.44: Thanksgiving Ripples!
Monday, November 22, 2004
Your FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Gratitude: In our daily lives we must see that it is not happiness
that makes us grateful, but the gratefulness that makes us happy.
-Albert Clarke, submitted by Jacqui R.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
As I express my gratitude, I become more aware of it.
And the greater my awareness, the greater my need to express it.
What happens here is a spiraling ascent, a process of growth
in ever-expanding circles around a steady center.
-Brother David Steindl-Rast, submitted by Leslie S., Madison, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I am grateful for many things this week; mostly I am VERY grateful for YOU! With your ongoing support we have transformed this weekly inspirational email into a community of ripplers who are busy spreading kindness and happiness and love to family, friends, colleagues, neighbors, classmates, and unknown folks who cross our paths. You have been patient with this difficult year of transition and you have been so generous with your encouragement, ideas, quote submissions and goody purchases. Listen carefully, as this is for you: THANKS!
I hope you can find a few minutes this week to call, email, or visit with someone significant in your life to whom you owe a big ole THANKS!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, November 22, 2004
Your FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Gratitude: In our daily lives we must see that it is not happiness
that makes us grateful, but the gratefulness that makes us happy.
-Albert Clarke, submitted by Jacqui R.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
As I express my gratitude, I become more aware of it.
And the greater my awareness, the greater my need to express it.
What happens here is a spiraling ascent, a process of growth
in ever-expanding circles around a steady center.
-Brother David Steindl-Rast, submitted by Leslie S., Madison, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I am grateful for many things this week; mostly I am VERY grateful for YOU! With your ongoing support we have transformed this weekly inspirational email into a community of ripplers who are busy spreading kindness and happiness and love to family, friends, colleagues, neighbors, classmates, and unknown folks who cross our paths. You have been patient with this difficult year of transition and you have been so generous with your encouragement, ideas, quote submissions and goody purchases. Listen carefully, as this is for you: THANKS!
I hope you can find a few minutes this week to call, email, or visit with someone significant in your life to whom you owe a big ole THANKS!
Peace,
Paul
Sunday, November 14, 2004
Ripples v6.43: Ripples of MOVING PIANOS!
Ripples v6.43: Ripples of MOVING PIANOS!
Monday, November 15, 2004
Your FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Too many people are ready to carry the stool
when the piano needs moving.
-author unknown, submitted by Leslie S., Madison, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
To help yourself, help others.
Whatever good you do travels a circle
and returns to you many times over.
But remember,
life isn\'t about what you get,
it\'s about what you become.
-Dennis Gaskill, submitted by Sabrina Ricks, Prescott AZ
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We need to thank the hundreds of members who have spent time posting messages in our new community section! We hope to continue transforming The Ripples Project from a Monday morning email into an ongoing conversation with thousands of people around the country....and the world!! If you have not yet visited the Community Section, check it out!
We are still working out the kinks of our site, and need your help over in our online store. We doubled the number of \"inspirational yet inexpensive\" goodies we offer just in time for the holiday season and we are seeking helpers to could shop patiently and post any problems you have in the trouble shooting section so we can continue tweaking the store until it works smoothly!
The biggest problems seem to come up if your browser doesn\'t accept cookies (a technology that allows us to \"remember\" what items you have placed in your shopping cart as you move through the different pages). Beyond that, we need to keep finding out what problems shoppers are encountering so we can fix it!
Remember that our goal in selling goodies is to break even.... we donate any profits to charity!! If you could help us \"move our piano\" that would be GREAT!!!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, November 15, 2004
Your FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Too many people are ready to carry the stool
when the piano needs moving.
-author unknown, submitted by Leslie S., Madison, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
To help yourself, help others.
Whatever good you do travels a circle
and returns to you many times over.
But remember,
life isn\'t about what you get,
it\'s about what you become.
-Dennis Gaskill, submitted by Sabrina Ricks, Prescott AZ
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We need to thank the hundreds of members who have spent time posting messages in our new community section! We hope to continue transforming The Ripples Project from a Monday morning email into an ongoing conversation with thousands of people around the country....and the world!! If you have not yet visited the Community Section, check it out!
We are still working out the kinks of our site, and need your help over in our online store. We doubled the number of \"inspirational yet inexpensive\" goodies we offer just in time for the holiday season and we are seeking helpers to could shop patiently and post any problems you have in the trouble shooting section so we can continue tweaking the store until it works smoothly!
The biggest problems seem to come up if your browser doesn\'t accept cookies (a technology that allows us to \"remember\" what items you have placed in your shopping cart as you move through the different pages). Beyond that, we need to keep finding out what problems shoppers are encountering so we can fix it!
Remember that our goal in selling goodies is to break even.... we donate any profits to charity!! If you could help us \"move our piano\" that would be GREAT!!!
Peace,
Paul
Sunday, November 7, 2004
Ripples v6.42: Ripples of SOMETHING!
Ripples v6.42: Ripples of SOMETHING!
Monday, November 8, 2004
Your FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLES =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Find something worth dying for and live for it.
-source unknown, submitted by Stephen R.
Find something you care about and live a life that shows it.
-Kate Wolf, submitted by Chris L.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDERS =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Read, every day, something no one else is reading.
Think, every day, something no one else is thinking.
Do, every day, something no one else would be silly enough to do.
It is bad for the mind to continually be part of unanimity.
- Gotthold Ephraim Lessing, submitted by Pat J. Wauwatosa, WI
I live by this credo:
Have a little laugh and look around you
for happiness instead of sadness.
Laughter has always brought me out of unhappy situations.
Even in your darkest moment,
you usually can find something to laugh about if you try hard enough.
-Red Skelton, submitted by Tanya S.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I doubled our dose of Ripples this week since we skipped an issue! If you have a ton of THINGS on your plate and you\'re feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, don\'t try to solve EVERYTHING. Instead, just choose SOMETHING to focus on....one thing. Whether that is a task you need to complete or a small treat for yourself or maybe a phone call you owe to a friend, just let that SOMETHING have all of your focus and energy. Then, when that is complete, go on to your next SOMETHING.
One thing at a time, my friend!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, November 8, 2004
Your FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLES =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Find something worth dying for and live for it.
-source unknown, submitted by Stephen R.
Find something you care about and live a life that shows it.
-Kate Wolf, submitted by Chris L.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDERS =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Read, every day, something no one else is reading.
Think, every day, something no one else is thinking.
Do, every day, something no one else would be silly enough to do.
It is bad for the mind to continually be part of unanimity.
- Gotthold Ephraim Lessing, submitted by Pat J. Wauwatosa, WI
I live by this credo:
Have a little laugh and look around you
for happiness instead of sadness.
Laughter has always brought me out of unhappy situations.
Even in your darkest moment,
you usually can find something to laugh about if you try hard enough.
-Red Skelton, submitted by Tanya S.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I doubled our dose of Ripples this week since we skipped an issue! If you have a ton of THINGS on your plate and you\'re feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, don\'t try to solve EVERYTHING. Instead, just choose SOMETHING to focus on....one thing. Whether that is a task you need to complete or a small treat for yourself or maybe a phone call you owe to a friend, just let that SOMETHING have all of your focus and energy. Then, when that is complete, go on to your next SOMETHING.
One thing at a time, my friend!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, November 1, 2004
Ripples v6.41: Ripples of BEARING FRUIT!
Ripples v6.41: Ripples of BEARING FRUIT!
Your FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We are wise to cultivate the tree which bears fruit in our soul.
-Henry David Thoreau, submitted by Ryan B., Boulder CO
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The greatest gift you will ever have is your life,
and the second greatest gift-which you give
yourself-is courage to live it to the fullest. Time
goes by quickly, and you cannot take it for granted.
Appreciate how far you have come, and give yourself
the gift of discovering how far you can yet go.
-Sonya Friedman, submitted by Pat J. Wauwatosa, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Sorry for no Ripples last week! The transition to the new site is proving much more challenging than we anticipated! But we are back to \"bearing fruit\" this week and will hopefully resume our regular Monday Morning splash for the remainder of the year (again, Hopefully!!)
About 1,000 of you have visited our new website, and over 100 of you have posted a message in the community section--and it ROCKS! Even two store orders came in (Marijane and a few of our \"Super Shoppers\" have chosen a bounty of new treats to put in our new, easy-to-use online store!)....THANKS to all of you for helping us with this transformation!
It has been a CRAZY two weeks here at the Ripples Ranch, including two quick trips to Chicago, once to hang out with the folks at Royal Office Products and then this weekend for the 2004 NODA (National Orientation Directors Association) Conference. We owe the NODA folks a super big hello and thanks, as they purchased over $800 worth of Ripply Treats, with all of that money going toward our new website!
New Next Week: We are going to attempt a little color for Ripples....and a cool new look! If your issue next week arrives and looks really weird (extra lines of code, etc.) please let us know! Hopefully it will go smoothly!
Peace to you,
Paul
Your FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We are wise to cultivate the tree which bears fruit in our soul.
-Henry David Thoreau, submitted by Ryan B., Boulder CO
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The greatest gift you will ever have is your life,
and the second greatest gift-which you give
yourself-is courage to live it to the fullest. Time
goes by quickly, and you cannot take it for granted.
Appreciate how far you have come, and give yourself
the gift of discovering how far you can yet go.
-Sonya Friedman, submitted by Pat J. Wauwatosa, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Sorry for no Ripples last week! The transition to the new site is proving much more challenging than we anticipated! But we are back to \"bearing fruit\" this week and will hopefully resume our regular Monday Morning splash for the remainder of the year (again, Hopefully!!)
About 1,000 of you have visited our new website, and over 100 of you have posted a message in the community section--and it ROCKS! Even two store orders came in (Marijane and a few of our \"Super Shoppers\" have chosen a bounty of new treats to put in our new, easy-to-use online store!)....THANKS to all of you for helping us with this transformation!
It has been a CRAZY two weeks here at the Ripples Ranch, including two quick trips to Chicago, once to hang out with the folks at Royal Office Products and then this weekend for the 2004 NODA (National Orientation Directors Association) Conference. We owe the NODA folks a super big hello and thanks, as they purchased over $800 worth of Ripply Treats, with all of that money going toward our new website!
New Next Week: We are going to attempt a little color for Ripples....and a cool new look! If your issue next week arrives and looks really weird (extra lines of code, etc.) please let us know! Hopefully it will go smoothly!
Peace to you,
Paul
Sunday, October 17, 2004
Ripples v6.40: Ripples of PATIENCE!
Ripples v6.40: Ripples of PATIENCE!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 12,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Patience and perseverence have a magical effect
before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.
- John Quincy Adams, submitted by Donna S., Lisle, IL
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
One day at a time- this is enough.
Do not look back and grieve over the past, for it is gone;
and do not be troubled about the future, for it has not yet come,
Live in the present, and make it so beautiful that it will be worth remembering.
-Ida Scott Taylor, submitted by Laura W., Las Vegas, NV.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Good News, my Ripply Friends! The time has come for an exciting new chapter
in the life of The Ripples Project! Sometime in the next two weeks you will receive a
"Welcome to The Ripples Project's New Home!" email that will be an invitation for you to
see our new site.
In order to take advantage of a number of new features we have available in our new
home, we will need you to briefly visit the website and re-register with some basic
information (email address, etc.). We plan to invite people in small batches so we
don't overwhelm the server but if you encounter error messages, your PATIENCE is
requested....just wait revisit the site in a few minutes and it should be just fine!
Depending upon how smoothly the process goes, you may not receive next week's issue
OR it may arrive in your mailbox looking very strange (with a bunch of extra characters in
it). If you could PLEASE bear with us through this transition, I promise in a few weeks we
are all going to be very comfortable in a new home that is going to keep The Ripples
Project growing for a long time to come!!
If you have any questions or concerns, you can always email us at
Ripples@TheRipplesProject.org and
we will strive to respond within 24 hours.
Peace,
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 12,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Patience and perseverence have a magical effect
before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.
- John Quincy Adams, submitted by Donna S., Lisle, IL
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
One day at a time- this is enough.
Do not look back and grieve over the past, for it is gone;
and do not be troubled about the future, for it has not yet come,
Live in the present, and make it so beautiful that it will be worth remembering.
-Ida Scott Taylor, submitted by Laura W., Las Vegas, NV.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Good News, my Ripply Friends! The time has come for an exciting new chapter
in the life of The Ripples Project! Sometime in the next two weeks you will receive a
"Welcome to The Ripples Project's New Home!" email that will be an invitation for you to
see our new site.
In order to take advantage of a number of new features we have available in our new
home, we will need you to briefly visit the website and re-register with some basic
information (email address, etc.). We plan to invite people in small batches so we
don't overwhelm the server but if you encounter error messages, your PATIENCE is
requested....just wait revisit the site in a few minutes and it should be just fine!
Depending upon how smoothly the process goes, you may not receive next week's issue
OR it may arrive in your mailbox looking very strange (with a bunch of extra characters in
it). If you could PLEASE bear with us through this transition, I promise in a few weeks we
are all going to be very comfortable in a new home that is going to keep The Ripples
Project growing for a long time to come!!
If you have any questions or concerns, you can always email us at
Ripples@TheRipplesProject.org and
we will strive to respond within 24 hours.
Peace,
Sunday, October 10, 2004
Ripples v6.39: Ripples of POSSIBILITY!
Ripples v6.39: Ripples of POSSIBILITY!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 12,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Don't rule out even the strangest of possibilities.
Keep an open mind and see where it leads you.
-author unknown, submitted by Jessica T., Brooklawn, NJ
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Create the kind of self that you
will be happy to live with all your life.
Make the most of yourself by fanning
the tiny, inner sparks of possibility
into flames of achievement.
-Foster C. McClellan, submitted by Kelli B., Bartlesville, OK
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
What is possible for you this week?
I dare you to open your mind and your heart to imagine a wild adventure that could
unfold to improve your life in some significant way. Maybe a creative direction to take for
a project you're working on, or a daring step you could take with a person in your life
(propose a date or ask forgiveness or just share a good laugh!). Perhaps you have had
an itch to try something new: a type of food, a TV show, a different route home, a social
group, or even a hairdo? I am fairly sure that you are supposed to explore that possibility
and enjoy the outcome.
Peace,
Paul
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 12,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Don't rule out even the strangest of possibilities.
Keep an open mind and see where it leads you.
-author unknown, submitted by Jessica T., Brooklawn, NJ
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Create the kind of self that you
will be happy to live with all your life.
Make the most of yourself by fanning
the tiny, inner sparks of possibility
into flames of achievement.
-Foster C. McClellan, submitted by Kelli B., Bartlesville, OK
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
What is possible for you this week?
I dare you to open your mind and your heart to imagine a wild adventure that could
unfold to improve your life in some significant way. Maybe a creative direction to take for
a project you're working on, or a daring step you could take with a person in your life
(propose a date or ask forgiveness or just share a good laugh!). Perhaps you have had
an itch to try something new: a type of food, a TV show, a different route home, a social
group, or even a hairdo? I am fairly sure that you are supposed to explore that possibility
and enjoy the outcome.
Peace,
Paul
Sunday, October 3, 2004
Ripples v6.38: Ripples of GOING FORTH!
Ripples v6.38: Ripples of GOING FORTH!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 12,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Growth demands a temporary surrender of security.
~Gail Sheehy, submitted by Laura W., Las Vegas, NV
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
How do geese know when to fly to the sun?
Who tells them the seasons?
How do we, humans, know when it is time to move on?
As with the migrant birds, so surely with us,
there in a voice within, if only we would listen to it,
that tells us so certainly to go forth into the unknown.
-Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, submitted by Leslie S., Madison, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We need to THANK YOU in advance for your patience and understanding about the delayed unveiling of our new website. Many hours are being spent each week building and revising the site, and several of our members gave it a test drive which provided a bounty of excellent feedback that we are currently implementing.
Our current online <http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/store/browse.cfm>store will likely close next
week until the new one is up and running, so you do have this week to make purchases if you need
(and of course, we really appreciate that support!!).
Since we are working hard in the GOING FORTH department, I challenge you to listen to a voice within you and take off in some new scary/exciting direction this week. Some project large or small, related to work or home or school, some task that is begging for WOW. Take flight with it, and let us know how it goes!
Peace,
Paul
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 12,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Growth demands a temporary surrender of security.
~Gail Sheehy, submitted by Laura W., Las Vegas, NV
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
How do geese know when to fly to the sun?
Who tells them the seasons?
How do we, humans, know when it is time to move on?
As with the migrant birds, so surely with us,
there in a voice within, if only we would listen to it,
that tells us so certainly to go forth into the unknown.
-Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, submitted by Leslie S., Madison, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We need to THANK YOU in advance for your patience and understanding about the delayed unveiling of our new website. Many hours are being spent each week building and revising the site, and several of our members gave it a test drive which provided a bounty of excellent feedback that we are currently implementing.
Our current online <http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/store/browse.cfm>store will likely close next
week until the new one is up and running, so you do have this week to make purchases if you need
(and of course, we really appreciate that support!!).
Since we are working hard in the GOING FORTH department, I challenge you to listen to a voice within you and take off in some new scary/exciting direction this week. Some project large or small, related to work or home or school, some task that is begging for WOW. Take flight with it, and let us know how it goes!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, September 27, 2004
Ripples v6.37: Ripples of LETTING GO!
Ripples v6.37: Ripples of LETTING GO!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 12,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past;
you can't go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.
-source unknown, submitted by Sharon S., Indianapolis, IN
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Let Go of the Past
Let go...of guilt; it's okay to make the same mistakes again.
Let go...of obsessions; they seldom turn out the way you planned.
Let go...of hate; it's a waste of love.
Let go...of blaming others; you are responsible for your own destiny.
Let go...of fantasies; so reality can come true.
Let go...of self-pity; someone else may need you.
Let go...of wanting; cherish what you have.
Let go...of fear; it's a waste of faith.
Let go...of despair; change comes from acceptance and forgiveness.
Let go...of the past; the future is here - right now.
-Kathleen O'Brien, submitted by Yvette K., Whitemater, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week we welcome some folks who help keep the state of Washington up and running. At the
Executive Assistants Group Conference we spent some time exploring what tasks we needed to spend
less time on so we could have more time for the people and activities we would like more time for. I
was thinking about this today as I prepared to organize some of my storage closets that have become a
bit messy; a task that always starts out with throwing out old STUFF that I just don't need to keep
anymore.
So, my ripply friend, I wonder if you might have some OLD STUFF in your head or your heart or your
soul that might need to be thrown away to make room for renewed energy and passion? I challenge
you this week to spend a few moments writing down a quick list of STUFF that has been weighing you
down, and then shred it or burn it or crumple it up and LET GO!
Peace,
Paul
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 12,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past;
you can't go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.
-source unknown, submitted by Sharon S., Indianapolis, IN
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Let Go of the Past
Let go...of guilt; it's okay to make the same mistakes again.
Let go...of obsessions; they seldom turn out the way you planned.
Let go...of hate; it's a waste of love.
Let go...of blaming others; you are responsible for your own destiny.
Let go...of fantasies; so reality can come true.
Let go...of self-pity; someone else may need you.
Let go...of wanting; cherish what you have.
Let go...of fear; it's a waste of faith.
Let go...of despair; change comes from acceptance and forgiveness.
Let go...of the past; the future is here - right now.
-Kathleen O'Brien, submitted by Yvette K., Whitemater, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week we welcome some folks who help keep the state of Washington up and running. At the
Executive Assistants Group Conference we spent some time exploring what tasks we needed to spend
less time on so we could have more time for the people and activities we would like more time for. I
was thinking about this today as I prepared to organize some of my storage closets that have become a
bit messy; a task that always starts out with throwing out old STUFF that I just don't need to keep
anymore.
So, my ripply friend, I wonder if you might have some OLD STUFF in your head or your heart or your
soul that might need to be thrown away to make room for renewed energy and passion? I challenge
you this week to spend a few moments writing down a quick list of STUFF that has been weighing you
down, and then shred it or burn it or crumple it up and LET GO!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, September 20, 2004
Ripples v6.36: Ripples of NOT KNOWING!
Ripples v6.36: Ripples of NOT KNOWING!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
When the most important things in our life happen
we quite often do not know, at the moment,
what is going on.
-C. S. Lewis, submitted by Debbie T.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Be brave enough to live creatively.
The creative is the place
where no one else has ever been.
You have to leave the city of your comfort
and go into the wilderness of your intuition.
You cannot get there by bus,
only by hard work, risking and
by not quite knowing what you are doing.
What you will discover will be wonderful;
what you will discover will be yourself.
-Alan Alda, submitted by Larissa M., Chicago, IL
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week, we welcome some new credit union marketing folks from
around Wisconsin, as well as student leaders from Portland State
University. The topics I explored with these groups was very
different, but the focus was similar: trying new things is sometimes
scary, often uncomfortable, and always worth it! The quotes above
both mention "not knowing"--an unsettling prospect for many of us
control-obsessed overachievers, eh?
Our goal this week: strike out into the unknown--try something new,
take a risk, pursue an opportunity--even if you don't know quite
where it will lead you!
Peace,
Paul
p.s. If you have enjoyed reading Ripples, imagine what it would be
like to have a follow up conversation with other "Ripply" folks each
week. A forum to share what actions you've taken, to ask questions,
or to seek creative solutions to your challenges.....all of this is
coming soon!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
When the most important things in our life happen
we quite often do not know, at the moment,
what is going on.
-C. S. Lewis, submitted by Debbie T.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Be brave enough to live creatively.
The creative is the place
where no one else has ever been.
You have to leave the city of your comfort
and go into the wilderness of your intuition.
You cannot get there by bus,
only by hard work, risking and
by not quite knowing what you are doing.
What you will discover will be wonderful;
what you will discover will be yourself.
-Alan Alda, submitted by Larissa M., Chicago, IL
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week, we welcome some new credit union marketing folks from
around Wisconsin, as well as student leaders from Portland State
University. The topics I explored with these groups was very
different, but the focus was similar: trying new things is sometimes
scary, often uncomfortable, and always worth it! The quotes above
both mention "not knowing"--an unsettling prospect for many of us
control-obsessed overachievers, eh?
Our goal this week: strike out into the unknown--try something new,
take a risk, pursue an opportunity--even if you don't know quite
where it will lead you!
Peace,
Paul
p.s. If you have enjoyed reading Ripples, imagine what it would be
like to have a follow up conversation with other "Ripply" folks each
week. A forum to share what actions you've taken, to ask questions,
or to seek creative solutions to your challenges.....all of this is
coming soon!
Monday, September 13, 2004
Ripples v6.35: Ripples of SOUL RESTORATION!
Ripples v6.35: Ripples of SOUL RESTORATION!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Let my words, if I must speak, become a restoration of soul.
-Walter Rinder, submitted by Geri S., Camas WA
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
In relation to others,
gratitude is good manners;
in relation to ourselves,
it is a habit of the heart
and a spiritual discipline.
-Daphne Rose Kingma, submitted by Leslie S., Madison, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The words we utter to others and to ourselves
can either be graceful doves or painful daggers.
Make it your mission and your destiny this week
to be more purposeful in what you say and how you say it.
The next person who calls or emails or stops by to see you
should be your first attempt; see if you can startle them
with gratitude that will restore TWO souls in an instant!
Peace,
Paul
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Let my words, if I must speak, become a restoration of soul.
-Walter Rinder, submitted by Geri S., Camas WA
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
In relation to others,
gratitude is good manners;
in relation to ourselves,
it is a habit of the heart
and a spiritual discipline.
-Daphne Rose Kingma, submitted by Leslie S., Madison, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The words we utter to others and to ourselves
can either be graceful doves or painful daggers.
Make it your mission and your destiny this week
to be more purposeful in what you say and how you say it.
The next person who calls or emails or stops by to see you
should be your first attempt; see if you can startle them
with gratitude that will restore TWO souls in an instant!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, September 6, 2004
Ripples v6.34: Ripples of YOU! Yes YOU!
Ripples v6.34: Ripples of YOU! Yes YOU!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We are coming to understand that no organization,
including government, will fully succeed
without the active participation of each of us.
Volunteers are vital to enabling this country
to live up to the true promise of its heritage.
-Bill Clinton, submitted by Erin A.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Every cause needs people more than money,
for when the people are with you and they are giving your
cause their attention, interest, confidence, advocacy & service,
financial support should just about take care of itself;
whereas, without them in the right quality and quantity,
in the right places and the right states of mind and spirit,
you might as well go and get lost.
-Harold J. Seymour, submitted by James L, Park City, Utah
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I spent a bit of time with some educators in Mt. Horeb and
new students in Eau Claire (both in my home state of Wisconsin)
before diving into the final stages of our web redesign and
I realized how AWESOME it is that so many members have
offered not only a few bucks but their precious TIME and
ENERGY to help us grow! Well, this week we have a FEW
ways if you feel like giving some more:
A. Ripply Brainstorm.
We have dreamed up something remarkable for the first
page of the new site, and it needs your boost. Peek here:
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/NewFrontPage.html
B. Better Blurb, Draft IV:
The Ripples Project: Refresh your spirit with kindness to others
[please send feedback to Blurb@HappyFlying.com]
C. New Site "Test Drivers."
Early next week we will need a crew of people to give us
some feedback about the new site and its functionality.
It would involve about 15-30 minutes and then a few more
minutes of describing what might make it better
(bonus: it will still have that "new site smell!").
Send a blank email to TestDrive@HappyFlying.com
and we will contact you next week.
D. Smile!
If you are having a busy week and do not have time to do
any of the above, just smile at the next three people you see
and you will have created a few ripples that will help the world,
and help your soul too!
Peace,
Paul
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We are coming to understand that no organization,
including government, will fully succeed
without the active participation of each of us.
Volunteers are vital to enabling this country
to live up to the true promise of its heritage.
-Bill Clinton, submitted by Erin A.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Every cause needs people more than money,
for when the people are with you and they are giving your
cause their attention, interest, confidence, advocacy & service,
financial support should just about take care of itself;
whereas, without them in the right quality and quantity,
in the right places and the right states of mind and spirit,
you might as well go and get lost.
-Harold J. Seymour, submitted by James L, Park City, Utah
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I spent a bit of time with some educators in Mt. Horeb and
new students in Eau Claire (both in my home state of Wisconsin)
before diving into the final stages of our web redesign and
I realized how AWESOME it is that so many members have
offered not only a few bucks but their precious TIME and
ENERGY to help us grow! Well, this week we have a FEW
ways if you feel like giving some more:
A. Ripply Brainstorm.
We have dreamed up something remarkable for the first
page of the new site, and it needs your boost. Peek here:
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/NewFrontPage.html
B. Better Blurb, Draft IV:
The Ripples Project: Refresh your spirit with kindness to others
[please send feedback to Blurb@HappyFlying.com]
C. New Site "Test Drivers."
Early next week we will need a crew of people to give us
some feedback about the new site and its functionality.
It would involve about 15-30 minutes and then a few more
minutes of describing what might make it better
(bonus: it will still have that "new site smell!").
Send a blank email to TestDrive@HappyFlying.com
and we will contact you next week.
D. Smile!
If you are having a busy week and do not have time to do
any of the above, just smile at the next three people you see
and you will have created a few ripples that will help the world,
and help your soul too!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, August 30, 2004
Ripples v6.33: Ripples of CONTAGIOUS COURAGE!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Courage is contagious. When a brave [person] takes a stand,
the spines of others are stiffened.
-Billy Graham, submitted by Pat J.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Hope has two beautiful daughters.
Their names are anger and courage;
anger at the way things are, and
courage to see that they do not remain the way they are.
-Augustine of Hippo, submitted by Tina H.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Oh, I hope you can dig deep this week and find some courage
to tackle a task or a dream or a conflict or a goal or SOMETHING
that is seeking help from your soul! Just remember that over 11,000
people are reading this and if each of us initiates a ripple
of courage, we will surely create a tidal wave of hope that could
carry us all right where we want to go!
Peace,
Paul
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Courage is contagious. When a brave [person] takes a stand,
the spines of others are stiffened.
-Billy Graham, submitted by Pat J.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Hope has two beautiful daughters.
Their names are anger and courage;
anger at the way things are, and
courage to see that they do not remain the way they are.
-Augustine of Hippo, submitted by Tina H.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Oh, I hope you can dig deep this week and find some courage
to tackle a task or a dream or a conflict or a goal or SOMETHING
that is seeking help from your soul! Just remember that over 11,000
people are reading this and if each of us initiates a ripple
of courage, we will surely create a tidal wave of hope that could
carry us all right where we want to go!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, August 23, 2004
Ripples v6.32: Ripples of GIVING IT YOUR ALL!
Ripples v6.32: Ripples of GIVING IT YOUR ALL!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Miracles start to happen when you give as much
energy to your dreams as you do to your fears.
-Richard Wilkins, submitted by Mary B.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Be daring, be different, be impractical;
be anything that will assert integrity of purpose
and imaginative vision against the play-it-safers,
the creatures of the commonplace,
the slaves of the ordinary.
-Cecil Beaton, submitted by Rich C.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week I found myself helping students in North Carolina
(UNCA), Indiana (Purdue), Wisconsin (UW-Madison), and
Michigan (CMU) gear up for another year. While I was
talking with different groups at each school (new students,
orientation leaders, & resident assistants) I encouraged
them all to create high expectations for themselves and
the possibilities of the upcoming year and then I told them to
GO FOR IT!
Let's all take a moment this week to think BIG, dream BIG,
feel BIG, and then GO BIG! You can do it, I just know you can!
Peace,
Paul
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Miracles start to happen when you give as much
energy to your dreams as you do to your fears.
-Richard Wilkins, submitted by Mary B.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Be daring, be different, be impractical;
be anything that will assert integrity of purpose
and imaginative vision against the play-it-safers,
the creatures of the commonplace,
the slaves of the ordinary.
-Cecil Beaton, submitted by Rich C.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week I found myself helping students in North Carolina
(UNCA), Indiana (Purdue), Wisconsin (UW-Madison), and
Michigan (CMU) gear up for another year. While I was
talking with different groups at each school (new students,
orientation leaders, & resident assistants) I encouraged
them all to create high expectations for themselves and
the possibilities of the upcoming year and then I told them to
GO FOR IT!
Let's all take a moment this week to think BIG, dream BIG,
feel BIG, and then GO BIG! You can do it, I just know you can!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, August 16, 2004
Ripples v6.31: Ripples of A BETTER BLURB!
Ripples v6.31: Ripples of A BETTER BLURB!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The problem with not having a goal is you spend your
whole life running up and down the field and never scoring.
-source unknown, submitted by Rocky M., Blackfoot, ID
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Greatness is not in where we stand,
but in what direction we are moving.
We must sail sometimes with the wind,
and sometimes against it,
but sail we must,
and not drift or lie at anchor.
-Oliver Wendell Holmes
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The quotes this week stress the importance of having
a clear sense of direction. Well, The Ripples Project
needs your help in clarifying WHO WE ARE and
WHAT WE DO!
A few years ago a handful of really cool people helped
define the original mission of The Ripples Project:
to inspire and reward small waves of kindness.
But in our new site this fall, we need a better blurb!
We need to find a short, snappy sentence or phrase
that quickly communicates who we are and what we're
trying to motivate people to do. So, how do you describe
The Ripples Project when you're telling someone about it?
We want a brief "blurb" that gets at the idea across
that small acts of kindness keep on going, AND that kind acts
come back to you! Whether you think of this as a mission,
a slogan, or a tagline, send your best blurb to
BetterBlurb@TheRipplesProject.org
mailto:BetterBlurb@TheRipplesProject.org
this week and we'll pick the best to get some more feedback.
The creator of the best "blurb" will get a mountain of
Ripples Goodies and our eternal gratitude.
Peace,
Paul
p.s. Last week was a slower week in sales, so help if you can!
We have now raised $5,600 of the $12,000 we need for
our new website....your purchase from the store helps us
get even closer to a quantum leap in creating ripples!
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/store/browse.cfm
***************************************************************************
Ripples: a FREE weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project
archives: http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/eRipples
store: http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/store/browse.cfm
subscribe FREE: blank email to Join@TheRipplesProject.org
unsubscribe: blank email to Leave@TheRipplesProject.org
submissions: send a quote to Submissions@TheRipplesProject.org
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The problem with not having a goal is you spend your
whole life running up and down the field and never scoring.
-source unknown, submitted by Rocky M., Blackfoot, ID
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Greatness is not in where we stand,
but in what direction we are moving.
We must sail sometimes with the wind,
and sometimes against it,
but sail we must,
and not drift or lie at anchor.
-Oliver Wendell Holmes
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The quotes this week stress the importance of having
a clear sense of direction. Well, The Ripples Project
needs your help in clarifying WHO WE ARE and
WHAT WE DO!
A few years ago a handful of really cool people helped
define the original mission of The Ripples Project:
to inspire and reward small waves of kindness.
But in our new site this fall, we need a better blurb!
We need to find a short, snappy sentence or phrase
that quickly communicates who we are and what we're
trying to motivate people to do. So, how do you describe
The Ripples Project when you're telling someone about it?
We want a brief "blurb" that gets at the idea across
that small acts of kindness keep on going, AND that kind acts
come back to you! Whether you think of this as a mission,
a slogan, or a tagline, send your best blurb to
BetterBlurb@TheRipplesProject.org
mailto:BetterBlurb@TheRipplesProject.org
this week and we'll pick the best to get some more feedback.
The creator of the best "blurb" will get a mountain of
Ripples Goodies and our eternal gratitude.
Peace,
Paul
p.s. Last week was a slower week in sales, so help if you can!
We have now raised $5,600 of the $12,000 we need for
our new website....your purchase from the store helps us
get even closer to a quantum leap in creating ripples!
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/store/browse.cfm
***************************************************************************
Ripples: a FREE weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project
archives: http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/eRipples
store: http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/store/browse.cfm
subscribe FREE: blank email to Join@TheRipplesProject.org
unsubscribe: blank email to Leave@TheRipplesProject.org
submissions: send a quote to Submissions@TheRipplesProject.org
Monday, August 9, 2004
Ripples v6.30: Ripples of DOWNTIME!
Ripples v6.30: Ripples of DOWNTIME!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
To do nothing at all is the most difficult thing in the world:
the most difficult and the most intellectual.
-Oscar Wilde, submitted by Sarah C., Roseville, MN
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Downtime is where we become ourselves;
looking into the middle distance,
kicking at the curb,
lying on the grass or
sitting on the stoop and staring
at the tedious blue of the summer sky.
I don't believe you can
write poetry,
or compose music,
or become an actor
without downtime,
and plenty of it;
A hiatus that passes for boredom
but is really the quiet moving of the
wheels inside that fuel creativity.
- Anna Quindlen, submitted by Pat. J.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I am often someone who feels it is important (imperative?) to be productive,
so I can relate to the Oscar Wilde quote about the difficulty of doing nothing.
Since I am about to embark on a busy road trip of fall orientation programs
in a few days, I am going to commit to a handful of DOWNTIME moments
this week. Won't you join me? Create an afternoon or even just a few hours
where NOTHING is the goal. Try it, you'll like it! And of course the irony is
that you when you give up needing to be productive, you will end up being
MORE productive in the long run....ooh I like that!
Peace,
Paul
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
To do nothing at all is the most difficult thing in the world:
the most difficult and the most intellectual.
-Oscar Wilde, submitted by Sarah C., Roseville, MN
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Downtime is where we become ourselves;
looking into the middle distance,
kicking at the curb,
lying on the grass or
sitting on the stoop and staring
at the tedious blue of the summer sky.
I don't believe you can
write poetry,
or compose music,
or become an actor
without downtime,
and plenty of it;
A hiatus that passes for boredom
but is really the quiet moving of the
wheels inside that fuel creativity.
- Anna Quindlen, submitted by Pat. J.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I am often someone who feels it is important (imperative?) to be productive,
so I can relate to the Oscar Wilde quote about the difficulty of doing nothing.
Since I am about to embark on a busy road trip of fall orientation programs
in a few days, I am going to commit to a handful of DOWNTIME moments
this week. Won't you join me? Create an afternoon or even just a few hours
where NOTHING is the goal. Try it, you'll like it! And of course the irony is
that you when you give up needing to be productive, you will end up being
MORE productive in the long run....ooh I like that!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, August 2, 2004
Ripples v6.29: Ripples of CLEAR VISION!
Ripples v6.29: Ripples of CLEAR VISION!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Even as my eyesight dims somewhat, I find that my vision improves;
that I see the larger picture more clearly as time goes on.
-Elder David B. Haight (1906-2004)
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Your vision will become clear
only when you look into your heart.
Who looks outside, dreams.
Who looks inside, awakens.
-Carl Jung submitted by Pat J. Wauwatosa, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
In presentations on goal setting, one of the key points we
often explore is the importance of visualization:
a clear mental image of what you seek
creates a map of how to achieve it.
Similar to an atlas, a very detailed "mind map"
is more useful in finding your destination.
Today I challenge you to spend some time refining
a vision you have for work, school, or life.
Imagine what it will look like, sound like, and feel like
once this vision is a reality...the more details the better.
Every day this week pause for 60 seconds to picture your
CLEAR VISION and soon you will see all kinds of opportunities
to nudge it closer to reality! Ok, GO!
Peace,
Paul
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Even as my eyesight dims somewhat, I find that my vision improves;
that I see the larger picture more clearly as time goes on.
-Elder David B. Haight (1906-2004)
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Your vision will become clear
only when you look into your heart.
Who looks outside, dreams.
Who looks inside, awakens.
-Carl Jung submitted by Pat J. Wauwatosa, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
In presentations on goal setting, one of the key points we
often explore is the importance of visualization:
a clear mental image of what you seek
creates a map of how to achieve it.
Similar to an atlas, a very detailed "mind map"
is more useful in finding your destination.
Today I challenge you to spend some time refining
a vision you have for work, school, or life.
Imagine what it will look like, sound like, and feel like
once this vision is a reality...the more details the better.
Every day this week pause for 60 seconds to picture your
CLEAR VISION and soon you will see all kinds of opportunities
to nudge it closer to reality! Ok, GO!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, July 26, 2004
Ripples v6.28: Ripples of FULLY LIVING!
Ripples v6.28: Ripples of FULLY LIVING!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Boredom is a matter of choice, not circumstance.
-source unknown, submitted by Tiffany S., Buffalo, NY
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Life is not what happens to you,
but what you make of what happens to you.
Everyone dies, but not everyone fully lives.
Too many people are having near-life experiences.
-source unknown, submitted by Carey V., Wausau, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week I was back in California to help S.P. Richards
at their conference and expo; in a presentation on
leadership I reminded the group that any skill improves
with PRACTICE....even a skill like LIVING!
So, I challenge you this week to practice "fully living"
by taking some risks or refreshing your attitude, or
perhaps just taking a long walk in the sunshine!
Peace,
Paul
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Boredom is a matter of choice, not circumstance.
-source unknown, submitted by Tiffany S., Buffalo, NY
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Life is not what happens to you,
but what you make of what happens to you.
Everyone dies, but not everyone fully lives.
Too many people are having near-life experiences.
-source unknown, submitted by Carey V., Wausau, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week I was back in California to help S.P. Richards
at their conference and expo; in a presentation on
leadership I reminded the group that any skill improves
with PRACTICE....even a skill like LIVING!
So, I challenge you this week to practice "fully living"
by taking some risks or refreshing your attitude, or
perhaps just taking a long walk in the sunshine!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, July 19, 2004
Ripples v6.27: Ripples of PERFECT PEACE!
Ripples v6.27: Ripples of PERFECT PEACE!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Keep uppermost in your mind that there is a place within you
where there is perfect peace and where nothing is impossible.
-Dr. Wayne Dyer, submitted by Alison D, Germany
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Peace.
It does not mean to be in a place where
there is no noise, trouble, or hard work.
It means to be in the midst of those things
and still be calm in your heart.
-source unknown, submitted by Elizabeth R., Portland, OR
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
In addition to challenging you to seek some of your own "perfect
peace" this week, I need to say THANK YOU and WHOOPS!
THANK YOU to the 60 folks who emailed feedback about the new website
mock-ups, and to the 50 members who placed orders from our online
store to help fund our upcoming change. The WHOOPS comes in because
we found out that many of you attempted to visit the site on Monday
and were unable to....we're so sorry!! That is one of the reasons we
are building our new site.....it will be able to handle many more
simultaneous visits!
Now, before you jump back into your crazy week, can you take a few
moments to close your eyes, breathe deeply, and experience a glimpse
of perfect peace. Ahhhhhhhhhh................
Peace,
Paul
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Keep uppermost in your mind that there is a place within you
where there is perfect peace and where nothing is impossible.
-Dr. Wayne Dyer, submitted by Alison D, Germany
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Peace.
It does not mean to be in a place where
there is no noise, trouble, or hard work.
It means to be in the midst of those things
and still be calm in your heart.
-source unknown, submitted by Elizabeth R., Portland, OR
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
In addition to challenging you to seek some of your own "perfect
peace" this week, I need to say THANK YOU and WHOOPS!
THANK YOU to the 60 folks who emailed feedback about the new website
mock-ups, and to the 50 members who placed orders from our online
store to help fund our upcoming change. The WHOOPS comes in because
we found out that many of you attempted to visit the site on Monday
and were unable to....we're so sorry!! That is one of the reasons we
are building our new site.....it will be able to handle many more
simultaneous visits!
Now, before you jump back into your crazy week, can you take a few
moments to close your eyes, breathe deeply, and experience a glimpse
of perfect peace. Ahhhhhhhhhh................
Peace,
Paul
Monday, July 12, 2004
Ripples v6.26: Ripples of WAKING UP!
Ripples v6.26: Ripples of WAKING UP!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLES =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
It would be very good if we could wake up before we die.
-Hindu saying, submitted by Jennifer G., San Antonio, TX
Without change, something sleeps inside us,
and seldom awakens. The sleeper must awaken.
-Frank Herbert, submitted by Tim A.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Finally, never give up on yourself.
Then you will never give up on others.
Wholeheartedly do what it takes
to awaken your clear-seeing intelligence,
but one day at a time.
If we live that way,
we will benefit the earth.
- Pema Chodron, submitted by Sharon K.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
So, are you awake yet? If not, let me say it a little louder: WAKE UP!!
I hope it is obvious that The Ripples Project continues to grow primarily
because of the many people who contribute quotes as well as those
who purchase goodies from our online store. Last week we raised
another $300 so we are one third of the way to raising the $12,000
we need for our new site that will launch this fall.
If you have previously made a purchase, THANK YOU! If you haven't,
could you consider buying one tiny goodie that will create a HUGE
ripple? We only need $1 from each member to make this work!!!
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/store/browse.cfm
Ooh, and if you're curious to see our progress, take a peek at our
website mock-ups and provide feedback if you're so inclined!
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/Mockups.html
Peace,
Paul
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLES =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
It would be very good if we could wake up before we die.
-Hindu saying, submitted by Jennifer G., San Antonio, TX
Without change, something sleeps inside us,
and seldom awakens. The sleeper must awaken.
-Frank Herbert, submitted by Tim A.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Finally, never give up on yourself.
Then you will never give up on others.
Wholeheartedly do what it takes
to awaken your clear-seeing intelligence,
but one day at a time.
If we live that way,
we will benefit the earth.
- Pema Chodron, submitted by Sharon K.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
So, are you awake yet? If not, let me say it a little louder: WAKE UP!!
I hope it is obvious that The Ripples Project continues to grow primarily
because of the many people who contribute quotes as well as those
who purchase goodies from our online store. Last week we raised
another $300 so we are one third of the way to raising the $12,000
we need for our new site that will launch this fall.
If you have previously made a purchase, THANK YOU! If you haven't,
could you consider buying one tiny goodie that will create a HUGE
ripple? We only need $1 from each member to make this work!!!
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/store/browse.cfm
Ooh, and if you're curious to see our progress, take a peek at our
website mock-ups and provide feedback if you're so inclined!
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/Mockups.html
Peace,
Paul
Monday, July 5, 2004
Ripples v6.25: Ripples of STRETCHING!
Ripples v6.25: Ripples of STRETCHING!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
"I must do something," always solves more problems
than "Something must be done."
-source unknown, submitted by Pat J. Wauwatosa, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Are you stretching
or are you learning?
There is a difference.
One involves effort;
the other is just lazy.
-Brad Wesselmann, submitted by Brad W., Castle Rock, CO
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week I returned to Oregon for another visit with my fellow
"seekers of wellness" at the 28th Seaside Health Promotion Conference.
Many of the attendees were experts in fitness and health education
and have pursued careers and hobbies that create opportunities
to teach people how to take better care of themselves. They all
know how useful stretching is before and after an exercise session;
I wanted them to remember that stretching MINDS and SOULS
are equally important tasks when striving for overall health!
Your challenge this week is to seek an opportunity to stretch.
Take a step outside of your comfort zone with an activity you
have resisted or procrastinated.
Whether it is a delayed work project, an avoided conversation,
or perhaps a little personal time you have denied yourself,
a more "well" you awaits!!
Peace,
Paul
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
"I must do something," always solves more problems
than "Something must be done."
-source unknown, submitted by Pat J. Wauwatosa, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Are you stretching
or are you learning?
There is a difference.
One involves effort;
the other is just lazy.
-Brad Wesselmann, submitted by Brad W., Castle Rock, CO
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week I returned to Oregon for another visit with my fellow
"seekers of wellness" at the 28th Seaside Health Promotion Conference.
Many of the attendees were experts in fitness and health education
and have pursued careers and hobbies that create opportunities
to teach people how to take better care of themselves. They all
know how useful stretching is before and after an exercise session;
I wanted them to remember that stretching MINDS and SOULS
are equally important tasks when striving for overall health!
Your challenge this week is to seek an opportunity to stretch.
Take a step outside of your comfort zone with an activity you
have resisted or procrastinated.
Whether it is a delayed work project, an avoided conversation,
or perhaps a little personal time you have denied yourself,
a more "well" you awaits!!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, June 28, 2004
Ripples v6.24: Ripples of STAYING CLOSE!
Ripples v6.24: Ripples of STAYING CLOSE!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
A real friend is one who walks in
when the rest of the world walks out.
- source unknown, submitted by C.S., Cincinnati, OH
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Beware of those who invite you
to be less than you are.
Stay close to those who dare you
to be more than you ever imagined.
-author unknown, submitted by Tami W., Stockton, CA
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week included spending time with "professional
helpers" who focus on serving the elderly. In a part of the
presentation about "attitude adjusting" I reminded them
of the awesome value in "Choosing Your Team."
Most of us spend many minutes a day interacting with others:
colleagues, friends, family, customers (clients/members/etc.),
strangers, and so on.... If I asked you to identify a few people
who engage and energize you, I'm hoping you could name
a handful. I bet you could also list a few folks who, when you
are around them, drain your energy (or, as I like to say, "suck
the lifeforce out of you!"). Perhaps this week you need to
begin consciously choosing to spend MORE time with someone
on the first list, and LESS time with someone from the second list.
And don't just THINK about it, DO IT!!!
Peace,
Paul
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
A real friend is one who walks in
when the rest of the world walks out.
- source unknown, submitted by C.S., Cincinnati, OH
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Beware of those who invite you
to be less than you are.
Stay close to those who dare you
to be more than you ever imagined.
-author unknown, submitted by Tami W., Stockton, CA
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week included spending time with "professional
helpers" who focus on serving the elderly. In a part of the
presentation about "attitude adjusting" I reminded them
of the awesome value in "Choosing Your Team."
Most of us spend many minutes a day interacting with others:
colleagues, friends, family, customers (clients/members/etc.),
strangers, and so on.... If I asked you to identify a few people
who engage and energize you, I'm hoping you could name
a handful. I bet you could also list a few folks who, when you
are around them, drain your energy (or, as I like to say, "suck
the lifeforce out of you!"). Perhaps this week you need to
begin consciously choosing to spend MORE time with someone
on the first list, and LESS time with someone from the second list.
And don't just THINK about it, DO IT!!!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, June 21, 2004
Ripples v6.23: Ripples of SAVORING!
Ripples v6.23: Ripples of SAVORING!
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Love the moment, and the energy of that moment
will spread beyond all boundaries.
-Sister Corita Kent, submitted by Nancy B.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The faster I go, the more I miss.
Savor every morsel, moment, and mile
on this journey of life.
-original quote, submitted by Lisa D, Eliot, ME
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I had grand adventures last week visiting Plymouth State University (NH) and the Wisconsin Leadership Conference in Milwaukee. Despite the crazy travel schedule, I squeezed in some ME time too! During a run in the mountains I saw a moose and a bald eagle; on a long bike ride I was entertained by several deer, a hawk, two herons, and enough bunny rabbits to crave Cadbury Creme Eggs!!
They were tiny moments filled with gigantic power in part because an ordinary, routine task (exercising) intersected with unexpected joy. The most exciting part of these events was the fact that I had promised myself to strive this week to enjoy each moment. It is possible I enjoyed these moments
because of my encounters with nature, AND I find myself wondering if these encounters were made
possible because I was enjoying the moment!
Whether your schedule this week is filled with regular tasks or exciting new adventures, I hope you can
choose one day to "Savor every morsel!"
Peace!
Paul
Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Love the moment, and the energy of that moment
will spread beyond all boundaries.
-Sister Corita Kent, submitted by Nancy B.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The faster I go, the more I miss.
Savor every morsel, moment, and mile
on this journey of life.
-original quote, submitted by Lisa D, Eliot, ME
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I had grand adventures last week visiting Plymouth State University (NH) and the Wisconsin Leadership Conference in Milwaukee. Despite the crazy travel schedule, I squeezed in some ME time too! During a run in the mountains I saw a moose and a bald eagle; on a long bike ride I was entertained by several deer, a hawk, two herons, and enough bunny rabbits to crave Cadbury Creme Eggs!!
They were tiny moments filled with gigantic power in part because an ordinary, routine task (exercising) intersected with unexpected joy. The most exciting part of these events was the fact that I had promised myself to strive this week to enjoy each moment. It is possible I enjoyed these moments
because of my encounters with nature, AND I find myself wondering if these encounters were made
possible because I was enjoying the moment!
Whether your schedule this week is filled with regular tasks or exciting new adventures, I hope you can
choose one day to "Savor every morsel!"
Peace!
Paul
Monday, June 14, 2004
Ripples v6.22: Ripples of SEEING FARTHER!
Ripples v6.22: Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Don't worry too much about what lies ahead.
Go as far as you can see, and when you get there,
you can see farther.
-source unknown, submitted by Ron S.,Mount Pearl, Newfoundland, Canada
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We must never lose
that sense of adventure,
that thirst for knowledge
or that determination to explore
the outer limits of our own abilities.
-Ronald Reagan, submitted by Karen F., New Milford, CT
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week I travelled to San Diego for another opportunity to visit with my credit union
buddies at CUNA Mutual Group's annual Discovery Conference. We were exploring the
topic of passion, and I came home to a fantastic pile of quotes submitted by Ripples
Readers from around the U.S. (and Canada, and a few from around the world!). These
quotes really reminded me that while vision is important in creating a great life, the
essential ingredient as that we keep going! The farther we travel, the more we see, and
the more we see, the farther we want to travel! It is an important cycle of growth, and I
challenge you this week to choose an area of your life that feels neglected and trudge
forward a few steps and hopefully you will find a new view that will inspire you farther!
As always, I wish for you and everyone:
Peace!
Paul
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Don't worry too much about what lies ahead.
Go as far as you can see, and when you get there,
you can see farther.
-source unknown, submitted by Ron S.,Mount Pearl, Newfoundland, Canada
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We must never lose
that sense of adventure,
that thirst for knowledge
or that determination to explore
the outer limits of our own abilities.
-Ronald Reagan, submitted by Karen F., New Milford, CT
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week I travelled to San Diego for another opportunity to visit with my credit union
buddies at CUNA Mutual Group's annual Discovery Conference. We were exploring the
topic of passion, and I came home to a fantastic pile of quotes submitted by Ripples
Readers from around the U.S. (and Canada, and a few from around the world!). These
quotes really reminded me that while vision is important in creating a great life, the
essential ingredient as that we keep going! The farther we travel, the more we see, and
the more we see, the farther we want to travel! It is an important cycle of growth, and I
challenge you this week to choose an area of your life that feels neglected and trudge
forward a few steps and hopefully you will find a new view that will inspire you farther!
As always, I wish for you and everyone:
Peace!
Paul
Monday, June 7, 2004
Ripples v6.21: Ripples of YOUR SHIP!
Ripples v6.21: Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
You will recognize your own path when you come upon it,
because you will suddenly have all the energy and
imagination you will ever need.
-Jerry Gillies, submitted by Pat J. Wauwatosa, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Don't sit on the pier waiting for your proverbial "ship"
full of all your dreams, hopes, and wishes.
All the things you want in life already surround you.
Open your heart, reach out your hand, and
put in a little effort to pull your "ship" ashore.
written and submitted by Nicole Placek, Columbus, OH
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I'm back! Thank you SOOO much for your patience as
I took a few weeks off to rest. The brief respite from
Ripples and my crazy travel schedule has me refueled
and ready to jump back into life!!
This week's quotes are a about transforming a dream
into a "to-do" and then DOING IT! I dare you to brush off
an idea you've been wishing-hoping would come to life
and take some concrete action to make it happen!
Go!
Peace,
Paul
***************************************************************************
Ripples: a FREE weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project
archives: http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/eRipples
store: http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/store/browse.cfm
subscribe FREE: blank email to Join@TheRipplesProject.org
unsubscribe: blank email to Leave@TheRipplesProject.org
submissions: send a quote to Submissions@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
You will recognize your own path when you come upon it,
because you will suddenly have all the energy and
imagination you will ever need.
-Jerry Gillies, submitted by Pat J. Wauwatosa, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Don't sit on the pier waiting for your proverbial "ship"
full of all your dreams, hopes, and wishes.
All the things you want in life already surround you.
Open your heart, reach out your hand, and
put in a little effort to pull your "ship" ashore.
written and submitted by Nicole Placek, Columbus, OH
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I'm back! Thank you SOOO much for your patience as
I took a few weeks off to rest. The brief respite from
Ripples and my crazy travel schedule has me refueled
and ready to jump back into life!!
This week's quotes are a about transforming a dream
into a "to-do" and then DOING IT! I dare you to brush off
an idea you've been wishing-hoping would come to life
and take some concrete action to make it happen!
Go!
Peace,
Paul
***************************************************************************
Ripples: a FREE weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project
archives: http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/eRipples
store: http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/store/browse.cfm
subscribe FREE: blank email to Join@TheRipplesProject.org
unsubscribe: blank email to Leave@TheRipplesProject.org
submissions: send a quote to Submissions@TheRipplesProject.org
Monday, May 17, 2004
Ripples v6.20: Ripples of SILENCE!
Ripples v6.20: Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Learn to get in touch with the silence within yourself
and know that everything in this life has a purpose.
-Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, submitted by Trish R., Flagstaff, AZ
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Everyone should carefully observe
Which way their heart draws them,
And then follow that way
With all their strength.
-source unknown, submitted by Kerry K., Jackson, MI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I found some time to be silent this week, and I heard a request for
more silence. I am going to honor that request by pressing PAUSE
on Ripples. For the first time in the almost six years of Ripples,
I shall skip the next few "Monday Morning Splashes" and I promise
a renewed, replenished Paul upon my return.
In the meantime, try this:
Shhhhhhhhhhhh.
Get really quiet for a moment.
Listen to your thoughts.
Listen to your feelings,
Listen to your soul.
Act upon what you hear,
Trust your truth.
Peace,
Paul
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Learn to get in touch with the silence within yourself
and know that everything in this life has a purpose.
-Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, submitted by Trish R., Flagstaff, AZ
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Everyone should carefully observe
Which way their heart draws them,
And then follow that way
With all their strength.
-source unknown, submitted by Kerry K., Jackson, MI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I found some time to be silent this week, and I heard a request for
more silence. I am going to honor that request by pressing PAUSE
on Ripples. For the first time in the almost six years of Ripples,
I shall skip the next few "Monday Morning Splashes" and I promise
a renewed, replenished Paul upon my return.
In the meantime, try this:
Shhhhhhhhhhhh.
Get really quiet for a moment.
Listen to your thoughts.
Listen to your feelings,
Listen to your soul.
Act upon what you hear,
Trust your truth.
Peace,
Paul
Monday, May 10, 2004
Ripples v6.19: Ripples of YOUR QUEST!
Ripples v6.19: Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
If we did all we were capable of doing,
we would literally astonish ourselves.
-Thomas Edison, submitted by Ruth M., Janesville, Wisconsin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Without a quest, life is quickly reduced to bleak black and wimpy white,
a diet too bland to get anybody out of bed in the morning.
A quest fuels our fire.
It refuses to let us drift downstream gathering debris.
-Charles Swindoll, submitted by Mia W., Greensboro, North Carolina
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I do apologize if you didn't receive last week's Ripples. We will have a new system by fall, but until then we will unfortunately be straining our current set up. Ah, the growing pains of adolescence! Please
know you can ALWAYS peek at our archives to see previous issues:
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/eRipples
We are on a quest here at The Ripples Project to build a sturdy new home that will allow all of us to
create more powerful and more sustainable Ripples. And what is YOUR quest? What have you been
thinking about doing that you need to stop thinking about and start DOING? If you have been
depressed or frustrated or feeling held back lately, choose today to recall what mission had you fired
up and take some action to get back on track.
C'mon, I know you have it in you! I believe your actions could be especially effective this week! GO!
Peace,
Paul
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
If we did all we were capable of doing,
we would literally astonish ourselves.
-Thomas Edison, submitted by Ruth M., Janesville, Wisconsin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Without a quest, life is quickly reduced to bleak black and wimpy white,
a diet too bland to get anybody out of bed in the morning.
A quest fuels our fire.
It refuses to let us drift downstream gathering debris.
-Charles Swindoll, submitted by Mia W., Greensboro, North Carolina
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I do apologize if you didn't receive last week's Ripples. We will have a new system by fall, but until then we will unfortunately be straining our current set up. Ah, the growing pains of adolescence! Please
know you can ALWAYS peek at our archives to see previous issues:
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/eRipples
We are on a quest here at The Ripples Project to build a sturdy new home that will allow all of us to
create more powerful and more sustainable Ripples. And what is YOUR quest? What have you been
thinking about doing that you need to stop thinking about and start DOING? If you have been
depressed or frustrated or feeling held back lately, choose today to recall what mission had you fired
up and take some action to get back on track.
C'mon, I know you have it in you! I believe your actions could be especially effective this week! GO!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, May 3, 2004
Ripples v6.18: Ripples of MAGICAL MOMENTS!
Ripples v6.18: Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The happiness of life is made up of little things -
a smile, a hug, a moment of shared laughter.
-source unknown, submitted by Vickie B., Indianapolis, IN
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Waking up this morning, I smile.
Twenty four brand new hours are before me.
I vow to live fully in each moment and
to look at all beings with eyes of compassion.
Thich Nh'at Hanh, submitted by Troy M., Burlington, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Stop right this instant, and take one moment to think of some small
gift you received yesterday (a smile, a phone call, a hug, etc.) and
then choose someone who today will receive a small gift from you.
Now, GO!
Peace,
Paul
P.S. Thanks for the hundreds of sympathy emails and cards last week!
Ripples Readers Rock!
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The happiness of life is made up of little things -
a smile, a hug, a moment of shared laughter.
-source unknown, submitted by Vickie B., Indianapolis, IN
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Waking up this morning, I smile.
Twenty four brand new hours are before me.
I vow to live fully in each moment and
to look at all beings with eyes of compassion.
Thich Nh'at Hanh, submitted by Troy M., Burlington, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Stop right this instant, and take one moment to think of some small
gift you received yesterday (a smile, a phone call, a hug, etc.) and
then choose someone who today will receive a small gift from you.
Now, GO!
Peace,
Paul
P.S. Thanks for the hundreds of sympathy emails and cards last week!
Ripples Readers Rock!
Monday, April 26, 2004
Ripples v6.17: Ripples of HEART CURRENCY!
Ripples v6.17: Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 11,000+
This issue of Ripples is dedicated to my pop, Robert Wesselmann (1926-2004).
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We are, all of us, molded and remolded by those who have loved us.
No love, no friendship, can cross the path of our destiny
without leaving some mark upon it forever.
-source unknown, submitted by K.B., Richmond, Indiana
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Joy, sorrow, care, courage,
and tenderness are real.
Kindness is real.
Tears are real,
and so is laughter.
These are the currency of the heart.
They are meant to be exchanged.
-Gary Zukav, submitted by Katherine B.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week was a whirlwind of planned and unplanned reunions for me.
I began in New Mexico to help out with the NIRSA (Natl Intramural Rec.
Sports Assn) conference where I enjoyed connecting with old and new
buddies as well as spending some time in the mountains that I love so
much. I then rushed back to the midwest to hang out with my good
friends at MPI (Meeting Professionals Intl) Wisconsin Chapter and also
made some new friends at an event for rising leaders at Mercury Marine.
By the end of the week I was with my family, unfortunately on the sad
occasion of my father's passing. Gary Zukav's quote above captures
well the bizarre combination of joy and sorrow that wove through my
week. By the time I arrived back home, exhausted from the physical
and emotional journeys, the seemingly opposite emotions appeared
more complementary. I viewed them not as "good" and "bad," but
instead simply as different ways of deepening my connections to others,
opportunities to remember that as human beings our souls exist
primarily to seek and support each other.
I hope you can take a moment from your crazy week to renew or
deepen a "soul connection" that needs attention in your life!
Peace,
Paul
This issue of Ripples is dedicated to my pop, Robert Wesselmann (1926-2004).
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We are, all of us, molded and remolded by those who have loved us.
No love, no friendship, can cross the path of our destiny
without leaving some mark upon it forever.
-source unknown, submitted by K.B., Richmond, Indiana
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Joy, sorrow, care, courage,
and tenderness are real.
Kindness is real.
Tears are real,
and so is laughter.
These are the currency of the heart.
They are meant to be exchanged.
-Gary Zukav, submitted by Katherine B.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week was a whirlwind of planned and unplanned reunions for me.
I began in New Mexico to help out with the NIRSA (Natl Intramural Rec.
Sports Assn) conference where I enjoyed connecting with old and new
buddies as well as spending some time in the mountains that I love so
much. I then rushed back to the midwest to hang out with my good
friends at MPI (Meeting Professionals Intl) Wisconsin Chapter and also
made some new friends at an event for rising leaders at Mercury Marine.
By the end of the week I was with my family, unfortunately on the sad
occasion of my father's passing. Gary Zukav's quote above captures
well the bizarre combination of joy and sorrow that wove through my
week. By the time I arrived back home, exhausted from the physical
and emotional journeys, the seemingly opposite emotions appeared
more complementary. I viewed them not as "good" and "bad," but
instead simply as different ways of deepening my connections to others,
opportunities to remember that as human beings our souls exist
primarily to seek and support each other.
I hope you can take a moment from your crazy week to renew or
deepen a "soul connection" that needs attention in your life!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, April 19, 2004
Ripples v6.16: Ripples of FRONT PORCHES!
Ripples v6.16: Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 10,000+
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love,
a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.
-Mother Teresa
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
How far you go in life depends on you being tender with the young,
compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving
and tolerant of the weak and the strong.
Because someday in life you will have been all of these.
-George Washington Carver, submitted by Marcia, Grand Rapids, MI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Last week we asked for members to submit their favorite websites so
we could model our new website (coming in July!) after the best sites
out there. One of the sites was about a guy named Scott who decided
several years ago to wear a nametag everywhere he went. He found it
made it easier to meet engage with other people because suddenly
strangers were more likely to strike up a conversation. In stores,
he is often mistaken for an employee so he frequently just takes on
the roll and helps the person find an item or an answer or a
solution. His term for an object (like a nametag) or behavior that
increases approachability is a "front porch." Front porches,
according to his website, reduce uncertainty, create comfort, and
contribute to a better connected society.
I agree with Scott, and I challenge you this week to create a front
porch of your own. Find a way to make it easier for people to engage
you, whether that is a colorful broach or a smiley face or a book you
carry or just a big ole smile on your face! (If you would like other
suggestions for front porches, and to read Scott's disclaimer about
the dangers of wearing a nametag everywhere, I encourage you to visit
his website: http://www.HelloMyNameIsScott.com/ )
Peace,
Paul
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love,
a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.
-Mother Teresa
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
How far you go in life depends on you being tender with the young,
compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving
and tolerant of the weak and the strong.
Because someday in life you will have been all of these.
-George Washington Carver, submitted by Marcia, Grand Rapids, MI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Last week we asked for members to submit their favorite websites so
we could model our new website (coming in July!) after the best sites
out there. One of the sites was about a guy named Scott who decided
several years ago to wear a nametag everywhere he went. He found it
made it easier to meet engage with other people because suddenly
strangers were more likely to strike up a conversation. In stores,
he is often mistaken for an employee so he frequently just takes on
the roll and helps the person find an item or an answer or a
solution. His term for an object (like a nametag) or behavior that
increases approachability is a "front porch." Front porches,
according to his website, reduce uncertainty, create comfort, and
contribute to a better connected society.
I agree with Scott, and I challenge you this week to create a front
porch of your own. Find a way to make it easier for people to engage
you, whether that is a colorful broach or a smiley face or a book you
carry or just a big ole smile on your face! (If you would like other
suggestions for front porches, and to read Scott's disclaimer about
the dangers of wearing a nametag everywhere, I encourage you to visit
his website: http://www.HelloMyNameIsScott.com/ )
Peace,
Paul
Monday, April 12, 2004
Ripples v6.15: Ripples of WORK CLOTHES!
Ripples v6.15: Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 10,000+
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Motivation is when your dreams put on work clothes.
-Parkes Robinson, submitted by Reta D., Sandy, Utah
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The potential of the average person
is like a huge ocean unsailed,
a new continent unexplored,
a world of possibilities waiting to be released
and channeled toward some great good.
-Brian Tracy, submitted by Cythia P.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We are about to roll up our sleeves here at The Ripples Project and we could really use some help! It is
time to create a more reliable system for sending out our emails to the ever-expanding membership
(10,700 and growing!). Step one is to identify a list of incredible websites that we can model
ourselves after, either in design or functionality. We need YOUR help in compiling the list!
Can you identify a few websites that you think are visually stunning or have magnificent functionality
(either in terms of moving around the site or having cool, ripply components that we could adapt to
create a site that encourages visitors to create small waves of kindness)?
Let's Share! Anyone who sends us at least two sites by the end of this week will receive a list of all
the sites that are recommended! Thanks in advance for your help!
Peace,
Paul
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Motivation is when your dreams put on work clothes.
-Parkes Robinson, submitted by Reta D., Sandy, Utah
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The potential of the average person
is like a huge ocean unsailed,
a new continent unexplored,
a world of possibilities waiting to be released
and channeled toward some great good.
-Brian Tracy, submitted by Cythia P.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We are about to roll up our sleeves here at The Ripples Project and we could really use some help! It is
time to create a more reliable system for sending out our emails to the ever-expanding membership
(10,700 and growing!). Step one is to identify a list of incredible websites that we can model
ourselves after, either in design or functionality. We need YOUR help in compiling the list!
Can you identify a few websites that you think are visually stunning or have magnificent functionality
(either in terms of moving around the site or having cool, ripply components that we could adapt to
create a site that encourages visitors to create small waves of kindness)?
Let's Share! Anyone who sends us at least two sites by the end of this week will receive a list of all
the sites that are recommended! Thanks in advance for your help!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, April 5, 2004
Ripples v6.14: Ripples of a KALEIDOSCOPE!
Ripples v6.14: Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 10,000+
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Life is like an ever-shifting kaleidoscope-
a slight change, and all patterns alter.
-Sharon Salzberg, submitted by C. C., Longview, WA
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Life is not a journey to the grave
with the intention of arriving safely
in a pretty and well preserved body.
But rather to skid in broadside,
thoroughly used up,
totally worn out, and
loudly proclaiming:
"WOW---WHAT A RIDE!"
-source unknown, submitted by D. D.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Please allow me to apologize if you did not receive last week's issue of Ripples! Our
system sent out the first 2,000, but then decided the rest of us didn't need our weekly splash! ARG! We
had a team of folks working to resolve the problem and if you receive this issue then we found the
solution! Last week's issue (which included a welcome to Marijane, our new Kindness Coordinator!)
can be viewed at our archives: http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/eRipples
Speaking of Marijane, one of her first tasks was to randomly choose a member from last
month's "quote submitters" to receive an official Ripples t-shirt! Congrats to Tracy M! Of course, Ripples depends upon the kindness of members to submit awesome quotes. Each month we give away a t-shirt and WE NEED MORE QUOTES! For information: http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/
TeeShirt.html
Peace,
Paul
p.s. Do something remarkable this week that will help you proclaim "WOW--WHAT A
RIDE!" by Friday!
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Life is like an ever-shifting kaleidoscope-
a slight change, and all patterns alter.
-Sharon Salzberg, submitted by C. C., Longview, WA
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Life is not a journey to the grave
with the intention of arriving safely
in a pretty and well preserved body.
But rather to skid in broadside,
thoroughly used up,
totally worn out, and
loudly proclaiming:
"WOW---WHAT A RIDE!"
-source unknown, submitted by D. D.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Please allow me to apologize if you did not receive last week's issue of Ripples! Our
system sent out the first 2,000, but then decided the rest of us didn't need our weekly splash! ARG! We
had a team of folks working to resolve the problem and if you receive this issue then we found the
solution! Last week's issue (which included a welcome to Marijane, our new Kindness Coordinator!)
can be viewed at our archives: http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/eRipples
Speaking of Marijane, one of her first tasks was to randomly choose a member from last
month's "quote submitters" to receive an official Ripples t-shirt! Congrats to Tracy M! Of course, Ripples depends upon the kindness of members to submit awesome quotes. Each month we give away a t-shirt and WE NEED MORE QUOTES! For information: http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/
TeeShirt.html
Peace,
Paul
p.s. Do something remarkable this week that will help you proclaim "WOW--WHAT A
RIDE!" by Friday!
Monday, March 29, 2004
Ripples v6.13: Ripples of WELCOME!
Ripples v6.13: Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 10,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Dare to be remarkable.
-Jane Gentry, submitted by Elizabeth R., Portland, Oregon
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The potential of the average person
is like a huge ocean unsailed,
a new continent unexplored,
a world of possibilities waiting to be released
and channeled toward some great good.
-Brian Tracy, submitted by Cythia P.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Please allow me to introduce our new Kindness Coordinator, Marijane Curry! Marijane is a longtime resident of Madison and spent 30 years at Kraft Foods (most recently in "Lunchables" product development), as well as a few part time jobs to satisfy her thirst for new experiences. I asked her to share a bit about her adventures in life: "I am a former 60's hippy and participated in the anti-Vietnam
war and civil rights movements. When I married Sherman we could not rent in certain sections of Madison because he was black. I have a daughter who is a dancer, an opera singer and a poet. I love
horticulture, hiking, music and internet surfing. I basically believe that all people are good and we just need to understand and appreciate the differences and go forward to help change the world. I am looking forward to the Kindness Coordinator position as a great way to connect to all sorts of people and give them that moment of sunshine in a sometimes cloudy day." Cool lady, eh? We are so glad to have her aboard!
Peace,
Paul
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Dare to be remarkable.
-Jane Gentry, submitted by Elizabeth R., Portland, Oregon
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The potential of the average person
is like a huge ocean unsailed,
a new continent unexplored,
a world of possibilities waiting to be released
and channeled toward some great good.
-Brian Tracy, submitted by Cythia P.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Please allow me to introduce our new Kindness Coordinator, Marijane Curry! Marijane is a longtime resident of Madison and spent 30 years at Kraft Foods (most recently in "Lunchables" product development), as well as a few part time jobs to satisfy her thirst for new experiences. I asked her to share a bit about her adventures in life: "I am a former 60's hippy and participated in the anti-Vietnam
war and civil rights movements. When I married Sherman we could not rent in certain sections of Madison because he was black. I have a daughter who is a dancer, an opera singer and a poet. I love
horticulture, hiking, music and internet surfing. I basically believe that all people are good and we just need to understand and appreciate the differences and go forward to help change the world. I am looking forward to the Kindness Coordinator position as a great way to connect to all sorts of people and give them that moment of sunshine in a sometimes cloudy day." Cool lady, eh? We are so glad to have her aboard!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, March 22, 2004
Ripples v6.12: Ripples of LESLIE!
Ripples v6.12: Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 10,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Don't be dismayed at good-byes. A farewell is necessary before you can meet again. And meeting again, after moments or lifetimes, is certain for those who are friends.
-Richard Bach
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Fly free and happy beyond birthdays
and across forever,
and we'll meet now and then when we wish,
in the midst of the one celebration that never can end.
-Richard Bach
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Many of you have traded emails, talked on the phone, or received your orders from our Kindness Coordinator, Leslie. Long time members of The Ripples Project may even remember a poem she wrote that originally appeared during our first year. After 18 months of utilizing her remarkable creative talents (Leslie was the driving force behind our online store expansion from a few cards to over 30 Ripply goodies!), this week Leslie transitions from staff member back into her previous role as "member extraordinaire." We will still benefit from her presence, luckily, and I will be forever grateful for the time and considerable love she poured into The Ripples Project! Good luck with the next chapter in your adventurous life!
Peace,
Paul
p.s. Tune in next week to learn about who is in store for us next!
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Don't be dismayed at good-byes. A farewell is necessary before you can meet again. And meeting again, after moments or lifetimes, is certain for those who are friends.
-Richard Bach
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Fly free and happy beyond birthdays
and across forever,
and we'll meet now and then when we wish,
in the midst of the one celebration that never can end.
-Richard Bach
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Many of you have traded emails, talked on the phone, or received your orders from our Kindness Coordinator, Leslie. Long time members of The Ripples Project may even remember a poem she wrote that originally appeared during our first year. After 18 months of utilizing her remarkable creative talents (Leslie was the driving force behind our online store expansion from a few cards to over 30 Ripply goodies!), this week Leslie transitions from staff member back into her previous role as "member extraordinaire." We will still benefit from her presence, luckily, and I will be forever grateful for the time and considerable love she poured into The Ripples Project! Good luck with the next chapter in your adventurous life!
Peace,
Paul
p.s. Tune in next week to learn about who is in store for us next!
Monday, March 15, 2004
Ripples v6.11: Ripples of IRISH WISHES!
Ripples v6.11: Paul's FREE Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 10,000+
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
May your right hand always be stretched out in friendship, but never in want.
-Irish toast, submitted by Amy S., Wisconsin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
May your thoughts be as glad as the shamrocks.
May your heart be as light as a song.
May each day bring you bright happy hours,
That stay with you all year long.
For each petal on the shamrock
This brings a wish your way ---
Good health, good luck, and happiness
For today and every day.
-Irish Blessing, submitted by Mary S., Madison, Wisconsin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week found me hanging out with a crew of fellow trainers up in
the Wisconsin Dells, exploring ways to enhance our effectiveness. We
agreed that the more FUN we infused into our presentations, the more
likely our students could retain and apply the information provided.
It may seem like an obvious point, but FUN seems to be reserved
exclusively for kindergarten classes these days! I dare you to bring
some FUN to a meeting or presentation or conversation you have
scheduled this week. Share some goodies, wear a wacky hat, or have
everyone sing a song. Will it be silly? Of course! And the smiles
will linger, I promise!
Speaking of fun, we have some REALLY fun new greeting cards in our
store that we designed just for you! Take a peek and remember that
your purchase helps us create more ripples!
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/store/browse.cfm
Peace,
Paul
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
May your right hand always be stretched out in friendship, but never in want.
-Irish toast, submitted by Amy S., Wisconsin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
May your thoughts be as glad as the shamrocks.
May your heart be as light as a song.
May each day bring you bright happy hours,
That stay with you all year long.
For each petal on the shamrock
This brings a wish your way ---
Good health, good luck, and happiness
For today and every day.
-Irish Blessing, submitted by Mary S., Madison, Wisconsin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This week found me hanging out with a crew of fellow trainers up in
the Wisconsin Dells, exploring ways to enhance our effectiveness. We
agreed that the more FUN we infused into our presentations, the more
likely our students could retain and apply the information provided.
It may seem like an obvious point, but FUN seems to be reserved
exclusively for kindergarten classes these days! I dare you to bring
some FUN to a meeting or presentation or conversation you have
scheduled this week. Share some goodies, wear a wacky hat, or have
everyone sing a song. Will it be silly? Of course! And the smiles
will linger, I promise!
Speaking of fun, we have some REALLY fun new greeting cards in our
store that we designed just for you! Take a peek and remember that
your purchase helps us create more ripples!
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/store/browse.cfm
Peace,
Paul
Monday, March 8, 2004
Ripples v6.10: Ripples of MESSY SPAGHETTI!
Ripples v6.10: Paul's Free Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 10,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
Life is like spaghetti - kinda messy sometimes, but really good!
-Tracy M.'s 5 year-old son, submitted by Tracy
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Believe in your dreams.
If the road you're traveling seems
all uphill, never quit.
For what's far will be near
and your hopes will win out
if you hold on to your dreams and never doubt.
-J. Bergsma, submitted by Sarah B., Eland, Wisconsin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
A few dozen people received special Ripple Awards last week, thanks
to engaged readers who took it upon themselves to nominate a friend
or coworker or neighbor. There were Ripple Awards for Friendship,
Understanding, Generosity, Amazing Dedication, Most Inspiring Sister,
Best Programmer Ever, and even one called "Ripple Award for Just
Being You!"
All of them were awesome, and I am sharing one because Emily did a
magnificent job of being specific and sincere. Both Sarah and Emily
will receive a bundle of Ripples Goodies from our online store.
Ripple Award for Perseverance and Dedication
This award goes to Sarah for displaying perseverance and dedication
while searching for a job.
Sarah has always been a caring and compassionate person. Thinking of
others always before herself is common practice for this bride to be and
it is good to see that her love for others and dedication to success has
landed her a job. Sarah was out of work during a stressful time,
through the holidays and while she was planning her wedding, but the
smile never left her face. She always kept her great and positive
disposition and continued to give more than she was receiving. Being
without work in the holidays can be stressful, but not when you have as
big of a heart as my sister. She still continued to purchase gifts for
the less fortunate, when most people in her situation would consider
themselves the less fortunate one.
Sarah starts her new job today and I am very proud of her and proud to
have a sister that I can admire. She has always displayed strength and
resilience and for that she should receive the honor in being named the
winner of the Ripples Project Award!
It is easy to be satisfied when the sun is shining on your face and the
wind is at your back, but great character is displayed when the
situation is reversed and you are still smiling. That quote is how I
would describe my sister, Sarah!
Peace,
Paul
p.s. It is not too late for you to send a Ripple Award to someone you know!
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
Life is like spaghetti - kinda messy sometimes, but really good!
-Tracy M.'s 5 year-old son, submitted by Tracy
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Believe in your dreams.
If the road you're traveling seems
all uphill, never quit.
For what's far will be near
and your hopes will win out
if you hold on to your dreams and never doubt.
-J. Bergsma, submitted by Sarah B., Eland, Wisconsin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
A few dozen people received special Ripple Awards last week, thanks
to engaged readers who took it upon themselves to nominate a friend
or coworker or neighbor. There were Ripple Awards for Friendship,
Understanding, Generosity, Amazing Dedication, Most Inspiring Sister,
Best Programmer Ever, and even one called "Ripple Award for Just
Being You!"
All of them were awesome, and I am sharing one because Emily did a
magnificent job of being specific and sincere. Both Sarah and Emily
will receive a bundle of Ripples Goodies from our online store.
Ripple Award for Perseverance and Dedication
This award goes to Sarah for displaying perseverance and dedication
while searching for a job.
Sarah has always been a caring and compassionate person. Thinking of
others always before herself is common practice for this bride to be and
it is good to see that her love for others and dedication to success has
landed her a job. Sarah was out of work during a stressful time,
through the holidays and while she was planning her wedding, but the
smile never left her face. She always kept her great and positive
disposition and continued to give more than she was receiving. Being
without work in the holidays can be stressful, but not when you have as
big of a heart as my sister. She still continued to purchase gifts for
the less fortunate, when most people in her situation would consider
themselves the less fortunate one.
Sarah starts her new job today and I am very proud of her and proud to
have a sister that I can admire. She has always displayed strength and
resilience and for that she should receive the honor in being named the
winner of the Ripples Project Award!
It is easy to be satisfied when the sun is shining on your face and the
wind is at your back, but great character is displayed when the
situation is reversed and you are still smiling. That quote is how I
would describe my sister, Sarah!
Peace,
Paul
p.s. It is not too late for you to send a Ripple Award to someone you know!
Monday, March 1, 2004
Ripples v6.09: Ripples of AWARDING OTHERS!
Ripples v6.09: Paul's Free Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 10,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
Encouragement is oxygen to the soul.
-George M. Adams, submitted by Reta D., Sandy, Utah
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
It's an interesting phenomenon,
at times of loss and tragedy,
the best of us comes out.
Could it be a different life for everybody
if we remain mindful that the best of us
should be present at all times?
-Dick Hage, submitted by Brooke T.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I am gearing up to watch the Academy Awards this evening, and it has
given me an idea: Ripples Awards! Not awards that we here at TRP
Central give out, though. What if YOU email someone in your life
that deserves acknowledgement or needs a bit of encouragement?
For example, my friend Brian visited this weekend and helped me
decide how to invest some money, so I nominate him for a "Ripple
Award for Financial Genius!." Or perhaps my friends Jeff, Aaron, and
Ron need to each receive a "Ripple Award for Brainstorming Talent!"
for some excellent support they offered recently. Think of someone
that has helped you or your family or your team or your community and
thank them by delivering your OWN Ripple Award! Just put "Ripple
Award for _____" as the Subject Line, and in the text of the email
tell them that you had a challenge to give out an award this week and
they won!
In fact, when you email your award winner this week, send a blind
copy to "Award@TheRipplesProject.org" and we will select one to win a
packet of Ripples Goodies!
Peace,
Paul
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
Encouragement is oxygen to the soul.
-George M. Adams, submitted by Reta D., Sandy, Utah
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
It's an interesting phenomenon,
at times of loss and tragedy,
the best of us comes out.
Could it be a different life for everybody
if we remain mindful that the best of us
should be present at all times?
-Dick Hage, submitted by Brooke T.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I am gearing up to watch the Academy Awards this evening, and it has
given me an idea: Ripples Awards! Not awards that we here at TRP
Central give out, though. What if YOU email someone in your life
that deserves acknowledgement or needs a bit of encouragement?
For example, my friend Brian visited this weekend and helped me
decide how to invest some money, so I nominate him for a "Ripple
Award for Financial Genius!." Or perhaps my friends Jeff, Aaron, and
Ron need to each receive a "Ripple Award for Brainstorming Talent!"
for some excellent support they offered recently. Think of someone
that has helped you or your family or your team or your community and
thank them by delivering your OWN Ripple Award! Just put "Ripple
Award for _____" as the Subject Line, and in the text of the email
tell them that you had a challenge to give out an award this week and
they won!
In fact, when you email your award winner this week, send a blind
copy to "Award@TheRipplesProject.org" and we will select one to win a
packet of Ripples Goodies!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, February 23, 2004
Ripples v6.08: Ripples of DOING MORE!
Ripples v6.08: Paul's Free Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 10,000+
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
Whatever you want to do, do it now.
There are only so many tomorrows.
-Michael Landon, submitted by Mandy P., Oxford, OH
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Do more than exist: live.
Do more than touch: feel.
Do more than look: observe.
Do more than read: absorb.
Do more than hear: listen.
Do more than listen: understand.
Do more than think: reflect.
Do more than just talk: say something.
-source unknown, submitted by Sara D., Salt Lake City, Utah
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
It is my job some weeks to challenge you, other weeks to encourage
you, and occasionally to thank you. This week my job is to ask you:
Toward what goal do you need to DO MORE? What relationship will
deepen when you DO MORE? How can your week improve as you DO MORE?
Ponder, and then DO MORE!!!
Peace,
Paul
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
Whatever you want to do, do it now.
There are only so many tomorrows.
-Michael Landon, submitted by Mandy P., Oxford, OH
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Do more than exist: live.
Do more than touch: feel.
Do more than look: observe.
Do more than read: absorb.
Do more than hear: listen.
Do more than listen: understand.
Do more than think: reflect.
Do more than just talk: say something.
-source unknown, submitted by Sara D., Salt Lake City, Utah
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
It is my job some weeks to challenge you, other weeks to encourage
you, and occasionally to thank you. This week my job is to ask you:
Toward what goal do you need to DO MORE? What relationship will
deepen when you DO MORE? How can your week improve as you DO MORE?
Ponder, and then DO MORE!!!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, February 16, 2004
Ripples v6.07: Ripples of TRANSFORMATION!
Ripples v6.07: Paul's Free Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 10,000+
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
Life at any time can become difficult: life at any time can become easy.
It all depends upon how one adjusts oneself to life.
-Morarji Desai
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We need to remember that the wind moves the trees,
the trees do not move the trees.
When it comes to embracing change,
we would do well to stop trying to control everyone and everything
and start learning how to be aerodynamic.
-Mark Hensley, submitted by Mark
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Last week I enjoyed another fun day with my friends at Procter &
Gamble (on the plane ride home I shared Pringles and squirted
Fabreeze!). We spent some time exploring new ways to face and
embrace the many changes that constantly unfold around us. It
reminded me that change can be difficult, frustrating, scary and
ultimately EXCITING if we approach it with the right attitude. I
hope the quotes above serve as a gentle nudge that while we often
attempt to control the situation and people around us, real control
comes from accepting: we cannot change them, we cannot change many
of the circumstances we encounter, but we can change us! So, if you
are resisting an upcoming (or already here!) transition; let go of
fixing everyone else and hold on to enjoying the ride!
Peace,
Paul
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
Life at any time can become difficult: life at any time can become easy.
It all depends upon how one adjusts oneself to life.
-Morarji Desai
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We need to remember that the wind moves the trees,
the trees do not move the trees.
When it comes to embracing change,
we would do well to stop trying to control everyone and everything
and start learning how to be aerodynamic.
-Mark Hensley, submitted by Mark
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Last week I enjoyed another fun day with my friends at Procter &
Gamble (on the plane ride home I shared Pringles and squirted
Fabreeze!). We spent some time exploring new ways to face and
embrace the many changes that constantly unfold around us. It
reminded me that change can be difficult, frustrating, scary and
ultimately EXCITING if we approach it with the right attitude. I
hope the quotes above serve as a gentle nudge that while we often
attempt to control the situation and people around us, real control
comes from accepting: we cannot change them, we cannot change many
of the circumstances we encounter, but we can change us! So, if you
are resisting an upcoming (or already here!) transition; let go of
fixing everyone else and hold on to enjoying the ride!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, February 9, 2004
Ripples v6.06: Ripples of SMILES!
Ripples v6.06: Paul's Free Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 10,000+
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
Every time you smile at someone,
it is an action of love, a gift to that person,
a beautiful thing.
-Mother Teresa
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Before you ever receive the
wonderful treasures of a happy life,
you must first give.
Give of yourself.
Be of service to others.
Only what you give can be multiplied back into your own life.
That is the law of the harvest, the law of the ten-fold return.
If you give nothing, even if it is multiplied, you receive nothing.
-Mary Kay, submitted by Shelley G., San Antonio, TX
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I was traveling this week and encountered a flight
attendant with the finest, most genuine smile I have ever seen.
I watched him interact with the other people on the flight and he
seemed to have a new, sincere smile for each person he greeted.
It was small, kind, and real!
I decided we should all practice our smiles this week.
I challenge you to make every interaction an opportunity
to rehearse the magnificent act of smiling.
Whether you're asking a co-worker or classmate for a favor,
paying for your lunch at a restaurant, or simply arriving
home to family or roommates; I hope you can find your smile and
USE IT!
And maybe send an email to the best smiler you know to say,
"You're awesome!"
Peace,
Paul
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
Every time you smile at someone,
it is an action of love, a gift to that person,
a beautiful thing.
-Mother Teresa
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Before you ever receive the
wonderful treasures of a happy life,
you must first give.
Give of yourself.
Be of service to others.
Only what you give can be multiplied back into your own life.
That is the law of the harvest, the law of the ten-fold return.
If you give nothing, even if it is multiplied, you receive nothing.
-Mary Kay, submitted by Shelley G., San Antonio, TX
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I was traveling this week and encountered a flight
attendant with the finest, most genuine smile I have ever seen.
I watched him interact with the other people on the flight and he
seemed to have a new, sincere smile for each person he greeted.
It was small, kind, and real!
I decided we should all practice our smiles this week.
I challenge you to make every interaction an opportunity
to rehearse the magnificent act of smiling.
Whether you're asking a co-worker or classmate for a favor,
paying for your lunch at a restaurant, or simply arriving
home to family or roommates; I hope you can find your smile and
USE IT!
And maybe send an email to the best smiler you know to say,
"You're awesome!"
Peace,
Paul
Monday, February 2, 2004
Ripples v6.05: Ripples of Significant!
Ripples v6.05: Paul's Free Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 10,000+
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
It's not about being successful. It's about being significant.
-Oprah Winfrey, submitted by Holly B., Salem, OR
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I swear I will not dishonor
my soul with hatred,
but offer myself humbly
as a guardian of nature,
as a healer of misery,
as a messenger of wonder,
as an architect of peace.
-Diane Ackerman, submitted by Ruth, Janesville, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
You matter. You do! More people than you realize count on you; more
people than you know are better off because of your contribution to
the world. Ponder that this week as you dive into your work, your
studies, your life. Do what you can to give 100% to your efforts
because they are significant!!
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
It's not about being successful. It's about being significant.
-Oprah Winfrey, submitted by Holly B., Salem, OR
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I swear I will not dishonor
my soul with hatred,
but offer myself humbly
as a guardian of nature,
as a healer of misery,
as a messenger of wonder,
as an architect of peace.
-Diane Ackerman, submitted by Ruth, Janesville, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
You matter. You do! More people than you realize count on you; more
people than you know are better off because of your contribution to
the world. Ponder that this week as you dive into your work, your
studies, your life. Do what you can to give 100% to your efforts
because they are significant!!
Monday, January 26, 2004
Ripples v6.04: Ripples of LOVE!
Ripples v6.04: Paul's Free Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 10,000+
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLES =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
In dreams and in love, there are no impossibilities.
-Janos Arany, submitted by Kathy R. Appleton, WI
It is not how much we do, but how much love we put in the doing.
It is not how much we give, but how much love we put in the giving.
-Mother Teresa
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDERS =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We are, all of us, molded and remolded by those who have loved us.
No love, no friendship, can cross the path or our destiny
without leaving some mark upon it forever.
-source unknown, submitted by Fran O., Madison, WI
Love is the fire that burns inside us all,
the inner warmth that prevents our soul
from freezing in the winters of despair.
It's the love of life itself.
- Bradley Trevor Greive, submitted by Melissa P.,Morris, MN
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Leslie, our official Coordinator of Kindness, had a great idea: help
readers prepare to create Ripples of Love on Valentine's Day! In
addition to an extra helping of love-related quotes, we found some
inspiring (and inexpensive!) love-oriented items to stock in our
online store (for two weeks only!).
So, if you want to create some ripples of love, pop over to our
online store today (Over 30 items for $5 or less!)!
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/store/browse.cfm
Peace,
Paul
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLES =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
In dreams and in love, there are no impossibilities.
-Janos Arany, submitted by Kathy R. Appleton, WI
It is not how much we do, but how much love we put in the doing.
It is not how much we give, but how much love we put in the giving.
-Mother Teresa
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDERS =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We are, all of us, molded and remolded by those who have loved us.
No love, no friendship, can cross the path or our destiny
without leaving some mark upon it forever.
-source unknown, submitted by Fran O., Madison, WI
Love is the fire that burns inside us all,
the inner warmth that prevents our soul
from freezing in the winters of despair.
It's the love of life itself.
- Bradley Trevor Greive, submitted by Melissa P.,Morris, MN
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Leslie, our official Coordinator of Kindness, had a great idea: help
readers prepare to create Ripples of Love on Valentine's Day! In
addition to an extra helping of love-related quotes, we found some
inspiring (and inexpensive!) love-oriented items to stock in our
online store (for two weeks only!).
So, if you want to create some ripples of love, pop over to our
online store today (Over 30 items for $5 or less!)!
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/store/browse.cfm
Peace,
Paul
Monday, January 19, 2004
Ripples v6.03: Ripples of BECOMING!
Ripples v6.03: Paul's Free Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 10,000+
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
Life should be a continuous celebration
of who you are and who you are becoming.
-written and submitted by Cyndee Schweigert
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We do not grow absolutely, chronologically.
We grow sometimes in one dimension,
and not in another; unevenly.
We grow partially.
We are relative.
We are mature in one realm,
childish in another.
The past, present, and future mingle and
pull us backward, forward, or fix us in the present.
We are made up of layers, cells, constellations.
-Anais Nin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
In between adventures at a retreat with Norwood Custom Homes, a sales
conference with TDS Metrocom/US Link, and a leadership training at
Rowan University, I realized that Ripples had a birthday this week!
It was January 15, 1999 when we sent out our first issue of Ripples
(you can peek at our archives:
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/eRipples ) which means we are five
years old. WOOHOO!
Who would have known that sending a quick splash of inspiration to 75
readers would, five years later, become The Ripples Project, with
over 10,000 subscribers?! Of course, our evolution required a great
deal of support from all of you and so I ask you this week to ponder:
Who YOU are becoming? Who has helped you along the way? Can you
create a ripples with a quick thank you email (or card or phone call)?
Have you noticed that Ripples is becoming more action-oriented? I
want YOU to become more action-oriented also!
Peace,
Paul
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
Life should be a continuous celebration
of who you are and who you are becoming.
-written and submitted by Cyndee Schweigert
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We do not grow absolutely, chronologically.
We grow sometimes in one dimension,
and not in another; unevenly.
We grow partially.
We are relative.
We are mature in one realm,
childish in another.
The past, present, and future mingle and
pull us backward, forward, or fix us in the present.
We are made up of layers, cells, constellations.
-Anais Nin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
In between adventures at a retreat with Norwood Custom Homes, a sales
conference with TDS Metrocom/US Link, and a leadership training at
Rowan University, I realized that Ripples had a birthday this week!
It was January 15, 1999 when we sent out our first issue of Ripples
(you can peek at our archives:
http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/eRipples ) which means we are five
years old. WOOHOO!
Who would have known that sending a quick splash of inspiration to 75
readers would, five years later, become The Ripples Project, with
over 10,000 subscribers?! Of course, our evolution required a great
deal of support from all of you and so I ask you this week to ponder:
Who YOU are becoming? Who has helped you along the way? Can you
create a ripples with a quick thank you email (or card or phone call)?
Have you noticed that Ripples is becoming more action-oriented? I
want YOU to become more action-oriented also!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, January 12, 2004
Ripples v6.02: Ripples of DECISIONS!
Ripples v6.02: Paul's Free Weekly Splash of Inspiration for 10,000+
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
When you make a decision, the universe conspires to make it happen.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson, submitted by Emily K.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Really believe in your heart of hearts
that your fundamental purpose,
the reason for being,
is to enlarge the lives of others.
Your life will be enlarged also.
And all of the other things
we have been taught to concentrate on
will take care of themselves.
- Pete Thigpen, submitted by Julie B., West Bend, Wisconsin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This is the week and today is the day that you DECIDE. You will move
from considering the idea, pondering the options, or sitting on the
fence to choosing a path and taking it. If you are still in doubt,
take these powerful steps: Select an area in your life where a
Decision is needed; identify the available options and then as an
experiment FIRMLY COMMIT to a path for 24 hours. Immediately send an
email to someone telling her/him about your decision and for the rest
of the day let every thought, feeling, and action evolve as though
the Decision was the absolute best choice you have ever made.
Tomorrow morning when you wake up your head and your heart will
either affirm your Decision (and you can then celebrate!), OR you may
sense strong regret and you can then proceed down another path
knowing your first choice was not the best for now!
C'mon, I really want you to try this one!
Peace,
Paul
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
When you make a decision, the universe conspires to make it happen.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson, submitted by Emily K.
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Really believe in your heart of hearts
that your fundamental purpose,
the reason for being,
is to enlarge the lives of others.
Your life will be enlarged also.
And all of the other things
we have been taught to concentrate on
will take care of themselves.
- Pete Thigpen, submitted by Julie B., West Bend, Wisconsin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This is the week and today is the day that you DECIDE. You will move
from considering the idea, pondering the options, or sitting on the
fence to choosing a path and taking it. If you are still in doubt,
take these powerful steps: Select an area in your life where a
Decision is needed; identify the available options and then as an
experiment FIRMLY COMMIT to a path for 24 hours. Immediately send an
email to someone telling her/him about your decision and for the rest
of the day let every thought, feeling, and action evolve as though
the Decision was the absolute best choice you have ever made.
Tomorrow morning when you wake up your head and your heart will
either affirm your Decision (and you can then celebrate!), OR you may
sense strong regret and you can then proceed down another path
knowing your first choice was not the best for now!
C'mon, I really want you to try this one!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, January 5, 2004
Ripples v6.01: Ripples BEYOND THE COMFORT ZONE!
Ripples v6.01: Paul's Free Weekly Splash of Inspiration to 10,000+ Subscribers!
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
As one goes through life,
one learns that if you don't
paddle your own canoe,
you don't move.
- Katharine Hepburn, submitted by Debby S., Colfax, Wisconsin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We all live our lives in comfort zones,
avoiding risky situations, avoiding the potential to fail.
But in order to get ahead of your competition,
you've got to go out of your comfort zones.
Now, your comfort zone is something
you live in every day, your whole life.
You go to work and do what has to be done to get by.
You've got to try to do more.
Try that little new thing, that different approach.
Get out of your comfort zone and see if it works.
It may, it may not, but you'll never know if you don't try.
-Mary Lou Retton, submitted by Steve O., Chicago, Illinois
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Welcome to 2004!
Some of us approach the new year as a fresh start, complete with
dreams of self improvement. Others have been disappointed by failed
past resolutions and are perhaps a little hesitant to attempt any
changes. I believe we can all benefit from taking some BIG STEPS at
this time of year, even if you choose not to formally commit to
specific goals. If you want to set specific objectives, take some
time this week to make sure your goals are SMART (specific,
measurable, attainable, realistic, and timed). Or feel free to
choose some general themes like "worry less" or "dream more" and find
some way to act it out TODAY!
Whatever your path, I hope you can dive into the day, the week, and
the year with a big smile and a fresh batch of hope!
Peace,
Paul
Please make a Ripple in someone's life by sharing this message!
To join (free!): mailto:Join@TheRipplesProject.org
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o==o=o
As one goes through life,
one learns that if you don't
paddle your own canoe,
you don't move.
- Katharine Hepburn, submitted by Debby S., Colfax, Wisconsin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
We all live our lives in comfort zones,
avoiding risky situations, avoiding the potential to fail.
But in order to get ahead of your competition,
you've got to go out of your comfort zones.
Now, your comfort zone is something
you live in every day, your whole life.
You go to work and do what has to be done to get by.
You've got to try to do more.
Try that little new thing, that different approach.
Get out of your comfort zone and see if it works.
It may, it may not, but you'll never know if you don't try.
-Mary Lou Retton, submitted by Steve O., Chicago, Illinois
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Welcome to 2004!
Some of us approach the new year as a fresh start, complete with
dreams of self improvement. Others have been disappointed by failed
past resolutions and are perhaps a little hesitant to attempt any
changes. I believe we can all benefit from taking some BIG STEPS at
this time of year, even if you choose not to formally commit to
specific goals. If you want to set specific objectives, take some
time this week to make sure your goals are SMART (specific,
measurable, attainable, realistic, and timed). Or feel free to
choose some general themes like "worry less" or "dream more" and find
some way to act it out TODAY!
Whatever your path, I hope you can dive into the day, the week, and
the year with a big smile and a fresh batch of hope!
Peace,
Paul
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