WILLINGNESS

"It is not always the easiest thing to do when we look at any change. Maybe, it is not even the right time in our lives for change to happen, but change happens, change is necessary, and changes make us stronger. "
Jeff Johnson March 2008

I am sorry this week has been light on postings---events have occurred preventing my keyboard time--however, I have had a lot of reflection time---It is all good! :-)

It is not hard to identify changes that we need to make in our lives. When we miss identifying some of the changes we need to make, others identify them for us--always with the right amount of tact. When changes are truly identified, plans are made to initiate steps in a new direction so the change happens, but what are we really willing to do? Willingness makes or breaks our plans for change.

Willingness is a combination of either needing to or wanting to do something versus the fight with the inner voice that softly says <<<identifying and owning" (must be together) the value of the change once competed. So let's put barriers in perspective---THEY EXIST! LOL O.K. now for the more subtle--Have you ever considered that the reason we are changing something has become a barrier in our life for some reason. I like to call barriers stepping stones of unfamiliarity. Becoming familiar with these stones makes them foundations to daily living. Becoming more familiar with something leads to a comfort level that allows us to feel safe and secure--thus we can or want to own it something safe and secure--now we have identifying and owning together. When these two components are together, this builds our bridge to willingness.

Find the stepping stones of unfamiliarity in your life and stand on them for awhile--slowly and softly at first. Get to know them by observation, touch, feeling them, and exploring their components--then walk on them until you are comfortable. Knowing the stones that lead to the changes you want--increases familiarity and with increased familiarity comes increased willingness. Step out forward steppers--build some foundations toward change today.

I believe in you because YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff

85 PILLS AND COUNTING

"Round and round I go spinning until I fall on my knees. The room is still spinning, faster, no it is not the room spinning it is me, but I am on my knees and I am not moving. What is spinning, what is it that makes me feel like this--I see straight again--I stand up--I walk--I see clearly what happened. I turn around and around and around and around again--I know what is going to happen--I will end up on my knees again. I stop, get on my knees, and think about how I am spinning---there is comfort on my knees. Relaxed, I bow my head and pray. I realize I do not have to spin to see I am dizzy or to get on my knees."
Jeff Johnson March 2008

Sometimes I wish I could just take a pill and I would be able to sing or think better or learn how to play an instrument. Not long ago I said, "I wish there was a pill to make the dog not bark so loud"--or so frequently--then my headache went away and I didn't care as much about the dog barking. Yes, I did take a pill to make my head stop hurting. Have you ever wanted to just take a pill and make something happen: like lose weight with just one pill, or gain weight, or walk faster, or not hurt, or make an "ex" be nicer:-), or make a teenager act--well not like a teenager? I have in my life asked for all of those things and more.

The other day I stopped and counted all of the pills I wish I could take to change or make things happen differently. I counted 85 pills then I got tired of counting. Just think of the time, money, and emotions that would be altered if this could happen. The other side of the coin is what if someone was taking a pill to change me--into something I would not like or want to be. In the end, I was glad I did not have pills to change all of the things I wished for in my magical world. I was glad I had choices, I was glad I could choose to become not 'morph' into something out of my control. I was glad changes in my life--good and bad came slowly at times, and fast at times. I was happy where I was today--but not that I have 85 and counting, things to change or be changed 'in my own likeness and wisdom.'

Everyday is a day when we can make choices about how we want to live our day. We can, to a large degree control our outcomes and influence our environment. We all have past experiences with consequences called 'baggage'--both good consequences (baggage) and bad consequences (baggage) because of our choices. Some of the baggage we did not initiate, but it remains a part of life nonetheless. Focus on the future today, take steps away from the baggage that haunts us, measure the time and distance each day takes you toward another direction--focus on changing yourself. Maybe 1 minute at a time is all you can focus on changing yourself, maybe 15 minutes at a time or 30 minutes-whatever time it takes you to change--take it. Looking at all of the pill bottles filled with all of the change pills would not be as much fun as looking at all of the "pills"
I am leaving behind as I change my journey to be better. March forward today because
you are a forward stepper.

I believe in you because YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff

BELIEVE

"When we look at our problems we believe they are crushing us to an end and we feel the pain--GREAT or small. Know in your heart and head there is a solution to every problem and feel hope and happiness with the same intensity.
Jeff Johnson--March 2008.


Things in our life, professional and personal will go wrong. Murphy's law says, "If there is a possibility of several things going wrong, the one that will cause the most damage will be the one to go wrong. Corollary: If there is a worse time for something to go wrong, it will happen then." Our lives are filled with stories that fit into a Murphy law category. The reality is we do not have to stay broken.

Everyone must believe in something--so why not believe that what is going on now 'sucks'--and also believe it can be fixed. We do have a choice here. When problems attack us, they come when we least expect it, when we can least afford it, and at a time when we feel it is impossible to deal with it. How much time do we spend looking for success stories that resemble our predicament? How much do we believe there is a solution out there for us, a predicament someone else faced that was this bad and ended up good? If we believe our situation is so bad, then we must believe there is a solution of equal value. Remember, everyone must believe in something--choose well. Make your sustained choice a positive choice.

I believe in you--because YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff

PICKING SIDES

"We should love people because they are just like us--SINNERS; don't hate them because their sin is different than ours."
Jeff Johnson March 2008

In keeping with my blog format, Sunday will be an inspirational message.

I am not a Bible expert. In looking at a particular story where a woman had sinned (the sin is not important here) was taken outside of the city walls by her peers. The purpose was to judge her then stone her to death. Everyone gathered around while the sin was discussed and while the stones were being picked up--since this was the custom. I am sure not all picked up stones. I am sure some picked up stones, most probably threw them, some threw them very hard, some threw them very lightly--just to fit in. Some came to watch--some came to change their life since they may be in the same sin, and some wondered why they were there in the first place. Everyone had a reason to be there and everyone left with a reason on how they would return home. Many would feel like they rid the world of evil, a few would see the consequence and change their life, someone would find a way to help others avoid this scene.

Today we pick up stones in more sophisticated ways, but the end results are the same. We all know someone who is having problems. Maybe the problem is financial, marital, children, grief, homelessness, work, working through a particular issue that is unknown, or just in living a particular lifestyle. Most of us lean towards ignoring the situation under the guise, "I have enough problems of my own", or "I do not have enough time." Can we be real for just a minute...maybe we say, "they deserve everything they are getting and more," or "I hope they suffer for what they have done--look at the hurt they have caused." I am sure you and I can think of our favorites. We don't call them stones anymore, but 'barbs' and isolation and prejudices---HATE with rejection for short.

Jesus tells a new story--a story of HOPE, PEACE, LOVE, UNDERSTANDING, and FORGIVENESS with RESTORATION. In Matthew 23:37, we read,
37"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing." Jesus is disappointed, but HE wanted to gather to protect, to save, to assist those who were causing harm and destruction. In modern terms--they were hurting others and causing destruction. Jesus answer was not going to stone them, to harm them, to ignore them, but to gather them up for FORGIVENESS with RESTORATION. How can we help those we are stoning?

We pick sides--always--even silence is a side--maybe the wrong side at times. We learn in
Matthew 6:24 "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other." We can not hate and love at the same time. I do not want to ignore the saying, "I love the person and hate the sin," but here the question must be asked, Which feeling will help me to help them or even motivate me to help them? In our attempt to 'walk a thin line' we must understand the person hurting can not separate the two. While we walk the 'thin line' we must look at both sides very closely to make sure we are on the line evenly. If we are firmly on one side or the other we focus on the side in which we stand. Can we ever separate tea from water, or pain from sorrow--impossible! Walking the 'thin line' does not commit, walking the thin line is the same as carrying the stone and throwing it short hoping to look like the 'in' crowd but trying not to cause any damage. But to the person looking at the stones--does it matter which ones fall short--or who is in the line throwing them?

The person who has sinned--all of us, yes even me, needs love through the sin, despite the sin, over the sin, not because of the sin. The desire to help should be humans helping a person in need not curing a sin--JUST A SIMPLE LOVE TO A PERSON. Can we walk with Hate (stones) in our hand and have an open (loving) hand at the same time? I have not been able to do it. The first step to helping is to learn how to love blindly. Learning how to see people through our heart, trusting GOD to guide us during the first few miles of the journey--so we can learn how to love more effectively. Learning how to let hate go and embrace love is to give our talents no matter what the outcome--just to love giving help--people to people--sinner to sinner.

Take that first step FORWARD STEPPERS--not to cast stones but to look at our hands. Are we holding more stones or opening them up to gather in? Open hands drop stones.

I believe in you because YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff

THE RULE OF M & M'S

The other day someone said, " If you drink cold water versus room temp water you will burn more calories." Then, someone told me if I walk the stairs versus taking an elevator I will burn more calories. I have read about exercising to burn calories since I was a kid. The way I look at it, I should be able to eat everything I want anytime I want for as long as I want if I am willing to exercise an equal amount of time. Then, I read an article telling me to walk 100 yards to burn off 1 M & M. Yes, I did ask the question, was that a red M & M or a green M & M?" The answer is pending.

We all want to be able to do things with little work and fast results. In the 1960's and 1970's we would heat leftovers for 20 minutes in an oven--after a 15 minute warm up time, or cook soup out of a can in 20 minutes--stirring the entire time. If we could cook any meal from start to finish in 25 minutes or less it was fast food. Why do we love microwave ovens, butter popcorn in 3 minutes, quick this or that, and drive through services 24-hours a day; so we can do more stuff or not focus on our stuff.

Growing into a change takes time. The enjoyment of the journey is part of the quality of the outcome. Not rushing it, taking the time to 'get it right,' feeling it, and understanding the outcome is part of being comfortable with the changes and outcomes we want. If we look at the rule of the M & M'; the red ones have more calories and require extra steps--JUST KIDDING--slow down, take your time to change, and do not get in a hurry to make things different, cook soup without a microwave this week. Healing is not always fast. My favorite thing to remember--I get to eat in the end no matter how long I cook the meal. If I microwave it I miss the opportunity to smell it before I eat it--savor each moment of your life.

I believe in you, because YOU ARE WORTH IT
Jeff

EXPECTATIONS

"When our heart speaks, we hear it with all of our senses. This is better than Doby surround sound." Jeff--March 2008.

Illustration ONLY. The young person saved money to build the most modern dream home. Architects were hired; plans were drafted and amended to include the latest technology and fashion. The individual spared no expense on landscape and amenities. The contractor selected was perfect, so meticulous, very skilled and experienced--the project was completed on time. When completed, the individual never moved into the home; the individual never executed the plans.

Whatever belief system you adapted on creation; something has allowed us to be individual and unique. We ALL are wired to do something, given talents and strengths unique and meaningful. Many times I stand and watch American Idol while the young and younger sing like angels. i even see talent in the way Simon dresses--LOL. I have walked along the beaches watching artist sketch and paint scenes that resemble digital photos and I stand amazed at the auto mechanic who can tell me in one minute how $1500.00 will allow him/her to fix my vehicle--and be right about the repair and off +$500.00 on the price! These are all talents. YOU CAN contribute to not only your own well-being with your talents, but assist in the growth of others too.

TODAY is a bright and wonderful new day. Your talents are already designed and built waiting to be utilized. Everyone is worth the time and effort to search for their talents and develop them. Maybe we will not sing, draw, or fix automobiles, but your skills and talents are unique and CAN make the world a better place. Look for the supports necessary to assist you to utilize the wonderful 'home' already built for you. YOU ARE WORTH IT, no expense has been spared--you are priceless, included are the latest in technology and amenities to perform as designed, the architect has designed you perfectly for your talent. Everything has been prepared so meticulously, with a lot of skill and experience you have been crafted, but most importantly--completed on time--NOW.
Carpe Vita Diem (Harvest/Seize Your Life Today).

I Believe In You because YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff

OPPORTUNITIES

"We can not always choose what problems will confront us, but we can pick how we will face them. It is a choice to look at them as obstacles or opportunities. The difference between the two choices is with one we are stuck and with the other we grow; choose well. Jeff Johnson--March 2008

It would be nice to not have any problems--if only life were near perfect I would feel so much better. I had someone say to me, "If I had ____(You fill in the blank with your skill set wish list) all of my problems could be cured." I have joined in the joke that if I had half of the money of a Donald Trump or a Bill Gates I would not have any problems. But everyone has problems no matter how much money or what skill sets you acquire.

There is good news; we have the skills to overcome our problems. The saying, "God never gives us more than we can handle," means HE can fill the basket up--and HE has with me, but it will never overflow. I must admit I have caught stuff pouring over the sides before. However, as human beings we are not wired to do things alone. It is so important to find someone--just one person or more to share our problems. I call it 'my time' to spread the wealth-- 'my' opportunity to grow through helping someone or 'my' time to receive help.

Many times a search through the spiritual side yields strength and perspective. If we do not believe in a higher power, then we are the highest power--and we have problems. I do love Jesus and find my spiritual truths in the Bible and through Jesus. During problem times and good times I depend on my spirituality to help me, guide me, and comfort me. More than once I have found I had the ability--and you do too--to overcome the problem. So many times my approach to the problem was off, the time line was altered, outlook was negative, or my information about the situation was not complete. In the end, my resolve came through the strength of turning it over to my higher power, finding solace in friends, supporters, and NEVER GIVING UP. Problems never end, but neither do solutions. You can conquer what you face with help--your time now is to do it. Choose well.

I believe in you because YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff

Looking Behind Us=Going Forward

"Looking at something behind us means we are moving forward. Otherwise everything would be facing us or beside us. Looking behind us=going forward". By Jeff Johnson---March 2008

Do you ever find yourself looking at the past like I do? Studying old behaviors, past sins, and wishing I had a 'do-over' on a particular scene in life--realizing all to well it is now history. Looking backwards is not a bad thing. We should learn from our mistakes, but most importantly we should learn from what we have done right--equally. Many times it is the awkward or the wrong things that stick out and we wish we could correct, but how much time do we examine the 'right' things we do? If we spend more time looking at the 'right things' praising ourselves for a job well done our 'wish-we-had-a-do-over' scenes would have less impact. Those scenes that need adjustment would be small in number in our recent memory history compared to the large number of 'right' things we accomplish. The impact would be less because the more positive things we do would be on the top of our memory list. By review of our past positive events equally, we develop a strength to face the 'do over' events with a more positive attitude. This is a learned behavior developed through practice.

I find myself now looking at the more forward pictures in my life. The behind me scenes still exist as part of what my forward trip should not be like--at times. However, my behind me scenes were not all bad. I have some very positive scenes there too. Sometimes I must focus on both the positive and negative behind me scenes to grow and to improve my present forward journey. I must admit, it is nice to know I am moving forward knowing that what is behind me is really behind me, stopped in time, and what is in front of me is endless. The scenes in life categorized as,"I wish I had a do over there," now form the building blocks to strengths that allow us to grow knowing it is stopped in time forever. We can choose to repeat them or avoid them in another time.

Look forward at the endless opportunities but spend some time looking backward knowing that what is behind me allows my forward journey to be filled with realizations that I have grown. I am a forward stepper.

I believe in you because YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff

THREE MEALS

"The bread was broken and passed around--silence filled the room--everyone had their own idea of what this event would mean to them, but in the end--all except Jesus got it right." Jeff Johnson March 2008

Easter, the death of Jesus on the cross, the resurrection, all of this is so very important to us. But today, this HOLY DAY, I want to discuss three very important meals and their roles.
The first meal--the last supper in the upper room. Luke 22: 19"And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me." 20In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you." Missing in the room was Thomas, one of the disciples and Judas. Oh yes, Judas was there in body, but missing in spirit and mind. He had his own agenda, bought and paid for! Judas was there to see his own plan through already leaving Jesus with money in hand. Thomas, was absent in body, but present in mind and spirit--wondering about the entire experience--living in fear of what it would mean in the long term message--scared to participate. Which one of these disciples resemble you and I. Are we on this HOLY DAY looking in our hearts and knowing Jesus is there, knowing Jesus is real, having HIM near us feeding us and we are either absent in mind and spirit because we are scared to participate in association with HIM, or absent in mind and spirit because we are participating in our own agenda? During the first of the three meals Jesus mentions "Do this in remembrance of me"--where are you as you remember HIM? The disciples, humans just like you and I, coming to Jesus, remembering HIM, following scripture, just like you and I in more ways than meets the eye.

The second meal is with Thomas. John 20: Thomas is explaining to the other disciples about how he must see the risen SAVIOR before he believes. Thomas and the disciples are eating together in a locked room and Jesus just appears, 27"Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe."28Thomas said to him, "My Lord and my God!"29Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." Talk about just passing through a neighborhood and dropping by--Thomas is face to face with Jesus. Jesus offers Thomas exactly what he needs to believe--all doubts are eliminated--all fear is gone now--conviction on which I stand was transformed from loose sand to solid steel and concrete. The problem with being skeptical is you must consider both sides. On one hand Thomas had to consider his friends view--the other disciples would not have a reason to lie about the resurrection, but on the other hand--he doubts. Where are we at this meal--HOLY DAY after JUST DAY BY DAY we walk the same walk-- we consider during life circumstances how Jesus fits in--is HE real or is there room to doubt. If we believe one word of the Bible--like Jesus died and rose again, then we must take Thoma's story and believe. Jesus said, "In remembrance of me," but in which direction are we going with Jesus as we remember? Both Thomas and Judas had purpose in their direction--do you or I have purpose in our direction with Jesus?

The third meal is found in Revelations 3:
20"Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me."
This verse is not time dated--it does not expire, and this meal would be worthless without the other two. This meal has no value without the cross and the resurrection--but with those two events IT IS THE MEANING. Jesus wants to sup with you and I--in our hearts--forever. The food is unlimited and filling to overflow. During the three meals--where are you and I with Jesus--near HIM but absent in some way because of agendas; doubting issues but considering both sides equally; or ready to sup with HIM, accepting HIS open invitation for a meal already paid in full? Just knock on the door--Ask HIM into your heart today--WALK 'TOTALLY' BESIDE HIM---YOU ARE A FORWARD STEPPER--do not walk alone anymore, Jesus is there waiting. Come--this year--this day--lets share a meal together! I believe in you because YOU ARE WORTH IT, Jeff

HOW TO CHANGE

"Looking for things is a good way to find things. Looking intrinsically at ourselves may do the same thing. " Jeff Johnson--Feb. 2008


Yes, I write sayings. I may have about 20,000 of them--most of which I will never use again--some are repeats. I enjoy writing sayings that touch hearts, minds, and me. I plan on posting my motivational sayings too.

So, how do we change?

Everyday we do things that has value in our lives. Maybe we have a job we like, or maybe we value the money only. Perhaps it is a place or activity we frequent because of the value we perceive it brings us. But what if this place or activity brings us severe negative consequences?

I have one of those places--the buffet line. I love food--more importantly, I love food that is sweet. The value I get is that it taste good, it is filling, and it is abundant in choices--I can choose something new daily. The problem is I don't like to gain weight. Eating sweets by itself is not what puts on weight. Lack of exercise, lack of control on portions and number of servings, and the total amount consumed before the 'sweet spot'--all contribute to weight gain. So, if we know all of this why do we continue to indulge? The answer is we value the weight gain more than measuring the other considerations first. Our overall plan is to go eat without regard to outcome--until later.

When we really see change begin is when we place more value on the new behavior and consequences than on the old behavior and outcomes. I am not going to give a dissertation on how to change in this blog. My point is change starts with a new 'owned' perception in values. Many times the hardest part of change is not goal setting or finding the right intervention to make it happen--but accepting ownership and belief we will succeed.

Before I start on a change in my life, I set realistic goals with a lot of support and advice. This is the easy part--the hard part--accepting success of this change in my head and heart. I keep thinking of how many times I have started and failed, how many promises I have broken, and how many plans are laid to rest because I got what I valued most---quitting and giving up.

What is it that will make you accept, "I can succeed at anything." What are the barriers to building successes in your life? How do we change? Read the saying/quote I wrote above--the answer is partially there. Look at changes that have succeeded in your life, look at the positive in your life and grow on the elements that made those succeed. Do not be afraid to accept hard times, but find strengths already existing inside you to keep you working towards new values and changes. We change by:
1. Identifying things (1 at a time) we want to change
2. Believing in ourselves that we can change--owning the new changed value
3. Using our strengths already developed inside us to NEVER GIVE UP.

I Believe in you because YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff

SEEING DOUBLE

I have an important exam I need to take in the next 30+ days. I must re-run old blogs in order to make time for proper study. Passing this exam will help my family and promote me professionally. Please pray for me and continue to read my BLOG. I will publish some fresh stuff from time to time. I Thank you in advance for your prayers and support.
I AM A FORWARD STEPPER FOR taking time to fill my role as a dad to my family.

I believe in you because YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff

WELCOME BACK

"Welcome Back! What a greeting. When we hear this we smile, wait to feel a pat on the back, a hand shake, and maybe a hug—we are welcome—we are accepted. " Jeff Johnson June 2008

It is to often when we can not accept ourselves for something we did in the past, something we are doing now, or even thinking we do not have hope to succeed in life issues being planned out now. What if we looked in the mirror every day and said, Welcome back you work horse you, or Welcome back you__________, and fill in the blank. Maybe the door to our pathway would appear more inviting than the one we prepare now.

BE A FORWARD STEPPER and make the welcome mat to victory more acceptable to us instead of something we steer clear. Pave a way to victory, plant the seed to succeed, and march forward to a smile from victory lane.

I believe in you because YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff

PEACE BE STILL

(Sea Of Galilee on Mt. of Beatitudes)

“We seek a place to heal—to find peace—but when it comes we are in awe of the power displayed before us—should we not start there?” Jeff Johnson June 2008

LUKE 8:

²⁴The disciples went and woke him, saying, "Master, Master, we're going to drown!" He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. ²⁵"Where is your faith?" he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, "Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him."

The Sea of Galilee is a Sea whereby storms can come upon it in a moment and disappear just as quickly. Many a fisherman has been caught in one of these flash storms—some did not make it out alive. The disciples were on a ship in the Sea of Galilee with Jesus as explained in Luke. For some of them this was not the first time they encountered this phenomenon. They knew the risks of going to Sea and most likely have seen violent and catastrophic outcomes. Now, according to Luke, the disciples called on Jesus to save them. I like to look at this example in scripture of how Jesus reacted to the storm—HE was sleeping. HIS trust level entering the storm was absolute.

The Sea of Galilee is like life. We can have calm one minute and rapid violent environments in the next minute. But do we sleep or at least rest in the wake of knowing that JESUS has the power to heal us, save us, and allow us to be safe through all storms. With two words from Jesus, “Be calm,” our problems are calm. Do not be dismayed, start by knowing JESUS has brought peace, healing, and ended suffering by those same two words. Today, we should follow Jesus and rest—knowing our faith will save us through Jesus Christ our LORD. Rest! JESUS IS HERE.

I Believe in you because, YOU ARE WORTH IT,

Jeff

KIDS & MARRIAGE

Everyone knows I get a huge kick about kids comments. It not only makes me very happy, but I usually smile all week over these comments--ENJOY!

How do you decide who to marry? (written by kids)
(1) You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff. Like, if you

like sports, she should like it that you like sports, and she
should keep the chips and dip coming.
- Alan, age 10
(2) No person really decides before they grow up who they're going
to marry. God decides it all way before, and you get to find out
later who you're stuck with.
- Kristen, age 10
WHAT IS THE RIGHT AGE TO GET MARRIED?
(1) Twenty-three is the best age because you know the person
FOREVER by then.
- Camille, age 10
(2) No age is good to get married at. You got to be a fool to get
married.
- Freddie, age 6 (very wise for his age)
HOW CAN A STRANGER TELL IF TWO PEOPLE ARE MARRIED?
(1) You might have to guess, based on whether
they seem to be yelling at the same kids.
- Derrick, age 8
WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR MUM AND DAD HAVE IN COMMON?
(1) Both don't want any more kids.
- Lori, age 8
WHAT DO MOST PEOPLE DO ON A DATE?
(1) Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to
know each other. Even boys have something to say if you listen long
enough.
- Lynnette, age 8 (isn't she a treasure)
(2) On the first date, they just tell each other lies and that
usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date.
- Martin, age 10 (who says boys do not have brains)
WHAT WOULD YOU DO ON A FIRST DATE THAT WAS TURNING SOUR?
(1) I'd run home and play dead. The next day I would call all the
newspapers and make sure they wrote about me in all the dead columns.
-Craig, age 9
WHEN IS IT OKAY TO KISS SOMEONE?
(1) When they're rich- Pam, age 7
(2) The law says you have to be eighteen, so I wouldn't want to
mess with that.
- Curt, age 7 (good point)
(3) The rule goes like this: If you kiss someone, then you should
marry them and have kids with them. It's the right thing to do.
- Howard, age 8
IS IT BETTER TO BE SINGLE OR MARRIED?
(1) It's better for girls to be single but not for boys. Boys need
someone to clean up after them.
- Anita, age 9 (bless you child)
HOW WOULD THE WORLD BE DIFFERENT IF PEOPLE DIDN'T GET MARRIED?
(1) There sure would be a lot of kids to explain, wouldn't there?
- Kelvin, age 8
HOW WOULD YOU MAKE A MARRIAGE WORK?
(1) Tell your wife that she looks pretty, even if she looks like a
truck.
- Ricky, age 10

GRADUATION DAY

Today, my daughter graduates from High school. I will pause today to attend and celebrate this wonderful achievement in her life. Friday, I will be off but will publish again Saturday.
I believe in you, because YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff

IN ONE ACCORD

“When a Nation is divided it is a Nation searching for answers for change. When we are divided inside ourselves, we do the same thing.” Jeff Johnson June 2008

A while back, I had to do two debates on a subject picked from a list. Simple enough, but the two debates were on the same subject presenting both view points. I picked a topic that I really had strong emotions to both sides of the coin. Thinking I could resolve myself to a point of view that made sense more than another—I took on the challenge. After a lot of research, I did not change my opinion of believing both sides had good stances, but the split feeling inside still existed from having two viewpoints that contrasted each other.

Everyone has issues whereby we have contrasting or torn points of view. Many times our ideas do not have a resolution or we have multiple choices for behavior modification and all seem justified. Finding a peaceful state of tranquility intrinsically means we need to focus on those things we do not find disquieting. This is not a position to proverbially stick our head in the sand, but it seems those issues we have the most choices about dominate our time, emotions, and leaves little time for harmony time and focus. BE A FORWARD STEPPER by thinking more on those things that bring us joy, generate happy thoughts, and give moments of peace.

I believe in you because YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff

HAPPY

"I have learned an important lesson from clowns--You can not mix happy faces with sad faces." Jeff Johnson June 2008

Is the word happy a stranger to us? Many times I fight it when things just do not align up right. No, I am not talking about the Age of Aquarius, but maybe my day slides off the straight and narrow just enough to dispel contentment. What is it that we need to say, ‘WOW, I am really happy?’ Pleasure? Being satisfied? I have a suggestion.

Real happiness comes from more sources than the written word can capture. Happiness—real happiness comes from inside us when we are content with ourselves. When this happens, things around us improve too. Life looks brighter and we are seeing the positive first, and then easily placing the negative in the background as noise.

Seek contentment in your soul, your inner being by telling yourself, I am at peace with who I am because I am doing my best. As I go along this day I am going to get better and better. My life may not be perfect now, but it is preparing me for a greater tomorrow. We should enjoy what is given to us now, savor what we have, and only want the most out of now versus what desires drive us.

You are a FORWARD STEPPER BY looking at today with all the love possible for what you have—and being content with it.

I believe in you because, YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff

A QUEST FOR FULFILLMENT

"The life journey provides fulfillment, making choices for self improvement is fulfillment, seeing a new day, ending a week with successes, fulfillment looks like us all--naturally.” Jeff Johnson June 2008

What does it take to be fulfilled? This is a question felt inside all of us. We know it when we complete something, we can see the outcomes in our planning, and when our accomplishments are noticed. Making even small dreams a reality can bring fulfillment to our lives. Fulfillment can be accomplished when we set small goals and complete the task successfully. We can find fulfillment in developing realistic goals. Fulfillment is all around us.

Our lives are filled with various successes. Some of our successes are small, like getting up and starting our daily tasks, and some of our successes are larger—each is completed daily. Each day we should look to what we have done positive in our lives. Our lives are filled with opportunities presented and completed. Taking time out of our day—each day—to realize how many things we have done, how many opportunities we completed, and realize how fulfilled we are. You are a FORWARD STEPPER by appreciating how many good things were accomplished each day. Fulfillment is beautiful and necessary. Take time to measure it each day.

I believe in you because, YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff

HEALING

“What do I need to be healed? Is it faith that I need to be healed? Do I just need to believe? Should I just ask GOD for healing? Maybe I need to ask first, and then believe I have sufficient faith.”

Jeff Johnson May 2008.

There are many accounts of miracles whereby Jesus explains how the healing occurred in some and not everyone. Although the miracles were available to everyone, not all who asked believed and not all had faith. The story of the Centurion found in Matthew 8: 5-13 tells the story of a powerful man asking if Jesus would heal his servant from paralysis and in great pain. Jesus was willing to go to the Centurion’s home, but the Centurion declared, “you can heal him from here and not go to my home.” Jesus did it and responded with, ^10”"I tell you the truth, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.” Then Jesus continues with, ¹³"Go! It will be done just as you believed it would." And his servant was healed at that very hour. This story, along with many more references point to the combination of faith and belief in the healing desired to make it possible.

Jesus explains it again simply in Matthew 21 ²¹Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, if you (1)have faith and (2) do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done. ²²If (3) you believe, you will receive whatever you (4) ask for in prayer." I think this is in the proper order too. Jesus explains in Matthew 6: ⁸"Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” Jesus is saying approach the healing without any doubt and believes it is done as if you would turn on a light switch.

As with most things, it is easier to understand it than to do it. Struggling with these four elements is very achievable, but will take work. We read in Mark 4, where Jesus was on the sea when a strong storm overtook the boat. The disciples woke Jesus and asked HIM if HE was going to allow them to drown. Jesus responded, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. ⁴⁰He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" ⁴¹They were terrified and asked each other, "Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!" The disciples have witnessed many miracles, healings, and examples of Jesus gifts—yet they were worried about their boat sinking and drowning with Jesus on board. We all fail when we are facing storms—but Jesus is always there, protecting us, and knowing what we need in advance.

Learning how to build our faith, sustain our belief in miracle healing, and following those before us in healing is where we need to focus our attention. Jesus can heal today just like he did in the scriptures. I believe it. If you need healing, study the scripture, search your heart, and improve your FORWARD STEPS toward being healed.

I believe in you because,YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff

CHILDRENS WORDS

“Children listen with their hearts, their skin through touch, through their ears by what they hear, and through their eyes by what they see. They learn life lessons the same way.”

Jeff Johnson May 2008

Recently, I received a memo from a friend. I want to share it with you—please pass it on to your friends. I am not the author and can not give credit since the authors are unknown. I hope it gives you an upbeat feeling as it did me.

A group of professional people posed this question to a group of 4 to 8 year olds,

“WHAT DOES LOVE MEAN?”

‘When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn’t bend over and paint her toenails anymore. So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That’s love.’ Rebecca—age 8

‘When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different. You just know that your name is safe in their mouth.’ Billy—age 4

‘Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell each other.’ Karl—age 5

‘Love is when you go out to eat and give somebody most of your French-fries without making them give you any of theirs.’ Chrissy—age 6

‘Love is what makes you smile when you’re tired.’ Terri—age 4

‘Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK.’ Danny—age 7

‘Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing, you still want to be together and you talk more. My mommy and Daddy are like that. They look gross when they kiss.’ Emily—age 8

‘Love is what’s in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.’ Bobby—age 7 (Wow)

‘If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate.’ Nikla—age 6 (we need a few million more Nikla’s on this planet)

‘Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it everyday.’ Noelle—age 7

‘Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends even after they know each other so well.’ Tommy—age 6

‘During my piano recital, I was on a stage and I was scared. I looked at all the people watching me and saw my daddy waving and smiling. He was the only one doing that. I wasn’t scared anymore.’ Cindy—age 8

‘My mommy loves me more than anybody. You don’t see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night.’ Clare—age 6

‘Love is when Mommy gives Daddy the best piece of chicken.’ Elaine—age 5

‘Love is when Mommy sees Daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Robert Redford.’ Chris—age 7

‘Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day.’ Mary Ann—age 4

‘Love is when Mommy sees Daddy on the toilet and she doesn’t think it’s gross.’ Mark—age 6

‘I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all of her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones.’ Lauren—age 4

‘When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and little stars come out of you.’ (What an image). Karen—age 7

‘You really shouldn’t say ‘I love you’ unless you mean it. But if you mean it, you should say it a lot. People forget.’ Jessica—age 8

A four year old child went next door to a neighbor, and elderly gentleman who just lost his wife. Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old gentleman’s yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there. When his Mother asked what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy said, ‘Nothing, I just helped him cry.’

Enjoy your children and your day.
I believe in you because, YOU ARE WORTH IT,
Jeff