Why Can't Every Day Be Like Christmas?

This year I decided to start the season early. I broke out the Christmas music and movies on November 1st. I was determined to really enjoy the spirit of the season and spent my time in the car listening to Christmas music and my time in front of the television watching Christmas movies. I was amazed at how connected I felt to the spirt of Christmas. I went through each day with a smile on my face and felt very little of the normal pressures you would think a father of seven children would feel.

I am a fan of both aspects of the season. I love the sacred opportunity to celebrate Jesus' birth and I love the visions of the gifts Santa Claus will bring. To me, Jesus gave us all a great gift. It is wonderful for me to be the "real" Santa and to emulate His great gift to mankind by giving great gifts to "my kind". The commercialization of Christmas actually provides me an opportunity to be "Christ like" with my giving. 

I stand all amaze at the love Jesus offers me and I love to see the wonder in the faces of my small children as they consider the magic that Santa offers on Christmas morn. Because my focus is on the birth of a Savior the giving of gifts seem like part of the story. 

I Want A Magic Carpet

As Christmas approaches, I love to ask my children what they want for Christmas. Each year, we receive some marvelous requests. It is fun for Stacy and me to make it all happen. We love the time together in the stores looking for just the right thing.

This year, Leah, our youngest child (4), held fast to a fantastic request. Each time we asked her what she wanted, she resolutely replied "a magic carpet". My first inner response was – "I am sorry, you won't be getting one of those". The more she requested it, the more I realized that she really wanted it. I had to find a way to make it happen.

During one of our shopping excursions, we wandered into the rug section. There, in front of us was a magic carpet. It was a beautiful gold and silver rug. There is no other way to describe it than to say that it looked magical. We knew we had our rug.

The Spirit of Christmas is Here For All

Finding the rug was the easy part, making it fly would be another story. Several days before Christmas I began talking about imagination and how important it is in our lives. I wanted the children to think about creating the impossible in their own lives. I wanted them to wonder how imagination works. It was my hope that they would all make the connection that a magic carpet is powered by imagination. I hoped even Leah would get the message and be content to imagine flying on her beautiful rug. 

Christmas morning finally arrived and the first gift Leah opened was her magic carpet. She let out a scream letting us know that she had received her magic carpet and immediately began to lay it out on the floor. As she sat down on her rug, our other children spontaneously, without prompting from us, gathered around Leah, each taking a hold of the carpet. They lifted her up and began to fly her around the room. The magic of imagination filled the air and the smile on Leah's face is one that I will never forget.

We Lift Each Other Up

It was a wonderful display of love and I was reminded of the story in the New Testament of the paralyzed man. He wanted to see Jesus so He could heal him, but he was too sick and feeble to move through the line. The sick man's friends arrived and lifted him up. They tore the roof off of the house where Jesus was at, and lowered him down to be healed. Jesus, touched by the display of love from the man's friends said, "your sins are forgiven you." He gave him the greatest gift, but the people were appalled and wondered how it was that Jesus could forgive sins. Jesus, perceiving their concern looked at the man and said "arise, take up thy bed and walk", and the man walked. He wanted to show the people that it was just as easy to heal spiritual problems as it was to heal physical problems. He could do both and so He did.

Leah's magic carpet ride reminded me of this story because her siblings lifted her up and gave her the transportation she needed to receive a great gift. I have often wondered who would lower me down when I need it and now I know. 

How are you regarding the great gifts you receive?

The thoughts expressed in this column are allowing me the opportunity to share with you what I value most.

How connected are you what you value most? 

Are you willing to share it with others without requiring conversion?

Each of us live a life of value. Sometimes what we value is different than what others value. This does not mean that we should forget those values. Instead we should remember them and share them. I feel most connected with you when I can be who I am without worrying if you will still like me. I am a Christian man and I believe in Christ.

Merry Christmas!

Dr. Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

Ramadan

September 10 – marks the end of Ramadan. It is a day of forgiveness, fellowship and unity, a time of giving and sharing. Our Muslim friends have spent a month fasting through the daylight hours to demonstrate their love for Allah. It is an amazing time of personal sacrifice and self-discipline. Their quest is to develop greater levels of patience, humility and spirituality.

During Ramadan, Muslims ask forgiveness for past sins, pray for guidance and help in refraining from everyday evils, and try to purify themselves through self-restraint and good deeds. it is observed during the ninth month to commemorate the month in which the first verses of the Qur'an were revealed to the Islamic prophet, Muhammad.

We can learn a lot from this Holy season. Ramadan is a time of reflecting, believing and worshiping God. Muslims are expected to put more effort into following the teachings of Islam and to avoid obscene and irreligious sights and sounds. Purity of both thoughts and actions is important. The act of fasting is said to redirect the heart away from worldly activities, its purpose being to cleanse the inner soul and free it from harm. I wonder how the world would be if each of us paused to remember and practice these ideas.

Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur

September 8th marked the beginning of the Jewish High Holy Days. It begins with Rosh Hashanah and ends ten days later with Yom Kippur. During these holidays, our Jewish friends look back on the past year and atone for their mistakes against one another and against God.

As part of the High Holy Days services, the Rabbi blows the shofar or ram's horn. This ancient custom serves to awaken the soul of a person to make amends for their mistakes and encourage teshuvah (repentance and rededication).

Rosh Hashanah is a day of remembrance. It is the official Jewish New Year's Day. It is a time in which Jews look back over the year just passed and forward to the year about to come. 

Jews believe that, during the days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, God judges each person's deeds, deciding who shall live and who shall die in the year to come. Therefore, Jews pray fervently, fasting for the entire day of Yom Kippur, the "Day of Atonement." This day is devoted to praying for forgiveness for any sins which a Jew may have committed, or which the community may have committed. As the day comes to an end, the shofar is again sounded — in one long, clear blast. Then with a feeling of having a slate wiped clean and a fresh beginning, Jews enter into the new year.

Holy Days

These are special times. The devotion and reflection our Muslim and Jewish friends are simultaneously feeling are of great value to our society. I am thankful that many of us are beginning to understand these days and to respect them.

I am thankful for those from these faiths who are honoring their spiritual roots. I hope that they feel joy in serving and honoring our God. 

There is nothing to fear from these beautiful beliefs. As a Christian, I find it very easy to celebrate the beauty and to learn from the wisdom developed by these practices. I do not feel threatened. Instead I feel enlightened – by participating in some of them with some of my special friends, I have felt like a better Christian.

Have you wished your friends who celebrate Ramadan or the Jewish High Holy Days joy and peace?

What can you learn from these special times?

Are you able to see how closely our sacred beliefs match up with each other?

We are a people who search to know God. We do it in very different ways and I think that is a beautiful part about life. It provides opportunities to experience beauties that we would otherwise miss. I hope you will pause to see what else is out there. I am certain that it will be a faith building experience for you.

Live Today! Love Today!

Dr. Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

The Flow of Energy

One particular scene captured my attention. The Kung Fu Kid had spent a lot of time learning to pick up his jacket, put it on, take it off, and hang it up. He did this until he was tired and could no longer see the point in doing it any longer. It was then, that his wise teacher explained to him the purpose of his actions.

The scene demonstrated how the movements of the jacket exercise were actually movements that could be used in practicing the art of Kung Fu. The master explained that everything is Kung Fu and that it lives in everything we do. 

He then told his student to "remember".

What Lives In You?

I am not a practitioner of Kung Fu, but I recognized the importance of having a system that keeps us connected to what matters most. There will always be times when we feel like we have had enough and that we no longer wish to continue.

The system we choose, keeps us connected to a higher purpose and, when we remember its values, it prevents us from burning out. 

Life happens at a breakneck pace. The space between getting up and laying down often seems like an extension of the dreams we have when we are asleep. To stay connected we must remember who we are. Everything we do, must be connected to that system or we will forget the importance of the system in our lives. 

To Remember

What does it mean to remember? To some, it feels like a passive activity, but it is definitely one of the most active things we can do. It is the activity that keeps our system at the top of our mind. 

I am amazed at how often the words "keep" and "remember" are mentioned together. They denote similar thoughts. They both require us to hold on to important learnings from our past. They symbolize the good things that we must embrace. 

I do not think we can live a satisfying life if we fail to connect to something of value. For me, it is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It flows through everything I do, and everything that I am. I find that whenever I become casual in the observance of this system, I feel far away from the real me. and I find it difficult to sustain a life of energy.

When I return to its practice, I feel energized. I feel much more capable of loving myself and of loving others with all of my heart, might, mind and strength. Life, during those moments, is good.

What flows through you?

What system do you embrace as being connected to everything?

How do you make sure you stay connected to it?

My invitation to you today is for you to reconnect to your system. It is imperative for you to ensure that it is flowing through you. It works the same for all of us. To feel energized, you must remember the source of your energy. You can't start, until you remember. 

Live Today! Love Today!

Dr. Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

The Family Puzzle

We have a backyard pool that we put in about 15 years ago. It still looks pretty good, but some of the tile has fallen off. One of my tasks was to make sure that it got fixed. About 45 tiles had come unglued, so I spent a couple of hours figuring out where to put each one and then began attaching them back in place.

As I installed each tile, I thought about all of the memories in our backyard pool. I remember our very first swim as if it happened yesterday. We had only three kids at the time and as we played in our Jacuzzi, Christina, who was only five years old said, "now we can spend even more time together as a family". 

We have grown since then, and our family continues to change. My tile project helped me to see things as they really are; our greatest joys come from the time we spend with our family. The definition of family changes as we grow. 30 years ago, it was defined by my role as a son and a brother. Now it is defined as a husband and a father. I suppose, I will always occupy all of those roles, but each one takes on more of a focus at different times in our life. Someday, I will add Grandpa, and Great Grandpa to the list of family roles that belong to me. 

This week, my family will gather, one-by-one, to watch my daughter enter into a covenant marriage. They are not coming to see our beautiful home or to taste the wonderful food that we will offer. They are coming to witness the union of two people who are covenanting before God, angels and earthly witnesses that they will be true and faithful to each other.

The Road Ahead

The other day, Mike, my new son-in-law, told me that he had spent a sleepless night thinking about Christina. He told me how much he loved her and how thankful he was to be receiving her as his wife. We spoke for a moment about his current feelings and then we reflected on the state of marriage in the world today.

I reminded him that many people enter into marriages today with the exact same feelings, and they think that they will always feel that way, but for some reason lose that loving feeling. At one time, our society accepted the words "until death do you part", as words that defined the marriage commitment. Now, marriage has become a temporary phase of life. Many are entering into marriage with the thought that if it doesn't work out, they can always get a divorce.

Mike and I then spoke about a much bigger picture. When he marries Christina, he will enter into a covenant that we believe, through their faithfulness to each other, will extend throughout time and all eternity. I asked him, if he would love Christina 500 billion years from now. He of course said yes.

His love for Christina, will not be measured by what he feels today. Instead, it will be measured by how he grows that love, how he honors that love, and how much he makes that love the center of his life. Anything short of that, will make the love that he feels for her today temporary.

Our Period of Waiting Is Over

Tomorrow, the union of Mike and Christina begins. It is an exciting time. They have prepared themselves for this moment. They will now give themselves to each other. Their efforts will now be combined. They will give up many of their individual pursuits for collective goals.

Our family is changing again. We are saying good-bye to some roles and responsibilities and hello to some new ones. It will take some time to adjust, but those adjustments will happen, and we will enjoy the process.

Stacy and I have long looked forward to this day. We have taught our children about the importance of family. Our lives are a testimony of those beliefs and values in action. Our children understand that our greatest successes are found right here at home, and not out in the world. They know that a missing piece in our family is much more significant than a missing piece of tile in the pool. They know that what is about to happen for Mike and Christina is not about the party, the guest list and the gifts. They understand that it about entering into a sacred covenant to be one.

We feel a great sense of satisfaction to know that our daughter learned that message and that she is now forming her own family. She is the first, so we are thankful that she is setting an example for those that will follow. Families are forever. There is a new one forming this week. How incredibly awesome is that!

Live Today! Love Today!

Dr. Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

Life Is Busy

We were a busy family and I know our friends and family members were busy too. Sometimes they would travel great distances just to be together for a couple of hours. To them, visiting was a priority.

Now, I often wonder how they found the time to visit so often. My life is full. Every moment seems scheduled and so I tell myself that I rarely have time to sit and visit. Lately, I have noticed, that no one else seems to have time to visit either. Our lives are consumed by the demands of work and life. 

We are blessed to live in a time that enjoys so many wonderful technological advancements. All of these tools of technology were designed to give us more time, yet they seem to suck the time away from us. Many of us now connect with our friends through only a few brief lines of text. The advances in social media certainly make it possible to stay in touch, but they do not compare to the enjoyment that comes from a face-to-face meeting.

What Stands In The Way?

I recently spent some time examining my use of technology. I discovered that television shows and website browsing are activities in which I regularly engage during the times in which I could be visiting. I realized that my parents and their friends did not have access to these distractions and so, despite their busy schedules, they had time to visit. 

Their visits filled them up and created enduring relationships. The visits I have online seem to bother me. They don't fill me up, they just serve as creative distractions that allow me to avoid authentic communication. They give me the sense of open communication but leave me without the ability to grow relationships of lasting trust. At best, online communication is a shallow form of checking in. I think the majority of us long for something much deeper.

When was the last time you evaluated how you spend your time?

Do you take time to visit in your living room or on the front porch with your family and friends?

Are you forming relationships that are more than just bits of text on the screen?

I met a man the other day who cautiously admitted that he does not use a computer. I could tell that he was embarrassed by this admission and that he was worried I might think he was out of touch with the times. I actually found myself admiring his commitment.

I do not suggest that we should follow his example and eliminate the use of computers, but I do believe we need to spend a bit more of our time social networking the old fashion way;  face-to-face in a comfortable chair with all electronic distractions set into silent mode. This is how trust is fostered and relationships are built. I hope to join you in a quiet place soon.

Live Today! Love Today!

Dr. Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

A Time of Famine

In the record my Jewish friends call the Tanakh and my Christian friends call the Old Testament, we learn about the prophet Elijah, and his mission to bring those who were practicing idolatry back to practicing a belief in their God. 

The leader of that time period, king Ahab, felt that he was unable to control the people when they worshipped God, so he created many ways to convince the people that they were the gods and that the material things a successful society could offer, were the only blessings they needed. As a result, the people began to forget about spiritual things and began to focus on gaining the material things of this world. 

As they shifted their focus to their own strength, a period of famines began. At first, the famine they experienced was that of hearing and doing the will of God, but eventually they experienced a second famine which resulted in all of their material possessions becoming valueless. This temporal famine affected the believers and non-believers. In other words, even those who continued to rely upon God suffered the consequences of the devaluation. 

Sound Familiar?

During this famine, God did not protect the believers from the economic hardships. They experienced the sting of the times too. This caused many of them to forsake their beliefs. They wondered how God could let them suffer when they were doing all the right things.

Others remained faithful, and though they lived in a time of poverty, God blessed them with peace in their lives, and the ability to get by. Even Elijah the Prophet suffered the consequences of the famine, but he was blessed to be fed by ravens during those challenging times.

Standing In Faith

Today, we find ourselves in scarce times. Some say it is a result of poor financial management, others say it is just a cyclical event that happens every few years, and others say it is a result of our collective wickedness. Whatever the case my be, the consequences are affecting nearly every household.

I believe in God, and I understand that our belief in Him must be tested. During times like these, many will turn away from Him, and many will turn toward Him. Those that turn toward Him, will not always have their burdens removed, but He will make them bearable. 

Being fed by ravens is not generally thought to be abundant living, but the nourishment received is enough and that is usually all we really need. 

Which way are you looking?

Do you recognize the ravens in your life?

Have you expressed your thanks for the simple things of life?

I have been fed by ravens during this time of trouble. I admit, that at times I have wanted more, but I have always felt grateful for that which I have received. In my moments of want, I have a heard a still small voice whisper to me – "Be still and know that I Am God". These wonderful words always bring peace to my soul, even in the most challenging moments. Every time I wonder where the next meal will come from, a raven appears. I am thankful for this sweet truth. For me, it is what makes life so good!

Live Today! Love Today!

Dr. Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

We are in Nephi, Utah, our home away from home. It feels so good to be here. I enjoy the simple and relaxing pace of life, which fosters a natural relief from the cares of my world. I don't feel the way I feel here, anywhere else. Simply put, I feel free.

The First Breath

We arrived Saturday evening. When I stepped out of the car a powerful image came to my mind. The only way I can describe it, is to say that I felt as if I were coming up for air. Let me explain.

I like to swim, and when I am in our pool, I often swim several lengths under water. I always begin with a goal in mind, hoping to set a new record for underwater swimming. As I make the turn for the last lap, I am almost always out of air. I push on, knowing that I can surface whenever I want. Sometimes, before I reach the top, my eyes feel like they are going to bulge out. When I finally surface, that first breath is magical. It fills my lungs with the oxygen I need and life quickly returns to my oxygen-deprived body.

That is what it felt like when I arrived here in Nephi. My first breath out of the car was a cleansing breath. It filled me with a quiet calm feeling. I immediately felt oxygen returning to my tired body and soul. I knew I needed it, I just didn't know how badly.

A Place To Repose

I am thankful for this special place. Every time I come here, I feel refreshed and renewed. It is great to have a place like this to escape from the cares of the world.

Where do you go when you need to get away?

How long has it been since you came up for air?

This year, we will only spend a week here in Nephi. It feels like such a short moment, but I am sure it will be enough. Life has already returned to my being in so many different ways. Life is good!

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548 

I See Me

This morning, during a meditative moment, I pondered some instructions on how to live a balanced and happy life. I saw a few gaps in my own personal behavior and began to contemplate how I might grow beyond these personal stoppers.

As I thought about each item, the faces of the people I described at the beginning of this post entered my mind. I saw that the things that are bothering me about them are actually things that are bothering me about me. My behavior, in many ways parallels their behavior. The circumstances are different, but the actions are very similar.

As I allowed myself to dig deeper, I began to see an even bigger sin. The image of the "judgmental" me stood before my eyes and I witnessed the pain that I am causing others. Instead of comforting them while they were in need of comfort, I judged them. My words did not condemn them, but my silent actions added to their sorrow.

Convicted, I sat marveling at how easy it is to project my own sins upon others. The rancor I feel at their behavior is actually a release from my own disappointment. Judging and condemning someone else for some reason, makes me feel free from my own fault. They become the worst side of me, and I somehow eliminate my own guilt.

Moving Forward

The purpose of my life is to help others become their best. There is work for me to do so that I may fulfill that vision. The growth opportunity now standing before me is one of letting go. I constantly say that life is not about what we do, it is about what we do about what we do. My behavior has been inconsistent with that belief. I have held on to the past, instead of allowing the people in my life the freedom and opportunity to move forward. This grip on what happened, will continually prevent me from moving forward. These questions helped me refocus my efforts.

What do I really want for my friends?

Am I comforting them in the moments when they need comfort?

In what way can I support them now?

Am I willing to forgive myself and move forward?

I finished my morning meditation knowing that some of the judgement remained with me. I know that awareness is only the beginning and that I have work to do now to let go. As I let go of some these feelings, my own imperfections stare me in the face. It is easy to feel angry with myself, and guilty for behaving in such a way. These feelings don't last long because I willingly forgive myself and consciously decide to be better. As I look at the previous me, I feel grateful for the lessons learned. The sun is shining and I can see a glimpse of the future me. This gives me the hope and the faith I need to move my feet. See you on path.

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

I was staying in a Hilton Hotel, and while I was arranging my things, I discovered a little book called Be My Guest - The Autobiography of Conrad Hilton. I opened the book and was immediately captivated by this unusual story of success.

A Man of Faith

At the time, the only thing I knew about the Hilton family, was that they had a famous heir who was traipsing around the world in a spoiled and erotic frenzy. I assumed that the she came from a long line of excessive living and believed that she accurately represented her roots.

Conrad's story painted a much different picture. He was a man of faith. His mother taught him that prayer was the best investment that he would ever make and so he began nearly every day at his place of worship on his knees in prayer.

He credited the power of prayer to have saved him from the pains of economic turmoil. He said it brought peace in his life. Conrad did not keep his belief in prayer to himself. He spoke about it everywhere he went. His efforts led to the initiation of our National Day of Prayer. He was a very powerful leader, and he was not alone in his belief in prayer, as many other powerful leaders of his time, including many of our government officials, regularly espoused the power of prayer.

What Happened?

Today, just a mere 30 years after Conrad Hilton's death, most business people see prayer as an absurd habit and not a behavior worth developing. I know only a few leaders who consider it an important use of time. I have written about it before, and received emails stating that I am foolish to write about such a topic and that doing so will lead to an erosion of my reader base. Some have gone so far to suggest that praying is a lot like believing in Santa Claus and that it is something only a child would believe in doing.

I wonder what happened? How have we moved so far in so short a time? How is it possible, that only 30 years ago, some of our greatest leaders were speaking of prayer and its power in their lives without any fear of being called childish or foolish.

We Need To Pray

Conrad Hilton's story influenced me. His was not an easy journey. He nearly lost everything during the Great Depression, but he remained faithful to his belief in prayer and eventually rebuilt his empire. My mother taught me to pray too. It was a difficult habit to learn and I admit feeling the pressure from those who scorn its practice, but I stuck with it until I learned to view it as one of the most important investments I make each day. I am grateful for Conrad's willingness to extol this virtue. I love learning from successful people who have the integrity to share their keys to success.

What are your thoughts about prayer?

Is it an investment you regularly make?

Have you experienced its power in your life?

Many believe prayer is a passive process, but it is much more than that. I view it as an active conversation that continues throughout the day. I also learned that the answers to our prayers do not always come in the way we hoped they would come. Generally speaking, we must be willing to submit our will to the will of God. That is a hard thing to do, because it requires faith. In way, the critics of prayer are right – it does require child like faith.

I pray with the attitude that everything depends upon God, and then I get up and begin to move my feet as if everything depends upon me. As I am working, I listen for the guiding responses that always come. It is not always easy to align myself with those messages, but I have learned that it is worth it. The times when I decided to do it my way, are the times when I have suffered the most. I am grateful for my understanding of the power of prayer. I dare you to make it one of your most important daily investments.

Live Today! Love Today!

Dr. Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

The Dark Path

The details of the dispute are unimportant. Suffice it to say, that we each understood the agreement differently and expected something different from the other. When we discovered that our understandings did not match, we both dug in and took a stand for what we thought was right. This only led to more misunderstandings and a rise in temperature.

Our negotiations reached a boiling point yesterday. My partner chose to limit our conversations to email, which added to our inability to communicate effectively and resolve the issue. After a long day of virtual bickering, we both were ready to end all conversations. It seemed like there was no way for both of us to get what we want, so we both were ready to bitterly part ways. Neither one of us wanted that, but we weren't willing or able to find a compromise either.

Integrity

I awoke this morning with thoughts of this conflict. I marveled at the amount of wasted energy, and the simpleness of the dispute. I can see no value in sticking to my position, nor can I see any value in moving forward without resolving the issue or at least getting a part of what I want. We have entered the realm of lose / lose.

The more I thought about it, the more I began to see a value proposition that made sense: I desire to be a man of integrity, and integrity is not situational. By that, I mean that my ability to stand in integrity is not dependent on the other person's ability to do the same. The blessing of integrity comes to those who act justly, even when they feel like they are being dealt with in an unjust way.

I am not going to get what I want. I did not ensure that outcome in the beginning by clarifying what it was that I wanted, so I am unable to get it now. I am responsible for the situation and it is now i get to choose whether I will be a victim or a victor. It is simply my choice.

All it requires is for me to fulfill his version of the agreement. This means that I must let go of the wrong I feel and embrace what he feels is right. The monetary requirement is very small, meaning that it is not worth the negative energy that is being generated. 

What Is The Price?

This time the price ($) is small, so it is easy to come to this conclusion, but my wandering mind is wondering where the line would be drawn. In this case, a quality product was created, the dispute is over expectations unrelated to that fact. There is now no future relationship, but the present is still important. I am sure there are times when an inferior product is delivered that it is not worth behaving in this way. Standing in integrity does not mean that we allow others to walk over us, it simply means that we will do the right thing. I think we generally know the right thing, and if we listen to what is going on inside of us, we can summon the courage to do it.

It may seem unfair or unjust to concede the point with no compensation, but I have learned that the quicker I resolve negative issues, the sooner I am able to focus on the positive ones.

What do you do when you feel like you have been dealt with in an unjust way?

How do clear the issue so that you can move forward?

What is the price of your integrity?

As I write, I notice that I continue to feel bitter about the situation, but interestingly enough, I feel good about my decision. That is really all that matters to me. That feeling gives me the peace to move forward without looking back. There will always be conflict, but that does not mean that there must also be a conflicted soul. I choose to step above the fray and move on. I hope, that in your world, you will do the same. 

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

Why Is The Last Mile The Hardest Mile?

Because it was a huge business opportunity, my preparation ruled my days, and often spilled into my nights. The closer I got to deadline, the more "it" was with me. I was grateful to enter the home stretch, but the work intensified as I neared the finish line.

To survive, I told myself that I could see the light at the end of the tunnel. You know the story, the one when we tell ourselves that:

"everything is crazy right now, but when this project is over, I am going to take a break, get some rest and reenergize myself, and then . . . life won't be crazy anymore."

I say it is a story, because it rarely, if ever, happens. Most of us finish major projects and then find ourselves immediately launching into the craziness again. That mythical break is not based on reality. My project ended yesterday, and I wake up today with new deadlines looming. They cannot be ignored.

Renewal of Energy 

I am fairly confident, that what I describe is a common experience. If we are good at what we do, we will always be asked to do something new when we finish it. I know it is hard to get a breather in between these tasks, but I really don't think we would want it any other way. The purpose is in the journey, we are not meant to be idle.

If we let it, the finish line experience can be a revitalizing and rejuvenating experience. The last mile may be the hardest mile, but the last 100 yards can and should be the easiest. 

To me, a critical and important part of reenergizing myself is to spend a moment taking it all in, before I cross the finish line. As I get ready to cross, I express thanks for not only my efforts, but the efforts of all of those people who have supported me along the way. I allow myself the chance to remember the starting line and all that has happened since that moment. I see the growth that has occurred and that visual quickens my step.

This mental breather gives me a great sense of satisfaction before I finish, and then the actual finish releases a sense of great accomplishment. Instead of crossing the line fatigued and relieved, I cross feeling confident and revived. That gives me the energy I need to catch my breath and move on to whatever is next.

Don't Hold Your Breath

Sometimes, when we are in the midst of the craziness, we hold our breath. The thought that "when this is over, life won't be crazy anymore" is a breath holding strategy. When we hold our breath, we fail to revitalize ourselves. Breathing, in the moment refreshes our being. It sometimes feels counterintuitive, but there are actually many ways to do this. We just have to look for them.

How do you catch your breath?

What gives you the energy to move from one project to the next with the intensity you need to raise the bar?

Who supports you along the way?

LIfe, doesn't wait to be lived. Its beat goes on whether we are ready or not. When we realize that the finish line is really just the next starting line, we can prepare ourselves to cross both with amazing amounts of energy.  

There will always be something new until we die. Don't wait until it is over to breathe, breathe now!

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

Both shows dealt with the power of choice. These weren't just daily choices, but they were life changing choices. The kind that are very difficult to make, and even more difficult to fix if the wrong one is made. 

Good and Evil

The classic battle of good and evil was portrayed before our eyes. I find it very interesting that both shows portrayed evil sometimes very despicably, and other times very subtly. 

In both episodes, really serious evil was portrayed as a monster. This type is easy for us to identify and only very few of us choose to follow that. But both also portrayed evil in the guise of people that look just like you and me. Their agendas were very evil, but their faces were very attractive. The characters on the show, and even some of the viewers, find it very difficult to discern if they are really evil, or if they are simply misunderstood by those around them.

Good was not portrayed in an over-the-top manner like the evil monsters. We were simply left to trust our instincts in who we think is good. Sadly, we were not always right. 

Lifetime Choices

Fortunately, very few of us experience the monstrous side of evil in our life times. I know it exists, but if you are reading, you have probably done a pretty good job of either avoiding it, or escaping its clutches. However, we all struggle with subtle shades of good and evil on a daily basis. We seek good, but it is often difficult to tell what good is, especially since politically, we are constantly redefining it.

Our choices shape our freedom and the quality of life we experience. When we are fooled into using our agency to choose something evil, we feel good at first, and then we discover the debilitating force of the dark side. It can make us feel discouraged. It can make us feel worthless. It always makes us feel encumbered. Those feelings are constantly with us until we become willing to admit that we made a bad choice. Our ego, makes it difficult for many of us to make this admission so we flounder in the ever increasing darkness that comes from one bad choice leading to another. 

Fortunately, only a few choices lead us to having no further choices. Everyday, we are capable of choosing who we want to become. We can move toward becoming our best possible self, or we can move toward becoming our worst possible self. The choice is ours.

You Have Changed

Sometimes we run into people that we haven't seen in a while and they say something like, "I can't believe how much you have changed." This phrase at time bothers me because I feel like I have always been the same in my core, but I recently came to realize that my choices have not always accurately portrayed who I am at my core. 

It took me many years to figure out how to radiate the energy and light that I feel at my core. Even today, I do not do it perfectly, but many of those around me can see the progress I am making. I am thankful that they are noticing, and even more grateful to discover that the choices I am making are leading me to be a better me.

How are you using your agency?

Will the choices you are making today propel you into becoming your best self?

Are you consciously making a choice between good and evil? or Are you letting life happen to you?

I value choice more than any other freedom. I am thankful that we have the power to choose. I don't always choose right, and I am thankful for that too because I always learn from the evil choices I make. They give me perspective and allow me the freedom of making new choices that redefine and reestablish my desire to make good choices. The best choices are made when we allow ourself the space to step out of the current moment and look at the long term repercussions. Remember, evil choices always feel good from a short term perspective. It is only after we either consider or experience the long term consequences that we are able to see their harm. Take a look at the choices before you, and go do the right thing!

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

Inconvenient Pains

The barren desert floor is now mostly hidden by the weeds that are covering it so beautifully. The hardiest of weeds in these parts is what we call the foxtail. The current crop is just over ankle high, which makes them a beautiful nuisance. 

Running through the middle of them means that some find their way into my shoes causing a sharp and irritating feeling. I usually keep running, but sometimes I must stop to try and clear the callus out of my sock and shoe. 

In addition to the hardened foxtail tips, there are also an abundance of tiny rocks and pebbles that were loosened by the much needed rains of winter and spring. Many of them also end up in my shoes. When I shake them out after each run, they usually make up a handful of sand.

Keep Moving

I typically keep running because I know that if I stop to clear them out, it will only be a matter of moments before they fill up again. I have learned to ignore them. They are simply the price I pay for running in the desert. Sometimes I forget to empty my shoes and when I put them back on, I am surprised to find so many rocks inside. I just didn't realize they were there when I finished.

There are many things in life that remind me of the foxtails and rocks. These minor irritants can really mess up an otherwise beautiful day if we let them get to us. They are the things that we must constantly deal with. Some, in dealing with them become very irritated, while others just learn to run on without paying them any attention.

They really don't have the power to bring anybody down, but they frustrate many along the path. Those who become too frustrated become the victims of minor things. These are really the small stuff that we are warned not to sweat. All we have to do when we encounter them is to keep moving. You and I can do that. 

Seeing the Big Picture

These minor irritants do not prevent me from seeing and enjoying the big picture. I still find it possible to look around and take in the beauty of the desert, and it is always beautiful. It holds a different kind of beauty right now, but even on the driest summer day, it is beautiful.

There is beauty all around. It really is there, we just have to allow ourselves to see it. The quickest and surest way to overcome the annoyance of a foxtail or rock in the shoe is to look around and see the beauty. This takes a little effort, but it is important to learn how to do this, because we cannot always stop and remove what is bothering us.

Do you let the minor irritants of the day bother you?

How easy is it for you to ignore them?

What is the impact on our ability to handle the really big issues, when we learn how to handle the small ones?

I hope, that as you run through life, you will learn to put the minor distractions you face out of your mind. As you do so, I am certain that you will find greater power and strength to face the bigger issues. Maybe you will even learn to see everything as a mere inconvenience. I hope the same for me.

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

I had spent time with him on a few different occasions, but I never really got to know him. Today, I attended the funeral and learned a lot about the mark he made in the world. 

Ordinary Lives

He was really just an ordinary guy, just like you and me, just like most everyone else for that matter. Nothing he did could be considered world changing, yet he regularly changed the world of the people around him. He came from a very large family and many of them spoke about his charitable nature.

He really didn't have very much, but he always gave them something. Sometimes it was the gift of time, other times it was just a simple piece of candy. They all knew that if they needed something, he would be there to help.

Our Legacy

The funeral experience got me thinking again about the legacy we each leave behind. For whatever reason, many of us believe that our legacy is connected to the greatness we achieve. This sad belief is fueled by society's mirage that the highest achievements in life are usually the most difficult, and therefore may only be achieved by a select few. The higher the standard, the fewer there are that can reach it. Not everybody can get to the top – so we honor those that do. 

This idea contributes to the false belief that what we do really matters. Here is why I think it is a false belief. Can you name the top musicians, actors, politicians, ministers, athletes, public speaker or any other category of fame from 100 years ago without googling it? How about the criminals, schmucks, dirtbags and/or villians of the same time period? Most of us would answer no, to these two questions – and that is precisely my point. Very few of the things that we value as a society are really the things that matter.

Point of Impact

Our impact will only be felt by those closest to us. That is why it is so important to make sure that we spend the majority of our time developing and fostering those relationships. I am not going to live for 100 more years, but I may live another 40 – 50 years. During that time, I will have grandchildren and even some great-grandchildren. Some of my great-grandchildren will be alive 100 years from now and if I take the time to love and cherish them, they will remember me.

They are the keepers of my legacy. If I ignore them, they will forget me just like everybody else. It is crucial for us to learn this as early as possible and then to live and behave accordingly. Any other way will only lead to unfulfilled potential. 

Here are the questions for the day:

Are you giving the least to those who matter most?

Are you more concerned about what the world thinks of you then what your family thinks of you?

Who do you love? How do they know?

Driving through the grave yard today reminded me that we are only here temporarily and none of us will get out alive. Too often we take ourselves and life too seriously. It is meant to be fun and full of joy. If it is anything else for you, then it is time to let go and . . . 

Live Today! Love Today!

Your personal legacy depends on it!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

Quite Spots

I am grateful to enjoy two or three quiet spots. It is great to get away to think about things so that I can put them in proper perspective. 

There are many noisy spots that I regularly enjoy, and they also give me energy, but the energy I get while sitting in one of my quiet spots is different. The opportunity to reflect and ponder the events of a day, a week or a month fills me with a sense of renewal and a love for life. The time I spend in these quiet spots are a just a few small moments, but they really do fill me up. 

Time Away

Some of my quiet spots are indoors and some are outdoors. It really doesn't matter where they are, and I know that different people will find them in different places. The important thing is to find a couple of places to stand and think openly – even talk openly at times about our plans and dreams.

We need this space to listen to our own voice. We really don't do that enough. We must not be afraid to hear it, and we must not allow others to drown it out. Our voice is the most important voice and sometimes the cares of the day render it difficult to hear. That is why we need this time away.

Some people call this meditation – I call it quiet time. I need it to keep me fresh. 

Do you have a quiet spot?

How often do you get there?

Are you listening to the voice within you?

You are the author of your life. If you want it to be what you want it to be, then you must take time to listen to the story you are writing. Don't be afraid of it. Don't worry that you will do it wrong. Listen to that voice and move forward. The first step may always seem difficult, but it is the one that sets your soul free.

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

At first, I thought it was neat and then I stumbled on a rock and started realizing that I could not see the dangers that are normally easy to spot. I could hear animals that were running nearby. I could hear them, but I could not see them. I thought and hoped they were rabbits, but for all I know they could have been coyotes or bobcats.

Afraid Of The Dark

The longer I ran in darkness, the more I became afraid. I became anxious for the dawn. I wanted to be able to see the trail better so that I could identify what was running all around me. I wanted the light to shine on me and light my way. I wanted the sun to rise and light my world.

As I ran higher into the desert, I could see the tiny lights from cars that passed by on the roads nearby. The light they provided actually made the darkness seem even darker. They lit a small portion of the road, but did not have the power the to light the world around me. I wanted light, and found myself looking toward them with hope, but they were unable to provide me any benefit. 

Worldly Lights

I started thinking about this in terms of daily life. So many times our society surrounds us with ideas and behaviors that radiate very little light. We look at them with interest, but they can not give us any value. The purveyors of this light are constantly trying to fool us into believing that this light is real. But these dim lights are not real.

I find it interesting that even though we are more free to express ourselves in ways our ancestors would have never dreamed of expressing themselves, our current research indicates that we are actually less happy. This despite our willingness to accept behaviors once deemed inappropriate in the name of progress.

One reason that I believe this is true is because we are surrounded by darkness. Many of our leaders from the worlds of politics, business, entertainment, athletics and even religion are modeling poor behavior and even though their lives are disintegrating before our eyes, very few of us are willing to stand up and call for a return to virtue. We, as a society, are not only accepting, but we are also embracing behaviors we once found repulsive.

I Will Stand In The Light

I have discovered for myself, that this is no way to live. We must be engaged in doing good and learning what it means to be good. We must identify our values and strive to be a little closer to living them each day. As the world grows dim, many more of us must be willing to shine brightly. As our individual lights grow brighter, we become better able to lift and support others in doing the same. 

The goal of individual development is to first create the ability to meet our own needs and then to sincerely and authentically focus our abilities toward helping others. When we stand in the light, our path is lit and we can clearly identify the dangers.

Are you willing to be a warrior of light?

What does a return to virtue mean to you?

Are you shining brightly?

There are many who will say that this way of thinking is old fashion and can no longer serve us. I say look around. The dim lights being shone in the name of progress are bringing very little happiness and fulfillment. We need authentic light. Please stand and shine brightly with me.

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

I was asked to play the role of the Landlord, which is the dark role representing the influence of Satan. I didn't want to do it at first, because I couldn't really imagine myself playing a dark role. My life is focused on seeking the light, so I didn't want to let any darkness into my character. I struggled with the thought of allowing myself to authentically play the role without gaining a new level of understanding of the real darkness that often influences the world in which we live. I didn't want to act out the confusion and hate that I knew would be directed toward One that I love.

I loved the music that I would be singing, so I agreed to do the part. I struggled with getting into character. I just couldn't let myself portray the darkness that was required to make it real. Two days before opening night, I was still refusing to go the distance. Suddenly, a burst of light entered my mind as I was running. I saw an image of the impact of the show if I did not do justice to the part. I realized that if I did not allow myself to get into character, the people watching would not recognize or feel how darkness really feels. They would see it as humorous instead of dangerous. Then, I knew that it was OK for me to let it all out. In that moment, I gave myself permission to portray this evil in such a way that those watching would feel its reality. From that point on, the fear of becoming lost in the darkness departed from my soul.

The show was a success, and many people commented that I was an incredible "bad guy" and that they were sure glad to know that I was on the good side. Many said that I made them feel uncomfortable, and that I successfully captured the darkness of evil. It took a lot energy to get to that point. I was thankful to authentically play that role, but even more thankful that it was behind me.

My Amazing Dreamcoat Experience

My efforts in The Garden, opened the door for an amazing community theater experience. Shortly after, I was cast in the title role of Joseph, in Andrew Lloyd Weber's Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

This role seemed much more comfortable for me. I identified with the role and felt like it was a role that I was born to play. I loved the experience and enjoyed singing and dancing in my very own amazing technicolor dreamcoat. It was great to play a light bearing role. 

I had no problem getting into character. The biggest challenge was preparing to be onstage in nothing more than a loin cloth. I was exercising a lot and eating very little. This time, it took very little emotional energy, but every ounce of physical energy that I had to prepare for the part. 

The happiness and disappointment I felt in the show were easy to portray because they reflected many similar experiences that I had faced in my own life. The show was a success. When it was all over, the people spoke of how much they enjoyed my energy and how comfortable I looked on stage. At the end of each rehearsal and show, I felt energetic and ready for more. I truly felt like I was in my element.

The Next Level

Before my run as Joseph was over, I was approached by a new director with a request to play the role of Jesus in the musical production of Godspell. I enjoyed breathing life into the directors dream, but I kindly declined the request.

The director wouldn't take no for an answer. I gave him all my excuses – I believed Godspell was a sacrilegious experience, I didn't want to be involved in something that would make a mockery of the teachings of Jesus, I thought the show was goofy, and I didn't have time. He patiently broke through all of those excuses, which left me with only one – I really didn't think that I could authentically play the role of Jesus. I didn't even know how to approach it – I felt like a hypocrite even trying. He assured me that I could do it, and I eventually listened to the music and decided to play the role.

Interestingly enough, my permission to play this light role came in a similar way that the permission came to play the dark role. I was out running and contemplating the possibility. I just didn't feel like I could do it. I knew there would be people who would say, "who does he think he is?" I knew that I would need to raise myself to a new standard of living and take one more step toward perfection. I worried that I would somehow fail. Suddenly, I heard a voice saying, "Andrew, this your opportunity to prepare the way for me. You don't have to be like me, or carry my weight – I will do it for you. I will breathe the life into you, that will you need to represent me." The message was beautiful and freed me to deeply embrace the role.  

Our show opened last week, and we are now entering the second week of our three week run. I can't adequately describe the experiences that I have had and the emotions I have felt as I have prepared for this role. In the daytime, I still do not feel capable of playing this role, but something happens when we open the show. I am able to raise myself to a new level.

The experience is draining, At the end of each show, I am totally spent. The person who betrays me is someone that I really love, and I feel the emotions over and over again of being betrayed by someone I love. The people in the cast are people that I really love, and the experience of saying goodbye to them moves me to shed very real tears every time we play that scene. The desire to escape is just as real as my willingness to submit my will to the will of my Father. The pain of the crucifixion scenes are intense. Dying and being carried around by those who love me is surreal. Coming back to life and seeing the joy on the faces of loving disciples is exquisite. Words cannot describe the whole experience. I wish you could witness and even see it through my eyes.

There are people who have seen me in all three productions and at the end of this show, they are saying that this is my finest hour. I feel what they mean. 

The Road To Redemption

I share this story with you, because it is not just my story, it is our story. I never thought last April, that over the course of the coming year I would play the roles of Satan, Joseph and Jesus. That is quite a progression. Thankfully I moved in ascending spirals and not in the dreaded downward spiral patterns. 

Naturally, we are all captivated by the energy of this world. The world tells us that we can float without purpose, that we can do whatever feels good, and that there will be no lasting consequences. The world is wrong. 

We must be anxiously engaged in making forward progress. There are things we do today, that seem ok, but tomorrow we will realize that they cause us pain. We must learn how to move forward and leave them behind. That journey is made more difficult, even impossible, when we attempt to do it by ourselves. We need to follow the One who advocates so lovingly for our redemption. The dark ways of the world, no matter how enticing, can only lead us to the cruel cul-de-sacs sin and despair. 

Where are you at in your journey toward the light?

Are you making progress?

What is your next step?

I am thankful for the spiritual intelligence that I posses and the impact that it has in my life. I invite you to develop your own. I love you for who you are and I look forward to watching you grow. As one who has studied and portrayed both light and darkness, please accept my findings. The dark paths of the world bring fear, confusion, worry, despair, frustrations, feelings that we are not good enough and hate. The paths of light bring us peace, understanding, acceptance, happiness, goodness and love. Where do you stand?

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

I am doing my best to stay tuned in, but I am finding it very difficult to see the positive and appreciative approach that I would like to see. It seems that no matter which way you slice it, this debate on heath care is destined to be a win-lose or a lose-lose situation. There is talk about a win-win, but it is all talk. Nobody from any of the camps is truly acting that way.

Social Justice

There is a term being thrown around right now, and quite honestly, I don't understand it. Nevertheless, I am going to do my best to explain from my own frame of reference what it means to me. I am specifically going to tie it into what is going on in my life right now. The term to which I refer is "Social Justice".

If you are a regular reader, then you are aware that I am in the middle of performing the role of Jesus in Steven Schwartz' musical production Godspell. I am finding this to be a very challenging role for many different reasons, the greatest of which is teaching the beautiful teachings of Jesus and facing the truth about my own inability to follow them. I find it especially difficult to deliver the lines about bothering with a speck in the other's eye when I have a great big plank in my own. The words are convicting me to a better life, but right now, the gap is great.

The Sheep and The Goats

One of His stories that I share, references what it will be like when He returns. He states that he will divide the people into two groups, in much the same way that a shepherd divides the sheep from the goats. The sheep represent those who kept and obeyed His teachings and the goats represent those who did not.

I am sure His followers, wanting to be sheep, wondered how they would know which side they were on. So he said to them:

"When I was hungry, you gave me food. When I was thirsty, you gave me something to drink. When I was naked and with out a home, you took me to your house and clothed me in your clothes. When I was sick and in prison, you came and gave me aid." 

Then they asked him, "when did we do all of this", and that is when he taught them the real lesson. He said:

"Inasmuch as you have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, you have done it unto me."

He then taught that the goats would not feed the hungry, quench the thirst of those who thirsted, clothe and house the naked and homeless, or give aid to the sick or the jailed. He said that when we did not do these things for those in need, then we could not, and did not do them for Him.

Meeting The Need

Whether you follow the teachings of Jesus or not, these words are powerful. Their meaning applies in all religions, in all faiths, and in all walks of life.

Those who gave assistance did it because they willingly wanted to contribute to the greater good. They were not forced or compelled to do so. They simply had a desire to lift another. They understood that because they were given much, they too must give. They did not wait for the government to tax them or to force them to do it, they exercised their moral agency to comfort the weary and to strengthen the weak.

Those who are forced into contributing to the greater good never do it with pure intent. In fact, they are the ones who go about trying to find the loopholes and the outs. They sit around saying things like, I was given nothing, why should I give to others. They believe that their successes are strictly the result of their own personal brilliance and have nothing to do with good fortune or circumstances. In a sense, they are their own god, believing that they have the "secret" of wealth and that those who do not are lazy and unintelligent.

Sometimes, this same crowd is responsible for creating the laws that would force others to contribute to the greater good. They think that if they make everyone do it, their contribution will somehow be the fact that they got everyone to go in on it. They continually go about placing heavy burdens on the backs of others without ever lifting the load themselves. They see themselves as being above the law and not subject to it.

Where Do You Stand?

I am aligned with the belief that we must be constantly looking for ways in which we can lift the load of others. In fact, I believe that one of the greatest things we can ever do is to lift somebody to a new level. It is much more meaningful than lifting ourselves to a new level.

But we must not be ordered or commanded to do these things, because when we are, we lose the joy that comes from giving. It is wasted away by the burden we feel by being forced to do it.

We must decide to become anxiously engaged in good causes, and to do many good things from our own free will. For that is how we truly demonstrate which side we are on.

When was the last time you volunteered to help someone in need?

If you saw someone who was out of gas on the side of the road, would you stop and help or just pass by?

Are you willing to look around today and meet the needs that only you can meet?

If we were all willing to do these things, then we would not need our government to tell us how to do it. I admit that something must be done, but I would rather choose to be a part of the solution, then to be told that I am the problem. Where do you stand?

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

This question, caused me to wonder about the formula for being and several questions began to enter my mind. What does it mean to be? What is the role of doing in that formula? How are doing and being related? Is there any relation at all?

It didn't take me long to realize that it is possible to do, without being, but I do not believe that it is possible to become, or to be, without doing something. Are you with me on that?

Permission To Soar In Ascending Spirals

This is actually a conversation that I have had with myself many times and it represents the vision of my work. I believe that achievement, the result of our doing, by itself is worth very little. If we spend our life achieving and doing, we will never be filled. We will simply move from one quest to another without ever gaining any sense of satisfaction. That said, we can't just throw away any and all forms of doing in pursuit to be. In all reality, we must be anxiously engaged in many good causes.

Buddha taught this lesson beautifully. He began his journey to enlightenment by sitting under a Bodhi tree. He believed that if he denied himself all his privileges and desires and sat under that tree suffering all manners of affliction, he would soon suffer his way to an enlightened state of being. It didn't take him long to discover that that was not the way. He realized that the true path required both active (doing) and passive (being) activities.

The journey to being begins with a careful clarification of what it is that we value. Our values, must then influence our dreams and aspirations. Our dreams and aspirations, must then guide the things we do. Aligning all that we do, with what we wish to become puts us in a state of balance and we are then free to soar in ascending spirals. This is important, WE GIVE OURSELVES PERMISSION TO DO THAT!

Living The Commitments That Accelerate Growth

What we do, determines our ability to grow and to be. Paul, taught us this lesson in a letter he wrote to the early Christian community that was living in the Roman Province of Galatia. He warned them to be very careful about how they spent their time by saying, "Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." Hence, our version, you reap what you sow, was born.

If you really want to "BE" something, you must be willing to live the commitments that are associated with that quality or behavior. You can't smoke and be a "non-smoker". It takes effort to be, and that effort translates into doing. Do you see the natural connection?

Arya was asking about the relationship between doing and being, but I believe he was also asking about the place of rest and meditation. Is it necessary to be doing something all the time? The answer of course is yes, but you are the one responsible for choosing your activity. 

My perfect day includes a lot of time to meditate, pray, study, and ponder. I like to be alone in my thoughts. It is how I reinvent myself. It is how I recharge my batteries. When I give those activities up for the pursuit of others, I find myself out of balance. These are the things that I am willing to commit to, and they work for me. You may find your energy in totally different places doing totally different activities. The key is deciding what commitments we are willing to make and then sticking with them. 

This, is where the balanced feeling of being comes from. When our dreams are aligned with our commitments, we create harmony. Life begins to feel like, and appear as if, we are running on auto-pilot. Growth is accelerated, and we are ready to become.

Standing Whole and Ready To Lead With Purpose

But alignment is not enough. Your light, the essence of your being, will never reach its full potential until you learn to shine brightly. It is only when we learn to radiate the vision of who we are to the world, that we begin to lead with purpose.

Leadership – that is the purpose of becoming. The greatest work we will ever do is to lift another to a new level. It is the most fulfilling and satisfying experience. It is the essence of being. When we become our best, we see for the first time that there is room for everyone to be their best.

Arriving at this gateway to enlightenment strips us of all forms of toxic competition. We learn to cheer others on without any worry that they will somehow surpass us. We are inspired by their efforts. We feel a desire to be better for our own account, because we see that there is so much potential that is yet to be realized. We see so very clearly that we are all connected and that we are all one. 

Life moves fluidly. The doing that we do appears to happen without any effort. From the outside to the inside, we are filled with peace. We know who we are and we are being that person. The struggle to do, is no longer found within us. We simply live on purpose and we lead that way too.

Have you identified your aspirations? 

Are you willing to live the commitments that are necessary for their realization?

What are you doing with your light? Are you willing to shine brightly?

I don't have all the answers, but I know that I am anxiously engaged in becoming my best. I understand where balance comes from and what it takes to get it. I want you to create harmony in your own life and leadership responsibilities because I know it will bring you great joy. Please do me a favor today. Take a moment to write down what you value most in life. Then examine how you are spending your time. Then take a step, no matter how small toward balancing the ledger. You are now free to move about the cabin!

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

I realize, that doing so, is not an option that will lead to success. If I want to become the person I am striving to become, I must be willing to press forward, even in these dark and confusing moments. If it were easy, it would not be worth it.

Not My Will

This realization is particularly poignant at this moment, due to my involvement in the Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak musical production of Godspell.

Opening Night is looming and there is much work to do. I sometimes wonder why I allowed myself to be involved in this extra-curricular activity. It is consuming a lot of my energy, and I would rather focus that energy on many different things. 

I understand, that this project is bigger than me, and that I was called to be a willing participant in this effort. The role is very humbling. Nearly every day, I ask myself how I can possibly pretend to be good enough to play the part of Jesus. I think we would all agree, whether we believe in His divinity or not, that He was one of the most influential historical figures, but to me, He is much more.

Last night, we rehearsed for the first time the scenes leading up to His crucifixion. I felt extremely hypocritical when I found myself, (caught up in my own tiny struggles and wondering how in the world I could make it all happen), uttering the words, "not my will, but thine be done".

What He so willing gave, suddenly became very clear. I don't mind putting aside any theological attributes for a moment and just considering the man. For whatever reason, this man set aside all of his own personal interest, and willingly chose to follow the will of the somebody else. I stand all amazed at that decision!

Seeking Higher Ground

I know, that all of the challenging experiences I face are given to me for my own good. They have a refining effect. They polish me and create the energy and space for real growth to occur.

It is easy, in the moment of these trials to feel like a victim. Sometimes, we may even feel abandoned, but these are the defining moments that shape us and carry us forward to higher ground. Feeling sad, or cursed by our present circumstances disqualifies us from reaching the next level.

Those who become their very best, learn how to set aside their own interests for the good of helping others soar to new levels. We cannot do that, until we learn to submit our will to something much greater than ourselves.

How often are you able to submit your will to the will of someone else without complaining?

Do the Christian references mentioned above make you feel uncomfortable?

How can you apply the basic principles in this post to your life?

There are many times during our lives when we need to follow someone else's agenda. Typically, if it does not conform with our own desires, we find ourselves murmuring and getting in the way. I dare you to examine the consequences of that type of behavior. I am certain that if you do, you will come to see what I have come to see. That is, that all of the noise will not change the fact that if we want to move forward, we must submit to that agenda. It is true, that we can choose to opt out – and I wish more people would make that choice instead of continuing to complain about thing, but if we want to move forward, we must put our own self interests aside. 

Let's see – I can move forward kicking and screaming, or I can move happily on. That doesn't sound like a tough choice to me.

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548