Tag Archives: #peace

Spirituality

It’s Quiet. Too Quiet

Are you uncomfortable when things get quiet? We live in a “go-go” society and it’s gotten to the point where people need constant stimulation.

We have 24/7 news available, hundreds of television channels along with endless texts and emails. Our brains can handle quite a lot, but overload can be damaging. Our brains never quit working, but they do need time to recover and recharge.

My encouragement to you is to make time to enjoy the quiet moments when you can. If you have to schedule downtime, do it! Whatever works for you is what you must do.

At first, the quiet might make you feel uneasy. If this is the case, then consider it confirmation that you need some peace and quiet. It gets easier the more you do it. Then you will feel the benefits of solitude, and you will make it a priority.

Give it a try. Then keep trying. The only thing you have to lose is some anxiety. And that’s a good thing…

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Spirituality

Tough Talk

Once again, the Iranian leadership (what’s left of it anyway) has threatened the United States over the possible takeover of Kharg Island. The U. S. will face “serious consequences” if we continue down this path. Right…

Bullies talk a big game, too. Here’s a fact: people who engage in bullying behavior are the most scared people in the room. They are scared so they want you to be scared, too. Standing up to a bully is the quickest way to see them fold.

The Bible teaches us to use “gentleness and self-control” in our dealings. Those characteristics will reach the heart of mankind faster than tough talk will. And you make a lasting impression on the person you are dealing with.

The Iranians will continue to make false threats. They can’t back up their tough talk. But our leaders can. In the negotiations they use a different tone. Hopefully sprinkled with some gentleness…

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Spirituality

Crisis Response

Recently someone asked if a little chaos was good for us. Perhaps a better question might be, is stress good or not? Like with most things, there is no “one size fits all” answer.

A bit of stress keeps us on our A game. Deadlines and pressure can produce order when managed properly. If you manage others, you must know how much stress your people can handle.

But what about when a crisis occurs? My mind becomes hyper-focused when the shit hits the fan. It’s like the world slows down while my thoughts become crystal clear and orderly. This is a benefit of growing up in an unpredictable environment. I learned to think on the fly, to seek safety when panic happened. This trait has never left me.

Our minds are incredible machines. But just like any machine, we must take care of it. Eat well, exercise, get plenty of sleep and be judicious about what you read or watch on television. Even our choices in music affects us.

Hopefully the stresses are minimal in your life. Taking care of yourself mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually will allow you to handle whatever life throws your way. Trust the process…

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Spirituality

The Golden Rule

The Golden Rule is easy to follow, until it isn’t. Some people do everything they can to try to get under your skin. When this happens, rise above.

There are a good handful of people who just seem to be miserable. They are constantly complaining or finding fault with others. It’s my opinion that they are reflecting what lies in their heart. They aren’t happy in their own lives, so they want to rob others of their peace.

Jesus taught us to “love God and love others.” He spoke straight truth. He told us to “pray for those who persecute you.” Totally counter culture and certainly not easy to do.

When someone attacks you, online or otherwise, steer clear of engaging. You aren’t required to give anyone an explanation. Leave the miserable in their mire. Rise above…

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Spirituality, Uncategorized

The Search for Peace

Some people thrive in chaos. They love to stir things up. When things are calm, it’s almost like peace makes them uncomfortable.

Peace and contentment go together. Contentment gets a bad rap. If you are considered to be a contented person, people start to believe you are devoid of ambition. This may be true for some, but not for me.

My life is full. I’m still enjoying a career I love, and I have a few other things that not only keep me busy, but they bring fulfillment. Yet, if I never accomplish anything else, I’m at peace with it.

You create your own environment. Keep the chaotic people away. If someone doesn’t bring peace into my life, they will never be part of my inner sphere.

I encourage you to do the same. Peace is priceless…

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Spirituality

Unquestionably Led

There are a few people who have unquestionably put their faith in government. If their favorite politician says it, then it must be true. Yet there is much evidence that shows this type of thinking is flawed, at best.

Oftentimes people align their politics with how they feel, ignoring the facts in many cases. Feelings can be deceptive.

The most intentional man who ever lived is Jesus Christ. He was led by the Spirit to do what the Father sent him to accomplish. I’m only guessing because I wasn’t there, but I bet Jesus was fun to be with. He must have been because no one wants to be around someone who is a drag. Yet Jesus never wavered from his mission.

This week we Christians will celebrate Easter. The resurrection started a new, different relationship between God and man. It has lasted over 2,000 years. Jews will celebrate Passover. The two are connected in history.

Whatever you celebrate, or if it is nothing at all, I wish you a peaceful, reflective time. When the Spirit calls, follow without question. You won’t be led astray…

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Spirituality

Disturbing the Peace

Disturbing the peace is a crime. In Texas it is a Class C misdemeanor you can be cited for if you make unreasonable noise in a public place. And along with a fine you look like an idiot.

Growing up in a chaotic, violent home, it wired my brain to adapt to craziness. It became “normal” in my mind. After working through the legacies of my childhood I was able to rewire my brain in a healthy way. Now I keep the crazies out. Peace reigns supreme.

It takes time and a lot of work to jettison the sins of the past. Unresolved trauma shows up in the form of triggers. Sometimes we know why things trigger us. For example, it sends me into orbit when someone lies to me. This is a carryover from childhood, but lying is never good.

If you grew up like me, I encourage you to do the work on yourself. The healthier you get, the more healthy people you will attract into your life. You will set boundaries to protect your peace and well being. And that’s a good thing…

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Spirituality

Pray For Peace and Resolution

The United States and Israel have launched an attack on strategic targets in Iran. From early indications, it is a series of surgical strikes against targets where Iran’s leaders are suspected to be. I’m hopeful.

The Iranian people are some of the kindest you could ever meet. The society is well educated. They have lived under a terrorist regime for 47 years. All in the name of religion.

It is my hope that this ends quickly and that it is a successful operation. There is great risk involved in these missions. With every great risk comes the potential for great rewards. The Iranians, our military, the Israeli military and our leaders are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope they are in yours, too. They need them…

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Spirituality

Nut Allergies

Approximately 1.8% of people in the United States are allergic to nuts. Although I can eat peanuts without a problem, I’m allergic to nuts, too.

People watching is an interesting way to pass the time in shopping malls and airports. Restaurants are a mecca for human interaction. The behavior of crowds has fascinated me for decades.

The nuts I’m allergic to don’t grow on trees. The nuts I stay away from are the people with irrational anger. These people get in your face to argue about every nutty thing they believe: boys can be girls, there are unlimited genders etc. Just because someone believes something doesn’t make it true.

Social media has given the nuts a voice. But we aren’t required to give them a moment of our time. Treat the crazies like a nut allergy. Stay away from them. You aren’t missing anything, but you are protecting your peace…

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Spirituality

The Quiet

Every day, I begin my morning by just being quiet. No music, podcasts or anything else. Just the quiet. It’s the best way I know to set the tone for the upcoming, busy, noisy day.

We have become accustomed to noise. Traffic sounds, television ads, even podcasts bring stimuli into our minds. Our brains require noise to feel “normal.”

Have you ever gone out to the country and walked around an open field? The only sounds we might hear are the wind or perhaps a cow mooing. It’s quite peaceful. It’s interesting how quickly our minds adjust to the lack of noise. Then we want more.

Some people are uncomfortable with the quiet. They get antsy or fidgety. If this is you, I encourage you to work through this. Just sit quietly for 30 seconds. The next day try for 60 seconds. It will take time to adjust, but you will get there if you don’t give up.

Enjoy your quiet moments. The world and its constant noise will be there when you’re ready…

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