Finish Strong! 12/30/2011

Daily Grind- Finish Strong! 12/30/2011

As we whine down the remainder of this year, remember it’s not how you start the process, it’s how you finish. Today I challenge you to remain steadfast and dialed in on completing this year by giving your all. Regardless of the circumstances, we are still in the race. The appealing thing about this race is that we are competing against our personal life goals. If we are not where we expected, it is time to thrust forward to gain ground knowing that our strong finish will be momentum for a fresh start next year. Likewise, if we are ahead of our personal aspirations, we must continue the same discipline and practices to see the same results. We are in the home stretch and that’s when all of the hard work pays off. Be encouraged that at this moment we are in control of our destiny. It’s up to us to decide how we finish this year. Let’s finish strong creating a positive outlook on 2012. Have a Safe, Blessed New Year and Be Great!

All endeavor calls for the ability to tramp the last mile, shape the last plan, endure the last hours toil. The fight to the finish spirit is the one... characteristic we must possess if we are to face the future as finishers.
Henry David Thoreau

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We All Make Mistakes! 12/29/2011

Daily Grind- We All Make Mistakes! 12/29/2011

While we maneuver through this life, it is important that we realize there are going to be times when we make mistakes. There is no way we can make every shot, catch every pass or get a hit every time we are up to bat. Simply put, to “err is human”. This is not to say that we should settle for less. However, when mistakes are made, our efforts should not be questioned. Perfection only comes when we reach heaven. I challenge you today to practice for perfection with the complete understanding that mistakes will happen. Many of us remain stagnant for fear of committing errors. Often times when mistakes occur, we are conditioned to find fault or place blame. Let’s encourage each other to rise above and move forward. Remember, error is not always intentional. While others cry over spilled milk, we should be grabbing the towels to clean it up. So understand that mistakes happen, search for solutions and Be Great!

If you have made mistakes, even serious ones, there is always another chance for you. What we call failure is not the falling down but the staying down.-Mary Pickford (1893-1979)

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Enemies Are Imminent! 12/28/2011

Daily Grind- Enemies Are Imminent! 12/28/2011

It’s a fact of life that no matter where we go or what we do, there will be someone that aligns themselves against us. With that in mind, we should be prepared for enemy attacks. During these confrontations, we should stand firm and put on the FULL ARMOR OF GOD.  This is not the time to tuck our tails and run nor is it the time to stoop down and get even. I challenge you today to keep your eyes planted on the high mark and don’t concern yourselves with petty situations.  Know that the battle is not ours, it’s the Lord’s! Remember, without our enemies we couldn’t catapult into the next level. Dig in, conquer our enemies with love and Be Great!

Deuteronomy 20:4

⁴For the LORD your God is he that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.

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The Ladder from the Valley! 12/27/2011

Daily Grind- The Ladder from the Valley! 12/27/2011

Although this is the most wonderful time of the year, many of us are facing trials and tribulations that make us feel there is no hope in sight. I’ve come to tell you that in spite of how far we have fallen into our valley, there is a way out! I challenge you today to stop focusing on the problems and set your mind on the problem solver. When this approach is taken, our ladder of faith will appear and give us the conviction to climb out of our valley to the victorious mountaintop! Be encouraged that as we climb out of our valley, the rescue squad of HEAVEN will restore our hearts and minds past its original form and we will be wiser from the experience. Have Faith, Climb out of your valley and Be Great!

See every difficulty as a challenge, a stepping stone,
and never be defeated by anything or anyone.

~ Eileen Caddy (from 'The Dawn of Change') ~

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Avoid Traffic, Get in the Express Lane! 12/26/2011

Daily Grind- Avoid Traffic, Get in the Express Lane! 12/26/2011

In the midst of this Holiday season, we have seen evidence that the Heavenly Father can make a way out of no way. Yet in spite of this, we still question the outcome of the challenges we face. How often do we slow down or cut short our blessings by placing restrictor plates of doubt and worry on our vehicle of prayer? With each breakthrough, we should be reminded that our Father is omniscient and omnipresent. Today I challenge you to put on your signal and move into the express lane of power that resides within you. Don’t simply be happy to be in the car; be bold knowing the AUTHORITY in the GOD we serve. Not only are we in the express lane when we’re with the Father; he lets the top down so we can feel the breeze of his blessings! Having this awesome living God allows us to claim that the best is yet to come. Stop moving in doubt and be at peace! Travel with the spirit that allows us to exceed our own expectations to Be Great!

If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he had imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.
~Henry David Thoreau 1817


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Encouragement in Your Performance! 12/23/2011

Daily Grind- Encouragement in Your Performance! 12/23/2011

As we run through this race of life we must pace ourselves, knowing that the race is not given to the swift but to the one that endures. It is paramount that we take the time to encourage ourselves and one another along the journey. Today I challenge you to cheer for the next person when they cross the finish line to their breakthrough. Stop allowing jealousy to mount into your spirit and steal your peace. When we praise and commend others for a job well done, we are only extending the baton to expedite our blessings. So I encourage you to keep running, don’t get weary and Be Great!   Merry Christmas and Be Amazingly Blessed!

Isaiah 40:31

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

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Be Guided By The Shining Star! 12/22/2011

Daily Grind- Be Guided By The Shining Star! 12/22/2011

As we set out to travel this holiday season, we will plan our routes through itineraries, maps or GPS systems. It is mind boggling to think that the three wise men set out on their journey to greet the NEW BORN KING with only the guidance of a shining STAR. Now that’s FAITH! The challenge today is that you too be guided by the shining STAR. Stop living with the mindset of “whatever happens, happens”. Cease with the defeated thinking of, “it is what it is”. The charge is for us to use our guide in order to reach the destination of our blessings. We must be wise enough to show humility so that the shining LIGHT will provide us with directions to be Great!

Proverbs 3:5-6

King James Version (KJV)

 ⁵Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

 ⁶In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

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How You Going to Win If You Ain't Right Within! 12/21/2011

Daily Grind- How You Going to Win if You Ain’t Right Within! 12/21/2011

From time to time, it is critical that we take inventory of what emotions we allow in our hearts and minds as it is a direct reflection of how we communicate. It’s really simple: if we harbor hate and ill-will in our hearts, we allow our minds to be poisoned and our speech will be as bitter as the salt water in the sea. On the other hand, if we decide to soak up love and understanding in spite of the challenges we face, we will speak with a spirit that is sweet like honey. I challenge you today to guard your hearts and minds by being conscious of what is placed in it. Think before you speak and be mindful of what you say. Make a decision right now to focus and meditate on positive thoughts so that your words will be a light that shines in darkness. Be Great!

A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. Luke 6:45

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Enduring For the Night! 12/20/2011

Daily Grind- Enduring For the Night! 12/20/2011

As long as we live there will be times when we will have to bear the cross of pain. It’s interesting to note that regardless of your financial or economic status, who you know or hang out with, the popular church or congregation that you are a part of, we all are destined to experience this feeling. I’ve come to tell you that suffering will eventually tap you on your shoulder. Some of us are dealing with long suffering right now and it appears that there is no peace in sight. The encouraging news is that on the other side of that same pain is unspeakable JOY! No matter what you’re going through: the death of a loved one, in a troubled relationship, the ending of a relationship, losing a job, or physical pain. God has promised us that weeping may endure for a night but Joy comes in the morning.  The pain will end and your blessings will follow. I challenge you to remain hopeful, know that the pain will cease, and Be Great!

“Courage is not limited to the battlefield or the Indianapolis 500 or bravely catching a thief in your house. The real tests of courage are much quieter. They are the inner tests, like remaining faithful when nobody's looking, like enduring pain when the room is empty, like standing alone when you're misunderstood.” – Charles Swindoll

“Nothing great is ever achieved without much enduring.” – St.Catherine of Siena

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Search for Your Purpose! 12/19/2011

Daily Grind- Search for Your Purpose! 12/19/2011

Every single day of our lives we should be on a quest for our purpose. This is one of the foundations for our well being. Be encouraged to know that we all have a purpose and once discovered, our lives will never be the same. Take note that your purpose can only be revealed once you have inner peace.  God is not the author of confusion so while you are searching for your purpose, make sure you’re conscious is clear and prepared for what GOD has for you. You will realize this purpose when money is not a motivation to pursue the passion associated with it.  I challenge you to move in peace, search for your purpose and Be Great!

If a man hasn't discovered something that he will die for, he isn't fit to live.

–        Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how. –

Friedrich Nietzche

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Daily Grind - Don't Be Defined By One Act! 12/16/2011

Daily Grind- Don’t Be Defined By One Act! 12/16/2011

We can all playback the DVR in our minds and recall a particular act or situation when we said or did something that we’re not too proud of. Often times we allow others to fertilize these situations and water them into weeds.  As a result, they use those moments in an attempt to define us. I challenge you today to not be defined by one act. It is essential that we give our best so consistently, that when these moments occur, others can still reflect on our good works. We should view of our lives as a head of lettuce. We are made up of several layers and can peel away those things that don't allow us to be GREAT.  One act doesn't define an individual so don’t be too concerned when others attempt to define you. Be reminded that the path you are traveling was defined by the SON, and those low moments were a part of the plan, to make you the person you are destined to be. So stand firm, know your depth, and Be Great!
 

We must not allow other people's limited perceptions to define us”

-Virginia Satir

Your mistake does not define who you are...you are your possibilities”

-Oprah Winfrey

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Pain for Position! 12/15/2011

Daily Grind- Pain for Position! 12/15/2011

We all face struggles and with those struggles, we will experience some pain. The good news is that the pain places us in a direct position to receive our blessings. Consider this, when a mother is going through labor, the pain is unbearable. But once the baby is born, the blessing from that pain is revealed. You might be going through right now but remember your pain is directed to your position. The heart ache you face today will bring forth your healing tomorrow. You will get through it.  I challenge you today to cope with the pain; realizing that it is an agent to deliver your blessings. Don’t lose hope during the pain, anticipate your blessing and Be Great!

“What seems to us as bitter trials are often blessings in disguise” - Ocsar Wilde

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The Enemy In The Mirror! 12/14/2011

Daily Grind- The Enemy in the Mirror! 12/14/2011

In this life it is very important that we recognize our allies as well as our enemies. The enemy that has the most power and continues to halt our progress is the enemy in the mirror. Today I challenge you to begin the healing process with making the enemy in the mirror an ally. We all fall short of the glory of God; however, it is imperative that we forgive ourselves for those shortcomings. It is with this forgiveness that we begin to remove the self doubt that has cut short our visions and dreams. We must begin to construct and encourage ourselves. This starts with believing that we deserve the very best.  Knowing that we are covered with GRACE & MERCY, which allows us to Be GREAT!

1 JOHN 4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

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We are the Champions My Friend! 12/13/2011

Daily Grind- We are the Champions My Friend! 12/13/2011

Regardless of life circumstances, we are connected by the spirit to WIN. It is with this winning spirit that we should be determined to push through and defeat the challenges of each day. We are victors and not victims. We are CHAMPIONS! I challenge you today, to take your place in the winner’s circle. It is mandatory that we stand united in providing positive energy to one another in the belief that we won’t be defeated. We must take our eyes off the scoreboard and keep our hearts in the game.  If we focus on the hills which cometh our help, we are assured a victory.  We know our help comes from God and if GOD be for us, who can be against us? So tighten your championship belt, run your victory lap and BE GREAT!

I hated every minute of training, but I said, "Don't quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion."
Muhammad Ali

If you're a champion, you have to have it in your heart.
Chris Evert

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The Sacrifice Of Love! 12/12/2011

Daily Grind- The Sacrifice of Love! 12/12/2011

The bible teaches us in John 3:16 that God so LOVED the world that he GAVE! Love is an action that when placed in motion, must be proceeded by sacrifice. Today I challenge you to continue to love in sacrifice. Don’t get weary in your giving because it is all a part of your grind. It is in your grind that your blessings are released! Like Christ, continue to provide the type of love that surpasses all understanding. The beauty in this sacrifice is that not only will you SEE small changes in the individual that you sacrificed for but you’ll FEEL the change in you. And that love and sacrifice joins you closer to Our Father. So sacrifice in love and Be Great!

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Daily Grind-Bring Your Best! 12/9/2011

Daily Grind-Bring Your Best! 12/9/2011

This new day provides an opportunity for you to be your best. Now is the time to give 100% effort to all matters in which everything you’re involved with. Don’t look at what others are bringing to the table because it will give you excuses not to give your all. Instead, award all who come into your presence with an experience that they will remember for a lifetime. Once your best is set in motion, the world is yours to claim. Today I challenge you to bring your “A” game, keep your eyes set on the high mark and Be Great!

God makes three requests of his children: Do the best you can, where you are, with what you have, now.

~African American Proverb

My philosophy is that not only are you responsible for your life, but doing the best at this moment put you in the best position for the next moment.

~Oprah Winfrey

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The Beam In Your Eye! 12/8/2011

Daily Grind- The Beam In Your Eye! 12/8/2011

One of the hardest things in the world to do is not judge! We have to remain mindful not to place our black robes on and begin sentencing. In every situation, it’s easy to find fault in others when something goes wrong. It is in these moments that we should consider that for every judgment we make, we are also open to be judged! We all have skeletons in our closets that are waiting to be revealed.  Consider all of the wrong immoral thoughts that you have had, the gossip you’ve spread or the hurtful things you have said.  The good news is that in spite of it all, our heavenly father continues to give us grace and mercy. He loves without judgment and allows us a new beginning.  I challenge you today to take a moment, look in the mirror and focus on you. We all have so much work to do on our individual selves that there’s no time to judge or criticize one another. We need to start by  remembering that we are all broken vessels and the only way we can be healed is by asking our father above to forgive and restore us. So before we judge - consider those skeletons, thank our creator for grace and continue to Be Great!

Matthew 7

¹DO NOT judge and criticize and condemn others, so that you may not be judged and criticized and condemned yourselves.    ²For just as you judge and criticize and condemn others, you will be judged and criticized and condemned, and in accordance with the measure you [use to] deal out to others, it will be dealt out again to you. ³Why do you ^[a]stare from without at the ^[b]very small particle that is in your brother's eye but do not become aware of and consider the beam ^[c]of timber that is in your own eye.  ⁴Or how can you say to your brother, Let me get the tiny particle out of your eye, when there is the beam ^[d]of timber in your own eye? ⁵You hypocrite, first get the beam of timber out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the tiny particle out of your brother's eye.

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You Make The Call! 12/7/2011

Daily Grind- You Make The Call! 12/7/2011

Have you ever noticed that in the game of life, the people on the sidelines always know which play to call? Don’t allow armchair quarterbacks to make decisions for you. Get focused and decide your own plays. Often times we are so afraid to make decisions that we look to anyone to bail us out. Be reminded that the people who never make mistakes are the ones that don’t take chances. Today I challenge you to have courage to make the call in your life. Stop listening to the crowd. They are not on your team and they don’t have access to your playbook. Instead place your headsets on and start listening to the coach above. He never makes a bad call and his grace and mercy always allow for replays. Now that’s a win-win situation! Now is the time to remain steadfast and unmovable, making the right decisions for your life with the guidance of the Great Coach, who has never forsaken or failed you. Get the call from above, focus and execute the play that’s called, and most of all Be Great!

Proverbs 4:7-11

(NIV)⁷ The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have,  get understanding. ⁸ Cherish her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you.  ⁹ She will give you a garland to grace your head and present you with a glorious crown.” ¹⁰ Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many. ¹¹ I instruct you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.

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A Positive Attitude! 12/6/2011

Daily Grind- A Positive Attitude! 12/6/2011

A positive attitude is the cornerstone for greatness. Regardless of life’s circumstances, things can be turned around with a positive attitude and action. I can guarantee you that we all have something to complain about. By why complain? No one wants to hear it and complaining doesn’t solve the problem. It just continues to muddy the waters. Start now with action and placing a positive mind set on all things in your life. Your crystal springs will appear and be ready for you to drink. Today I challenge you to take a positive attitude everywhere you go. Set the tone for the day. You might not be able to see the light from where you are standing, but if you take action by changing your position and looking up with a positive attitude, the SONlight will appear. Look on the brighter side of things and start by searching for resolutions.  It may appear to be bleak but you can turn things around with the right mindset. Regardless of the weather outside, bring your SONshine with a positive mindset and Be Great!

"I am still determined to be cheerful and happy, in whatever situation I may be; for I have also learned from experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends upon our dispositions, and not upon our circumstances."
- Martha Washington

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Spend Time Wisely! 12/5/2011

Daily Grind- Spend Time Wisely! 12/5/2011

Time is one of the most precious gifts that we receive.  With each breath we take, we are reminded of how delicate time really is. I challenge you today to spend your time edifying and uplifting yourself as well as your fellow man. Quit wasting time in petty gossip over things and individuals that really don’t matter. Instead, spend your time working on you! You should be so busy in developing your plan and driving toward your goals that you have no time to become involved in small talk with small people. Whatever you focus your time on will manifest itself in your life. If you spend your time being non-productive and waiting on things to happen for you, you will have a life of unfinished dreams.  Likewise, if you spend your time in investing in yourself and inspiring everyone around you, you will experience the beauty of a fulfilled life!  Be mindful of how you spend your time. Concentrate on your goals, and Be Great!

Time is like money, the less we have of it to spare the further we make it go.
-Josh Billings

Take time to deliberate; but when the time for action arrives, stop thinking and go in.

– Andrew Jackson

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Hurt is a Part of Healing! 12/2/2011

Daily Grind- Hurt is a Part of Healing! 12/2/2011

In this life we are going to experience some valley moments. During this time of hurt and discomfort, we must realize that this hurt is part of our healing. When we’re hurting, it is perfectly fine to channel our pain through meditation, crying, or talking with someone. The encouraging news is that by releasing that hurt, our gradual transformation of healing begins. The pain that we feel is ultimately, followed up with the promise to move forward. We must remain hopeful, understanding that every test that we face helps to create our testimony!

Experience the hurt, began the healing and in spite of it all Be Great!

We are healed from suffering only by experiencing it to the full.”

Marcel Proust

“Wisdom is nothing more than healed pain.”

Robert Gary Lee

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Birds of A Feather 12/1/2011

Daily Grind- Birds of a Feather 12/1/2011

Today I challenge you to take an assessment of your circle of friends. If you are the smartest person in your circle then it is time for you to seek out new friends that challenge you to be better. I often ask this question to the kids that I supervise: “Are you an eagle or a pigeon? “ Eagles soar in the air and Pigeons eat off the ground. They are both birds yet I have never seen them hanging out with one another. The decision to befriend someone should not be taken lightly. It is important that you observe their good and bad character traits because those traits could eventually rub off on you in some way. I think the decision is quite simple, if you hang out with winners, you will learn how to become a winner and soar like an eagle. Likewise, if you decide to deal with people with a defeated mentality, prepare yourself for mediocrity and eating off the ground like a pigeon. Choose winners, soar like an eagle and Be Great!

Japanese proverb When the character of a man is not clear to you, look at his friends.

Associate yourself with men of good quality if you esteem your own reputation; for 'tis better to be alone than in bad company." - George Washington (1732 - 1799) US Statesman

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Failure Is Not Final 11/30/2011

Most of us refuse to take on a new adventure because of our fear of failure. I come with the good news today; FAILURE IS NOT FINAL!  I challenge you to get off the sidelines and get into the game of life. Try something new, take on a new challenge or adventure and go capture your dreams. Stop asking yourself “what if it doesn’t work” and start thinking “what if it does!” The glass is not half empty, the glass is half full. If you see the glass as half empty, take the challenge of filling it! We are conditioned by our society to be cautious because of the fear of failure. Have you ever wondered why babies are not afraid of anything?  They have not been tainted by the fear of failure. Now is the time for us to make our mark! Don’t be afraid of the obstacles; keep your eyes on the prize, WALK INTO YOUR DESTINY and BE GREAT!

George E. Woodberry
Defeat is not the worst of failures. Not to have tried is the true failure.

H. Stanley Judd
Don't be afraid to fail. Don't waste energy trying to cover up failure. Learn from your failures and go on to the next challenge. It's OK to fail. If you're not failing, you're not growing.

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Be Slow To Anger

Daily Grind- Be Slow to Anger 11/29/2011

Today I challenge you to be slow to anger. This is a process that can only be accomplished with practice. Remember anger is one letter away from danger. We have to always be in control of our mindset. If we allow someone to derail our thoughts to anger we are essentially allowing them to control us. Take the higher road, listen for understanding instead of blowing a gasket at the start of go. Your life depends on this. When we invite anger into our mind and bodies it has a negative effect on our health.  Our brains inform our bodies to release negative energy. We must combat this by developing a process to control our anger. Let’s be slow to anger in our progress to Be Great!

James 1:19, 20

¹⁹ My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, ²⁰ because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. ²¹ Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

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Daily Grind- Iron Sharpens Iron 11/28/2011

It’s amazing how every generation looks back on the previous one and asks “what happened?” We all say things like “my parents would’ve wrung my neck if…” and our parents would say, “a child should be seen and not heard.” Our Grandparents would claim in some form or fashion, how they used to walk “x” amount of miles, to indicate that we should be tougher.

Living in this age of Entitlement, there is one critical element missing that was present in our generation and the generations before us. That is ACCOUNTABILITY!  Currently, we don’t hold ourselves or our peers accountable when we/they do something immoral or illegal. Instead, we take the stance, “That’s on them!” I challenge you today to stand up for what’s right. It takes courage to hold ourselves and everyone around us accountable when they are out of bounds. Everybody needs their chain jerked every now and then.  Hold me accountable so I can be Great!

Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend [to show rage or worthy purpose].  Proverbs 27:17 AMP

"It is not only what we do, but also what we do not do, for which we are accountable." - Moliere

No Leftovers 11/25/2011

Daily Grind-No Leftovers 11/25/2011
During the holiday season, we all partake in eating leftovers. At this time of the year, leftovers serve as reminders of the great time we had with our family and close friends. However, some situations in life require us to throw out the leftovers. Often times we start new endeavors such as relationships, a new career or even going back to school. Unfortunat...ely, we go into these new experiences with leftovers from our past and aren’t able to move forward on our new journey. Today I challenge you to completely close out on the past so you can embrace your future. Give yourself an opportunity to regroup and regain your true-self prior to getting involved in a new adventure. Throw out the leftovers and BE GREAT!

Promise yourself to forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
Unknown quotes 

 Leftovers in their less visible form are called memories. Stored in the refrigerator of the mind and the cupboard of the heart.
Thomas Fuller

Why Not You? 11/24/2011

Daily Grind-Why Not You? 11/24/2011
We are all programmed for greatness. However, there are times when we should be on the mountaintop but find ourselves in the valley. In this very moment, we all ask the question “Why Me?” You say and do all of the right things and still face adversity and disappointment. Today, I pose the question, WHY NOT YOU? In order to build muscle and gain strength, you...’ve got to go through some resistance to see results. Similarly, in times of tribulation, God is taking you through a storm to build your faith and trust in him so you have a testimony to share with others of HIS results. Instead of looking for pity, think about what you can share as your triumph from this test. We often fall deeper into the valley by not fighting our way to the top. In order to change your circumstance, you must first change your mind set. Remember, the greater the problem, the greater the blessing! I challenge you on this beautiful Thanksgiving Day to start thinking differently about your valley experiences. Instead of asking WHY ME, know that the SON is preparing you for VICTORY and declare WHY NOT ME. The man that is standing on top of the mountain didn’t start there. Change our mindset and Be Great.

Everybody wants to go to Heaven but nobody wants to die. –Loretta Lynn “by way of James Wesley Thigpen”

Stand After The Storm! 11/23/2011

Daily Grind-Stand after the Storm! 11/23/2011
Have you ever noticed that after the most awful storm is when the SUN shines the brightest? The beauty in seeing this SUN is that you weathered the storm. Your storm may come in many shapes and forms but the key is to stand after the storm. When you’re facing uphill battles, STAND! When there’s nothing but clouds surrounding you, STAND! When you have ...lost all hope, STAND! Remember, if we retreat before the storm ends, we will not have the opportunity to see the work of the SON! Today I challenge you to stand after the storm, have faith and be assured that when the storm passes over, The SON allows us to shine the brightest. Be Great!
If patience is worth anything, it must endure to the end of time. And a living faith will last in the midst of the blackest storm.
Mohandas Gandhi

Never cut a tree down in the wintertime. Never make a negative decision in the low time. Never make your most important decisions when you are in your worst moods. Wait. Be patient. The storm will pass. The spring will come.
Robert H. Schuller

Listen With Understanding 11/22/2011

Daily Grind- Listen with Understanding 11/22/2011
Today I challenge you to expand your listening skills by becoming an ACTIVE LISTENER. An active listener gives their undivided attention to the speaker to get a clear understanding of the message. Often times when someone is delivering a message, we are not truly listening. Instead, we are preparing our response, planning our comeback or playing w...ith our mobile devices. These actions display a lack of respect and shows little regard to the person that is talking. They deserve more than that and we are better than that! Let’s become active listeners and work to gain an understanding of the speaker so that we bring fulfillment to that person and complete the task at hand. Listen for understanding and Be Great.
The most basic of all human needs is the need to understand and be understood. The best way to understand people is to listen to them."
— Ralph Nichols
"One friend, one person who is truly understanding, who takes the trouble to listen to us as we consider a problem, can change our whole outlook on the world."
— Dr. E. H. Mayo

When To Love 11/21/2011

Daily Grind-When to Love 11/21/2011

We should have an Agape (Godly) love for everyone. However, when the love changes to Eros (passionate)and Philia (brotherly). It is critical for us to understand when to love. For years, my mother used to say, "Love those who love you and be good to those who are good to you". It is simple, when you take this approach, you decrease heart ache and disappointmen...t. Love is a choice, choose to love those individuals that invest in you and see your value. For the ones that refrain from investing in you, continue to love, just expect no returns! Be Great!

“The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and to let it come in.”
- Morrie Schwartz

Do & Don't 11/18/2011

Daily Grind- Do & Don’t 11/18/2011
Do & Don’t begin with the same two letters but what separates them are Action + Effort. It’s simple; you do what you want to do! If the SON of GOD can turn water into wine, surely, we can bring the glasses to drink it. All it takes is Action + Effort. Let’s stop making the excuse “I would if I could”. The response is you can but you don’t! I challenge you today t...o cease with the easy way out and stretch your brilliant mind to accept and conquer the challenges of life by blazing new trails. Instead of DON’T choose DO and insert Action + Effort. The end result will = GREATNESS!!!
BE GREAT!!!
I choose Do, because choosing Don’t never made a difference. – The Bushinator.

Let Them Talk 11/17/2011

Daily Grind-Let them Talk 11/17/2011
Have you ever notice that regardless of what you do, it is just not enough for certain people? You can start early, stay late, go your hardest and give your best effort and still, that’s not enough. They always find fault or have something to say. My reply is to let them talk! I challenge you today to do your very best in every situation and allow the haters to... talk. You will soon realize that they push your buttons just to get a reaction. Remember, people ask QUESTIONS for ANSWERS but make STATEMENTS for REACTIONS. Let them Talk and Be Great!

When you’ve done your best and all that you can do; at what point do you stop caring about what others say about you? -The Bushinator

Get Fit on Faith! 11/16/2011

Daily Grind - Get Fit on Faith! 11/16/2011

Every time a crisis enter into our life, We are engrained with the opportunity to exercise our Faith. It is at this time that we should recall all the past events when the good Lord showed up and showed out. I don't care what you are going through; sickness, no job, break-up, or death! I challenge you today to get fit on faith by believing in the almighty power of Jesus. Get in shape and Be Great!

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Don't Look Back! 11/15/2011

Daily Grind-Don’t Look Back! 11/15/2011
Often times we can’t make progress because we continue to look back. The Past is the Past! It is time for us to discover our new life. However, that can’t happen if we are focusing on past accomplishments. We all get excited and pumped up when we talk about our HAY-DAY! Believe it or not your HAY-DAY is today. You can’t bring back the time when you were the ...captain of the football team, or the prettiest girl in your class. Let it go! Quit looking back so that we can move forward. Be Great!
“One day at a time--this is enough. Do not look back and grieve over the past for it is gone; and do not be troubled about the future, for it has not yet come. Live in the present, and make it so beautiful it will be worth remembering.”
-Unknown

Family and Friends 11/14/2011

Daily Grind- Family and Friends 11/14/2011

I have known this for quite a while; however, it became very apparent to me this weekend. There is nothing in the world more important (outside of our Creator) than family and friends. You can have all the riches in the world, but if you don’t have anyone to share it with, it means nothing. I challenge you today, to take the time to tell your family and ...friends that you love and cherish them. I am grateful and appreciative to each and every one of you and of course I love you. Because you are my Friend, that makes you my Family! Be Great!



Faith+Family+Friends=Freedom

– The Bush Family Code

Today I Say I Do! 11/11/2011

Daily Grind-Today I Say I Do! 11/11/2011
Today I enter into a new chapter of my life. Today I share your thoughts and dreams forever. Today I accept additional responsibility; I am responsible to Protect, to Provide and to Promote your well being. Today I intertwine your family with mine; your friends become my friends, your highs become my highs and when it rains, we will dance in the rain together. Today I say I do to My Best Love, My Best Comforter, and My Best Friend! Bridget Bush-
BB Baby! Be Great!
For it was not into my ear you whispered, but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed, but my soul. - Unknown

Make A Commitment 11/10/2011

Daily Grind-Make a Commitment 11/10/2011
Today is the start of something Great! In order for us to make that happen we have to commit to being Great. Often times we fall short on our goals because of our commitment to the task of that particular goal. We can have substantial success if we buckle our boot straps and dig in. Commitment takes effort, effort takes heart. A heart that is committed to b...eing Great. Make a Commitment and Be Great!
If you don't make a total commitment to whatever you're doing, then you start looking to bail out the first time the boat starts leaking. It's tough enough getting that boat to shore with everybody rowing, let alone when a guy stands up and starts putting his life jacket on.
- Lou Holtz

Don't Agree 11/9/2011

Daily Grind - Don't Agree 11/9/2011

It is critical to our being not to agree, when people place their opinions about our character as fact. I understand that we are all subjects to criticism for whatever reason. I also don't have a problem with criticism that builds. I am talking about the dream killers. Today I challenge you to take control of your mind by knowing who you are. If someone says s...omething that's not uplifting to your individual being, don't agree with it. Be mindful that when people criticize or have opinions, it is more about their insecurities than it is about us. So don't agree with them, just agree to Be Great!


“When we judge or criticize another person, it says nothing about that person; it merely says something about our own need to be critical.”-Unknown

“Flatter me, and I may not believe you. Criticize me, and I may not like you. Ignore me, and I may not forgive you. Encourage me, and I will not forget you. Love me and I may be forced to love you.”
-William Arthur Ward

Delayed Does Not Mean Denied 11/8/2011

Daily Grind- Delayed Does Not Mean Denied 11/8/2011
Just because you haven't received the results that you want, does not mean they are not coming. Your desire to push through will prevail. According to Og Mandino, small attempts repeated will over take any undertaking. Remember, you have FAVOR! Your place is at the head and not the tail. Focus and walk into your destiny and the results will follow.

1 Corinthians 2:9
But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

Be A Leaning Post! 11/7/2011

Daily Grind – Be a Leaning Post! 11/7/2011

Let’s face it we all have issues. Once we get past that fact, it is time to be of service to others by being a leaning post for someone. Right now, we need to develop into trustworthy individuals that someone in need can depend on. Everyone needs someone that they can confide in and be listened to without being criticized. Is that you? Or are you the gos...siping friend that can’t seem to hold water? I challenge you to look within and find integrity to be the Gate Keeper for someone, that when they trust you with their problem(s), they know that you are not going to open their business up to the world.
Be Great!

To be trusted is a greater compliment than to be loved. –George MacDonald

Today Is A New Day! 11/4/2011

Daily Grind – Today is a NEW Day! 11/4/2011

Today is a fresh NEW day. What happened yesterday is forever in the history books. Whether it was good or bad, it is time for us to refocus and be blessed in the moment. We often bring drama and crisis upon ourselves because we can’t let things GO! Get over the fact that someone let you down or disappointed you and open up your gift of TODAY! That is your PRESENT! Be Great.

The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, not to worry about the future, nor to anticipate troubles, but to live the present moment wisely and earnestly.
- Buddha