We Are The World!

How poignant is this song?  It’s easy for any of us to take for granted what we have and choose to turn a blind eye to the struggles of others.  I don’t believe much has to be said regarding the meaning inferred by this song.  Perhaps we can each think twice when we see someone in need and remember the paradise we are living in.  There are many ways we can each be involved to help those less fortunate.  From volunteering at a soup kitchen, or various other activities to donating what spare change, if any we may have.

How much better would this world be if we each took a moment to help out those in need?  We are the world, we are the children, we are the ones who make a brighter day so let's start giving.

In lieu of this, I'm climbing the 1,776 steps of the CN Tower on October 23, 2011, with my team of Canadian Athletes in the Enbridge CN Tower Climb for United Way.  If you can please help me reach and surpass my goal of raising $500 for the United Way by clicking here to sponsor me.

Money raised goes towards mobilizing people from every part of our community. We are changing lives and shaping a stronger and healthier city, with opportunities for all.  Together we can all make a difference!


We Are The World by USA for Africa

There comes a time

When we head a certain call

When the world must come together as one

There are people dying

And it's time to lend a hand to life

The greatest gift of all

We can't go on

Pretneding day by day

That someone, somewhere will soon make a change

We are all a part of

God's great big family

And the truth, you know love is all we need

[Chorus]

We are the world

We are the children

We are the ones who make a brighter day

So let's start giving

There's a choice we're making

We're saving our own lives

It's true we'll make a better day

Just you and me

Send them your heart

So they'll know that someone cares

And their lives will be stronger and free

As God has shown us by turning stone to bread

So we all must lend a helping hand

[Chorus]

We are the world

We are the children

We are the ones who make a brighter day

So let's start giving

There's a choice we're making

We're saving our own lives

It's true we'll make a better day

Just you and me

When you're down and out

There seems no hope at all

But if you just believe

There's no way we can fall

Well, well, well, well, let us realize

That a change will only come 

The Thing They Said Was Impossible, He's Done!

Sunday's Lyrics - Ali in the Jungle, by The Hours

I never grow tired of this song.  It is my anthem to what is possible!  It is a song that best captures to me, the power we each have, to endure in spite of the challenges we might face.  It draws reference to people in history (Muhammad Ali; Nelson Mandela; Helen Keller, Lazarus, Ludwig van Beethoven, Francis Adams, mountainer Joe Simpson) each of whom have demonstrated time and time again, how they were able to over come, and the same can be true for us - if we should choose... The thing they said was impossible, we can do!

Lyrics to Ali In The Jungle (by The Hours):
It's, not, how you start, it's how you finish,
And it's, not, where you're from, it's where you're at,

Everybody gets knocked down,
Everybody gets knocked down,
How quick are you gonna' get up?
How quick are you gonna' get up?
Everybody gets knocked down,
Everybody gets knocked down,
How quick are you gonna' get up?
Just how are you gonna' get up?

Like Ali in the jungle,
Like Nelson in jail,
Like Simpson on the mountain,
With odds like that, they were bound to fail
Like Keller in the darkness,
Like Adam's in the dock,
Like Ludwig Van, how I loved that man, well the guy went deaf and didn't give a f, no...

No, no, no

It's, not, where you are, It's where you're going,
Where are you going?
And it's, not, about the things you've done, it's what you're doing, now,
What are you doing, now?

Everybody gets knocked down,
Everybody gets knocked down,
How quick are you gonna' get up?
How quick are you gonna' get up, now?
Everybody gets knocked down,
Everybody gets knocked down,
How quick are you gonna' get up?
Just how are you gonna' get up?

Like Ali in the jungle,
Like Nelson in jail,
Like Simpson on the mountain,
Well with odds like that, they were bound to fail
Like Keller in the darkness,
Like Adam's in the dock,
Like Ludwig Van, how I loved that man, well the guy went deaf and didn't give a f, no...

Oooh, ooh, ooh
No, no, no
Oooh, ooh, ooh
No, no, no
Oooh, ooh, ooh

It's the greatest comeback since Lazarus,
The greatest comeback since Lazarus,
It's the greatest comeback since Lazarus,
The greatest comeback since Lazarus,
It's the greatest comeback since Lazarus,
The greatest comeback since Lazarus,
The greatest comeback since Lazarus,
The greatest comeback...
It's the greatest comeback...

(Radio Commentator) This, is the most joyous scene, ever seen in the history of boxing, this is an incredible scene, the place is going wild, Muhammed Ali has won, Muhammed Ali has won, by a knockdown! By a knockdown! The thing they said was impossible, he's done!

Something to chew on in the mean time.... (and while I am a MIZUNO girl and this is an ad from our competitor, in this case I think the message at hand is most important and universal to all.)

What if God was One of Us

Sunday's Lyrics

I originally chose this song as a Sunday's Lyric last year.  These lyrics will probably always be profound to me.  It is a song I believe which is relevant to whether someone is a believer or non-believer in God... And simply a question to ponder how it is we treat others and would our actions change if it they were God?  Perhaps the real thought to consider is whether we should be striving to treat our neighbours better than we do?  

What if God was One of Us, Joan Osbourne

If God had a name, what would it be
And would you call it to his face
If you were faced with him in all his glory
What would you ask if you had just one question

And yeah yeah God is great yeah yeah God is good
yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah




What if God was one of us
Just a slob like one of us
Just a stranger on the bus
Trying to make his way home

If God had a face what would it look like
And would you want to see
If seeing meant that you would have to believe
In things like heaven and in jesus and the saints and all the prophets

And yeah yeah god is great yeah yeah god is good
yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah

What if God was one of us
Just a slob like one of us
Just a stranger on the bus
Trying to make his way home
He's trying to make his way home
Back up to heaven all alone
Nobody calling on the phone
Except for the pope maybe in Rome

And yeah yeah God is great yeah yeah God is good
yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah

What if god was one of us
Just a slob like one of us
Just a stranger on the bus
Trying to make his way home
Just trying to make his way home
Like a holy rolling stone
Back up to heaven all alone
Just trying to make his way home
Nobody calling on the phone
Except for the pope maybe in Rome

Monday's Lyrics - COMPETITON

Competition can bring out the best in each of us.  Dare to explore another level of possibility within us.  And competition does not have to be limited to another individual, but rather the greatest competition can sometimes come from oneself. 

Competition

No one trains to fail

Nobody prepares to loose

Everyone wants to prevail

You must compete

Competition is perseverance

Competition is passion

Competition is focus

Competition is adversity

And the will to triumph

Competition is life

Live to compete

It’s on!

The Station

By Robert J. Hastings
Tucked away in our subconscious is an idyllic vision. We are traveling by train – out the windows, we drink in the passing scenes of children waving at a crossing, cattle grazing on a distant hillside, row upon row of corn and wheat, flatlands and valleys, mountains and rolling hillsides and city skylines.

But uppermost in our minds is the final destination. On a certain day, we will pull into the station. Bands will be playing and flags waving. Once we get there, our dreams will come true and the pieces of our lives will fit together like a completed jigsaw puzzle. Restlessly we pace the aisles damning the minutes – waiting, waiting, waiting for the station.

“When we reach the station that will be it!” we cry. “When I’m 18,” “When I buy a new 450sl Mecedes Benz!” “When I put the last kid through college,” “When I have paid off the mortgage!” “When I get a promotion.” “When I reach retirement, I shall live happily ever after!”

Sooner or later, we realize there is no station, no one place to arrive. The true joy of life is the trip. The station is only a dream. It constantly outdistances us.

“Relish the moment” is a good motto, especially when coupled with Psalm 118:24: “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” It isn’t the burdens of today that drive men mad. It is the regrets over yesterday and the fear of tomorrow. Regret and fear are twin thieves who rob us of today.

So stop pacing the aisles and counting the miles. Instead, climb more mountains, eat more ice cream, go barefoot more often, swim more rivers, watch more sunsets, laugh more, cry less. Life must be lived as we go along. The station will come soon enough.

Unanswered Prayers

Have you ever wanted something so bad, and became filled with frustration and disappointment when it didn't happen?  Yes, life is filled with many of those stories.  However, sometimes time has a funny way of revealing that this let down may have been a blessing in disguise.  I can't believe I'm saying this, but I guess sometimes it is good that we don't always get what it is we want.  I know I would be in some serious trouble with some of my past desires in life. 

Whether in love, career, life, or day to day things, Unanswered Payers, seems to sum this point up nicely...

Unanswered Prayers by Garth Brook



Just the other night a hometown football game
My wife nd I ran into my old high school flame
And as I introduced them the past came back to me
And I couldn't help but think of the way things used to be

She was the one that I'd wanted for all times
And each night I'd spend prayin' that God would make her mine
And if he'd only grant me this wish I wished back then
I'd never ask for anything again

Sometimes I thank God for unanswered prayers
Remember when you're talkin' to the man upstairs
That just because he doesn't answer doesn't mean he don't care
Some of God's greatest gifts are unanswered prayers

She wasn't quite the angel that I remembered in my dreams
And I could tell that time had changed me
In her eyes too it seemed
We tried to talk about the old days
There wasn't much we could recall
I guess the Lord knows what he's doin' after all

And as she walked away and I looked at my wife
And then and there I thanked the good Lord
For the gifts in my life

Sometimes I thank God for unanswered prayers

Remember when you're talkin' to the man upstairs
That just because he may not answer doesn't mean he don't care
Some of God's greatest gifts are unanswered

Some of God's greatest gifts are all too often unanswered...
Some of God's greatest gifts are unanswered prayers

Bitter Sweet Symphony

The beauty of children is their infinite imagination and their ability to see only the ways, instead of the obstacles.  But, something funny happens as we mature and grow older we gain more life experiences, more heart aches and more obstacles that begin to cast a shadow over our once youthful imagination of possibilities.  The world of conformity beckons and it is easy to see how people become caught in a rat race, as they watch time slip so rapidly through their hands.  But, I believe it doesn’t have to be that way.  

We are the captain of our fate and all it takes is courage to dare to be whom and what we want to be, free from the opinions and expectations of others.  Sure, there are elements in life that will make our pursuits challenging but if you have the will, dedication and commitment to a goal anything is possible.

Bitter Sweet Symphony paints this melancholy picture of people caught in this mold of trying "to make ends meet , you're a slave to the money then you die" and with the added conflict of wanting to change but feeling trapped that you can’t change.  I challenge you to be true to your self.  Life is there for our taking.

Colouring outside the lines,

Nicole

Bitter Sweet Symphony by The Verve

Cause it's a bitter sweet symphony this life...
Try to make ends meet , you're a slave to the money then you die.
I'll take you down the only road I've ever been down...
You know the one that takes you to the places where all the things meet, yeah.

No change, I can change, I can change, I can change,
but I'm here in my mould , I am here in my mould.
But I'm a million different people from one day to the next...
I can't change my mould , no,no,no,no,no,no,no

Well I've never prayed,
But tonight I'm on my knees, yeah.
I need to hear some sounds that recognise the pain in me, yeah.
I let the melody shine, let it cleanse my mind , I feel free now.
But the airwaves are clean and there's nobody singing to me now.

No change, I can change, I can change, I can change,
but I'm here in my mould , I am here in my mould.
And I'm a million different people from one day to the next
I can't change my mould, no,no,no,no,no,no,no

Have you ever been down?
I can change, I can change...

Cause it's a bittersweet symphony this life.
Trying to make ends meet, try to find somebody then you die.
You know I can change, I can change, I can change,
but I'm here in my mould, I am here in my mould.
And I'm a million different people from one day to the next.
I can't change my mould, no,no,no,no,no,no,no

We've got ya sex and violence melody and silence
(Have you ever been down)
(I'll take you down the only road I've ever been down)

Sunday's Lyrics -- It's Never Too Late by Three Days Grace

I believe it is never too late to become what it is that you wanted to be... I believe that life isn't always easy.  I believe we all have our own crosses to carry.  And I can't help believing and hoping that the hard times faced only rebuffs and refines us... though we may not understand it at the time...

It's so easy to give up in all that we do and aspire to be when we are tried, and things may appear impossible.  Unfortunately, too many people give up too soon.  Life is meant to be abundant.  It may not be an easy journey to get there, but it can and is as great as we make it.  You cannot undue the past, no matter what scars they may leave, but you can acknowledge them and decide to move forward.  Otherwise they will always be the shackles that keep you constrained, and realizing it's Never Too Late.   

Today's lyric choice epitomizes this to me... A somewhat melancholy song... but one with hope.

Believing,
Nicole

It's Never Too Late by Three Days Grace



This world will never be
What I expected
And if I don't belong
Who would have guessed it
I will not leave alone
Everything that I own
To make you feel like it's not too late
It's never too late

Even if I say
It'll be alright
Still I hear you say
You want to end your life
Now and again we try
To just stay alive
Maybe we'll turn it all around
'Cause it's not too late
It's never too late

No one will ever see
This side reflected
And if there's something wrong
Who would have guessed it
And I have left alone
Everything that I own
To make you feel like
It's not too late
It's never too late
Even if I say
It'll be alright
Still I hear you say
You want to end your life
Now and again we try
To just stay alive
Maybe we'll turn it all around
'Cause it's not too late
It's never too late

The world we knew
Won't come back
The time we've lost
Can't get back
The life we had
Won't be ours again

This world will never be
What I expected
And if I don't belong

Even if I say
It'll be alright
Still I hear you say
You want to end your life
Now and again we try
To just stay alive
Maybe we'll turn it all around
'Cause it's not too late
It's never too late
Maybe we'll turn it all around
'Cause it's not too late
It's never too late (It's never too late)
It's not too late
It's never too late

The Power of GRATITUDE

How easy is it is for us to point out the errors of one’s way or what is lacking?  We are critics.  And often we are our own biggest critics.

Being critical does not make you feel good.  It leaves you feeling incomplete and that you are always pursuing; it leaves you incapable of being content.  And yet, so many of us do it.

However, what we probably should be doing more of is expressing our gratitude and paying less attention to what we don’t have or failed to do.

I truly believe that taking time to account for what you are grateful for, positively shifts you.  Gratitude fills with you a feeling of goodness; that the impossible is possible and that there is more good things in store for you.  But, being critical only presents the barrier in your way. 

It is easy to sit back and see what you don’t have and how hard things are.  I call this the victim approach.  You essentially take on a “Woe is me” attitude.  And before you know it, you are caught in a doom circle.  Similarly, I believe through this sort of thinking you also open yourself up to the pitfall of fear – fear to do what it is you’ve always wanted; fear to attempt something challenging; fear to explore your possibilities.  Because the more you are critical, the more you see obstacles in your way.  Certainly this can’t help you.  It only solidifies the reasons why failure may be eminent.

Gratitude opens you up to realize the many things you have in your life that we take for granted.  It points out where you have succeeded despite having the deck stacked against you.  It is a fuel for success.  In essence you are taking note of your “small wins” in life.  And in so doing you open yourself to receive more things to be grateful for.

Gratitude isn’t something you only express for yourself.  But, it should also be applied to people in your life and those you encounter.  Take note of people’s good qualities and really appreciate it.  I guarantee you’ll start to see more of those qualities in them and they will also see more of your good qualities.

Gratitude can be as simple as being thankful for another day, the friends you have, the goodness you embody or your health.  It really is that simple and it is all around us.  There are a million things we all can be grateful for.  Take time today and everyday to make note of what you are grateful for.

Forever grateful,

Nicole

Shaping a Daughter's Life - Happy Father's Day, Dad!

The role of a father should never be underestimated especially when it comes to raising a girl. It is this relationship that influences the relationships a daughter will have with others, especially men, in the future.

On this and every father’s day, I thank my father, Leo. His incredible influence has shaped me into the woman I am today. Indeed, I am a strong woman who is also a Tom Boy at heart because of him. He’s taught me fundamental principles of life, like determination, commitment, being responsible and treating others with kindness (just to name a few).

He is my fishing buddy, a ritual we’ve started since I was a kid. I’ve caught my biggest fish with him and my red devil lure. He is also my golfing buddy, who is always willing to give me a mulligan or two. And even when I’m 20 strokes behind him, he’s cheering me on and pointing out how my short game is improving or my drive is becoming strong… Always, seeing the upside in what I do.

He was there to teach me how to drive, displaying extreme patience as I would jackrabbit the car while learning manual. My love of wine and black coffee definitely rings of his influence.

The many long hours of discussions we’ve had about life, politics and religion is second to none. I love those days…. A Saturday looking out on the lake engaged in a serious discussion while taking note of the beauty of nature that surrounds us. Priceless.

He is definitely a best friend and someone I rely on for a solid opinion. It’s not often, but I can always sense when he has some concern with a decision I’m making. He never raises his voice or outwardly tells me I’m making a bad decision. Instead, the tone of his voice changes to one of concern, followed by “You just might want to make sure…” And he’s usually right.

He believes in me in more ways than I probably realize… When I told him the other day about the various endeavors I was newly engaged in, his response was simple “I wouldn’t expect anything less.”

I feel blessed to have the father that I have. Thank you Dad!

I struggled today to find a song that would demonstrate the influence of a father. I found myself settling on Daughters by John Mayer because it reinforces the power a father has on a daughter. The absence of a father - one that walks out or just isn’t their emotionally - has lasting effects. We are in the cycle of life and for women to grow up strong and be good to their children and their spouse and all those they interact with, it is the relationship with a father that might influence this most!

To all the wonderful father's out there, Happy Father's Day to you!

Nicole




Daughters by John Mayer

I know a girl
She puts the color inside of my world
But she's just like a maze
Where all of the walls all continually change
And I've done all I can
To stand on her steps with my heart in my hands
Now I'm starting to see
Maybe it's got nothing to do with me

Fathers, be good to your daughters
Daughters will love like you do
Girls become lovers who turn into mothers
So mothers, be good to your daughters too

Oh, you see that skin?
It's the same she's been standing in
Since the day she saw him walking away
Now she's left
Cleaning up the mess he made

So fathers, be good to your daughters
Daughters will love like you do
Girls become lovers who turn into mothers
So mothers, be good to your daughters too

Boys, you can break
You'll find out how much they can take
Boys will be strong
And boys soldier on
But boys would be gone without the warmth from
A woman’s good, good heart

On behalf of every man
Looking out for every girl
You are the god and the weight of her world

So fathers, be good to your daughters
Daughters will love like you do
Girls become lovers who turn into mothers
So mothers, be good to your daughters too [x3]

Pretty Pretty Please!!!

SUNDAY'S LYRICS
Individuality is possibility one of the most beautiful things about people.  It is what distinguishes us from each other.  Yet, too often people are striving to be like someone else or what they think other people want them to be. 

I truly believe that the path to happiness lies in: “BEING yourself” and “LOVING yourself.”  Often these sentiments are spoken, but rarely realized.  They seem so simple, but why is it so hard for people to do?  

Really and truly what any and everyone wants in life, is to feel important… to feel like they matter.  And LOVE provides this answer.  However, the love that we seek actually must be obtained from within first!  You must truly love yourself for WHO you are and AS you are, to know happiness.  Otherwise, you’ll always be searching; never truly feeling fulfilled… just a walking shadow of yourself.

(And I’m not talking about arrogance or this false self-confidence some people exude.  Outwardly, you may have some people fooled, but you can’t trick yourself.  Being this way is not authentic, and is too easily disrupted by the opinions of others.)

 I had heard “Perfect” by Pink many times on the radio… but never really listened to words.  Finally, this past week I found myself really LISTENING to the words and realizing how simple yet true the lyrics spoke.  Honestly,

"Pretty pretty please, don't you ever ever feel
Like you're less than, less than perfect
Pretty pretty please, if you ever ever feel like you're nothing
You're perfect to me!"

I am constantly meeting amazing and beautiful people inside and out.  And my wish is that you and everyone, really know and understand just how perfect you are, as you are!

Have a blessed life,

Nicole

PERFECT by Pink

Made a wrong turn, once or twice
Dug my way out, blood and fire
Bad decisions, that's alright
Welcome to my silly life
Mistreated, misplaced, misunderstood
Miss knowing it's all good, it didn't slow me down
Mistaken, always second guessing, underestimated
Look, I'm still around

Pretty pretty please, don't you ever ever feel
Like you're less than, less than perfect
Pretty pretty please, if you ever ever feel like you're nothing
You're perfect to me!

You're so mean, when you talk about yourself, you were wrong
Change the voices in your head, make them like you instead
So complicated, look how big you'll make it!
Filled with so much hatred, such a tired game
It's enough! I've done all I can think of
Chased down all my demons, I've seen you do the same

Oh, pretty pretty please, don't you ever ever feel
Like you're less than, less than perfect
Pretty pretty please, if you ever ever feel like you're nothing

You're perfect to me

The whole world's scared so I swallow the fear
The only thing I should be drinking is an ice cold beer
So cool in line, and we try try try, but we try too hard and it's a waste of my time
Done looking for the critics, cause they're everywhere
They dont like my jeans, they don't get my hair
Exchange ourselves, and we do it all the time
Why do we do that? Why do I do that?

Why do I do that?

Yeah, oh, oh baby, pretty please!
Pretty pretty please, don't you ever ever feel
Like you're less than, less than perfect
Pretty pretty please, if you ever ever feel
Like you're nothing, you're perfect to me
You're perfect, you're perfect!
Pretty pretty please, if you ever ever feel like you're nothing
You're perfect to me.

OUR DEEPEST FEAR

Dare to be GREAT!

Perhaps the greatest tragedy of mankind is our inability to see how great we can be.  It's easy to set limits, see the reasons why not and the obstacles which may come in our paths.  Ironically, while we want to achieve so much, we don't have to search far because it's in each and everyone of us.  It's always been there...  But, why is it so hard for us to know this and see this?

Just as Maya Angelou has said "Children's talent to endure stems from their ignorance of alternatives."  Perhaps as adults we should be more like children.

"Our Deepest Fears" written by Marianne Williamson, is certainly one of my most treasured poems... It is most recognized as being read by Nelson Mandela in his Innaugural speech.  And it speaks of this inner power we each have but are too afraid to realize. (Perhaps this is why "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho is my favourite book.)

Since, none of us knows when our final moments will be (like The Dash) or when the end of the world will occur, I challenge you to start living by first facing this fear.  I share with you a moving video which encapsulates the poem "Our Deepest Fear."

 Dare to be POWERFUL beyond measure!

Video Script:

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure, beyond measure... beyond measure.

Ima show you, how great I am!

Last night I cut the light off in my bedroom, hit the switch, and was in the bed before the room was dark.

Ima show you, how great I am!

Only last week, I murdered a rock, injured a stone, hospitalized a brick, Im so mean I make medicine sick.

Ima show you, how great I am!

This kid is gonna be the best kid in the world.
This kid is gonna be somebody better than anybody I ever knew.

Ima show you, how great I am.

I have wrestled with an alligator, I done tussled with a whale, I done handcuffed lightning, thrown thunder in jail.

Ima show you, how great I am!

All you chumps are gonna bow when I whoop him, all of you, I know you got him, I know you've got him picked, but the man is in trouble.

Ima show you how great I am!

But somewhere along the line you changed.  You stopped being you.
You let people stick a finger in your face and tell you you're no good, and when things got hard, you started looking for something to blame... like a big shadow.

Let me tell you something you already know.  The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows.  It's a very mean and nasty place and I don't care how tough you are, it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it.

You, me, or nobody, is gonna hit as hard as life; but it ain't about how hard you hit.  It's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward!  How much you can take and keep moving forward!
Thats how winning is done!


Cause if you're willing to go through all the battling, you gotta go through to get to where you wanna get, whose got the right to stop you?

I mean maybe some of you guys got something you never finished, something you really want to do, something you never said to somebody, something.
And you're told no even after you pay your dues, whose got the right to tell you that, who? Nobody.

It's your right to listen to your gut.  It aint nobody's right to say no... after you earn the right to be where you want to be and do what you want to do.

Now if you know what you're worth, then go out and get what you're worth.
But you've gotta be willing to take the hits.  And not pointing fingers saying you ain't where you wanna be because of him, or her, or anybody!  Cowards do that and that ain't you! You're better than that!
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.

It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.


Your playing small does not serve the world.
There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you.
We are all meant to shine, as children do.
It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone.
And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we are liberated from our own fear...

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.

All you chumps are gonna bow when I whoop him, all of you, I know you got him, I know youve got him picked, but the man is in trouble.

Ima show you how great I am!

Sunday's Lyrics -- REACH by GLORIA ESTAFAN

As a Canadian watching the 1996 Olympic Games, there are many fond memories etched in mind. Among those memories, the closing ceremony song Reach, sung by Gloria Estafan, is one that moved me... just a newly aspiring athlete at the time.  And now has I have become a World-Class athlete it is still a song that inspires me to continue reaching.


REACH by Gloria Estafan

Some dreams live on in time forever
Those dreams, you want with all your heart
And I'll do whatever it takes
Follow through with the promise I made
Put it all on the line
What I hoped for at last would be mine

If I could reach, higher
Just for one moment touch the sky
From that one moment in my life
I'm gonna be stronger
Know that I've tried my very best
I'd put my spirit to the test
If I could reach



Some days are meant to be remembered
Those days we rise above the stars
So I'll go the distance this time
Seeing more the higher I climb
That the more I believe
All the more that this dream will be mine

If I could reach, higher
Just for one moment touch the sky
From that one moment in my life
I'm gonna be stronger
Know that I've tried my very best
I'd put my spirit to the test
If I could reach

If I could reach, higher
Just for one moment touch the sky
I'm goona be stronger
From that one moment in my life
Im gonna be so much stronger yes I am
Know that Ive tried my very best
I'd put my spirit to the test
If I could reach higher
If I could, if I could
If I could reach
Reach, I'd reach, I'd reach
I'd reach I'd reach so much higher
Be stronger

Sunday's Lyrics - YOU vs THEM

Another great video you just have to see and hear!

With any pursuit, whether in athletics or in life in general, there will be numerous factors influencing the end results.  However, the common and greatest denominator will always be you.  You cannot control everything, but you can control your efforts, energy, focus, commitment and determination (to name a few).  In some ways, what you put in will determine what you get.   I love this week’s lyrics because the message is that, the real difference-maker is YOU.  You are incredibly powerful, probably beyond comprehension.    You just have to decide if you are willing to go the distance… And I have a feeling that if you truly apply yourself to whatever it is you are passionate about, you won’t be disappointed with the outcome…. It’s just a feeling…

You vs. Them


Whether or not you win this thing, you've got to decide how
you're gonna walk out of here when it's all said and done.
...because the game is going to go on.
...and there's only one rule you're going to need to know about:
"There are no second chances"

There's only this moment and the next moment.

Every one of those moments is a test that you get to take ONE time and ONLY one time.

So, if you see an opening, tear into it!
If you get a shot at victory, make DAMN sure you take it.

SEIZE that moment!

That moment is a crossroads where everything you want
will collide with everything standing in your way.

You've got momentum at your back.

Fear and doubt are thundering like a
freight-train straight at you.
...and all you've got --
...the only difference between making history and BEING history
the only thing -- the ONLY thing you can count on at any given moment is YOU!

It's you versus "them"

... you versus "no"
... you versus "can't"
... you versus "next year", "last year", "statistics", "excuses"

It's you versus "history"
... you versus "the odds"

It's you versus "second place"

The clock is ticking.
Let see what you've got.

Whether You Think You Can or Think You Can't You Probably Are Right

LYRICS & INSPIRATION 

If you think you are beaten, you are,
If you think that you dare not, you don’t;
If you’d like to win, but you think you can’t,
It’s almost certain you won’t.

If you think you’ll lose, you’ve lost;
For out in the world you’ll find
Success begins with a fellow’s will
It’s all in the sate of mind.

If you think you are outclassed, you are;
You’ve got to think high to rise;
You’ve got to be sure of yourself before
You can ever win a prize.

Life’s battles don’t always go
To the stronger or faster man;
But soon or late the man who wins
Is the man who thinks he can.

A plaque has hung in my office for many years carrying the above selection of free verse. I am not aware of its origin, but consider it a pertinent guideline for one to pursue in life and toward specific goals as well. It has always provided an energizing thrust to my career in golf.

Arnold Palmer
Winner of 61 P.G.A Tournaments
Including One U.S Open, Two British Opens and Four Masters

Greatness Is Within Us All

Monday's Lyrics - Starry, Starry Night
I have a fond appreciation for art, though I cannot draw to save my life.  My favourite artist is by far Vincent Van Gogh.  In my amateur opinion I believe he has transcended the world of Impressionist Art.   But, perhaps what is most incredible about Vincent is his story.

Vincent a self-taught painter, late in life, desperately wanted to be successful.  His pursuit for excellence in love and in his work was fraught with failures, leading him into great despair and depression.  The only person who ever supported his vision for greatness (financially and emotionally) was his brother.   Vincent perceived failure in his two great passions in life– romantic love and artistry.  A relationship with a great love ended and his efforts poured in art lead to no success (in his lifetime).  Suffering from mental issues he eventually shot himself, succumbing to his suicidal attempt 2 days later. 

It would appear that all Vincent ever wanted was to be successful.  The irony is now his art works are well known, lauded and valued beyond comprehension.... Oh, if he only knew the success he was bound to achieve would surpass his wildest imaginations...  And sometimes that's the unfortunate thing - many people give up just before they are about to achieve success...

The road to greatness is within us all.  How we get there is filled with obstacles.  And it isn't always gained by the swiftest but perhaps by the most resilient.

I love this song, because it pays homage to Vincent van Gogh with empathy...

"Vincent (Starry, Starry Night)"

Starry, starry night
Paint your palette blue and grey
Look out on a summer's day
With eyes that know the darkness in my soul
Shadows on the hills
Sketch the trees and daffodils
Catch the breeze and the winter chills
In colours on the snowy linen land

Now I understand
What you tried to say to me
And how you suffered for your sanity
And how you tried to set them free
They would not listen
They did not know how
Perhaps they'll listen now

Starry, starry night
Flaming flowers that brightly blaze
Swirling clouds and violet haze
Reflect in Vincent's eyes of china blue
Colours changing hue
Morning fields of amber grain
Weathered faces lined in pain
Are soothed beneath the artists' loving hand

Now I understand
What you tried to say to me
And how you suffered for your sanity
And how you tried to set them free
They would not listen
They did not know how
Perhaps they'll listen now

For they could not love you
But still your love was true
And when no hope was left inside
On that starry, starry night
You took your life as lovers often do
But I could have told you Vincent
This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you

Like the strangers that you've met
The ragged men in ragged clothes
The silver thorn of bloody rose
Lie crushed and broken on the virgin snow

Now I think I know
What you tried to say to me
And how you suffered for your sanity
And how you tried to set them free
They would not listen
They're not listening still
Perhaps they never will...

Monday's Lyrics - THE UNDERDOG

You have to watch this week's video!  So Good! So Good! So Good!

Sometimes, people will rely too much on what the rankings or past performances says to crown a winner way before the game has even begun.  That's why there are Championships.  Championships are all about crowning the true winner.  And in every championship there is always an underdog.  There is something so endearing and appealing about the underdog.  He demontrates that the impossible is possible, and we should never settle, never give up - in life, love, sports or whatever!  My BFF, Katie Mcgregor, shared this video with me and I'm sharing it with you for this week's Monday's Lyrics.  I don't think you have to be an athlete to relate to it.  I believe the true competition is life and achieving self-actualization...  being the best that you are capable of being. Happy Monday!

THE UNDERDOG


Here’s the thing that makes life so interesting. The Theory of Evolution claims only the strong shall survive. That may be so…maybe so.

But the theory of competition says, just because they’re the strong doesn’t mean they can’t get their butts kicked. That’s right!

See, what every long shot, come from behind, underdog will tell you is this: “The other guy may in fact be the favourite. The odds may be stacked against you, fair enough. But what the odds don’t know is this isn’t a math test!”

This is a completely different kind of test.  One where passion has a funny way of trumping logic. So, before you step up to the starting line, before the whistle blows and the clock starts ticking, just remember out here, the results don’t always add up.  No matter what the stats may say, or what the experts may think, and the commentators may have predicted, when the race is on, ALL BETS ARE OFF. Don’t be surprised if someone decides to flip the script and take a pass on yelling “UNCLE.”

And then suddenly, as the old saying goes,” WE GOT OURSELVES A GAMES!”

Monday's Lyrics - I AM A CHAMPION!

I had a friend share this with me. From the moment I heard it, I loved it!  This is actually a pre-game speech given by Coach Flowers for Leland High School before a jv championship game. However, I believe this speech can be applied to everyone and our daily pursuit for excellence!

I will conquer what has not been conquered
Defeat will not be in my creed
I will believe what others have doubted
I will always endeavor to pull esteem, honor, and respect out of my team
I have trained my mind and my body will follow

Who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!

I will acknowledge the fact that my opponent does not expect me to win
But I will never surrender
Weakness will not be in my heart
I will look to my comrades and to those who are a part of me in this world and those who have trained me
And I will draw strength from them

Who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!

I will gladly go out into the field of battle
And I will move in everything I can do
And I will reach my field of battle by any means at my disposal
And when I get there, I will arrive violently
I will rip the heart from my enemy, and leave it bleeding on the ground
Because he cannot stop me

Who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!

To my side I have comrades, comrades that have been with me through thick and thin
Who have sacrificed their blood, sweat and tears
Never will I let them fall, never will I let them down, and I will never leave an enemy behind
Because our opponent does not know my heart

Who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!

No one will deny me, no one will define me
And no one will tell me who and what I am and can be
Belief will change my world
It has moved continents, it has moved countries, it has put men on the moon
And it will carry me through this battle

Who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!

Defeat, retreat: those are not in my words
I dont understand those definitions
I dont understand when things go wrong
I dont understand mistakes
But I do understand this:
I understand victory,
And I understand never surrendering
No matter how bad things go my heart and my mind will carry my body through limits and weakness

Who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!

Today will be that day
Not tomorrow, not next week, but right now, right here
In your house and in your homes

Who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!

History will remember me
I will not let worrying affect my cause
I will define myself
I will write my own pages
And no one will tell me what I cannot be
I will never give up
Not until I’ve given everything I got

Because who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!

Who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!
Who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!
Who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!
Who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!
Who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!
Who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!
Who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!
Who am I? I AM A CHAMPION!

Monday's Music Lyrics -- Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic by the Police

In the theme of Valentine's Day, I'd like to share with you my favourite song, which to me is quite romantic. (I actually have 2 the other is One by U2 - click the link to see my blog on this song.)

I like to be in control and practical most times. However, truthfully I believe I am a dreamer and a hopeless romantic... The song “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” written by Sting and The Police, has always epitomized this side of me. Many people may look to songs like “Unchained Melody” or “At Last” as songs of deep, heart felt love…. Me…. I look to “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic.” To have someone feel this way about you – is there anything sweeter?

I can't make sense to myself why I value this song as I do, but I can try...

While I have an absord weakness for intellectual men, I also seem to be drawn to shy guys and actually feel somewhat shy myself when it comes to dating. The idea of someone having these deep feelings for another, and desperately wanting to tell her but is tripped by his tongue is truly sweet and endearing to me...
If he overcomes his nerves, he’ll discover that that woman has the same feelings for him, and every little thing he does is magic, as well. To be taken by someone so much, to see that every little thing she does is magic… WOW!!! That's so reverent, beautiful, special and rare...
Happy Valentine's Day All!!!!


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EVERY LITTLE THING SHE DOES IS MAGIC

Though I've tried before to tell her
Of the feelings I have for her in my heart
Everytime that I come near her
I just lose my nerve
As I've done from the start

Every little thing she does is magic
Everything she does just turns me on
Even though my life before was tragic
Now I know my love for her goes on




Do I have to tell the story
Of a thousand rainy days since we first met
It's a big enough umbrella
But it's always me that ends up getting wet

Every little thing she does is magic
Everything she does just turns me on
Even though my life before was tragic
Now I know my love for her goes on

I resolved to call her up a thousand times a day
And ask her if she'll marry me in some old fashioned way
But my silent fears have gripped me
Long before I reach the phone
Long before my tongue has tripped me
Must I always be alone

Every little thing she does is magic
Everything she does just turns me on
Even though my life before was tragic
Know I know my love for her goes on

Every little thing she does
Every little thing she does
Every little thing she does
Every little thing she does is magic magic magic
Magic magic magic

Monday's Music Lyrics -- Acrobat by U2 (another ACHTUNG SERIES)

“The worst lies are the lies we tell ourselves. We live in denial of what we do, even what we think. We do this because we're afraid. We fear we will not find love, and when we find it we fear we'll lose it. We fear that if we do not have love we will be unhappy.” ~Richard Bach
I believe it is easy for people to feel the need to conform... to fit in... for fear of rejection.  And while I believe there are the times that this is necessary (i.e. following the law) people can lose sight of who they really are.  The task of caring for others and being true to yourself can be a difficult task to balance.  Often people will rightfully put the needs and opinions of others ahead of their own... And in doing so, lose themselves.  There has to be a sense of void, confusion and unhappiness trying to please everyone.  You become an acrobat.  I believe you first have to take care of yourself - emotionally, physically and spiritually -- before you can ever be good to anyone else.  Moreover, none of us can control the thoughts and opinions that others may have about us... and trying to do so can only make you unhappy.  We've got only this one life to live and I say "colour outside the lines"... be original... be you!  Love yourself... And I'm not talking about conceit or arrogance or love dependent on what you own or do... but love for WHO you are!

I love this song, because it describes this confusion of self and this feeling of being an Acrobat as one wears different masks.  BUT, if you choose to be true to yourself you are empowered and no longer have to feel like an ACROBAT...

ACROBAT by U2



Don't believe what you hear
Don't believe what you see
If you just close your eyes
You can feel the enemy
When I first met you girl
You had fire in your soul
What happened your face of melting in snow?
Now it looks like this
And you can swallow
Or you can spit
You can throw it up
Or choke on it
And you can dream
So dream out loud
You know that your time is coming 'round
So don't let the bastards grind you down

No, nothing makes sense
Nothing seems to fit
I know you'd hit out
If you only knew who to hit
And I'd join the movement
If there was one I could believe in
Yeah I'd break bread and wine
If there was a church I could receive in
'Cause I need it now

To take the cup
To fill it up
To drink it slow
I can't let you go
I must be an acrobat
To talk like this
And act like that
And you can dream
So dream out loud
And don't let the bastards grind you down

Oh, it hurts baby
What are we going to do? Now it's all been said
No new ideas in the house and every book has been read

And I must be an acrobat
To talk like this
And act like that
And you can dream
So dream out loud
And you can find
Your own way out
And you can build
And I can will
And you can call
I can't wait until
You can stash
And you can seize
In dreams begin
Responsibilities
And I can love
And I can love
And I know that the tide is turning 'round
So don't let the bastards grind you down