Very few of the world's population have had any significant training in the area of their feelings, emotions and relationships, yet these are areas essential to our well-being and productivity. Not having been trained in these areas, means that we learn by trial and error. Often the lessons learned are very painful, because of their nature. Feelings, emotions and relationships are personal. Assuming that parents do the best they can with what they have; the reality is one cannot give what they do not have. Unfortunately not knowing how to manage our feelings and emotions, can leave us vulnerable and open to misunderstandings in our numerous relationships (family, personal, community or business). For the most part people are not productive, effective or happy during periods of prolonged emotional impairment.

Learning how to identify and manage our feelings and emotions is one of many great needs of humans today. Learning how to nurture and flourish in relationships is also one of many...

"Responsibilities exceed rights."

     Fred Smith, Sr.

Fred Smith was a wise mentor of mine and many, many others. He had the foresight to make a video for those attending his memorial service to offer some parting words of wisdom. In this short video, Fred concisely and very profoundly touched on a few subjects, however, I want to focus on one in particular, Rights vs. Responsibility.

Fred stated that rights can become divisive, whereas responsibilities overlap and form bonds. In the years since Fred's home going in 2007, I have given much thought to Rights vs. Responsibilities. I now see more clearly and better appreciate the profound wisdom Fred conveyed.

If you were to give a departing message to those who came to celebrate your life, what would you say to them? Fred's video was a little under 10 minutes, and he had much to say.

Reflection on this quote helped me to see this topic as one each of us should really understand and do something about. I see this as a responsibil...

According to bestselling author John C. Maxwell, “Growth is the only guarantee that tomorrow will be better.’”  So if you want to make a better tomorrow, you must grow today.  Funny thing about growth is that it usually doesn't happen by accident. Our best growth must be intentional. Albert Einstein once said, "We can't solve our problems with the same level of thinking used to create them." Both of these quotes can be taken to support the need for lifelong learning. Change, globalization and the rapid growth of technology are reason that everyone needs to learn how to become a growth oriented individual. If we are not intentionally growing each day, we are losing ground.

Most people stop deliberate learning once they complete their formal education. This is a huge mistake, because it is at that point that real learning begins. While in school, we are in a controlled environment, or if I may, a laboratory. However, real world education begins once the moment caps and gowns are removed...