Ripples #791: Invincible!
A splash of inspiration
from The Ripples Guy
21 July 2014
PEBBLE:
We all have an unsuspected reserve of strength inside
that emerges when life puts us to the test.
-Isabel Allende
BOULDER:
In the midst of hate,
I found there was, within me,
an invincible love.
In the midst of tears,
I found there was, within me,
an invincible smile.
In the midst of chaos,
I found there was, within me,
an invincible calm.
I realized, through it all, that…
In the midst of winter,
I found there was, within me,
an invincible summer.
And that makes me happy.
For it says that no matter how hard
the world pushes against me,
within me,
there’s something stronger – something better,
pushing right back.
-Albert Camus
PONDER:
Most of us are unaware of just how strong and resourceful and talented we can be until something comes along that requires us to stand up and jump into action. Few people recognize that it is often the INTERNAL obstacles (fear, doubt, insecurity) that keep us from revving up to our potential. Of course there are very real and powerful EXTERNAL obstacles that provide legitimate challenges; it’s just that they are rarely enough to prevent your FULL and BEST self from rising to the challenge and eventually triumphing over difficulty.
I invite you to unleash your best invincible self for the day just to see what magic you can whip up.
Peace,
Paul
((( The Ripples Guy )))
Showing posts with label Face it. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Face it. Show all posts
Monday, July 21, 2014
Monday, June 16, 2014
Ripples #786: Learning to Surf.
Ripples #786: Learning to Surf.
A splash of inspiration
from The Ripples Guy
16 June 2014
PEBBLE:
You can't stop the waves,
but you can learn how to surf.
-Jon Kabat-Zinn, shared by S Anderson in Edmonton, AB
BOULDER:
In our lives,
change is unavoidable,
loss is unavoidable.
In the adaptability and ease
with which we experience change,
lies our happiness and freedom.
-Buddha, shared by Carl in Terre Haute, IN
PONDER:
You’re pretty awesome sometimes, aren’t you?
On your best days when everything is going your way—-you rock things out in a magnificent way, right? On those days you work hard, you’re on top of things, and you’re able to bring forth your best self to handle whatever challenges present themselves. And then there are those pesky OTHER days: Those days when you aren’t feeling it even though (or precisely because) you’re facing a crazy mix of deadlines and crises and obstacles that make up your life in that moment.
Even really successful people aren’t able to bring their best selves to every moment of every day; they sometimes have bad moments, days, weeks, etc. The trick is to figure out how to activate your “HEY I KNOW CAN HANDLE THIS” alert system so when you enter rough waters it takes just a moment to catch your breath before you can surf your way to sanity. Your alert system could be the right music, it could be a pep talk from one of your fierce allies, or perhaps visiting a sacred place that helps you renew your spirit.
Make this week about identifying what activates your “I’ve got this” button, and then go surf whatever waves of craziness get whipped up in your life.
Peace,
Paul
A splash of inspiration
from The Ripples Guy
16 June 2014
PEBBLE:
You can't stop the waves,
but you can learn how to surf.
-Jon Kabat-Zinn, shared by S Anderson in Edmonton, AB
BOULDER:
In our lives,
change is unavoidable,
loss is unavoidable.
In the adaptability and ease
with which we experience change,
lies our happiness and freedom.
-Buddha, shared by Carl in Terre Haute, IN
PONDER:
You’re pretty awesome sometimes, aren’t you?
On your best days when everything is going your way—-you rock things out in a magnificent way, right? On those days you work hard, you’re on top of things, and you’re able to bring forth your best self to handle whatever challenges present themselves. And then there are those pesky OTHER days: Those days when you aren’t feeling it even though (or precisely because) you’re facing a crazy mix of deadlines and crises and obstacles that make up your life in that moment.
Even really successful people aren’t able to bring their best selves to every moment of every day; they sometimes have bad moments, days, weeks, etc. The trick is to figure out how to activate your “HEY I KNOW CAN HANDLE THIS” alert system so when you enter rough waters it takes just a moment to catch your breath before you can surf your way to sanity. Your alert system could be the right music, it could be a pep talk from one of your fierce allies, or perhaps visiting a sacred place that helps you renew your spirit.
Make this week about identifying what activates your “I’ve got this” button, and then go surf whatever waves of craziness get whipped up in your life.
Peace,
Paul
Monday, May 19, 2014
Ripples #782: Making Doors!
Ripples #782: Making Doors!
A splash of inspiration
from The Ripples Guy
19 May 2014
PEBBLE:
The world has Amazing Things in store for you, so
hunt them with Resilience and Persistence.
-written & shared by Erin in Adelaide, South Australia
BOULDER:
If I can't make it through one door,
I'll go through another door-
-or I'll make a door.
Something terrific will come
no matter how dark the present.
-Rabindranath Tagore
PONDER:
Last week we explored how to “hang in there” through tough times, and I thought we should follow up with something even stronger. Sometimes, “just muddling through” is all we’ve got. Remember, though, that you have previously survived some significant challenges and all of us—as in ALL OF US including YOU sometimes forget that we are made from tough stuff!
This week could be a good time to move beyond the “muddling through” and instead hop up and either OPEN THE DOOR or CREATE THE DOOR that will help you conquer your challenges and unleash your next level of awesome.
It’s true that you don’t always need to bring your best self to work/school/life; but it’s also true that your best self has a burst of energy and ideas and effort to improve just about any situation you’re in.
Are you ready? Get ready.
Are you set? Get set.
LET’S GO DO THIS!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, May 12, 2014
Ripples #781: Treading Thru Life.
Ripples #781: Treading Thru Life.
A splash of inspiration
from The Ripples Guy
12 May 2014
PEBBLE:
The “good life” begins when
you stop wanting a better one.
-Nkosiphambili E. Molapis, shared by Becca in Boston, MA
BOULDER:
Promise me you will not spend
so much time treading water
and trying to keep your head above water
that you forget, truly forget,
how much you have always loved to swim.
-Tyler Knott Gregson, shared by Kathryn in Annapolis, MD
PONDER:
If your life is anything like mine, our best days are absolutely awesome, our worst days are excruciatingly awful and most of the other days are a muddy mix of the beauty and the blech. I’ve found the trick is to savor the heck out of the awesome ones, hang on for dear life through the awful times, and use the rest of the days to be grateful they aren’t worse while anticipating the next grand upswing.
It doesn’t mean you’re required to paint a smile on your face (although I’ve found that even the fake ones can sometimes help you grit your teeth and catch your breath), nor does it mean that you are required to bring your best self to every moment of every day. It *does* mean that hidden in almost every day, whether it be awesome or awful or meh, are minute opportunities to enjoy, endure, or at least extend your life.
Hang in there, mkay?
Peace,
Paul
A splash of inspiration
from The Ripples Guy
12 May 2014
PEBBLE:
The “good life” begins when
you stop wanting a better one.
-Nkosiphambili E. Molapis, shared by Becca in Boston, MA
BOULDER:
Promise me you will not spend
so much time treading water
and trying to keep your head above water
that you forget, truly forget,
how much you have always loved to swim.
-Tyler Knott Gregson, shared by Kathryn in Annapolis, MD
PONDER:
If your life is anything like mine, our best days are absolutely awesome, our worst days are excruciatingly awful and most of the other days are a muddy mix of the beauty and the blech. I’ve found the trick is to savor the heck out of the awesome ones, hang on for dear life through the awful times, and use the rest of the days to be grateful they aren’t worse while anticipating the next grand upswing.
It doesn’t mean you’re required to paint a smile on your face (although I’ve found that even the fake ones can sometimes help you grit your teeth and catch your breath), nor does it mean that you are required to bring your best self to every moment of every day. It *does* mean that hidden in almost every day, whether it be awesome or awful or meh, are minute opportunities to enjoy, endure, or at least extend your life.
Hang in there, mkay?
Peace,
Paul
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Ripples #592: The Way It Is!
Ripples #592: The Way It Is!
For our tribe of 26,587 busy people who share encouragement and gratitude.
Sep 27, 2010
PEBBLE:
Life is not the way it's supposed to be. It's the way it is.
The way you cope with it is what makes the difference.
-source unknown, submitted by Tracy B., Wautoma WI
BOULDER:
I wanted a perfect ending.
Now I've learned, the hard way, that some poems don't rhyme,
and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle, and end.
Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment
and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to happen next.
Delicious ambiguity.
-Gilda Radner, submitted by Emily, Columbus OH
PONDER:
Listen up, fellow control freaks (you know who you are). We can spend so
much energy trying to make things just the way we want them, the way they
are supposed to be. And then we can spend a bunch more energy on
frustration and fear when we realize that we cannot fix everything.
How about we all take a deep breath, relax into the HERE and NOW, and let
the next few moments (or hours or days even) be delicious opportunities to
make the best of the way it is.
Peace,
Paul
For our tribe of 26,587 busy people who share encouragement and gratitude.
Sep 27, 2010
PEBBLE:
Life is not the way it's supposed to be. It's the way it is.
The way you cope with it is what makes the difference.
-source unknown, submitted by Tracy B., Wautoma WI
BOULDER:
I wanted a perfect ending.
Now I've learned, the hard way, that some poems don't rhyme,
and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle, and end.
Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment
and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to happen next.
Delicious ambiguity.
-Gilda Radner, submitted by Emily, Columbus OH
PONDER:
Listen up, fellow control freaks (you know who you are). We can spend so
much energy trying to make things just the way we want them, the way they
are supposed to be. And then we can spend a bunch more energy on
frustration and fear when we realize that we cannot fix everything.
How about we all take a deep breath, relax into the HERE and NOW, and let
the next few moments (or hours or days even) be delicious opportunities to
make the best of the way it is.
Peace,
Paul
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Ripples v11.34: Bubbling Brooks!
Ripples v11.34: Bubbling Brooks!
The Ripples Project is a tribe of 22,882
who believe tiny actions create big possibilities
Monday, August 31, 2009
_______
PEBBLE
The bubbling brook would lose its song
if you removed the rocks.
-source unknown, submitted by Flory D., India
________
BOULDER
Adversity is like a strong wind.
It tears away from us all but
the things that cannot be torn,
so that we see ourselves
as we really are.
-Arthur Golden, submitted by Jamie W., Middleton, WI
_______
PONDER
Life is not always easy, eh?
I have heard from several fellow Ripplers lately who are experiencing BIG challenges in their lives: loss of loved ones, major disruptions in work/school/life, and dealing with other "stuff" that makes life rocky. It is heartbreaking to hear how difficult life can be for each of us at times.
As I look over my responses to them, I notice a common phrase that I have used in various forms. While I try to avoid using absolutes like "always" and "never," I stand by these: Life is not always easy, convenient, pretty, or fair; life, however is ALWAYS is worth it. The hard stuff makes us stronger the same way the heavier weights are what make the difference in strength training (many of you have heard me say that I'd do more weight lifting if they weren't so darn heavy--but of course if they were light they wouldn't help me strengthen my muscles!).
Believe me, I have days where I wish all the "rocks" in the bubbling brook of my life could be magically removed. Luckily I have the good sense to remember that so much of my character, my personal strength, and my capacity to help others has grown from dealing with the difficult stuff.
I'm truly sorry if life is extra tough for you right now; I hope you seek good people to support you, calming music to soothe you, and an occasional Dairy Queen treat every now and then is pretty darn awesome too.
Peace,
Paul
The Ripples Project is a tribe of 22,882
who believe tiny actions create big possibilities
Monday, August 31, 2009
_______
PEBBLE
The bubbling brook would lose its song
if you removed the rocks.
-source unknown, submitted by Flory D., India
________
BOULDER
Adversity is like a strong wind.
It tears away from us all but
the things that cannot be torn,
so that we see ourselves
as we really are.
-Arthur Golden, submitted by Jamie W., Middleton, WI
_______
PONDER
Life is not always easy, eh?
I have heard from several fellow Ripplers lately who are experiencing BIG challenges in their lives: loss of loved ones, major disruptions in work/school/life, and dealing with other "stuff" that makes life rocky. It is heartbreaking to hear how difficult life can be for each of us at times.
As I look over my responses to them, I notice a common phrase that I have used in various forms. While I try to avoid using absolutes like "always" and "never," I stand by these: Life is not always easy, convenient, pretty, or fair; life, however is ALWAYS is worth it. The hard stuff makes us stronger the same way the heavier weights are what make the difference in strength training (many of you have heard me say that I'd do more weight lifting if they weren't so darn heavy--but of course if they were light they wouldn't help me strengthen my muscles!).
Believe me, I have days where I wish all the "rocks" in the bubbling brook of my life could be magically removed. Luckily I have the good sense to remember that so much of my character, my personal strength, and my capacity to help others has grown from dealing with the difficult stuff.
I'm truly sorry if life is extra tough for you right now; I hope you seek good people to support you, calming music to soothe you, and an occasional Dairy Queen treat every now and then is pretty darn awesome too.
Peace,
Paul
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Ripples v11.04: Speak Prudently!
Ripples v11.04: Speaking Prudently!
The Ripples Project is a tribe of 21,655
who believe tiny actions create big possibilities
1999-2009: 10 years of Ripples!
_______
PEBBLE
Tact is the knack of making a point without making an enemy.
-Howard W. Newton, submitted by Linn W., Milwaukee WI
_________
BOULDER
Speak prudently:
cautiously to your rivals, and
with dignity to everyone else.
There is always time to utter a word,
and never time to take it back...
-Baltasar Gracian, submitted by Samantha T., Milwaukee WI
_________
PONDER
It is time to have that conversation. You know, the one you have been putting off for some time. Iyanla VanSant calls them "fierce conversations" not because they are violent but because they are vital, charged, and dangerous due to an extended build up of emotion while at the same time infused with energetic potential for deeper understanding and increased mutual respect. Take a deep breath, summarize in your head and your heart what you need to communicate, and remember that your conversation is between two flawed human beings who are doing the best s/he can in this crazy, challenging world! Good luck, and let me know how it goes!
Peace,
Paul
The Ripples Project is a tribe of 21,655
who believe tiny actions create big possibilities
1999-2009: 10 years of Ripples!
_______
PEBBLE
Tact is the knack of making a point without making an enemy.
-Howard W. Newton, submitted by Linn W., Milwaukee WI
_________
BOULDER
Speak prudently:
cautiously to your rivals, and
with dignity to everyone else.
There is always time to utter a word,
and never time to take it back...
-Baltasar Gracian, submitted by Samantha T., Milwaukee WI
_________
PONDER
It is time to have that conversation. You know, the one you have been putting off for some time. Iyanla VanSant calls them "fierce conversations" not because they are violent but because they are vital, charged, and dangerous due to an extended build up of emotion while at the same time infused with energetic potential for deeper understanding and increased mutual respect. Take a deep breath, summarize in your head and your heart what you need to communicate, and remember that your conversation is between two flawed human beings who are doing the best s/he can in this crazy, challenging world! Good luck, and let me know how it goes!
Peace,
Paul
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Ripples v10.49: Decide!
Ripples v10.49: Decide! (Dec 8, 2008)
The Ripples Project: our tribe of 21,275
who believe tiny actions create big possibilities
_______
PEBBLE
If you wait to do everything until you're sure it's right,
you'll probably never do much of anything.
-Win Borden, submitted by Brett B, Madison WI
_________
BOULDER
Be willing to make decisions.
That's the most important quality in a good leader.
Don't fall victim to what I call
the Ready-Aim-Aim-Aim Syndrome.
You must be willing to fire.
-T. Boone Pickens, submitted by: Yuridia R., Reedsburg WI
_________
PONDER
Decide. You won't have to make the decision instantly and without thought. You will need to make the decision eventually. If it is time, just take a deep breath, remember that perfection is for amateurs (unless you're a heart surgeon), glance once more at the options and the available information, and DECIDE!
Peace,
Paul
The Ripples Project: our tribe of 21,275
who believe tiny actions create big possibilities
_______
PEBBLE
If you wait to do everything until you're sure it's right,
you'll probably never do much of anything.
-Win Borden, submitted by Brett B, Madison WI
_________
BOULDER
Be willing to make decisions.
That's the most important quality in a good leader.
Don't fall victim to what I call
the Ready-Aim-Aim-Aim Syndrome.
You must be willing to fire.
-T. Boone Pickens, submitted by: Yuridia R., Reedsburg WI
_________
PONDER
Decide. You won't have to make the decision instantly and without thought. You will need to make the decision eventually. If it is time, just take a deep breath, remember that perfection is for amateurs (unless you're a heart surgeon), glance once more at the options and the available information, and DECIDE!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, October 27, 2008
Ripples v10.43: Removing a Rock!
Ripples v10.43: Removing a Rock!
October 27, 2008: a free weekly splash to 21,143 subscribers
from Paul & The Ripples Project
__PEBBLE _________________________________
Remove the rock from your shoe instead of learning to limp comfortably.
-Stephen C. Paul, submitted by Stephanie B., San Francisco CA
__BOULDER _________________________________
The difference between great people and everyone else
is that great people create their lives actively,
while everyone else is created by their lives,
passively waiting to see where life takes them next.
The difference between the two
is the difference between living fully and just existing.
-Michael Gerber, submitted by Jamie Wackerlin, Madison WI
__PONDER _________________________________
Ahem. Excuse me...sorry to bother you, but it seems you have a rock in your shoe.
That minor annoyance that you have been living with for a few days, weeks, months has caused you enough trouble. Your "rock" could be an unkind word from a friend or co-worker, a decision you recently made that you regret, or a small item on your to-do list that has become infected while you procrastinate, worry, or resist.
I invite you to take a few minutes to remove your rock by letting go, making a switch, or taking action.
Ahhhhhh, I hope that feels better....
Peace,
Paul
October 27, 2008: a free weekly splash to 21,143 subscribers
from Paul & The Ripples Project
__PEBBLE _________________________________
Remove the rock from your shoe instead of learning to limp comfortably.
-Stephen C. Paul, submitted by Stephanie B., San Francisco CA
__BOULDER _________________________________
The difference between great people and everyone else
is that great people create their lives actively,
while everyone else is created by their lives,
passively waiting to see where life takes them next.
The difference between the two
is the difference between living fully and just existing.
-Michael Gerber, submitted by Jamie Wackerlin, Madison WI
__PONDER _________________________________
Ahem. Excuse me...sorry to bother you, but it seems you have a rock in your shoe.
That minor annoyance that you have been living with for a few days, weeks, months has caused you enough trouble. Your "rock" could be an unkind word from a friend or co-worker, a decision you recently made that you regret, or a small item on your to-do list that has become infected while you procrastinate, worry, or resist.
I invite you to take a few minutes to remove your rock by letting go, making a switch, or taking action.
Ahhhhhh, I hope that feels better....
Peace,
Paul
Monday, October 13, 2008
Ripples v10.41: Face It!
Ripples v10.41: Face It!
October 13, 2008: a free weekly splash to 21,410 subscribers
from Paul & The Ripples Project
__PEBBLE _________________________________
Facing it, always facing it, that's the way to get through. Face it.
-Joseph Conrad, submitted by Lin H., Bloomington IL
__BOULDER _________________________________
Fear is the mind-killer.
Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration.
I will face my fear.
I will permit it to pass over me and through me.
And when it has gone past I will turn the inner eye to see its path.
Where the fear has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain.
-Frank Herbert, submitted by Stephanie W., West Des Moines IA
__PONDER _________________________________
If you are feeling scared or bewildered or frustrated by the crazy events recently, you need to remember a few things:
1. You are not the only one.
2. Things will get better.
3. You can handle this.
Yes, you can. You can FACE IT just like you have dealt with other challenges in your life. And I have a sneaking suspicion that not only will you come out of this okay, you might even be stronger, smarter, and braver. So put your game face on, and FACE IT!
Peace,
Paul
October 13, 2008: a free weekly splash to 21,410 subscribers
from Paul & The Ripples Project
__PEBBLE _________________________________
Facing it, always facing it, that's the way to get through. Face it.
-Joseph Conrad, submitted by Lin H., Bloomington IL
__BOULDER _________________________________
Fear is the mind-killer.
Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration.
I will face my fear.
I will permit it to pass over me and through me.
And when it has gone past I will turn the inner eye to see its path.
Where the fear has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain.
-Frank Herbert, submitted by Stephanie W., West Des Moines IA
__PONDER _________________________________
If you are feeling scared or bewildered or frustrated by the crazy events recently, you need to remember a few things:
1. You are not the only one.
2. Things will get better.
3. You can handle this.
Yes, you can. You can FACE IT just like you have dealt with other challenges in your life. And I have a sneaking suspicion that not only will you come out of this okay, you might even be stronger, smarter, and braver. So put your game face on, and FACE IT!
Peace,
Paul
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Ripples v10.15: Precious Time!
Ripples v10.15: Precious Time!
Apr 14, 2008: a free weekly splash to 18,921 subscribers
from Paul & The Ripples Project
____________________PEBBLE ____________________
We must use time as a tool, not as a couch.
-John F. Kennedy, submitted by Linn W., Milwaukee WI
____________________BOULDER ____________________
Half our life
is spent trying to find
something to do
with the time
we have rushed through life
trying to save.
-Will Rogers, submitted by Mike R., Yukon OK
____________________PONDER ____________________
This week included a visit to the Oregon Governor's Conference on Tourism in Portland and a quick flight back to Wisconsin for RFW's Rehabilitation & Transition Conference. It may seem the tourism industry and those who serve people with disabilities may not have much in common, but I quickly learned that both groups struggle with how do manage a most precious and rare commodity: TIME!
Indeed all of us are running around like rabbits, hoping to accomplish lots in school, work, and/or life. People who attend my presentations on time management are often seeking the secrets of saving time and multitasking and eternally organized desks. While I am happy to share a few tips, the most valuable truth I can share is that there are not really secrets and time management is not about cramming a bunch of stuff into your day so you can check items off a list. Instead, it is about slowing down, figuring out what is most important at this point in your life and making sure it gets tended to.
Choose one neglected task that is on your plate right now and DO IT! It could be an annoying chore, checking in with a friend, or maybe taking 10 minutes for a fast paced walk to jump start your exercise program. You don't need to think about it, or plan it, or worry about it. You just need to DO IT!
Oh, and don't forget your taxes are do tomorrow too.
Peace,
Paul
Apr 14, 2008: a free weekly splash to 18,921 subscribers
from Paul & The Ripples Project
____________________PEBBLE ____________________
We must use time as a tool, not as a couch.
-John F. Kennedy, submitted by Linn W., Milwaukee WI
____________________BOULDER ____________________
Half our life
is spent trying to find
something to do
with the time
we have rushed through life
trying to save.
-Will Rogers, submitted by Mike R., Yukon OK
____________________PONDER ____________________
This week included a visit to the Oregon Governor's Conference on Tourism in Portland and a quick flight back to Wisconsin for RFW's Rehabilitation & Transition Conference. It may seem the tourism industry and those who serve people with disabilities may not have much in common, but I quickly learned that both groups struggle with how do manage a most precious and rare commodity: TIME!
Indeed all of us are running around like rabbits, hoping to accomplish lots in school, work, and/or life. People who attend my presentations on time management are often seeking the secrets of saving time and multitasking and eternally organized desks. While I am happy to share a few tips, the most valuable truth I can share is that there are not really secrets and time management is not about cramming a bunch of stuff into your day so you can check items off a list. Instead, it is about slowing down, figuring out what is most important at this point in your life and making sure it gets tended to.
Choose one neglected task that is on your plate right now and DO IT! It could be an annoying chore, checking in with a friend, or maybe taking 10 minutes for a fast paced walk to jump start your exercise program. You don't need to think about it, or plan it, or worry about it. You just need to DO IT!
Oh, and don't forget your taxes are do tomorrow too.
Peace,
Paul
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Ripples v10.04: Preparing for Poopiness!
Ripples v10.04: Preparing for Poopiness!
Jan 28, 2008: a free weekly splash to 17,952 subscribers
from Paul & The Ripples Project
____________________PEBBLE ____________________
What ought one to say then as each hardship comes?
I was practicing for this, I was training for this.
-Epictitus, submitted by Linn W., Milwaukee WI
____________________BOULDER ____________________
The difficulties and
struggles of today
are the price we must pay
for the accomplishments
and victories of tomorrow.
-William J. H. Boetcker, submitted by Joycelyn F., Reedsburg WI
____________________PONDER ____________________
I have been enjoying the east coast recently, stopping in New Jersey to hang out at Montclair State, Rutgers & Rowan universities and also with the of U.S. Tennis Association Eastern Section up in White Plains NY (welcome to all!!)
In all of these presentations, I was helping participants identify skills and actions that would help them excel in their leadership roles. Sometimes we forget that while certain personality types might be more likely to develop some leadership skills, we can all improve our abilities with practice. This is certainly true with facing adversity. While some people are better at facing difficult situations than others, we can ALL improve since life inevitably hands us all difficulties. Some of you know that I often use a technical term for these sorts of challenges: POOPY STUFF!
If life has pooped on you lately, remember that you have successfully dealt with challenges in the past and whether this particular challenge is a sprint or a marathon, you can do it! It may not always be easy, it may not always be fun, but if you can hang in there and do your best you WILL make it through and you will be stronger, faster, better on the other side! And victory will smell much better than the...well, you get the idea.....
Peace,
Paul
Jan 28, 2008: a free weekly splash to 17,952 subscribers
from Paul & The Ripples Project
____________________PEBBLE ____________________
What ought one to say then as each hardship comes?
I was practicing for this, I was training for this.
-Epictitus, submitted by Linn W., Milwaukee WI
____________________BOULDER ____________________
The difficulties and
struggles of today
are the price we must pay
for the accomplishments
and victories of tomorrow.
-William J. H. Boetcker, submitted by Joycelyn F., Reedsburg WI
____________________PONDER ____________________
I have been enjoying the east coast recently, stopping in New Jersey to hang out at Montclair State, Rutgers & Rowan universities and also with the of U.S. Tennis Association Eastern Section up in White Plains NY (welcome to all!!)
In all of these presentations, I was helping participants identify skills and actions that would help them excel in their leadership roles. Sometimes we forget that while certain personality types might be more likely to develop some leadership skills, we can all improve our abilities with practice. This is certainly true with facing adversity. While some people are better at facing difficult situations than others, we can ALL improve since life inevitably hands us all difficulties. Some of you know that I often use a technical term for these sorts of challenges: POOPY STUFF!
If life has pooped on you lately, remember that you have successfully dealt with challenges in the past and whether this particular challenge is a sprint or a marathon, you can do it! It may not always be easy, it may not always be fun, but if you can hang in there and do your best you WILL make it through and you will be stronger, faster, better on the other side! And victory will smell much better than the...well, you get the idea.....
Peace,
Paul
Sunday, August 26, 2007
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
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
Sunday, July 8, 2007
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
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
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Ripples v8.39: Ripples of RESPONSIBILITY!
Ripples v8.39: Ripples of RESPONSIBILITY!
9/25/06: a FREE splash from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Feel gratitude that you have made it to this point
and take responsibility for what comes next.
-Dr. Sonya Friedman, submitted by Pat J., Waukesha WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I am responsible.
Although I may not be able
to prevent the worst from happening,
I am responsible for my attitude
toward the inevitable misfortunes that darken life.
Bad things do happen;
how I respond to them
defines my character
and the quality of my life.
I can choose to sit in perpetual sadness,
immobilized by the gravity of my loss,
or I can choose to rise from the pain
and treasure the most precious gift I have:
life itself.
-Walter Anderson, submitted by Debra E., Ohio
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
If some big or small "bad thing" has happened to you recently, you certainly deserve to take time to do what you need to do: scream, cry, journal, complain, grunt, whine, drink (milk), eat (oreos), pout, moan, etc. Then it is time to stand up, brush the dust off, and ask what (fictional) president Jed Bartlett used to ask his White House staff on the TV Series "West Wing: "What's next?"
I don't mean to over-simply the healing/recovery part of dealing with the "bad things." I am here to testify that sometimes it can take weeks, months, or even years to do the first part. Just make sure you know when it is time to take RESPONSIBILITY and move on!
Peace,
Paul
p.s. I am returning from my retreat this week and will be wading through the pile of correspondence from the last few weeks. I will have stories to share I'm sure!
TO SUBMIT A QUOTE
send quote with the source (if known) and
your first name, last initial and where you live
with SUBMISSION in the subject line
TO SUBSCRIBE FREE
just send us an email from your address
with SUBSCRIBE ME FREE! in the subject line
TO CHANGE ADDRESS
Click the link below to unsubscribe your old address,
AND send a blank email from your new email address
with SUBSCRIBE ME FREE! in the subject line
TO VIEW ARCHIVES
and other goodies, visit us online:
http://TheRipplesProject.org
To Unsubscribe, please click here :
http://www.theripplesproject.org/12all/box.php?funcml=unsub2&nl=currentnl&mi=currentmesg&email=subscriberemail
9/25/06: a FREE splash from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Feel gratitude that you have made it to this point
and take responsibility for what comes next.
-Dr. Sonya Friedman, submitted by Pat J., Waukesha WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
I am responsible.
Although I may not be able
to prevent the worst from happening,
I am responsible for my attitude
toward the inevitable misfortunes that darken life.
Bad things do happen;
how I respond to them
defines my character
and the quality of my life.
I can choose to sit in perpetual sadness,
immobilized by the gravity of my loss,
or I can choose to rise from the pain
and treasure the most precious gift I have:
life itself.
-Walter Anderson, submitted by Debra E., Ohio
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
If some big or small "bad thing" has happened to you recently, you certainly deserve to take time to do what you need to do: scream, cry, journal, complain, grunt, whine, drink (milk), eat (oreos), pout, moan, etc. Then it is time to stand up, brush the dust off, and ask what (fictional) president Jed Bartlett used to ask his White House staff on the TV Series "West Wing: "What's next?"
I don't mean to over-simply the healing/recovery part of dealing with the "bad things." I am here to testify that sometimes it can take weeks, months, or even years to do the first part. Just make sure you know when it is time to take RESPONSIBILITY and move on!
Peace,
Paul
p.s. I am returning from my retreat this week and will be wading through the pile of correspondence from the last few weeks. I will have stories to share I'm sure!
TO SUBMIT A QUOTE
send quote with the source (if known) and
your first name, last initial and where you live
with SUBMISSION in the subject line
TO SUBSCRIBE FREE
just send us an email from your address
with SUBSCRIBE ME FREE! in the subject line
TO CHANGE ADDRESS
Click the link below to unsubscribe your old address,
AND send a blank email from your new email address
with SUBSCRIBE ME FREE! in the subject line
TO VIEW ARCHIVES
and other goodies, visit us online:
http://TheRipplesProject.org
To Unsubscribe, please click here :
http://www.theripplesproject.org/12all/box.php?funcml=unsub2&nl=currentnl&mi=currentmesg&email=subscriberemail
Monday, May 29, 2006
Ripples v8.22: Ripples of INVENTING YOU!
Ripples v8.22: Ripples of INVENTING YOU!
5/30/06: your FREE weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
If you didn't exist, would someone invent you?
-source unknown, submitted by Linda H., Pewaukee WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The truth is that our finest moments
are most likely to occur when
we are feeling deeply uncomfortable,
unhappy, or unfulfilled.
For it is only in such moments,
propelled by our discomfort,
that we are likely to step out of our ruts and
start searching for different ways or truer answers.
-source unknown, submitted by Anne C-W, Wisconsin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
First of all, I need to shout I AM SORRY to all of our subscribers and even more importantly last week's "unsubscribes." We recently upgraded our web-based software that is used to send out Ripples, and have encountered a few problems. The most troublesome glitch was that the unsubscribe links did not work in last week's issue. I believe they are fixed in this issue, but if you have ANY troubles unsubscribing please let me know and I will manually remove your email address from our database with my deepest apologies.
Secondly, I am hoping you can take some small or big steps this week in the process of INVENTING YOU. Start by thinking about how a friend or colleague might describe you to someone who asked "Can you tell me about that person over there?" What quality or attribute do you hope they include in their description? Perhaps there is something you can do to enhance that quality further? Another strategy would be to ponder what you hope they might say next year at this time that would not be included in a current description.....and then take some action this week to work on that invention!
Peace,
Paul
5/30/06: your FREE weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
If you didn't exist, would someone invent you?
-source unknown, submitted by Linda H., Pewaukee WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
The truth is that our finest moments
are most likely to occur when
we are feeling deeply uncomfortable,
unhappy, or unfulfilled.
For it is only in such moments,
propelled by our discomfort,
that we are likely to step out of our ruts and
start searching for different ways or truer answers.
-source unknown, submitted by Anne C-W, Wisconsin
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
First of all, I need to shout I AM SORRY to all of our subscribers and even more importantly last week's "unsubscribes." We recently upgraded our web-based software that is used to send out Ripples, and have encountered a few problems. The most troublesome glitch was that the unsubscribe links did not work in last week's issue. I believe they are fixed in this issue, but if you have ANY troubles unsubscribing please let me know and I will manually remove your email address from our database with my deepest apologies.
Secondly, I am hoping you can take some small or big steps this week in the process of INVENTING YOU. Start by thinking about how a friend or colleague might describe you to someone who asked "Can you tell me about that person over there?" What quality or attribute do you hope they include in their description? Perhaps there is something you can do to enhance that quality further? Another strategy would be to ponder what you hope they might say next year at this time that would not be included in a current description.....and then take some action this week to work on that invention!
Peace,
Paul
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Ripples v7.34: Ripples of REACTIONS!
Ripples v7.34: Ripples of REACTIONS!
Monday, September 12, 2005
a FREE weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project
spread a smile today: http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/Rippler01.html
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
To succeed, it is necessary to accept the world as it is- and rise above it.
-Michael Korda, submitted by Mia W., Greensboro NC
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Our lives are not determined by what happens to us,
but how we react to what happens;
not by what life brings to us,
but by the attitude we bring to life.
A positive attitude causes a chain reaction
of positive thoughts, events, and outcomes.
It is a catalyst....a spark that creates extraordinary results.
-source unknown, submitted by Karen K, Milwaukee, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
After a quick trip up to University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire to encourage 2,000 new students to MAKE GOOD CHOICES (with a nod to Jamie Lee Curtis\' character in Freaky Friday), I spent a day with some remarkable helpers from Lane County, Oregon. I tried to avoid the topic of Hurricane Katrina, but of course many people continue to express a desire to help and inevitably we had to acknowledge the unique size and scope of this challenge.
The bright news is that It appears that we are already seeing resilience in the victims, a few signs of recovery, and a sense of hope that good possibilities exist beyond the tragedy. It is also clear that the news coverage has shined an overdue spotlight on the ever-present and often ignored issues our society faces around race and class. Poverty exists in many corners of the U.S. and around the world, and I hope that as we start to hear people say \"Yes I feel for the Katrina victims, but what about the millions of other poor people?\" we can transform the \"yes, but\" into \"yes AND\" (with a nod to Jodi Cohen and her passion for helping people find their YES!). While our citizenry has responded compassionately in times of acute crisis (can you believe four years have zoomed by since 9/11?), our reaction to chronic issues has been lackluster.
On an unrelated note, if you are someone that has ever downloaded a podcast or other non-music audio content from the internet, I would like to hear from you. We may be opening a new chapter in The Ripples Project soon, and your feedback would help a great deal.
Peace,
Paul
p.s. I will report next week on our fundraising efforts for those displaced by Katrina (I have not been back in Madison to check the mailbox yet!)
Monday, September 12, 2005
a FREE weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project
spread a smile today: http://www.TheRipplesProject.org/Rippler01.html
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
To succeed, it is necessary to accept the world as it is- and rise above it.
-Michael Korda, submitted by Mia W., Greensboro NC
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Our lives are not determined by what happens to us,
but how we react to what happens;
not by what life brings to us,
but by the attitude we bring to life.
A positive attitude causes a chain reaction
of positive thoughts, events, and outcomes.
It is a catalyst....a spark that creates extraordinary results.
-source unknown, submitted by Karen K, Milwaukee, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
After a quick trip up to University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire to encourage 2,000 new students to MAKE GOOD CHOICES (with a nod to Jamie Lee Curtis\' character in Freaky Friday), I spent a day with some remarkable helpers from Lane County, Oregon. I tried to avoid the topic of Hurricane Katrina, but of course many people continue to express a desire to help and inevitably we had to acknowledge the unique size and scope of this challenge.
The bright news is that It appears that we are already seeing resilience in the victims, a few signs of recovery, and a sense of hope that good possibilities exist beyond the tragedy. It is also clear that the news coverage has shined an overdue spotlight on the ever-present and often ignored issues our society faces around race and class. Poverty exists in many corners of the U.S. and around the world, and I hope that as we start to hear people say \"Yes I feel for the Katrina victims, but what about the millions of other poor people?\" we can transform the \"yes, but\" into \"yes AND\" (with a nod to Jodi Cohen and her passion for helping people find their YES!). While our citizenry has responded compassionately in times of acute crisis (can you believe four years have zoomed by since 9/11?), our reaction to chronic issues has been lackluster.
On an unrelated note, if you are someone that has ever downloaded a podcast or other non-music audio content from the internet, I would like to hear from you. We may be opening a new chapter in The Ripples Project soon, and your feedback would help a great deal.
Peace,
Paul
p.s. I will report next week on our fundraising efforts for those displaced by Katrina (I have not been back in Madison to check the mailbox yet!)
Sunday, August 21, 2005
Ripples v7.31: Ripples for TAMING DRAGONS!
Ripples v7.31: Ripples for TAMING DRAGONS!
Monday, August 22, 2005
a FREE weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project
over 13,000 subscribers and growing every week!
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Challenge is a dragon with a gift in its mouth....
tame the dragon and the gift is yours.
-Noela Evans, submitted by Jill B., Fennimore WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Character cannot be
developed in ease and quiet.
Only through experience
of trial and suffering
can the soul be strengthened,
vision cleared,
ambition inspired, and
success achieved.
-Helen Keller, submitted by Shellie L., Parker CO
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This was another travel-filled week as I began in California to spend a day with student leaders at University of the Pacific. Then it was back to the midwest to visit my buddies who each year create the Leadership Safari at Central Michigan University, as well as an energized group of peer mentors attending a symposium at IUPUI in Indiana.
I sensed that participants at each stop were excited about the possibilities that lay ahead for them; I also sensed that many of them worried about countless challenges also present. I tried to gently remind them: they will not succeed IN SPITE of those challenges; instead, it is precisely BECAUSE they dare to face those challenges that they can strengthen their skills and their resolve to conquer those internal and external obstacles that might otherwise limit their opportunities.
This week we all need to put on our bravest face and TAME A DRAGON, whether that dragon is an obstacle to a personal goal we\'re seeking, a seemingly immovable barrier to success in a work project, or an interpersonal conflict that diminishes the potential of a relationship. Go for it, my friend: GO FOR IT!
Oh, and with the strike at Northwest Airlines, the painful withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and of course the ongoing crises in Iraq, Darfur, and elsewhere, please know I am counting on you to help me send out into the world an extra dose of
Peace,
Paul
Monday, August 22, 2005
a FREE weekly splash from Paul & The Ripples Project
over 13,000 subscribers and growing every week!
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PEBBLE =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Challenge is a dragon with a gift in its mouth....
tame the dragon and the gift is yours.
-Noela Evans, submitted by Jill B., Fennimore WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Character cannot be
developed in ease and quiet.
Only through experience
of trial and suffering
can the soul be strengthened,
vision cleared,
ambition inspired, and
success achieved.
-Helen Keller, submitted by Shellie L., Parker CO
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
This was another travel-filled week as I began in California to spend a day with student leaders at University of the Pacific. Then it was back to the midwest to visit my buddies who each year create the Leadership Safari at Central Michigan University, as well as an energized group of peer mentors attending a symposium at IUPUI in Indiana.
I sensed that participants at each stop were excited about the possibilities that lay ahead for them; I also sensed that many of them worried about countless challenges also present. I tried to gently remind them: they will not succeed IN SPITE of those challenges; instead, it is precisely BECAUSE they dare to face those challenges that they can strengthen their skills and their resolve to conquer those internal and external obstacles that might otherwise limit their opportunities.
This week we all need to put on our bravest face and TAME A DRAGON, whether that dragon is an obstacle to a personal goal we\'re seeking, a seemingly immovable barrier to success in a work project, or an interpersonal conflict that diminishes the potential of a relationship. Go for it, my friend: GO FOR IT!
Oh, and with the strike at Northwest Airlines, the painful withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and of course the ongoing crises in Iraq, Darfur, and elsewhere, please know I am counting on you to help me send out into the world an extra dose of
Peace,
Paul
Sunday, July 3, 2005
Ripples v7.27: Ripples of MOUNTAINS!
Ripples v7.27: Ripples of MOUNTAINS!
Monday, July , 2005
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
It is not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.
-Sir Edmund Hillary, submitted by Bill S., Raleigh NC
No one can choose your mountain or tell you when to climb...
It\'s yours alone to challenge at your own pace and time.
-Patricia J. Hacker-Harber, submitted by Phillip L., Salisbury MD
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Climb the mountains and get their good tidings.
Nature\'s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into the trees.
The winds will blow their own freshness into you and the storms
their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.
-John Muir, submitted by Sharon S., Portland OR
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
As I have been hinting in the past several issues of Ripples, the mountains call my name! Ever since a family vacation to visit friends in Boulder 20 years ago, I have been drawn to the craggy peaks and breathtaking valleys of Colorado.
The mountains for me are a unique balance of peaceful serenity and exciting challenge. My favorite spots to relax and ponder are those that I have to sweat a little to reach. The scenery just off the highway is nice, of course, but the more secluded spots that are off the beaten path end up being so much more satisfying. On a typical day, I hike a few hours and then just around a turn or over a hill I\'ve been struggling with BAM!! I discover a magnificent panorama of sky, mountains, trees and soaring birds. If I am really lucky a waterfall gets tossed into the mix as well. Each one of these remarkable views chips off some of the stress caked on to my soul; collectively they rejuvenate my mind, body and spirit so I can return to my work and life with renewed passion.
I am hoping that as I venture off to Colorado you can think of something that for you is more satisfying after extra effort. Perhaps it is the taste of your favorite restaurant\'s specialty dish after you complete a big report, or maybe you can consider a nearby park that allows you to walk, jog, bike or hike your way to nirvana. On the other hand, it is possible your life is currently so stressful and challenging that you\'ve already put in the effort and it is time for the treat: head to Dairy Queen or a movie or a hillside picnic with the sunset!
Meanwhile, after I hit the send button on this issue I will shut down my computer (I\'m leaving it at home, along with my cell phone!) and hop in the car. I will return in a few weeks ready to jump back into work and life and Ripples!
Even from the most remote mountain paths I find, I will still be sending you....
Peace,
Paul
Monday, July , 2005
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
It is not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.
-Sir Edmund Hillary, submitted by Bill S., Raleigh NC
No one can choose your mountain or tell you when to climb...
It\'s yours alone to challenge at your own pace and time.
-Patricia J. Hacker-Harber, submitted by Phillip L., Salisbury MD
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Climb the mountains and get their good tidings.
Nature\'s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into the trees.
The winds will blow their own freshness into you and the storms
their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.
-John Muir, submitted by Sharon S., Portland OR
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
As I have been hinting in the past several issues of Ripples, the mountains call my name! Ever since a family vacation to visit friends in Boulder 20 years ago, I have been drawn to the craggy peaks and breathtaking valleys of Colorado.
The mountains for me are a unique balance of peaceful serenity and exciting challenge. My favorite spots to relax and ponder are those that I have to sweat a little to reach. The scenery just off the highway is nice, of course, but the more secluded spots that are off the beaten path end up being so much more satisfying. On a typical day, I hike a few hours and then just around a turn or over a hill I\'ve been struggling with BAM!! I discover a magnificent panorama of sky, mountains, trees and soaring birds. If I am really lucky a waterfall gets tossed into the mix as well. Each one of these remarkable views chips off some of the stress caked on to my soul; collectively they rejuvenate my mind, body and spirit so I can return to my work and life with renewed passion.
I am hoping that as I venture off to Colorado you can think of something that for you is more satisfying after extra effort. Perhaps it is the taste of your favorite restaurant\'s specialty dish after you complete a big report, or maybe you can consider a nearby park that allows you to walk, jog, bike or hike your way to nirvana. On the other hand, it is possible your life is currently so stressful and challenging that you\'ve already put in the effort and it is time for the treat: head to Dairy Queen or a movie or a hillside picnic with the sunset!
Meanwhile, after I hit the send button on this issue I will shut down my computer (I\'m leaving it at home, along with my cell phone!) and hop in the car. I will return in a few weeks ready to jump back into work and life and Ripples!
Even from the most remote mountain paths I find, I will still be sending you....
Peace,
Paul
Sunday, January 30, 2005
Ripples v7.05: Ripples of SPEAKING UP!
Ripples v7.05: Ripples of SPEAKING UP!
Monday, February 1, 2005
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
Speak your mind, even if your voice quakes.
-Maggie Kuhn, submitted by Kristl M., Whitefish Bay, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
If you don\'t say what you really mean,
then nobody will know who you really are.
-Bryan L. Hinnen, submitted by Bryan
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Pretty please with Ripples on top!
I need you to SPEAK UP this week.
It is my goal this year to transform this newsletter and The Ripples Project into a more interactive community. While we have taken some good baby steps, this week we need to take a GIANT LEAP!
Many members have visited the Community Section on our website, and quite a few have even posted an introduction or a response to Ripples in the \"Splashback\" area. Ultimately, this section creates a transformative possibility of engaging in a community dialogue, so this week I ask you, beg you, DARE YOU to speak up!
There is a specific area of the community section called \"Streams of Consciousness\" (see link below) and I need a few dozen brave souls to post a question to us, or make a request for support, or tell us about some good news. Of course, we\'ll then need a few HUNDRED of us to be brave enough to reply to these posts with our reactions! College students, IT folks, and some of us geeky folks who spend lots of time online will need to lead the way. There are 12,000+ Ripples members and many of them would be intrigued to respond to a question you have or provide a hearty \"Congrats!\" or \"Hang in there!\"
In order to post or reply to a post, you will need to be registered with a userid (just receiving Ripples doesn\'t mean you have registered at the site) and you will need to be \"logged in.\" It may be a little confusing or frustrating at first if you have not registered or logged in--just hang in there because it will be worth it! There are some posts to guide you if you need help--look under the \"first timers\" section to find these.
If you feel The Ripples Project has made a splash in your life already, just you wait until we can experience the possibilities that exist as more members begin to SPEAK UP!
Click here to speak up at the Streams of Consciousness forum:
http://TheRipplesProject.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=6
And yes, I know you have a gazillion things to do today. Trust me, though, you\'ll benefit from this and so will The Ripples Project!!!
Peace,
Paul
Monday, February 1, 2005
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
Speak your mind, even if your voice quakes.
-Maggie Kuhn, submitted by Kristl M., Whitefish Bay, WI
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= BOULDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o
If you don\'t say what you really mean,
then nobody will know who you really are.
-Bryan L. Hinnen, submitted by Bryan
=o=o=o=o=o=o=o= PONDER =o=o=o=o=o=o=o=o
Pretty please with Ripples on top!
I need you to SPEAK UP this week.
It is my goal this year to transform this newsletter and The Ripples Project into a more interactive community. While we have taken some good baby steps, this week we need to take a GIANT LEAP!
Many members have visited the Community Section on our website, and quite a few have even posted an introduction or a response to Ripples in the \"Splashback\" area. Ultimately, this section creates a transformative possibility of engaging in a community dialogue, so this week I ask you, beg you, DARE YOU to speak up!
There is a specific area of the community section called \"Streams of Consciousness\" (see link below) and I need a few dozen brave souls to post a question to us, or make a request for support, or tell us about some good news. Of course, we\'ll then need a few HUNDRED of us to be brave enough to reply to these posts with our reactions! College students, IT folks, and some of us geeky folks who spend lots of time online will need to lead the way. There are 12,000+ Ripples members and many of them would be intrigued to respond to a question you have or provide a hearty \"Congrats!\" or \"Hang in there!\"
In order to post or reply to a post, you will need to be registered with a userid (just receiving Ripples doesn\'t mean you have registered at the site) and you will need to be \"logged in.\" It may be a little confusing or frustrating at first if you have not registered or logged in--just hang in there because it will be worth it! There are some posts to guide you if you need help--look under the \"first timers\" section to find these.
If you feel The Ripples Project has made a splash in your life already, just you wait until we can experience the possibilities that exist as more members begin to SPEAK UP!
Click here to speak up at the Streams of Consciousness forum:
http://TheRipplesProject.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=6
And yes, I know you have a gazillion things to do today. Trust me, though, you\'ll benefit from this and so will The Ripples Project!!!
Peace,
Paul
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