Learn Patience ASAP

When things don't go our way, it is tempting to immediately do something we often later regret.

By the same token, we admire those who have the stamina to persevere during difficult circumstances. We call this virtue, "patience."

There are several reasons why patience is essential to sharing life.

• Wiser Decisions: taking a step back and not relying on impulsive actions or emotions - patience empowers us to think more clearly. To refrain from doing something utterly stupid, to resolve a situation without escalating the tension, to prevent fights, etc.
• Peace of Mind: human desire seems limitless but developing the ability and skill to detach one's self from desire, if only for a moment, produces relief, relaxation, and acceptance. No, this doesn't mean to completely surrender our wants and needs. Rather, we must realize that most of our goals do not need to be instantly fulfilled. Otherwise, we would be slaves to the "Do this ASAP" mentality and inevitably burn out. Do things well, but don't do everything all at once.
• Strengthen Your Faith: the Bible emphasizes love is patient. If you truly care for someone, you will not ignore his or her shortcomings. Rather, you will encourage, support and hope for transformation and growth - not necessarily to happen overnight, but for the long run. Even after countless disappointments, patience empowers us to accept loved ones as they are.
• Get the Most from Sharing Life: happiness doesn't stem from achievements alone. We should value the preparation, motivation and effort, whether success or failure results. Reaching your destination may be important but do not discount the lessons learned and friendships made from the journey.

When I think about patience, the first person that comes to mind is my wife. I still don't understand how she can be so patient with someone as difficult as me. After 5 years of sharing life together, we have yet to have our first fight. It's not in Mindy's nature to viciously lash out or intentionally retaliate whenever I mess up. She contemplates the issues and prays for me instead.

Even when Mindy is angry, disappointed, and saddened by what I do or do not do, she never raises her voice. I remember our most difficult moments together concluded with painful tears and hearing the hurt in her voice - both were red flags informing me that I've strayed too far. They are reminders that I need to be a better husband. Yet, she still loves me.

It's humbling to be in the presence of those who display patience. There is a supernatural sense of peace and respect amongst them. All things considered, if there was something I'd like to learn as soon as possible, patience is on the top of my list. How ironic.

Who Do You Trust?

In today's Information Age, accessing information is not a problem.

Gathering reliable information, however, is an incredible challenge.

Take a look at politics, for example. I thoroughly enjoyed Rick Warren's one-on-one interviews with both Obama and McCain. Based on their direct responses, I can reason out and make solid conclusions of each man's character and world views. Or can I?

No matter who 'won' the evangelical voters, there is a disturbing report that accuses McCain of cheating the interviewing process.

So who do you trust? What sources can you depend on for reliable information? As we gather overwhelming amounts of data, it's nearly impossible to filter out the lies, exaggerations, and misinformation without second-guessing our sources.

Sharing Life in 10 Words and Less

People desire to be significant. Worthy. Important. But what makes an individual special?

I appreciate those who have the passion to connect, build and serve others. To share life on life in these ways can be expressed in 10 words and less...

• One Word: creatively.
• Two Words: provide value.
• Three Words: gain their interest.
• Four Words: differentiate yourself from others.
• Five Words: never think you are superior.
• Six Words: offer something to help people develop.
• Seven Words: present them with a new, positive idea.
• Eight Words: tell them to expect a phone call soon.
• Nine Words: arrange a hangout/date before you leave their presence.
• Ten Words: don't do anything that makes you look like an a**hole.*

Sharing life on life does not entirely focus on getting what you want or making money. Sharing life is more about surprising, caring, paying attention, and thinking about others. Ultimately, do something that gains your target audience's attention and prompts a positive response. Professional businesses and careers are built upon this principle and all parties involved have something to gain from sharing life on life.

In the end, your sense of worth increases as you think about others. Naturally, folks tend to notice thoughtfulness and often communicate - perhaps even reciprocate - their appreciation.

*Humorous behavior that teases but does not harm is acceptable (and very effective) depending on the person.

Now and Later

We often fear the future because it's always uncertain.

With so many things to do, a sense of futility and hopelessness comes naturally. Nevertheless, we must be optimistic to get anything done. Without hope, there's no point to moving on.

Amazingly, whatever we focus on has the potential to become something wonderful. It's really our choice. We can remain paralyzed by our fears and gloomy circumstances or we can take action and be involved in something significant.

My sense of purpose stems from my marriage, faith and career. These three aspects define what I do everyday and I feel incredibly blessed that I experience never-ending passion and joy in these foundations.

Epiphany for this season of life: to be a good husband, a genuine man of faith, and a successful business professional - it's not about me anymore. It's about others and how I can serve them in ways that are noteworthy, meaningful, and lasting. We're taught this concept growing up but never have I appreciated it to this degree until recently.

Thinking about others is not easy for me. I am far from perfect when it comes to living selflessly. Even today, I observe certain loved ones give more while I take more. My wife, in particular, epitomizes such sacrificial giving. I wonder if I could outserve her someday. Doubtful, but it's a goal worth pursuing. Heck, it's worth blogging about too.

There is always something to do. Whatever we do today will affect what we do tomorrow. So when we're feeling down, lazy, or ineffective with our goals, shake it off and take that next step forward. After all, investments only pay off when there is something invested.

"The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time."
Abraham Lincoln