Simple Truths: Dancing in the Rain

It's late and I've been busy working prepping a Quick Start Guide for one of my Internet ventures, One24. If you haven't taken a look at it, feel free to. You can learn all about it at www.timetotriumph.com. That being said, before I hit the sack I wanted to share with you a story I recently read. This is from another daily newsletter I'm subscribed to called "Simple Truths." I've seen very few stories of Triumph more inspiring than this. 

I hope you enjoy it. I'd encourage you to subscribe to Mac's free inspirational messages. I'll write more tomorrow. I appreciate your readership.

Night all ... JP Riv

Learning to Dance in the Rain

The date was July 16, 2008. It was late in the afternoon and I was sitting in my hotel room in Louisville, Kentucky. I was scheduled to speak that evening for the Kentucky Association of School Administrators (KASA).

I was a little "down in the dumps." I hadn't gotten to exercise lately because of my traveling schedule and recently I'd experienced some mild bouts of vertigo (that inner ear condition that can cause the room to start spinning.) You got it...speaking and "spinning" are not good partners!


My keynote presentation was scheduled for 7:00 PM, but I had been invited to show up at 6:00 to see a performance they said I'd enjoy. Little did I know that I was about to see something I would never forget.



They introduced the young musician. Welcome...Mr. Patrick Henry Hughes. He was rolled onto the stage in his wheelchair, and began to play the piano. His fingers danced across the keys as he made beautiful music.



He then began to sing as he played, and it was even more beautiful. For some reason, however, I knew that I was seeing something special. There was this aura about him that I really can't explain and the smile...his smile was magic!



About ten minutes into Patrick's performance, someone came on the stage and said..."I'd like to share a 7-minute video titled, The Patrick Hughes story." And the lights went dim.



Patrick Henry Hughes was born with no eyes, and a tightening of the joints which left him crippled for life. However, as a child, he was fitted with artificial eyes and placed in a wheelchair. Before his first birthday, he discovered the piano. His mom said, "I could hit any note on the piano, and within one or two tries, he'd get it." By his second birthday, he was playing requests (You Are My Sunshine, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star). His father was ecstatic. "We might not play baseball, but we can play music together."

Today, Patrick is a junior at the University of Louisville. His father attends classes with him and he's made nearly all A's, with the exception of 3 B's He's also a part of the 214 member marching band. You read it right...the marching band! He's a blind, wheelchair-bound trumpet player; and he and his father do it together. They attend all the band practices and the half-time performance in front of thousands. His father rolls and rotates his son around the field to the cheers of Patrick's fans. In order to attend Patrick's classes and every band practice, his father works the graveyard shift at UPS. Patrick said..."My dad's my hero."

But even more than his unbelievable musical talent, it was Patrick's "attitude of gratitude" that touched my soul. On stage, between songs, he would talk to the audience about his life and about how blessed he was. He said, "God made me blind and unable to walk. BIG DEAL! He gave me the ability ... the gifts I have ... the great opportunity to meet new people."

When his performance was over, Patrick and his father were on the stage together. The crowd rose to their feet and cheered for over five minutes. It gave me giant goose bumps!

My life was ready to meet Patrick Henry Hughes. I needed a hero, and I found one for the ages. If I live to be a hundred, I'll never forget that night, that smile, that music, but most importantly, that wonderful "attitude of gratitude."



I returned to Chicago and shared Patrick's story with my wife, my friends, and our team at Simple Truths. About two weeks later, I received a letter from a friend. He said, "Mac, here is a quote from Vivian Greene that I think you'll love!" "Life is not about waiting for the storms to pass... it's about learning how to dance in the rain!"



I thought...that's it! We all face adversity in our life. However, it's not the adversity, but how we react to it that will determine the joy and happiness in our life. During tough times, do we spend too much time feeling sorry for ourselves, or, can we, with gratitude...learn how to dance in the rain?



It almost sounds too simple to feel important, but one word...gratitude, can change your attitude, thus, your life, forever. Sarah Breathnach said it best...
"When we choose not to focus on what is missing from our lives but are grateful for the abundance that's present....we experience heaven on earth."



What I just shared is the introduction to my book, Learning to Dance in the Rain...The Power of Gratitude. My co-author is BJ Gallagher and she is one of the most talented and creative writers I've every known. It was an honor to work with her on this beautiful book that can truly change the way you think about life.



Keep dancing,



Mac Anderson
Founder, Simple Truths

From Cancer to Kung Fu

Today I thought I'd do an update on some recent Triumph Times posts:

>  My grandfather, Bill, is still holding strong. He has terminal cancer as I've said, he's in a great deal of pain, but he almost seems to be growing stronger every time I see him ... it's like he's actually transcending the trial he's undergoing. He is determined to stay himself, to keep smiling, to keep serving others, and to "keep his chin up," as he puts it. Right to the end, he is Triumphing. Right to the end, he is an inspiration to us all.

>  My daughter Brighten just won 5 medals in her meet on Saturday, including 3rd overall for the meet. She's placed several times in the last 3 meets, she's headed for Sectionals and, possibly, the State finals after that (they only take the top 72 gymnasts but she's got a good shot, according to her coach, even though she's only in her first year as I've mentioned). I couldn't be prouder.


You know, she fell again on her balance beam routine, but she jumped right back up and did the rest so well she still scored a 9.0 ... even with the fall. That's almost unheard of and it's a great tribute to not only "not giving up" and "getting right back up," but, also, doing so quickly, not hesitating or commiserating when it does you no good.

Think about it, if she had gotten frustrated, had thrown up her hands or even slumped her shoulders (technically speaking) for even a moment, she would have likely lost more points and probably not placed at all. Instead she gave that extra "Umph" she needed, she didn't let disappointment get her down, and she won 3rd place. It was a great Triumphant reminder that applies not only in sports but many areas of life.

>  And then there's writing and writers: I've written about Hemingway, Faulkner and Allie Hanley, etc. I've been writing this blog here since the 12th of October. Since that time, I've had people practically coming out of the woodwork saying how much they enjoy it. They're enjoying the writing, from what they say, and they're grateful to Allie for her "kick in my kiester." Today? I'm hoping for more [in blog] comments--what do YOU want to see and hear more of herein--but, through Facebook and email I'm hearing lots of great feedback. There seems to be a real hunger for this kind of motivational material. I've even had a couple parties contact me about full-time writing jobs. We shall see but it sounds like fun....

>  As I highlight different "Umphers" here at The Triumph Times (those Triumphing over their lives and their challenges), I would be remiss to not mention my good friend, TV / movie producer, Russell Cunningham (of RLC Motion Pictures in Sydney, Australia). Russell is an American producer now living Down Under with his Aussie sweetheart, Colleen. He recently produced a movie called Birth of a Warrior starring Tonny White, the youngest kung fu master in the world (Tonny was trained by the same grand master as superstar, Bruce Lee). For less than most of us have spent on our first home, and maybe our latest car, Russell and his team scraped the movie together from start to finish--a Triumph in and of itself.

They did this in an economy that has decimated the Australian movie industry; they did it following the loss of two, previous fully-contracted films (a half-a-million dollar loss combined, directly related to the economic crash); they attracted Tonny White to the film and got additional talent to donate their time and efforts and names; the list of "Triumphs" goes on and on. Through it all, Russell has stayed strong, weathered the storms, believed in his team and worked to make the project, albeit a small one, come to pass. He continues to beat the odds; he continues to be a perfect example of Triumph. (If you knew him, you would know that quitting just isn't in his nature. But it hasn't been easy, as he will tell you, and he isn't finished yet).

If I had to guess, I'd say ... keep an eye out for Russ. You're going to see more of him and RLC Motion Pictures in the future, I'm sure. He's a talented producer with a real vision and passion for his work. These are both, of course, prerequisites if you want a truly Triumphant life. You take your licks ... you keep going ... you follow your passion (even when it's hard) ... and you stick with it. In short, you follow Russell's example. Do so and you will rarely go wrong.

I'm proud of you, Superman, and I look forward to many more to come ... films, stories, awards and Triumphs. Birth of a Warrior probably isn't going to win any Oscars anytime soon ... but, your effort and commitment should. They're an inspiration to us all.

Keep filming. We'll keep watching.

Just one of your fans,

JP River

Birth of a Warrior trailer:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JHDhjWhPlx0&feature=related

Tonny White demo film:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJrGUQu1nI4

RLC Motion Pictures site / movie:  http://rlcmotionpictures.com/

John C. Maxwell on Transformation

    

I'm subscribed to a daily coaching service with a successful speaker and writer I enjoy, Mr. John C. Maxwell (http://johnmaxwellteam.com). He sends out a daily "Minute With Maxwell" message that shows up in my email each morning and always starts my day out right. He's considered one of the most respected speakers in the world and has written over 60 books and sold 20 million+ copies worldwide. I think it's safe to say he has a thought or two that are worth hearing. I've certainly enjoyed his insights.

I've wanted to share with you one of his "Minutes" and today's seemed like an appropriate choice. He's speaking about "Transformational Leadership," talking about how a transformational life (one we've been referring to as a Triumphant one, I think it's safe to say), a life without regrets, all starts with a choice to change. It really all begins with the choices that we day in and day out.

It's not rocket science, but it is a good reminder. John then goes on to share a great idea for how to effect change in our life. I think you'll appreciate it.

My recommendation would be to click on both links ... his main site (above), so you can "meet the man" and sign up for his daily minute, if you'd like to, and this last site (below), so you can hear this specific thought on transforming. Both are worth the sixty seconds they will take you. I've been personally enjoying his counsel for over a year now.

If we're not growing we're dying ... if we are not changing, we're probably growing stale. I hope we aren't.

Onward and upward,

Patrick-Riv

http://www.johnmaxwellteam.com/transform/

    

Confidence: the Stuff of Triumph

Confidence: the stuff of heroes ... the secret of kings ... the essence of champions ... the trait of true leadership. What is it exactly and where does it come from? Are we born with it, or is it acquired? Can it be developed, or is it discovered? Any thoughts, readers? What do you think confidence really, truly is...? Does it exist, like the picture suggests, purely because and when we believe that it does?

Lots of questions but I think they're important ones in any discussion of personal Triumph. We've all seen those men and women who seem to exude confidence--it seems to almost ooze from their pores. In my experience, it's a mystery. Why do some have it and others don't? Why do some of us struggle while, to others, it comes so naturally, so easily, it seems? It's an age-old question.

For some, confidence is consistent, at other times it's fleeting. Sometimes it's a facade, a wave, a ripple moving like a tiny fishing ship tossed at sea. Other times, it's real and strong and seemingly immovable, like a giant sequoia tree in the deepest forest. As we know, both get blown by the wind, even ravaged at times, but one isn't moved and the other one is, and maybe even drowned; we've all experienced this. Even the most confident of us, at times, feel vulnerable, shaken and alone. And then, we're strong again, confident.... It's bizarre, a good question, a good topic for discussion. And then, I ask you, at the same time, isn't vulnerability and worry, in certain ways, an asset or a strength as well? Isn't it a sign of true confidence to admit when you are human, wavering or weak? Isn't this the essence of strength ... to be honest in your weakness, to admit when you're not perfect but, rather, to be human, authentic, accessible and real?

Lots of great questions. We all want to be confident and I think we all can be, in our own personal ways. One man's confidence is another man's weakness. One may seem arrogant. Another may seem too subdued. I think, ultimately, it doesn't really matter: it is for each of us to decide if our brand of confidence makes us happy and if it's moving us in the direction we desire. If it is then it's sufficient. If it isn't, then we need to keep trying. As long as we are okay with ourselves or, at least, okay with the person we're becoming, then we're good to go. We can sleep well at night and wake prepared for what life hands us. We can Triumph over it all. No other opinion matters nearly as much as does our own.

Another bit of good news is that, regardless of how we currently may see ourselves, we can improve upon that perception and that preparation and situation, and do so all the rest of our lives. We're rarely stuck in the process of progression. We never have to be satisfied with the status quo, who we are or how we act or interact today. We can get better, little by little, if we truly desire ... and this is the essence of how we Triumph over life: we never lie down. At the same time, it's okay to be at peace with who we see in the mirror, to love ourselves, if we do ... and to be pleased with the person we've become and are unveiling. It's a Triumphant "balancing act" of sorts, but one that is important we each define. When are we good enough? When are we strong enough? When is it okay for us to relax and stop trying so hard? Answer that question and we'll find more satisfaction and joy than we probably thought possible. We'll feel more sure, more peaceful and, ultimately ... more confident, and that, my friends, is rarely a negative thing.

I'll stop talking now. It's late. Please ... share your thoughts. When do you feel most confident? What have you found that helps you get there? What, in your own life, has helped you develop greater confidence, and courage? What do you suggest the rest of can do to get there in our own separate ways? Please share with us your insights and ideas.

Thanks for listening. I appreciate "the shot in the arm" your ongoing readership provides.

Ever more wise and more confident,

JP River

Quotable Quote: Dr. Seuss

I love this quote from Doctor Suess I saw recently on Facebook. It SCREAMS Triumph. Troubles...? Trials...? A topsy turvy Life...? Bring them on for we are ready and will not shrink with the dawn.

Thank you, Doc....

JP River

‎"I learned there are troubles of more than one kind. Some come from ahead, others come from behind. But I've bought a big bat. I'm all ready, you see. Now my troubles are going to have trouble with me." -- Dr. Seuss

"Get Back on that Horse" (or Balance Beam)

This blog on Triumph wouldn't be complete without a nod to my youngest daughter, Brighten, aka Beepster (short for Beautiful Princess Star). Let's just say, she is a powerhouse, a mighty might and takes after her mom in the sense she’s driven and doesn't give up easily.

Brighty is in her first year of gymnastics and, although she's a novice, she's taken to it like a fish to water. Not only does she have the perfect build—she's tiny with big feet—she seems to have a knack for it, a passion and a love of all things gymnastic. She’s winning lots of medals and just qualified for sectionals. Most important, she’s having fun. Maybe she’s found her calling...? I hope so.

You know, seeing her routine brings to mind a lesson on success I once heard that referred to the “Three P’s of Success” … Passion, Practice and Persistence. These are the essence of our diminutive daughter these days ... and anyone, I believe, who is Triumphing at what they do.

First, they’re Passionate (Brighten definitely is; she basically eats, sleeps and drinks gymnastics, and never seems to tire of it). Second, they Practice (no joke, she spends more time upside down these days than she does right side up; she’s constantly bouncing off the furniture, cartwheeling down the aisles, etc.). Third, they’re Persistent (you’ll see in the video clip attached how persistent she is, even when she falls, she bounces right back up). It’s an inspiring reminder for us all.

In gymnastics as in life (or marriage, business, trials, etc.), we mustn't give up … even when it’s hard. Other than those rare times when it’s just not in our power, we have to “get back on that horse,” or, as it were in this case, on that "balance beam."

I’m proud of you, Tiny. You’re an inspiration to your old dad. We’re looking forward to the college scholarships I’m sure you’ll earn (here's hoping). That only leaves four others we have to be worried about.

Onward and upward,

Daddy-Patrick 

Check out the clip. Her form looks just about perfect to me, even in failure. You go baby-girl! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5BcIvHtqm08

Quotable Quote: Hunter S. Thompson

Though I'm not a huge fan of author, Hunter S. Thompson (he was a life-long alcoholic and drug addict and proud of it who eventually committed suicide in 2005 at the age of 67), the author of The Rum Diary (1998) and Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1971) penned one of my favorite quotes of all time:

“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming "Wow! What a Ride!" Hunter S. Thompson

The man embodied his own quote, and it is an insightful glimpse into the heart of the "Umpher," in my opinion. I ask you: did you THROW yourself into your relationships today, your passions, your hobbies, your kids? Did you worry less about scraped knees and stains on your clothing, or punctuality, or propriety ... than you did about the impact and even legacy you left? I hope not. That we too might embody this reminder, hopefully with healthier livers and less heartache / angst, is my hope for us all. Now I'm really going to bed.... Good night all you "Umphers" out there. I'm cheering for you....  JPR

Quotable Quote: Albert Einstein

I'm realizing how easily life can get in the way when it comes to posting here on this blog consistently. It's difficult when you have a full time job, five children, a business and social life (though I can't say I have much of that these days; the first three keep me very busy). I want to make a commitment, though, today October 25, 2011, that even if it's 2 in the morning and even if it's just a short Quotable Quote like the one I'm sharing with you today, I'm going to post something before going to bed. I know people are enjoying this blog. I'm hearing lots of good feedback. But I need to make sure it's consistent, even if brief. I commit to you to do this with very rare exceptions (if I ever miss it will be for an unavoidable reason like I'm in the hospital, or one of my kids is, or we're on vacation with no Internet, or something like that).

I'm working on several longer posts upcoming--one about my 90+ year-old grandparents, ("Bill and Grace Laing: A Quiet Legacy...."), another about Steve Jobs, founder of Apple ("Our Own Leonardo Davinci...."), a review of a fantastic book I'm reading that you may have read entitled Leadership and Self Deception ("The True Challenge: Triumph Over Ourselves...." I should finish it later this week), a couple of movie reviews and several others I think you'll enjoy and benefit from.

Right now ... I'm dashing out the door to my job as a regional sales trainer here in the Pacific Northwest. I'll write more about that as well, later, but let me send you off for now with a great reminder quote.... Albert Enstein once said, "Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving." I really like that. A clear characteristic of Triumphant thinkers and doers is their resilience and persistence, their "stick-to-it-ive-ness," as some call it. They just keep on getting back up. We all get discouraged, delayed and knocked down at times. What matters most is what happens next. Those who Triumph get up, dust themselves off, learn from their mistakes, and "get back on that horse" (or bicycle, in this case). They do so with renewed focus, determination and usually a good dose of wisdom and maturity as well.

Resiliency is a wonderful though often painfully-acquired attribute or trait. I hope we can all learn it and develop it more in our lives, and understand it better, hopefully without too much heartache along the way.

I'm off.... Hey, travel safe out there. Talk again soon. JPR

Famous Failures: YouTube clip

We don't always get to choose what life hands us. On the contrary, most of us go through trials, heartaches, loss and adversity throughout our lives, even when we're "good people." Life doesn't care. It's all part of our "college experience" here on earth.... The question is: what do we do with our trials; do we control them or do we let them control us. Sure, they MOLD us ... but they don't have to CONTROL us. This is one more characteristic of people who Triumph over life.  

The following YouTube clip, entitled Famous Failures, echos this truth. 

If you've never failed, you've never lived. LIFE EQUALS RISK. What will you do with it...? 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6hz_s2XIAU&noredirect=1