values

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Business as Usual

migrating-politicians

Like many of you… I receive emails quite often that have been forwarded to friends that have elected to pass them on.  Some of the views I agree with…some are slanted to promote one party’s agenda….while others I have simply found to be untruths.

Regardless of what political party you may identify with (if any) or even if you have absolutely no interest in politics or politicians… I strongly suggest you view this short video in regard to the contents that will affect you and your family regardless of your views or political affiliation.

The primary reason that this activity exist (as referenced in the video) is because we allow it.  Now I understand that each one of us have our own responsibilities or interest that occupy our daily routines, and the older you become…those days appear to become shorter.  I’m not asking you to alter your day… but to reflect for a moment and ask yourself is there anything that I can do to help eliminate “the idiotic business as usual” nonsense in Washington? Voting…emailing your elected officials…passing on emails that reflect your views to friends or etc. These are the minimum things that you should exercise.  Its’ the etc…I am asking you to give thought to.

Growing up in a small community I received news that was spoon feed me via newspaper or a 30 minute television time slot each day.  If there was a political agenda attached to it…I wasn’t aware of it… smart enough to know it…or I just wasn’t paying attention because of a lack of interest.  The truth is…it was probably a combination of all of these.

Today there is no excuse…with the internet there is almost nothing that can’t be researched in a matter of minutes… that can and will have an affect on your way of life…“regardless if you choose not to get involved”…you will be. Knowledge, words and actions are the most powerful tools to help create change…but only if you share them.

Watch this video for its content (regardless of its self interest or political affiliation)… “Business as Usual” needs to change.  The masses are controlled by a few though “sound bits, lies, self preservation and concealment of the truth”.  The truth is there…if you look for it.

 

 

 

DISCLAIMER: The information presented is either my opinion or information obtained from sources believed to be reliable and factual; however, I make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy thereof. Any errors, including misuse or misspelling of words is either due to my fingers hitting the wrong keys, oversight, or my own ignorance.

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The Six Principals of The Ten Commandants

10-commandments

Religion is a sensitive topic to write about…and I am sure that I will offend some/or most…but that is not my intent.  I asked myself prior to writing this piece “How many religions are there in the world?”…so I Googled the question and was surprised at the multitude of answers. The answers ranged from 11 to over 4,000…in terms of organized human religious beliefs.  Obliviously in the end it boils down to the acceptance of one’s own definition of religion and belief….which brings me to this point…

With so many contributing factors that create wars and unrest in the world that stem from a combination of politics, greed, power, and suppression why is it that the religious aspect always seems to be attached to the conflict regardless of the complexity of reasons.

I was taught that religion is a spiritual belief of faith…and that there is a better life after this world…if one believes. So why should there be so much conflict about religion in this world…that is a matter of another world?  There are elements of each “religion”…that end up producing a better afterlife…if you believe. I find it interesting that the people that “do not believe”…find religion annoying and want to alter the principals of the “believers”… and the “believers” want to impose their beliefs on the “non believers” or other religions that are different from theirs. . Confusing?…yes it is, but in the end it is not about religion on this earth…it’s the fear that each is going to dominate the other and impose their values, beliefs and life style on their way of life….its about political structure and the fear that the one with the most power will rule over the other.

My Son pointed out to me in a conversation that we were having…that the last 6 of the 10 commandants really have more relevance to respect, goodness and human rights than a reference to an afterlife affirmation.  Even though I am ignorant of the teachings of the different religions I do recognize the goodness of individuals that try to live by the principals of those six commandants.

If each individual…regardless of religion… adopted the “last six commandments as principals” to live by…this world would be a much better place.

Johnny J.

 

DISCLAIMER: The information presented is either my opinion or information obtained from sources believed to be reliable and factual; however, I make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy thereof. Any errors, including misuse or misspelling of words is either due to my fingers hitting the wrong keys, oversight, or my own ignorance.

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Unquestioned Compatibility…

older-couple-still-in-loveI am truly amazed in today’s world when an individual actually finds another human being who is truly compatible with his/her thinking, likes and dislikes and tuned into the same universe….the odds are not as good as you might think….I was lucky without a doubt.  The instant diversions of sexual attraction, outgoing personality, and small talk can sometimes prevent deep soul searching  compatibility from being discovered…but I believe in a passing moment I saw a unique testimonial a few years ago of a couple who had beat those odds…

My wife and I were taking a 3 day trip by train for the pleasure and experience of it.  Trains travel through areas that provide an opportunity for one to see things that you normally wouldn’t see speeding down a busy highway…this was one of those occasions.  We were sitting in the dinning car at a table draped with a white linen tablecloth and a center piece of fresh flowers (which was very elegant and relaxing) waiting for our evening meal to be served. As we looked out enjoying the views of the passing country side through the floor to ceiling window… I saw a modest white farm house with a large sweeping front porch.  There was a wide set of stairs leading up to the porch…and perfectly positioned on each side of the first steps were two “white porcelain toilets with black seats” and flowers protruding from them.  The black seats were in the up position.

I turned to my wife and said, “Can you imagine at some point this couple probably had a conversation that started like this…Honey (as they were drinking their morning coffee) I was thinking about putting two white porcelain toilets out front today and planting flowers in them…what do you think?  Her reply…I think that would be beautiful…do you need any help?”

That my friend…would be two people who have reached the depths of soul searching compatibility.  I would liked to have met those people…I am confident that they placed those toilets there to please themselves…not to impress me in that passing moment.

 DISCLAIMER: The information presented is either my opinion or information obtained from sources believed to be reliable and factual; however, I make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy thereof. Any errors, including misuse or misspelling of words is either due to my fingers hitting the wrong keys, oversight, or my own ignorance.

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A Different World

waterhose
I wrote a previous post called “when understanding…was simple” it was a reflection of my youth, the values and choices that I made and how I was influenced by the environment in which I grew up. Those years were spent in the late fifties and sixties.

I, like most of us, often refer to those as “simpler times”. I sometimes ask myself … “were they really simpler times or just less complicated because of my lack of awareness or adolescence”?  I really didn’t know the answer to that question.

I was recently searching the internet looking to add more songs and videos to my collection of favorites….when I ran across a video called “A Different World”…that was recorded a few years ago. The song was written by Mark Nesler, Jennifer Hanson and Tony Martin….and preformed by Bucky Covington.    If you are over 50 years of age I would recommend that you read the words or watch the video and listen.   I am not sure if those times were better …just that they were different.

We were born to mothers who smoked and drank 
Our cribs were covered in lead-based paint
No childproof lids
No seatbelts in cars
Rode bikes with no helmets
And still here we are
Still here we are

We got daddy’s belt when we misbehaved
Had three TV channels you got up to change
No video games and no satellite
All we had were friends and they were outside
Playing outside

It was a different life
When we were boys and girls
Not just a different time
It was a different world

School always started the same everyday
The pledge of allegiance, then someone would pray
Not every kid made the team when they tried
We got disappointed but that was alright
We turned out alright

It was a different life
When we were boys and girls
Not just a different time
It was a different world

No bottled water
We’d drink from a garden hose
And every Sunday,
All the stores were closed.

It was a different life
When we were boys and girls

Not just a different time
It was a different world

Johnny J. 

 DISCLAIMER: The information presented is either my opinion or information obtained from sources believed to be reliable and factual; however, I make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy thereof. Any errors, including misuse or misspelling of words is either due to my fingers hitting the wrong keys, oversight, or my own ignorance.

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Success vs. Success

success-as-journey-736x270

If you look for a definition of success you will find multiple explanations or interpretations that usually lead to more questions.  The general acceptance of success is defined as…

“the achievement of something desired, planned, or attempted…the attainment of fame, wealth, or social status”.

The most interesting question is the simplest of all “What does success mean to you?”

Success is not the same for all people…the most common perception is…the attainment of fame, wealth, or social status.  The other side of the coin could be described as self-confident, contentment, awareness, fulfillment…knowing “who you are” is more important than “how other people perceive you”.  We are all wired differently and it’s not that either of these two or correct or incorrect…and if a person possesses a combination of these…so be it. I believe that personal success is only obtainable when you “reach” an understanding within yourself.

Here lies the purpose for this thought:

We are taught at an early age to strive and plan for success…and specific people were pointed out as examples that had reached that plateau…only to find out later in life that some of those examples were the most insecure, unhappy and self-destructive individuals that you could  possibly imagine.  Perception does not always reflect reality…contrary to the over used phrase of “perception is reality”.

Surface observations do not always reveal the truth.  It reminds me of the old line “are you going to believe me or you’re lying eyes?”  If you judge an individual only by fame or fortune rather than by ones’ self contentment …then you may be judging a false sense of success.  I have seen individuals that have achieved monetary wealth and fame…and yet still strive for other people’s approval and acceptance because of their own insecurity.  Success is not a group-awareness but self-awareness. In my opinion the more important question.. as it pertains to “success” is simple… “Have you achieved self-confidence and happiness within yourself”?

It is never too late in life to achieve success…sometimes the achievement is the “discovery” not the intended journey.

 

 DISCLAIMER: The information presented is either my opinion or information obtained from sources believed to be reliable and factual; however, I make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy thereof. Any errors, including misuse or misspelling of words is either due to my fingers hitting the wrong keys, oversight, or my own ignorance.

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When understanding…was simple

the-simple-lifeI grew up in a time when understanding…was simple.

Prime example is the first twelve years of my formal education. I knew in advance that the purpose for attending school was to receive an education in order to improve my chances of becoming successful.  The word “successful” is a subjective word meaning different things to different people…which we will discuss another day.

Ok….let me backup a little…in the first few years of my education I couldn’t even conceive the words that I just used above…must less spell them. The first few years were spent learning (without my awareness) to interact with other kids, structure, sharing, respect for authority, discipline…and heartache.  Yes…heartache, there was a little girl in the third grade that was cute that had absolutely no interest in becoming my girl friend.

Beyond those first few years I gained the “simple understanding” of several things. If I didn’t listen and study…not only would I not learn…but there would be consequences. I would not be promoted to the next grade level with my friends if I didn’t meet the minimum academic requirements… that my family who cared about me would be disappointed… that it was my fault that I didn’t pass because I didn’t apply myself because of my priorities.  I had a great deal of respect for my teachers and their attitude toward us as developing individuals. That respect never wavered…even when I was sent to the Principal’s office to have my ass whipped…that’s right …have my ass whipped.  I didn’t need a thirty minute lecture or therapy session with the Principal, I knew what I had done was wrong and I new the consequences beforehand…it was my choice.  I also knew when I got home that my Pop would not be going to the school the next day to try and have the Principal fired…but that he would just whip my ass to reconfirm the Principal’s action.  I began to make better choices after a couple of those sessions.

This was also an age that you learned in life that everything was not necessarily equal.   I am hesitant to use the word “fair” because to me that meant you “cheated or didn’t play by the rules”. Today I feel that word is used more too express “resentment or entitlement”. It was a time…if you didn’t win your ball game…it’s was because the other team was better that day. It was fair…it just wasn’t equal on that given day. You also realized that your physical skill level may not be equal to some of your team mates, but you didn’t resent their talent…you used it as an incentive to play your best.

The first twelve years of my formal education was for the purpose to help me reach a level of knowledge and understanding that should benefit me in making choices in the “real world”.  There would no longer be a bell ringing every 50 minutes to direct me to the next event of my life… it was my time to make my own choices in life…the understanding was simple.

Johnny J.

 

 DISCLAIMER: The information presented is either my opinion or information obtained from sources believed to be reliable and factual; however, I make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy thereof. Any errors, including misuse or misspelling of words is either due to my fingers hitting the wrong keys, oversight, or my own ignorance.

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Good Decisions vs. Bad Decisions

3-4-2013 9-24-20 AMI am a firm believer that the more facts you have…the more prone you are to make intelligent decisions.  We sometimes tend to fool ourselves about our preexisting knowledge of everything. You may be very knowledgeable about a particular subject matter which will create a high level of  confidence in yourself…but when you allow that high level of confidence to gravitate to something that you know very little about…the old adage takes over “I little knowledge can be a very dangerous thing”.

We are all “ignorant” of various subject matters…but we become “stupid” when we don’t realize or acknowledge that fact.  The best advice you can give (if asked) when it is outside your rim of expertise is simple… “I don’t know…but if you would like…I can help you find someone who is knowledgeable in that area.”

I have been in sales all of my adult life…and to me…sales is a simple matter of identifying the need or pain and arriving at a solution that benefits the recipient.  Sometimes it takes more than your knowledge to achieve that objective. Get over it…you are not an authority on everything.

I have always found it interesting when talking with someone about a particular subject matter (that I do have some expertise in) that they don’t have a clue what they’re talking about…but they do it with such confidence, conviction and authority.   This supports the old adage “when someone thinks you are stupid…remove all doubt by opening your mouth”.

It is not always the right thing to take advice or use someone’s service from someone that you like and respect.  The example that I often use is: “I have a friend that is a doctor who I like and respect his knowledge and ability…but I would never consider using him if I needed a life threatening operation”…because he is a dentist.

Knowledge is the most powerful thing when properly applied to your decision making process.

 

 DISCLAIMER: The information presented is either my opinion or information obtained from sources believed to be reliable and factual; however, I make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy thereof. Any errors, including misuse or misspelling of words is either due to my fingers hitting the wrong keys, oversight, or my own ignorance.

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Shame on Us

constitution

const

“The Intent”

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common Defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

We the People…hmmm…what an honorable and interesting concept.

 “The Reality”?

Unfortunately it has become more evident that…

 We the Politicians…

…will lie, pander, and do whatever is necessary to preserve our well being.

…will be irresponsible with the money that we take from you without hesitation.

…will use your tax dollars to support the projects and groups that can keep us in our position so that we can maintain the status, lifestyle, and perks that we have become accustom to… regardless of how ridiculous or expensive the projects may be.

…will pledge not to diminish any perks or privileges that our predecessors have established on our behalf, and if we can add to them…it will gain us admiration of our fellow co hearts.

…do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

Do all politicians fit into this framework? … that’s for you to determine. There have been honorable people that have gone to Washington with a mission to do the right thing…but when self-importance, power, influence and status begins to take precedence over that intent…then their mission has failed. When a politician asks his or herself… “Is this decision going to affect my ability to raise money for re-election or cost me votes?”…he or she has sold out.  This is one of the key arguments for term limits….the “idiot” factor is a topic for another day.

“Needed Change”     

We the People…need to wake up… listen… and get involved. Don’t misunderstand me…we need leaders…we need responsible individuals in Washington to communicate with each other and determine and implement decisions that are best for the welfare of this Country.  The concept of our system was well thought out as a check and balance system. “We the Politicians” of today have become an embarrassment to that system. It is our responsibility to elect the right individuals to fill these positions…and replace the ones than can’t. You or I don’t have to run for a political office…we don’t have to be a political pundit…but we should be informed in order to make an intelligent decision when it becomes time to exercise our right to vote.  With today’s technology it is easier to verify the claims and positions of the individuals that are pandering for our vote ….but it is our responsibility to use these sources that are available…and if we don’t “Shame on Us”.

 

DISCLAIMER: The information presented is either my opinion or information obtained from sources believed to be reliable and factual; however, I make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy thereof. Any errors, including misuse or misspelling of words is either due to my fingers hitting the wrong keys, oversight, or my own ignorance.

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Lessons of Life…

Regina Brett, 90 years in age of

The Plain Dealer in Cleveland, Ohio…Listed 45 lessons that life has taught him.

Below are 15 of my favorite…

  1. Life isn’t fair, but it’s still good.
  2.  Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
  3. Your job won’t take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
  4. You don’t have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
  5. Cry with someone. It’s more healing than crying alone.
  6. Make peace with your past so it won’t screw up the present.
  7.  Don’t compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
  8.  It’s never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
  9. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, and wear the fancy lingerie. Don’t save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
  10. Be eccentric now. Don’t wait for old age to wear purple.
  11. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
  12. Don’t take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
  13. Don’t audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
  14. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
  15. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

 

Johnny J. 

DISCLAIMER: The information presented is either my opinion or information obtained from sources believed to be reliable and factual; however, I make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy thereof. Any errors, including misuse or misspelling of words is either due to my fingers hitting the wrong keys, oversight, or my own ignorance.

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“Choices”

I wrote this several years ago as a defining factor of my life and my beliefs. I look at it every now and then to see if my thoughts have changed.

CHOICES

 Life is a journey navigated by choices…for every conscious moment of the day we make decisions…some that may seem to be without thought.

We are the products of those thoughts and decisions…they are the directional signs of our existence.

These decisions are fueled by attitude and emotions of the moment…they may reflect the appearance of hatred or anger…or a heart filled with love and compassion…but without emotion there is no core.

We are imperfect people living in an imperfect world…but our substance of what we are must come from the deep inner feelings and convictions of who we are.

We must always continue to hunger for knowledge…but have awareness that the two most powerful tools of good and evil are “words” and ‘actions”.

From the words of William Earnest Henley…”I am the captain of my faith, I am the Master of my soul”.

My beliefs are my choices…I make no excuses…I am only me.

Johnny J. 

DISCLAIMER: The information presented is either my opinion or information obtained from sources believed to be reliable and factual; however, I make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy thereof. Any errors, including misuse or misspelling of words is either due to my fingers hitting the wrong keys, oversight, or my own ignorance.