Ripples v9.53: Release the Familiar!

Ripples v9.53: Release the Familiar!
12/31/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.
-Lao Tzu, submitted by Linn W., Milwaukee WI

____________________BOULDER ____________________

We must be willing
to get rid of
the life we planned
so as to have
the life that is waiting for us.
-Joseph Campbell, submitted by Tracy D., Billings MT

____________________PONDER ____________________

For many of us, this is a time to take stock of the past 12 months and ponder what the new year might hold. If you are planning to create some resolutions, I hope you will choose at least one that will surprise yourself and your close friends. If you aren't into the resolution thing, no worries of course! You can still spend some time this week examining the expectations that you and others have created for your life. Perhaps there are a few that need a little tweaking and maybe one or two need to be thrown out all together. RELEASE THE FAMILIAR and get ready for something new in 2008!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.52: Joy To The World!

Ripples v9.52: Joy To The World!
12/24/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

To find those places inside ourselves and in the world, where we belong...this is joy!
-Oriah Mountain Dreamer, submitted by Linda F.

____________________BOULDERS ____________________

Risk-taking, trust, and serendipity are key ingredients of joy.
Without risk, nothing new ever happens.
Without trust, fear creeps in.
Without serendipity, there are no surprises.
-Rita Golden Gelman, submitted by Crystal, C., Flint MI

I do it for the joy it brings
'Cause I'm a joyful girl.
Because the world owes me nothing.
We owe each other the world.
-Ani Difranco, submitted by Karen L., Cincinnati OH

____________________PONDER ____________________

Whatever you are celebrating,
However you are celebrating,
With whomever you are celebrating,

I hope this holiday ripple finds you filled with JOY!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.51: NO!

Ripples v9.51: NO!
12/17/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

When I say NO to someone else I say "yes" to myself.
-source unknown, submitted by Dottie J., Cincinnati OH

____________________BOULDER ____________________

You have to decide
what your highest priorities are
and have the courage-
-pleasantly, smilingly, non-apologetically-
-to say NO to other things.
And the way you do that
is by having a bigger "yes" burning inside.
-Stephen R. Covey, submitted by Yani D., Salem OR

____________________PONDER ____________________

Last week we explored the awesome power of YES, so this week I want to balance that with the tremendous potential of NO!

Some of us are so incredibly good at finding a "yes" for things, that we forget the limitations that help define our humanity: you and I have a finite amount of time, energy and passion to share with the world and we have an obligation to the people and projects in our life to consider this limitation each time we are presented with a request to share our resources.

Remember that each time you say YES to someone or something, you won't be able to spend that time and energy with someone or something else-- so you will be saying NO to someone too! Instead of being frustrated by these limitations, I invite you to celebrate the opportunity to set some priorities and make sure you are spending time on the people and projects you value most.

If you need more help saying no, I compiled some information and links on this page:
http://PaulWesselmann.com/resources/pm/no

Peace,
Paul
P.S. Remember that I am still in the mountains with almost no access to email!

Ripples v9.50: YES!

Ripples v9.50: YES!
12/10/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

To say YES you have to sweat and roll up your sleeves
and plunge both hands into life up to the elbows..
-Jean Anouilh, submitted by Linn W., Milwaukee WI

____________________BOULDER ____________________

Making YES your inner mantra
allows you to extend YES outside of yourself
and attract more of YES
into your own personal intending.

YES is the breath of creation. . . .
As you merge with the
universal force of Creation
extending YES wherever feasible,
you become that force of Creation itself.
-Dr. Wayne Dyer, submitted by Catharine S., Greensboro NC

____________________PONDER ____________________

You may have noticed recently there is a possibility that is quietly whispering to you....

Perhaps you met a new person and wondered what potential might exist if you developed a connection; or maybe a book or class or idea mentioned recently by a co-worker, classmate, or friend is creating a sense of curiosity. It could even be an unfinished project or a forgotten goal you set for yourself a long time ago that recently began gently teasing you about the transformation that could be unleashed with some renewed attention.

Whatever, or whomever, it is, I hope you will listen very carefully to the possibility and see if somewhere in your soul or your heart or your mind there lies a YES waiting to spring to life!

Peace,

Paul
P.S. Remember that I am on retreat in the mountains and may not be able to reply to individual emails until 2008!

Ripples v9.49: Being Alone!

Ripples v9.49: Being Alone!
12/03/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

There is a quality to being alone that is incredibly precious.
Life rushes back to the void, richer, more vivid, fuller than before.
-Anne Morrow Lindbergh, submitted by Lin H., Bloomington IL

____________________BOULDER ____________________

Every now and then
go away,
have a little relaxation.
For when you come back
to your work,
your judgment
will be surer.
-Leonardo Da Vinci, submitted by Lin H., Bloomington IL

____________________PONDER ____________________

By the time you read this email, I will have wrapped up my final presentation of the year, packed up my ripply Prius, and disappeared into the Colorado Rockies for my annual retreat. I found some extra time and energy (and love!) over the past few weeks to build up a full slate of Ripples issues for December. While Grendel and I meander through the mountains to hike and eat and relax and daydream, you will continue to receive a quick splash on Mondays.

Back to our theme this week of BEING ALONE. I dare you to carve out some time to be alone this week. A walk in the woods, an afternoon in the library, or even a quick five minutes with your door closed and your favorite song pumping through your earphones can go a long way in helping you restore your soul.

Enjoy every moment you are alone and enjoy every moment you are not alone.
I will look forward to connecting with you again in 2008.

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.48: Worth It!

Ripples v9.48: Worth It!
11/26/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

Whether it's the best of times or the worst of times,
it's the only time we've got.
-Art Buchwald, submitted by Tracy D., Billings MT

____________________BOULDER ____________________

Life is too short to wake up in the morning with regrets
So love the people who treat you right,
forget the ones who don't,
and believe that everything
happens for a reason.
If you get a change, take it;
If it changes your life, let it,
Nobody said it would be easy,
They just said it would be worth it.
-source unknown, submitted by Zoe C, Minnesota

____________________PONDER ____________________

Stuff happens. Sometimes the stuff that happens is GOOD and sometimes the stuff that happens is BAD. I wish that life seemed fair and that only good things would happen to good people and bad things would only happen to bad people. But wait a minute...I know how much I have learned from the bad stuff I have experienced in life. I would not wish my bad stuff on anyone else, but I also would not trade in the compassion and wisdom that grew out of facing adversity. I am who I am, partly because of many blessings I have received and partly because of the yucky stuff.

Maybe you could spend a few minutes this week making a list of the positive events and people that helped to create your "best of times" so that the next time you are going through the "worst of times" you can review your list and recall many good reasons to hang in there.

Remember, you are WORTH IT!

Peace,
Paul

_________RIPPLY DETAILS___________

SUBSCRIBE FREE.
http://TheRipplesProject.org/Newsletter.php

SUBMIT.
Send quote with the source (if known),
your first name, last initial and where you
live with SUBMISSION in the subject line.

CHANGE ADDRESS.
Unsubscribe your old address below AND
see directions above to add your new address

ARCHIVES.
http://TheRipplesProject.org/Newsletter.php

We Love FACEBOOK!
http://FACEBOOK.com/group.php?gid=2204886661


To Unsubscribe, please click here :
http://www.theripplesproject.org/12all/box.php?funcml=unsub2&nl=currentnl&mi=currentmesg&email=subscriberemail

Ripples v9.47: Gratitude!

Ripples v9.47: Gratitude!
11/19/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

To live gratitude is to touch heaven.
-Johannes A. Gaertner, submitted by Nicole W., San Luis Obispo CA

____________________BOULDER ____________________

It is necessary, then,
to cultivate the habit of being grateful
for every good thing that comes to you,
and to give thanks continuously.
And because all things
have contributed to your advancement,
you should include all things in your gratitude.
-Wallace D. Wattles, submitted by Cindy K., Green Bay WI

____________________PONDER ____________________

As those of us in the U.S. gather with family or friends to celebrate Thanksgiving, I hope all of us can take a moment to ponder the things, events, and people we are grateful for. The efforts becomes even more worthwhile when you can remember to appreciate the objects, savor the memories, and tell those precious souls how much we value their presence in our lives.

If you need an extra boost of GRATITUDE for yourself or others, remember that our searchable archives include a Thanksgiving-themed issue for each of the previous 8 years of Ripples:
http://TheRipplesProject.org/Newsletter.php

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.46: Faith!

Ripples v9.46: Faith!
11/12/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

Faith and doubt both are needed, not as antagonists,
but working side by side to take us around the unknown curve.
-Lillian Smith, submitted by Judy A., Carbondale IL

____________________BOULDER ____________________

At the end of the day faith is a funny thing.
It turns up when you don't really expect it.
It's like one day you realize that the fairy tale
may be slightly different than you dreamed.
The castle, well, it may not be a castle.
And it's not so important happy ever after,
just that it's happy right now.
See, once in a while, once in a blue moon,
people will surprise you,
and once in a while people may even take your breath away.
-TV Show "Greys Anatomy", submitted by Megan W, Philadelphia PA

____________________PONDER ____________________

The word FAITH means different things to different people. It can be used to describe religious beliefs; it is also used to suggest confidence in or loyalty to someone/something.

FAITH is an important part of character--I think we need to believe in something larger than ourselves in order to be effective in our work and in our lives. Sometimes it seems we assume that everyone must believe in the same things in order to get along or work together, and that successful people must be able to maintain their faith despite difficult challenges. Successful teams need to be filled with people who hold a variety of beliefs, and each of those individuals (even the leaders!), will occasionally experience uncertainty. Diversity and doubt are both ultimately necessary to maintain and grow our faith, just as shades of gray and complete darkness help us to understand and appreciate the light.

What or who do you have FAITH in right now? If you have been doubting someone or something, spend some time reflecting on how you might be able to strengthen your belief or whether it might be time to adjust your compass and therefore alter your guiding beliefs: that is not necessarily a sign of weakness, and it could even be a sign of strength!

I can tell you one thing I have lots of FAITH in: the extraordinary power of RIPPLES and the 17,000+ members who spend 60 seconds each Monday morning spreading the Ripply faith! I count on you!

Peace,
Paul
P.S. PAUL DISAPPEARS into the Colorado Rockies in December so be sure to touch base soon if you need anything!

Ripples v9.45: Completely You!

Ripples v9.45: Completely You!
11/5/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

There is always a certain peace in being what one is, in being that completely.
-Ugo Betti, submitted by Terry H., Franklin WI

____________________BOULDER ____________________

All of my life I had been looking for something, and everywhere I turned someone tried to tell me what it was. I accepted the answers too, though they were often in contradiction and even self contradictory. I was naive. I was looking for myself and asking everyone except myself questions which I, and only I could answer. It took me a long time and much painful boomeranging of my expectations to achieve a realization everyone else appears to have been born with: that I am nobody but myself.
-Ralph Ellison, submitted by Kristen C., Loretto PA

____________________PONDER ____________________

Longer Boulder this week means shorter ponder: go out into the world and be COMPLETELY YOU! Magnificently, fabulously, interestingly, wholly you. The world needs you. That's all, so GO!

Peace,
Paul
p.s. We have announcements: NOTHING BUT NETS October Campaign results, a ripply-ish meeting in Minneapolis, and info about my upcoming disappearance. Click Here:
http://PaulWesselmann.com/resources/RipplesNews

Ripples v9.44: Walls or Windmills?

Ripples v9.44: Walls or Windmills?
10/29/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

When the winds of change blow, some people build walls and others build windmills.
-Chinese proverb, submitted by Kathleen H-D., Kansas City KS

____________________BOULDER ____________________

It takes a lot of courage
to release the familiar and seemingly secure,
to embrace the new.

But there is no real security in what is no longer meaningful.
There is more security in the adventurous and exciting,
for in movement there is life, and
in change there is power.
-Alan Cohen, submitted by Dana A. Neillsville WI

____________________PONDER ____________________

I chose this week's theme for a few people I know who are making some big decisions this week and for anyone else who is facing change.

Halloween is upon us, so let me say it this way: If fear is attempting to TRICK you into building walls, give yourself a TREAT by pondering the magnificent possibilities that "winds of change" might be carrying your way. Perhaps a windmill may be more useful tool than a wall to harness the power of the wind.

Good luck, and good skill in making your decision!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.43: Stand Up!

Ripples v9.43: Stand Up!
10/22/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

A strong man stands up for himself,
a stronger man stands up for others.
-the movie Barnyard, submitted by Monica T., Springfield OR

____________________BOULDER ____________________

Stand up to your obstacles
and do something about them.
You will find that they
haven't half the strength
you think they have.
-Norman Vincent Peale

____________________PONDER ____________________

This week was another series of adventures, first to West Virginia to hang out with residence life professionals from MACUHO, and then to Iowa and with a crew of student leaders at Drake University. During presentations at both places I issued challenges to STAND UP and take action on information they gained from their respective conferences. Therefore, I challenge each of you to STAND UP and take action too! The first quote is about standing up for others, the other quote is about standing up to your obstacles, so choose one and, well...

...STAND UP!

Peace,
Paul

P.S. One more week to transform a $5 donation for Nothing But Nets into TEN BUCKS! Click here for details:
http://PaulWesselmann.com/resources/NBN

Ripples v9.42: Soul Possibilities!

Ripples v9.42: Soul Possibilities!
10/15/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

Nature never repeats herself,
and the possibilities of one human soul
will never be found in another.
-Elizabeth Cady Stanton, submitted by Tina C., Oregon

____________________BOULDER ____________________

I've come to believe
that each of us has a personal calling
that's as unique as a fingerprint-
-and that the best way to succeed
is to discover what you love
and then find a way to offer it to others
in the form of service, working hard, and
also allowing the energy of the universe to lead you.
-Oprah Winfrey, submitted by Marilyn F., Lincoln NE

____________________PONDER ____________________

This week found me in the fabulous Pacific Northwest to spend Columbus Day with Lacamas Community Credit Union and then a few days at a meeting of YMCA professionals. It was fun to connect with two groups who are helping people in substantial and distinct ways: the credit union assisting members with the financial parts of their lives, and the YMCA folks who are busy growing healthy kids, families, & communities.

It turns out that each of us has a fantastically individual contribution to create, and just in case you have forgotten: the world really is a better place because YOU are in it! Your efforts at work, school, home, or somewhere else are appreciated by others who may or may not have mentioned it.

So I dare you: spend 30 seconds accepting and appreciating your SOUL POSSIBILITIES, and then take 30 seconds to let someone else know you value their contribution to your world.

Peace,
Paul
P.S. We exceeded our Nothing But Nets financial goal AND have big news to share from Kelly & Chris! Click here for details:
http://PaulWesselmann.com/resources/NBN

Ripples v9.41: Goodness And Grace!

Ripples v9.41: Goodness And Grace!
10/8/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

Don't let the good things of life rob you of the best things.
-Maltbie Babcock, submitted by Kelly F., Huntington Beach CA

____________________BOULDER ____________________

Life isn't
days and years.
It's what you do
with time
and with all the
goodness and grace
that's inside of you.
-source unknown, submitted by Kristin P., Cottage Grove WI

____________________PONDER ____________________

While I was busy last week in Lincoln, Nebraska hanging out with my NIRSA buddies at their Big 12/Region V & Friends Conference, members of The Ripples Project were busy responding to the "Nothing But Nets" challenge. I am so proud to share that we raised over 80% of our financial goal of $5,000 (which I will match) from over 250 members of The Ripples Project! It was exciting and humbling to see dozens and eventually hundreds of you taking 5 minutes from your crazy day to give 5 bucks (in in many cases much more!). I didn't expect so many to react so quickly, and I certainly didn't expect so many "THANKS"! Here are just three of the dozens of emails I received:

Karen from Cincinnati wrote that it "felt wonderful to be able to help out."
Lisa from Chicago said "Thank you for this opportunity to help others! It made my day."
Christopher from Detroit shared, "Thanks for inspiring me this morning!"

I'm sharing this partly to send a huge THANK YOU to all of you who helped out, and partly to remind others how GOOD it feels to spend 5 minutes giving 5 bucks! I know you're busy, and I know money may be tight. If you have already maxed out charitable giving or are not interested in this cause, no worries of course. It is still my hope that we can have 1,000 members donate by 10/31, so visit this page if you want to help:
http://PaulWesselmann.com/resources/NBN

And whether you are participating in this challenge or not, I hope that you do something fantastic this week to celebrate your GOODNESS and GRACE!

Peace,
Paul

_________RIPPLY DETAILS___________

SUBSCRIBE FREE.
http://TheRipplesProject.org/Newsletter.php

SUBMIT.
Send quote with the source (if known),
your first name, last initial and where you
live with SUBMISSION in the subject line.

CHANGE ADDRESS.
Unsubscribe your old address below AND
see directions above to add your new address

ARCHIVES.
http://TheRipplesProject.org/Newsletter.php

We Love FACEBOOK!
http://FACEBOOK.com/group.php?gid=2204886661


To Unsubscribe, please click here :
http://www.theripplesproject.org/12all/box.php?funcml=unsub2&nl=currentnl&mi=currentmesg&email=subscriberemail

Ripples v9.40: Enrich The World!

Ripples v9.40: Enrich The World!
10/1/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

NEVER make excuses for doing something you know is right.
-source unknown, submitted by Sarah W., NJ/PA

____________________BOULDER ____________________

You are here
to enable the world
to live more amply,
with greater vision,
and with a finer spirit
of hope and achievement.
You are here to enrich the world.
-Woodrow Wilson, submitted by Casey B.

____________________PONDER ____________________

On Saturday, I spent the day with a few hundred students from several Indiana universities who mentor other college students. Even though TIME is a most valuable and scarce commodity for students, they spend some of it helping others. They inspired me.

On the flight home, I was reading the latest issue of Newsweek which focused on "Global Giving" and mentioned an extremely successful fund raising effort to prevent Malaria in Africa. $10 buys a mosquito net, and gets it delivered and explained to a family in Africa. Ten bucks saves a life. That inspired me, too.

Take a deep breath, and read on.
I want The Ripples Project to buy 1,000 nets
and I will pay half.

If I can convince 1,000 people,
6% of our 16,000+ subscribers
to donate FIVE BUCKS,
I will match that so
$5 actually buys a $10 net.

Are you in?

Learn the details here:
http://PaulWesselmann.com/resources/NBN

One month: 10,000 nets.
Let's ENRICH THE WORLD!

Peace,
Paul
P.S. The UN Foundation is coordinating, every nickel goes to Africa, and I'll post updates every week in October. Please take action!

Ripples v9.39: Authentic Living!

Ripples v9.39: Authentic Living!
9/24/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

True religion is the life we lead,
not the creed we profess.
-source unknown, Flory, India

____________________BOULDER ____________________

As we express our gratitude,
we must never forget
that the highest appreciation
is not to utter words,
but to live by them.
-John F. Kennedy, submitted by Michelle P., St. Louis MO

____________________PONDER ____________________

Authenticity is one of the most challenging and rewarding strategies for developing and maintaining strong relationships. In order to develop respect, trust, and positive regard with another person you need to practice what you preach.

This isn't difficult because we lack the desire to live honest, ethical lives of helping others. The challenge lies in the fact that it is much easier to SAY something is important than to consistently take ACTION on that value. For example, you may wish for more peace in the world while still finding it difficult to make peace with a co-worker or neighbor whom you dislike. Or perhaps you believe patience is important and yet are easily annoyed by slow drivers or people in line at the store who have extra questions or concerns.

Let's each choose one character trait (here is a great list:
http://www.character-in-action.com/character-traits.htm ).
and spend some extra energy and time making sure that we are authentically implementing that trait in our lives.

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.38: Optimism!

Ripples v9.38: Optimism!
9/17/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

Optimism is essential to achievement,
and it is also the foundation of courage and of true progress.
-Nicholas Murray Butler, submitted by Joycelyn F., Reedsburg WI

____________________BOULDER ____________________

No pessimist ever discovered
the secrets of the stars,
or sailed to an uncharted land,
or opened a new heaven
to the human spirit.
-Hellen Keller, submitted by Lori W.

____________________PONDER ____________________


Many of you have heard me jokingly say that another word for "optimistic" is "delusional."

Studies have shown that optimistic people tend to overestimate their intelligence, skill level, attractiveness, and the outcome of certain events. They are inaccurate, and yet they remain optimistic that "everything will turn out just fine!" Pessimists (who I think sometimes cower under the label of "realist" even if that doesn't quite accurately describe their common state of mind), like to relish the truth in statements such as "If you don't want to be disappointed, lower your expectations."

Which is better? I suppose it depends on what you are looking for. If you want to be RIGHT most of the time, it is probably better to be pessimistic; if you want to be HAPPY, perhaps an extra dose of optimism might be a great prescription to try. Of course, that assessment doesn't include the issue of self fulfilling prophecies. Those of us with high expectations for ourselves and others may not find those expectations filled, but since people tend to rise to meet those expectations we are far better off when we and those around us get CLOSE! If you want your expand your team, you could shoot for 2-3 new members and probably meet your goal OR you could be wildly optimistic and try for 20 new members. You may only get half way there with 10 new members, but that is many more smiling faces than with the pessimistic goal.

C'mon, try it this week and see how it goes! I OPTIMISTICALLY believe that all 16,000 of us can go out there and be more OPTIMISTIC this week!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.37: Hugs!

Ripples v9.37: Hugs!
9/10/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________


I've learned that everyday you should reach out and touch someone.
People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.
-Maya Angelou, submitted by Kelley G., Chester IL

____________________BOULDER ____________________

Millions and millions of years
would still not give me half enough time
to describe that tiny instant of all eternity
when you put your arms around me
and I put my arms around you.
-Jacques Prevert

____________________PONDER ____________________

I mentioned last week that Monday, September 10 has been declared FREE HUGS DAY and is being celebrated on campuses and in communities around the world. FREE HUGS evolved from a single person who arrived home on a flight and watched as the other passengers were greeted with warm hugs from family and friends while there was no one to greet and hug him. This situation motivated him to create a large sign offering "FREE HUGS" and held it proudly above his head in a public place. The reactions varied from annoyance and suspicion to tears and laughter. Many hugs were given. I encourage you to view the origional YouTube video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vr3x_RRJdd4.

More info here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Free_Hugs_Campaign

HUGS are warm gestures filled with love and I hope you can share some today. If you are not a particularly touchy-feely person, perhaps you can take your handshake to the next level and make it a "hand hug" by grasping with both hands. Even some "handwritten hugs" could be an option--just a short personalized note to someone that needs to hear from you.

As for me, I will spend the day in San Luis Obispo pumping up the orientation leaders and new students at Cal Poly. I am therefore sending you FREE HUGS sprinkled with mountain strength, ocean serenity, and sunshiney smiles!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.36: Hard Work!

Ripples v9.36: Hard Work!
9/3/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

Just because you work hard doesn't mean you're going to win.
But if you stop working hard, you don't have a shot of winning.
-Jim "Jimmy V" Valvano, submitted by Dave B., La Crosse,WI

____________________BOULDER ____________________

I know the price of success:
dedication,
hard work
and an unremitting devotion
to the things you want to see happen.
-Frank Lloyd Wright, submitted by Kim W., Racine WI

____________________PONDER ____________________

Welcome to a few hundred new HARD WORKING Ripplers from University of Hartford and University of Wisconsin - River Falls. WOOHOO!

Monday is Labor Day here in the U.S., a holiday originally created in 1882 "to exhibit to the public 'the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations' of the community" (source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labor_day ). Now it serves as a last hurrah of summer vacation before we all jump into the fall "work" season whether that is school-work or work-work. So take a moment today to appreciate all the HARD WORK you have completed recently!

Ooh, and get ready because next Monday, September 10, is FREE HUGS Day and hopefully many of us will participate! Read more about it here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Free_Hugs_Campaign. If you're on Facebook, join this group: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2211771066

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.35: Running or Learning?

Ripples v9.35: Running or Learning?
8/27/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

Oh yes, the past can hurt. But the way I see it,
you can either run from it, or learn from it.
-Rafiki in The Lion King, submitted by Heidi R., Dubuque IA

____________________BOULDER ____________________

If a man is indeed
the sum of his memories,
then removing or changing an experience
would change the man.

I like me;
I may not like the things
that happen to me,
but if I changed them
I wouldn't be who I am today
or who I WILL be tomorrow.

Never regret;
you may look back and think
things could have been better
but you may just turn that weakness
into the strength needed
to be where you are today.
-Peter Davidson, submitted by Justin R., St. Louis MO

____________________PONDER ____________________

Stuff happens.

Some of the stuff that happens in life is fun and some of it can be, well, not so much fun. We rarely get to choose what happens to us, but we always get to choose how we respond to what happens to us. Sometimes running away may be the right thing to do, but hopefully we eventually grow into wiser beings when we take the time and energy to sift through our experiences (aka our STUFF) and learn from it.

So, take a look at your recent or long ago stuff and decide: is it time to RUN or is it time to LEARN? Either way, good luck!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.34: Busy & Important!

Ripples v9.34: Busy & Important!
8/20/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

By having the courage to be yourself
you put something wonderful in the world
that was not there before.
- Edwin Elliot, submitted by Terri H., Franklin WI

____________________BOULDER ____________________

Why waste time
comparing yourself
to others?

No one
in the entire world
can do a better job
of being you
than you.
-Bob Moawad, submitted by Peggy N., Tucson AZ

____________________PONDER ____________________

Every year around this time, I have the great good fortune to visit two of my favorite groups: Central Michigan, and University of North Carolina - Asheville. Uh-oh....

STOP RIGHT HERE!

I need to pause here a moment and explain that very often I begin the "Ponder" by mentioning places I have recently visited. I like to welcome the new Ripples subscribers from there and give subscribers who know me a quick update on my adventures. Many people have told me they enjoy reading these, and I have also received a few comments that it comes off like I am trying to sound BUSY and IMPORTANT.

So, let me clear something up: I AM busy and important...
...just like YOU and every other person on Ripples!

My busyness may look different because I spend lots of time in airports and hotels, and it is true that many days when I go to work people clap for me. I humbly accept my importance because of all the very important jobs that the OTHER people in the room have: nurses and educators and credit union teams and student leaders and students and parents and support staff and service folks and managers and well, YOU TOO! I figured out a long time ago that my job on this planet is to help all the BUSY and IMPORTANT people I encounter seek more effectiveness and more joy in life.

So, I'll say this to the Safari Guides at CMU, the Summit Crew & new students and UNCA, and each and every one of you: Take a moment from your BUSY week and celebrate the fact that you are very IMPORTANT to *ME* and many other people!

Oh, and get ready, dear Ripplers, because SPLASH, The Ripples Car, may want to come visit you and your organization...details to come....

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.33: Pulling Apart!

Ripples v9.33: Pulling Apart!
8/13/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

It's never easy to leave your family to attend college or take a new job.
However, the rest of the world benefits because
a little of piece of that town and all of its inhabitants are carried with you.
-unknown blogger, submitted by Heather S., Beaumont TX

____________________BOULDER ____________________

Letting go is seldom easy-
whether it's letting go of our children,
our parents, or our childhood feelings.
But just as the root systems of plants
often have to be divided
for healthy growth to continue,
the different generations within a family
may have to pull apart for a while
for each to find its own healthy identity.
-Fred Rogers, submitted by Toni W., McHenry IL

____________________PONDER ____________________

Many of us are in "back to school" mode and if you (or a family member or friend) are a student, educator or school administrator, the fall semester can be a difficult time. This is especially true when it creates a new chapter in your life: new school, new job, etc. Change is usually challenging because we are grieving the loss of "the way things were" and we just aren't sure what things are going like. I hope you remember that ever since the day you were born you have been constantly adapting and growing and changing. You are better at it than you realize!

So if you or someone you know is about to start a new chapter, remember to pack a little piece of the past and accept this truth: the journey make temporarily pull you apart from loved ones AND it may also help you find new people to love!

Get ready, get set, PULL!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.32: Quality Days!

Ripples v9.32: Quality Days!
8/6/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

Life itself is the proper binge.
-Julia Child, submitted by Cathy D.

____________________BOULDER ____________________

At the end of life,
it's the laughter,
the tears,
the shared joys and
the shared heartaches
that we remember.

The wealth,
the work,
the trials
and problems
are as nothing.

It's the quality of our days
and the people we share them with
that make all the difference.
-Margaret James, submitted by Debbie R., Cincinnati OH

____________________PONDER ____________________

As I inch closer to the commencement of my fall travel craziness, I am choosing to fill my remaining QUALITY DAYS of summer by binging on friendships. Lunches and movies and cards and barbecues and walks and lazy "sit and chats" too. I hope you can find someone to share some QUALITY time with this week. It could be a co-worker or a longtime friend, or maybe that person that you run into repeatedly and you sort of know but not really.

Make a friendship date and then have an adventure!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.31: Great Passions!

Ripples v9.31: Great Passions!
7/30/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

Only passions, great passions, can elevate the soul to great things.
-Denis Diderot, submitted by Eliza C, Crivitz WI

____________________BOULDER ____________________

If there is no passion in your life,
then have you really lived?
Find your passion,
whatever it may be.
Become it, and let it become you
and you will find great things happen
FOR you, TO you, and BECAUSE of you.
-T. Alan Armstrong, submitted by Emily S., Eau Claire WI (via Facebook!)

____________________PONDER ____________________

This week I enjoyed a quick trip to Des Moines to spend a day with some corporate trainers from around the state of Iowa. We spent some time exploring how to pursue our passions so I thought it would be a great week to encourage us ALL to spend some time and energy pursuing our passions.

Whether it is in your job, with your family/friends, on a service project, or around a hobby/leisure activity that you enjoy, I hope you can spend a few more minutes this week enjoying your GREAT PASSIONS! I am indescribably lucky that one of my greatest passions is this "electronic postcard" that you are now reading, and I thank you for taking 60 seconds each Monday to pause and ponder. I hope you know that my passion is fed every time you pass Ripples on to a friend/colleague, submit a quote, and especially when you act on an idea that came to you after reading an issue.

Enjoy Ripples, enjoy your great passions, and please make sure you ENJOY TODAY!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.30: Your Tribe!

Ripples v9.30: Your Tribe!
7/23/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

Family are friends that life gives us;
friends are family that the heart chooses.
-adapted from Diane Comtesse, submitted by Loreen D, Longview WA

____________________BOULDER ____________________

Call it a clan,
call it a network,
call it a tribe,
call it a family.
Whatever you call it,
whoever you are,
you need one.
-Jane Howard submitted by Loreen D, Longview WA

____________________PONDER ____________________

The more time I spend on this planet, the more I understand and appreciate that families come in all shapes and sizes. As we grow into adulthood, our definition of family can shift from the people we grew up with into the people who help us grow.

I consider myself very blessed to have family members that are friends, and friends who I consider family. I recently enjoyed a week with my best friend who now lives in Ohio, and I frequently get to bond with close friends who live down the hall, down the street, and across town. As I mentioned last week, this issue of Ripples will [hopefully!] reach you just as I wrap up a great weekend with one of my TRIBES that formed in graduate school and gradually evolved into four families of friends that are definitely family.

So, who is your TRIBE? It may be blood relations, it could be the people in your current household, or perhaps it is a close-knit circle of friends who take turns helping each other and receiving help. I dare you to take a moment right now to forward this issue of Ripples to your TRIBE and include a note about how much and why you value having them in your life!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.29: Beautiful Self!

Ripples v9.29: Beautiful Self!
7/16/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLES ____________________

You are beautiful if you have the ability to believe in yourself.
-source unknown, submitted by Danielle A., Oshkosh WI

Let the beauty that you love be what you do.
-Rumi, submitted by Jessica K from Portland, OR

____________________BOULDER ____________________

Be gentle to yourself,
learn to love yourself,
to forgive yourself,
for only as we have
the right attitudes
toward ourselves
can we have
the right attitude
toward others.
-Wilfred Peterson, submitted by Cathy S., West Bend WI.

____________________PONDER ____________________

Most of us find it easy to visit a museum or a park and delight in the magnificent views and yet we struggle to find beauty when we look in the mirror. If only we could see ourselves the way our grandparents or close friends see us! Perhaps tomorrow while wrapping up your bathroom ritual, you can take 15 seconds to look in the mirror and notice the remarkable artwork and natural splendor that is your BEAUTIFUL SELF!

Peace,
Paul

p.s. Speaking of close friends, I will be spending next weekend visiting with my grad school buddies so I plan to have next week's issue queued up to go out automatically just in case I have travel challenges! I apologize for any potential problems as the auto-schedule feature has not worked flawlessly in the past!

Ripples v9.28: Opportunity!

Ripples v9.28: Opportunity!
7/9/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

We become happier, much happier, when we realize
life is an opportunity rather than an obligation.
-Mary Augustine, submitted by Cathy S., West Bend WI & by Brett B., Madison WI

____________________BOULDER ____________________

The block of granite
which was an obstacle
in the path of the weak,
becomes a stepping stone
in the path of the strong.
-source unknown, submitted by Shelley B., Des Moines, IA

____________________PONDER ____________________

Based on the number of "auto-reply" messages I received last week, I need to welcome many of you back from vacation, so WELCOME BACK! I hope you are refreshed and ready to dive back into work/school/life with renewed energy AND I hope you are ready to embrace life and all the STEPPING STONES that exist for you. Since we are now into the second half of the year, I suggest you find time this week to take stock of 2007. Perhaps you could generate a list of possibilities that might exist within a obstacle/challenge you are currently facing, and start climbing up those stones!

Speaking of opportunities, I need a few volunteers to test drive a re-designed website. If you are interested and have 10 minutes to spare, reply with TEST DRIVE in the subject line.

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.27: Free (not Free!)

Ripples v9.27: Free (not Free!)
7/2/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

To be truly free, you must first be disciplined.
-source unknown, submitted by Jules G., Eau Claire WI

____________________BOULDER ____________________

Freedom is not merely
the opportunity to do as one pleases;
neither is it merely
the opportunity to choose between set alternatives.
Freedom is, first of all,
the chance to formulate the available choices,
to argue over them--and then,
the opportunity to choose.
-C. Wright Mills

____________________PONDER ____________________

As those of us here in the U.S prepare to celebrate our Independence Day, I want to remind us all that the word FREE has two different connotations. We sometimes use FREE to mean "no cost" and other times it refers to the concept described above: the opportunity to create and make choices. I am sure I am not the only one who worries that we tend to take our FREEdoms for granted, and we sometimes slip into thinking that they should not cost anything (cost = money, time, effort, etc.). Free isn't Free!

In between the picnics and the sparklers and the fireworks, I dare you to spend a few minutes asking your companions what being FREE means to them. What choices are they most glad they have, and what responsibility do we have for paying to be FREE. Some might think of paying in terms of taxes to a government who protects and provides, others might view community service as a way to give back (and perhaps helping others become FREE).

Enjoy the many choices you have!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.26: Algebra & Unpaved Roads!

Ripples v9.26: Algebra & Unpaved Roads!
6/25/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

When you are dissatisfied and would like to go back to your youth, think of Algebra.
-source unknown, submitted by Dixie S., Valley City, ND

____________________BOULDER ____________________

Some people try to
turn back their odometers.
Not me, I want people to know
why I look this way.
I've traveled a long way and
some of the roads weren't paved.
-source unknown, submitted by Dixie S., Valley City, ND

____________________PONDER ____________________

Our society tends to obsess over youth and as a result many people feel discouraged about growing older. While we certainly benefit from the enthusiasm and fresh perspective of young minds, it is also true that we can benefit tremendously from wisdom and experience. It takes many years for an individual to acquire a decent amount of useful information and another 3 or 4 decades to amass a trove of lived experiences that will help distill the information into wisdom. Every day you get older is another set of experiences and hopefully some more new information. Trust me, these will prove immensely valuable for you and the people around you!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.25: Persistence!

Ripples v9.25: Persistence!
6/18/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLES ____________________

Energy and persistence conquer all things.
-Ben Franklin, submitted by Sarah B., Selma NC

Paralyze resistance with persistence.
-source unknown, submitted by Andy F., Erie PA

____________________BOULDER ____________________

Virtually nothing comes out right the first time.
Failures, repeated failures,
are finger posts on the road to achievement.
The only time you don't want to fail
is the last time you try something...
One fails forward toward success.
-Charles F. Kettering, submitted anonymously

____________________PONDER ____________________

I have had two weeks of fantastic adventures: visiting a summer camp I attended as a camper and counselor (many moons ago!) to help out with staff training; heading east to again help my friends at Plymouth State University prepare new students and their parents for the transition to college life (and seeing my friend Maura in Vermont!); and ending my crazy travels with a return home to help kick off the 2007 Wisconsin Leadership Seminar which is ALWAYS a blast.

In talking with camp counselors, new students and high school leaders, I found myself encouraging ALL of them to remember that school, work, and life include many challenges and that PERSISTENCE is an essential component for success. We do not like it when things do not go as we hoped or planned, and it can certainly be tempting to just throw up our hands in frustration and walk away.

WAIT! Don't give up just yet! Whatever project you're working on this week that is taking more time and energy than you would like, I wonder if you could muster enough energy to stand up, brush yourself off, and jump back in with the knowledge that just a little PERSISTENCE can go along way in moving things forward.

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.24: Patience!

Ripples v9.24: Patience!
6/11/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

Eventually all the pieces fall into place. Until then,
laugh at the confusion, live for the moment,
and realize that everything happens for a reason.
-source unknown, submitted by Sarah W., NJ/PA

____________________BOULDER ____________________

Patience serves
as a protection against wrongs
as clothes do against cold.
For if you put on more clothes
as the cold increases,
it will have no power to hurt you.
So in like manner you must grow in patience
when you meet with great wrongs, and
they will then be powerless to vex your mind.
-Leonardo da Vinci, submitted by Anne R., Concord MA

____________________PONDER ____________________

Sometimes you need to take action,
make decisions, push the envelope.
Other times you need to sit back
and practice PATIENCE.
How do you know when to do what?
That skill will grow,
if you could just be more, well, PATIENT!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.23: Small Steps!

Ripples v9.23: Small Steps!
6/4/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

I long to accomplish a great and noble task,
but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they are great and noble.
-Helen Keller, submitted by Sarah Z., Fond du Lac WI

____________________BOULDER ____________________

One smile begins a friendship,
One handclasp lifts the soul.
One star can guide a ship at sea,
One word can frame a goal.

One step must start each journey,
One word must start each prayer.
One hope will raise our spirits,
One touch can show you care.

One voice can speak with wisdom,
One heart can know what's true.
One life can make the difference,
You see it's up to you.
-adapted from a poem attributed to Cindy O'Connor, submitted by Linda K.,


____________________PONDER ____________________

I have just wrapped up a simultaneously invigorating and exhausting weekend at NACURH 2007, a conference best described by Zachary from Oklahoma State who wrote in his Facebook profile that he is pooping rainbows because "NACURH is the happiest place in the world."

Enthusiastic college residence hall leaders from all over the U.S. and Canada gathered at University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and the conference theme was "One Small Step" which is pretty close to our ripply idea that small actions have big potential. I wonder what would happen if all of us decided this week to take one SMALL STEP to do some unexpected nice thing for someone else without explanation, without acknowledgement, without expecting anything in return. Let's find out, shall we?

On your mark, get set, STEP!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.22: Quick Dessert!

Ripples v9.22: Quick Dessert!
5/28/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

Life is short. Eat dessert first.
-Ms. Starker, my 3rd grade teacher., submitted by Kelly M., Madison WI


____________________BOULDER ____________________


Now and then
it's good to pause
in our pursuit of happiness,
and just be happy.
-Guillaume Apollinaire, submitted by Shellie L., Parker CO


____________________SPLASH ____________________


I was going to skip this week's Ripples just because your "In" box may be overflowing with STUFF after the holiday weekend...but then I thought maybe I should give you a bit of DESSERT before you attempt to conquer all that stuff! Thanks to lots of input from Ripplers everywhere, I am proud to unveil the updated version of our very own Quote Pond:

Enjoy: http://TheQuotePond.com

Oh, and here is another treat for the world....
I just purchased a new vehicle and decided to make it a bit Ripply:
http://theripplesproject.org/smf/index.php?topic=212.0


Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.21: Service!

Ripples v9.21: Service!
5/21/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

____________________PEBBLE ____________________

Image what a harmonious world it could be if every person,
both young and old, shared a little of what he or she was good at doing.
-Quincy Jones, submitted by Brandy T., Olympia WA

____________________BOULDER ____________________

I slept
and dreamt
that life was joy.

I awoke
and saw
that life was service.

I acted
and behold,
service was joy.
-Rabindranath Tagore, submitted by Marilyn L., Madison WI

____________________SPLASH ____________________


I suspect that our community of Ripplers is doing more than their share of service work, so if you are already over-involved with STUFF, please don't take this week's theme as another lecture to "do your part!"

Instead, I hope you can keep your eyes and ears open to just NOTICE what happens the next time you do something for someone else. The service could be something as simple as holding a door open or practicing extra loving kindness when the driver in front of you forgets to signal before turning. On the other hand, it might involve helping out at an fund raiser or following through on a commitment to take a "shift" at your favorite non-profit (stuffing envelopes, delivering meals, or just sitting with a client who wants company?). Whatever the task, I dare you to observe what you are THINKING and FEELING while you do it. You may find out that SERVICE to others also provides a remarkable service to yourself!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.20: Life Flows!

Ripples v9.20: Life Flows!
5/14/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Dwell as near as possible
to the channel in which your life flows.
-Henry David Thoreau


=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Feel the rain on your skin.
No one else can feel it for you,
Only you can let it in.
No one else, no one else
Can speak the words on your lips.
Drench yourself in words unspoken.
Live your life with arms wide open.
Today is where your book begins,
The rest is still unwritten.
-Natasha Bedingfield, submitted by Nikki B., Cranston RI


=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= SPLASH =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

What moves you? Which activities, when you find time for them, make you feel more alive? Whether it is work or play, large group or solo, daily or once in a lifetime, I hope you can take a moment this week to follow through on at least one action that will help your LIFE FLOW!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.19: Heat!

Ripples v9.19: Heat!
5/7/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

A clay pot sitting in the sun will always be a clay pot.
It has to go through the white heat of the furnace to become porcelain.
-Mildred W. Struven, submitted by Heather C., Atlanta GA


=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Carrots, Eggs, & Coffee.

Upon hearing him complain about how difficult his life was, she put three pots of water on the stove. When the water came to a boil, she placed carrots in the first pot, eggs in the second pot, and ground coffee beans in the third. After boiling for 20 minutes, she asked him what he saw.

"Carrots, eggs, and coffee," he replied.

She brought him closer and asked him to feel the carrots (they were soft), the eggs (they were hard), and to taste the coffee (it was good!).

She explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water. Each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique: after they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water.

"Which are you?" she asked her daughter. "When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

-condensed from unknown source, submitted by Brad W., Phoenix AZ


=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

This is the time of year when many of our Ripplers are feeling the HEAT of final exams, project deadlines, etc. Others may be facing unexpected obstacles or setbacks. For some of us, this is actually a lighter period and things are actually just fine. The question isn't whether or not things will get hot, the question is: How will we handle the HEAT?

When you feel the HEAT coming on, just know that you have a choice in how you respond, and remember that you will be better, stronger, and wiser on the other side of the craziness!

Peace!

Paul

Ripples v9.18: Wonder!

Ripples v9.18: Wonder!
4/30/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLES =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

The Seven Wonders of the World are not really what you think. They are:
1. To see 2. To hear 3. To touch 4. To taste 5. To feel 6. To laugh 7. To love
-source unknown, submitted by Sandy F., Sun Prairie WI


=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

People travel to wonder
at the height of mountains,
at the huge waves of the sea,
at the long courses of rivers,
at the vast compass of the ocean,
at the circular motion of the stars;
and they pass by themselves without wondering.
-St. Augustine, submitted by Cindy K., Green Bay WI


=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

I wonder what would happen if you spent five precious minutes today wondering. Wondering about yourself, wondering about the present moment, wondering about the possibilities that exist for you today.

I wonder.....will you?

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.17: Positive Focus!

Ripples v9.17: Positive Focus!
4/23/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Human beings, by changing the inner attitudes of their minds,
can change the outer aspects of their lives.
-William James, submitted by Samantha T., Milwaukee WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

When you're in your nineties and looking back,
it's not going to be how much money you made or
how many awards you've won.
It's really, what did you stand for?
Did you make a positive difference for people?
-Elizabeth Dole, submitted by Linda H., Manhattan KS

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Many of us spent time this week thinking about the shootings at Virginia Tech and I was so glad to hear that the Hokies who are members of The Ripples Project are safe. One of them, Cara M., responded to my query about what members of The Ripples Project could do to support the Virginia Tech community. She wrote: "I ask at this time for all of us to focus on the positive: We must focus on the kindness, the good, the loving and the Hokie spirit. All of us in the world are one community hurting, let us love one another and support one another during this difficult time."

It may seem like a difficult challenge to focus on the positive in light of such awful events. And even as we paused to focus on the tragic events in Blacksburg, hundreds of people died in Iraq, Darfur, and other places that human beings call home. And as someone who weekly puts together this weekly "splash of inspiration" I am the first to admit it is not always easy to be positive. I don't think it needs to be EASY, I just think it needs to be WORTH it.

So, can you join the Ripples community by identifying something POSITIVE that has come out of a recent troubling event? You may want to consider the Imus Firing, the Virginia Tech Shootings, Iraq, Darfur, or any other public or private situation. I invite you to post your comments at one of our two new communities (they are FREE to join!):

Ripples on Facebook: http://www.FACEBOOK.com/group.php?gid=2204886661
Ripples on MySpace: http://Groups.MYSPACE.com/TheRipplesProject

And this week, just like very week, I am positive that we all need a little more....

...Peace,

Paul

Ripples v9.16: Growing!

Ripples v9.16: Growing!
4/16/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

One can choose to go back toward safety
or forward toward growth.
Growth must be chosen again and again;
fear must be overcome again and again.
-Abraham Maslow, submitted by Sarah Z., Fond du Lac WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Two seeds lay side by side in the fertile spring soil.
The first seed said: "I want to grow!
I want to send my roots deep into the soil beneath me, and
thrust my sprouts through the earth's crust above me!
I want to unfurl my tender buds like banners
to announce the arrival of spring!
I want to feel the warmth of the sun on my face and
the blessing of the morning dew on my petals!"

AND SO THE FIRST SEED GREW....

The second seed said: "I am afraid.
If I send my roots into the ground below,
I don't know what I will encounter in the dark.
If I push my way through the hard soil above me
I may damage my delicate sprouts¦"
What if I let my buds open and a snail tries to eat them?
And if I were to open my blossoms,
a small child may pull me from the ground.
No; It is much better for me to wait until it is safe."

AND SO THE SECOND SEED WAITED.....

A yard hen happened by one day and
started scratching around in the early spring ground for food….
found the waiting seed and promptly ate it.
Moral of this story:
Those of us who refuse to risk and grow,
could get swallowed up in life.
-original source unknown, submitted by Stacey

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

I did some growing this week, thanks to a few hundred Ripplers who helped me move into the land of FACEBOOK, MYSPACE and LINKEDIN. If you are not familiar, these "social networking" sites are quickly redefining how people can create, maintain, and deepen their relationships using the internet. In a few weeks, we are going to have an issue of Ripples on this theme and encourage everyone to connect up on one of these sites. In the meantime, may I challenge YOU to do some growing this week by trying something new, taking a risk, or improving your abilities in some area. It could keep you from getting "swallowed up" and it might even be (gasp) fun!

On your mark, get set, GROW!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.15: Chaos & Dancing Stars!

Ripples v9.15: Chaos & Dancing Stars!
4/9/07: a free weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

You need chaos in your soul
to give birth to a dancing star.
-Fredrich Nietzsche, submitted by Barbara B., Bellevue WA

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

If we look at the things in our lives
that were the most trying,
the most painful and frustrating,
we have to admit that
there was value in it.
If you can't see this,
you probably aren't seeing it
from a distant enough perspective.
-source unknown, submitted by Mia C., Greensboro NC

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Some days are easier than others, and some weeks seem to provide more CHAOS than the easy-breezy fun times. If you have recently faced some challenges large or small, I hope there is a DANCING STAR shining down for you soon!

Peace,
Paul

P.S. I need some help with an upcoming project for Ripples, and a few lucky helpers could win $100! If you have a profile on Facebook, MySpace, and/or LinkedIn, please send an email with CONNECT in the subject line and I provide details soon!

Ripples v9.14: Kindness!

Ripples v9.14: Kindness!
4/2/07: a free splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Forget injuries, never forget kindnesses.
-Confucius, submitted by Linda H., Pewaukee WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Do a deed of simple kindness;
Though its end you may not see,
It may reach, like widening ripples,
Down a long eternity.
-Jospeh Norris, submitted by Melissa M., Indianapolis, IN

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Our pebble this week focuses on kindness we receive while the boulder is about the kindness we bring to others. I want the ponder to serve as a quick reminder that one of the keys to happiness in life is ample doses of both. So GIVE kind and RECEIVE kind and all will be well.

Peace & Kindness to you,
Paul

Ripples v9.13: Dragons!

Ripples v9.13: Dragons!
3/26/07: a free splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLES =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

When you change the way you look at things,
the things you look at change.
-source unknown, submitted by Steve R., Madison WI

What we see depends mainly on what we look for.
-John Lubbock, submitted by Brett B., Madison WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= WAVE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

I made another trip to Cincinnati this week, so we have
a few more ripplers from P&G and HP to wave to, so: HELLO!

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

How could we be capable
of forgetting the old myths
that stand at the threshold of all mankind,
myths of dragons transforming themselves
at the last moment into princesses?

Perhaps all dragons in our lives
are really princesses just waiting
to see us just once
being beautiful and courageous.
-Rainer Maria Rilke, submitted by: Marybeth G.

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= SPLASH =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

I dare you to tame a dragon this week.

Chose one person in your life who is a fierce, fire-breathing, frustrating colleague, neighbor, etc. Treat them with the kindness and respect that you wish they were showing you. Rise above the battle by laying down your sword, and maybe, just maybe, their dangerous exterior will fade enough for you to see the princess (or prince) that lives in each person.

Remember that I am not telling you to put up with abuse, nor am I suggesting you should release someone from accountability for their actions. I just believe strongly in your ability to affect others, and I believe strongly in Plato's advice that we should "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle."

I hope you can accept for yourself, and bring to someone else, a little....

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.12: Kind Words!

Ripples v9.12: Kind Words!
3/18/07: a free splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Don't waste yourself in rejection,
nor bark against the bad,
but chant the beauty of the good.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson, submitted by Brett B, Madison WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= WAVE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Make some ripples in the shape of Golden Arches
to welcome a 100 new ripplers from the
IT Solutions Team at McDonald's!

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Kind words do not cost much.
They never blister the tongue or lips.
Mental trouble was never known to arise from such quarters.
Though they do not cost much yet they accomplish much.
They make other people good natured.
They also produce their own image on men's souls,
and a beautiful image it is.
-Blaise Pascal, submitted by Kelley G., Chester IL

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= SPLASH =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

We are going to make a super wave of kindness this week!

Imagine if every one of our 15,000 subscribers took time to ripple some KIND WORDS to unsuspecting friends, neighbors, classmates, co-workers, or even strangers. I dare you. Pick up the telephone, compose an email, or just walk out your door right now and send out a thank you, compliment, apology, or some other sincerely kind words and see how good it feels! Ooh, and tell that person to do the same!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.11: Eggs & Ham!

Ripples v9.11: Eggs & Ham!
3/12/07: a free splash from Paul & The Ripples Project


=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

The power of commitment is wondrous
and can transcend all other forces.
-Shihan Tak Kubota, submitted by Marc L., Madison WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

The difference between involvement and commitment
is like eggs and ham for breakfast;
the chicken was involved,
the pig was committed.
-source unknown, submitted by Julie S., Greendale WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

What projects are you involved with right now that could benefit from a 100% commitment? Is there a relationship or a class or a committee or recent life change that you're putting time into, but not really investing your heart and soul in?

You might need to get "uninvolved" with a few other things that are on your plate in order to have the time, energy, and passion to commit more fully; perhaps you will get motivated if you take some time right now to imagine the possibilities if you unleash a laser focus of commitment on one thing.

On the other hand, if you consider this and decide you do not WANT or NEED a full commitment, it is perfectly acceptable to continue your current level of commitment while recognizing that you only get out what you put in.

For each item on your plate, ask yourself "Should I be a chicken, or should I be a pig?"

Have a good breakfast, and have a good week!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.10: Today!

Ripples v9.10: Today!
3/5/07: a free splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

What we are today comes from our thoughts of yesterday,
and our present thoughts build our life of tomorrow.
Our Life is the creation of our mind.
-Buddha, submitted by Kate S., Wauwatosa WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Today is my day...it is a sacred trust.
It will be neither good nor bad.
It may hold sadness, it may hold joy.
It will always hold the freedom for me to choose.

Today is full of infinite possibilities.
It will hold the answers that I seek.
It will be alive with gold dust in the air.
It will cooperate with me when I send out love.

Today can be anything and everything.
It will be open to change or closed to stagnation.
It will reflect upon me what I project upon it.
It will pay out its' rewards or collect upon its' debts.

Today is mine to own...all day long.
It will respond to my love as it will respond to my hate.
It will wear as a badge of honor or as a sentence of shame.
It will serve me as I serve it.
-submitted by: Stevie V; Reading PA

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= SPLASH =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

I have an important challenge for you today, should you choose to accept it. It is one of the easiest and most difficult tasks in the world, and it is the most complicated simple goal ever. It only takes a moment and that moment lasts all day. If you aren't interested, you can stop reading now and go on about your business. If you are ready, the challenge is simply to follow the directions on the next line:

Enjoy today!

Paul
p.s. In the coming weeks, I am going to work with the architects of the quote pond to make some revisions. What could we tweak to make it even better? Visit today and let me know: http://TheQuotePond.com

Ripples v9.09: Good Work!

Ripples v9.09: Good Work!
2/26/07: a free splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

You've achieved success in your field when you don't know
whether what you are doing is work or play.
-Warrren Beatty, submitted by Sarah B., Burlington WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= WAVE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

A "bold new" wave to our new friends from
Kohler Credit Union who joined us this week!

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Work is not something we have to do.
It is something we have the opportunity to do
that adds depth and texture to our lives.
-source unknown, submitted by Mary H., OH

It's not so much how busy you are,
but why you are busy.
The bee is praised.
The mosquito is swatted.
-Mary O'Connor, submitted by Henry S, Neenah WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

As I get ready to hunker down and watch the Oscars tonight, I am hoping that each of you has been recognized for your GOOD WORK!

For some of us, our GOOD WORK is actually at our job. Others shine at school, community service, a hobby, or raising a family. Wherever you do your thing, I hope you find it deeply rewarding. That will always be better than a little gold statue on the mantle, and as (Oscar winner) Warren Beatty suggests in this week's pebble, it will make life much more fun!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.08: Facing Fears!

Ripples v9.08: Facing Fears!
2/19/07: a free splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Never let the fear of striking out get in your way.
-George Herman "Babe " Ruth, submitted by Barbara R., Phillips WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= WAVE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Can you give an "Apple Mango Tango" wave
to new Ripplers from Procter & Gamble, and an
"Inventive" wave to those from Hewlett-Packard?

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Having courage
does not mean
that we are unafraid.
Having courage and
showing courage
means we face our fears.
We are able to say,
I have fallen,
but I will get up.
-Maya Angelou, submitted by Sara M., Madison WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

What could happen if you chose some object, task, or person that you are afraid of and just for today, just one day, you moved through the day as though you were not afraid anymore? What possibilities might exist if you faced your fears? Hmmmmm.....

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.07: Creative Love!

Ripples v9.07: Creative Love!
2/12/07: a free splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Love shows itself better through deeds than by words.
-St. Ignatius Loyola, submitted by Samantha T., Milwaukee WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

The meaning of life is creative love.
Not love as an inner feeling,
as a private sentimental emotion,
but love as a dynamic power
moving out into the world and
doing something original.
-Tom Morris, submitted by Linn W., Milwaukee WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= SPLASH =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

How much do I love the affirmations and contributions I have received from Ripples readers over the last 9 years? The above quotes dare me to SHOW my love, so I have a gift for you that requires two minutes of your time to receive. The Quote Pond is a place you can visit to relax a bit, and also find a message that may be just what you need today.

If you are busy, come back when you have some time. If you are ready, please take a deep breath and visit http://TheQuotePond.com. (Patience please if you're visiting this link on Monday because the site may be quite busy!!).

The site was created for you, so please enjoy your visit!! Happy Valentine's Day, Ripplers!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.06: Super Enthusiasm!

Ripples v9.06: Super Enthusiasm!
2/05/07: a free splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Nothing is so contagious as enthusiasm;
it moves stones, it charms brutes.
Enthusiasm is the genius of sincerity,
and truth accomplishes no victories without it.
-Edward Bulwer-Lytton, submitted by Linn W., Milwaukee WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= WAVE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Please WAVE enthusiastically to new Ripplers from the
University of Wisconsin Hospital & Clinics!
Welcome aboard!

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

I would rather be ashes than dust!
I would rather that my spark
should burn out in a brilliant blaze
than it should be stifled by dry rot.

I would rather be a superb meteor,
every atom of me in magnificent glow,
than a sleepy and permanent planet.

The proper function of man is to live, not to exist.
I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong them.
I shall use my time.
-Jack London, submitted by Cindy K, Green Bay WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

As I put the final touches on this issue, I hear lots of SUPER ENTHUSIASM for the Super Bowl from neighbors (I myself am being super-enthusiastic about the commercials). Even if you are not a fan of football nor the ads, most of us have observed all the whooping and hollering that athletic events encourage. I wonder what would happen if you could unleash that sort of enthusiasm at work or school or life in general? I don't necessarily mean walking around screaming and jumping up and down, but I do believe that outward physical expressions of excitement nurture passion in the person who is showing enthusiasm AND in all who encounter her/him. You already know that enthusiasm is more contagious than any virus, so what might happen if you turned up the volume on yours?

WAIT! I was just about to hit the SEND button and had to stop the presses to share with you the jingle from a most "ripply" Super Bowl commercial. The soft drink ad begins like a video game and transforms into an encouragement to be nice: "You give a little love, and it all comes back to you. You're gonna be remembered for the things that you say and do." If you wanna see it, I'll post a link on the message board to the ad:
http://theripplesproject.org/smf/index.php?topic=211.0

Have a SUPER week!

Paul
p.s. Next week I am going to show you how much I love members of The Ripples Project!! Get ready to visit The Quote Pond!

Ripples v9.05: Gorilla Toughness

Ripples v9.05: Gorilla Toughness
1/29/07: a free splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

It's a little like wrestling a gorilla.
You don't quit when you're tired,
you quit when the gorilla's tired.
-Robert Frost, submitted by Allison K., WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= WAVE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Please help me WAVE to some new Ripplers:
student leaders at Mississippi University for Women &
the talented high school leaders they hosted at the
Hearin Leadership Conference this weekend.

Also, longtime Rippler Deb T., of Cudahy WI
mentioned Ripples on a listserv and several
credit union folks from around the country
subscribed, so a ripply WAVE to them too!!

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Your toughness is made up of
equal parts persistence and experience.
You don't so much outrun your opponents
as outlast and outsmart them,
and the toughest opponent of all
is the one inside your head.
-Joe Henderson, submitted by Rob G., Lewisburg PA

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= SPLASH =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

If you have recently given up on something (or someone), or are strongly considering throwing in the towel on a project that just isn't progressing like you hoped, I dare you to be GORILLA TOUGH this week and give it one more solid push. Print out these quotes and tape them to your computer so you can hang in there. GO FOR IT!

Peace,
Paul
p.s. I have a gift to give you soon that I hope you will enjoy! Imagine sitting by a peaceful pond listening to calm music....more details next week.

Ripples v9.04: Being The Poem.

Ripples v9.04: Being The Poem.
1/22/07: a quick splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

If you cannot be a poet, be the poem.
-David Carradine, submitted by Cindy K, Green Bay WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Love the earth and sun and animals,
Despise riches, give alms to everyone that asks,
Stand up for the stupid and crazy,
Devote your income and labor to others...
And your very flesh shall be a great poem.
-Walt Whitman, submitted by Cindy K, Green Bay WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= WAVE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Please give a big WAVE to new subscribers from
Community Financial Credit Union in Michigan.
It was a joy to hang out with them last week!

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

This weekend a beautiful blanket of snow settled on Madison. It may have limited our Ripply town meeting to four happy souls, but it was great fun to chat about The Ripples Project and similar efforts underway to create a community of positive-acting folks. I hope to implement some of the ideas we generated within the next few months, so watch for more Ripply Potential!

Regarding this week's theme: if The Ripples Project is a poem, YOU are the lines. So here is a dare: go out there, take your gifts and share, show the world you care!

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.03: Dr. King!

Ripples v9.03: Dr. King!
1/15/07: a quick splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Man must evolve for all human conflict
a method which rejects revenge, aggression, and retaliation.
The foundation of such a method is love.
-Martin Luther King, Jr., submitted by Judy A., Carbondale IL

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

The past is prophetic
in that it asserts loudly that
wars are poor chisels
for carving out peaceful tomorrows.

One day we must come to see
that peace is not merely a distant goal that we seek,
but a means by which we arrive at that goal.
We must pursue peaceful ends through peaceful means.
How much longer must we play at deadly war games
before we heed the plaintive pleas
of the unnumbered dead and maimed of past wars?
-Martin Luther King, Jr., submitted by Cathie M., Madison WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= SPLASH =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

For everyone here: please, please PLEASE take some action this week to honor Dr. King. Make peace with a co-worker, reach out to a struggling friend, speak up on behalf of someone who needs it.

For Madison area Ripplers, join us for a Ripply Town MeetUp! A few of us are gathering next week in Madison to explore how to make the world a more ripply place. This Sunday, January 21, 4pm at "In the Company of Thieves" Coffee Shop, 908 E Johnson St, Madison (608) 204-9797 If you think you might come, let me know in advance if possible!

More info here: http://theripplesproject.org/smf/index.php?topic=209.0

In honor of Dr. King, I send you now an extra big splash of....

Peace,

Paul

Ripples v9.02: Treating People Right!

Ripples v9.02: Treating People Right!
1/8/07: a quick splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

The most important trip you may take in life is meeting people halfway.
-Henry Boye, submitted by Kathy L., Mendota Heights MN

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

I have come to the frightening conclusion that I am the decisive element.
It is my personal approach that creates the climate.
It is my daily mood that makes the weather.

I possess tremendous power to make life miserable or joyous.
I can be a tool of torture or an instrument of inspiration,
I can humiliate or humor,
hurt or heal.

In all situations,
it is my response that decides whether
a crisis is escalated or de-escalated, and
a person is humanized or de-humanized.

If we treat people as they are,
we make them worse.
If we treat people as they ought to be,
we help them become what they are capable of becoming.
-J.W. Goethe, submitted by Kelly P., Ontario OR

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= SPLASH =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

I need help gathering examples of TREATING PEOPLE RIGHT!

Have you recently (or ever?) been in a situation where you were receiving service (restaurant, hotel, retail store, etc.) and the person said or did something unexpected that "made life joyous?" Reply and share it with me! Anyone who responds by Thursday morning with a brief example will get a copy of all the examples (and I think it could be a great list.).

If you cannot think of one, then make a splash this week by making an extra effort to be nice to someone that isn't expecting it.

Peace,
Paul

Ripples v9.01: New Directions!

Ripples v9.01: New Directions!
1/1/07: a quick splash from Paul & The Ripples Project

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

You cannot change your destination overnight,
but you can change your direction overnight.
-Jim Rohn, submitted by Sarah B., Burlington WI

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o

We owe it to the past to use its gains worthily
and to advance from the point at which it left off.

We owe it to the future
to prepare a generation better than ourselves.
We owe it to the present to 'live',
to live with all the expansion of heart and soul,
all reaching out of our personality
towards those relations appointed to us.
-Charlotte Mason, submitted by Judy A., Carbondale IL

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

Welcome to 2007! The new year always brings an opportunity for NEW DIRECTIONS, and that includes here at The Ripples Project! Below is a new section with content that used to be here in the PONDER area. Some times I have ended a PONDER with a challenge: "this week, try to...." Other times I have mentioned a book or website that might be worth a peek. The SPLASH section will appear occasionally to serve as a special home for these small actions that could make an immediate SPLASH in your life: call, visit, read, surf, experiment, etc. Try it, you may like it!

=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= SPLASH =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o

In the spirit of the new year and this week's theme of NEW DIRECTIONS, I dare you to spend 5 minutes answering 5 questions at this quick retirement planner: http://www.Fidelity.com/MyPlan . * I know, some of you may feel you are too young to think about this....there are others here who wish someone would have nudged them to think about this earlier. If you find it useful, let me know!

Another splash to consider: would you like to meet other Ripply people? We are convening a Ripply Town Meeting on Sunday afternoon, January 21 here in Madison.

Peace,
Paul
*This is not a paid advertisement, nor an endorsement of an organization. I just thought it had Ripply Potential and it is okay if you disagree!