06/29/15 – Día de la Independencia

June 28, 2015 Wm. AllenLeave a comment

THIS WEEK’S THEME: Día de la Independencia

Since 4th of July is Independence Day in the United States, I thought it would be a good theme for this week’s post. Although this is a United States holiday, I wish more people in the world would think of it as their holiday also. Back in the 18th Century, many expected the United States to be a beacon of freedom and also to welcome all in search of a better life to our shores.

I feel at times like we have lost our way, but then something happens to reassure me we are on the right course. I guess it is a couple of steps forward and a step backwards, before we advance again.

I believe the more we can do to eliminate ignorance, the fewer backwards steps will be taken. I devoted Chapter 44 of my book to the importance of taking time to study and to become more open to considering new approaches to every thing we encounter.

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

SELF-HELP BOOKS IN ADDITION TO MY OWN

This week’s recommendation is the book Common Sense, by Thomas Paine. I really like the Editor’s Introduction in the Penguin Classics edition of the book, since it tells the history of Thomas Paine, one of founders of the United States of America.

As for the importance of this book, John Adams, our second president, says it far better than I can. John Adams said, “Without the pen of the author of Common Sense, the sword of Washington would have been raised in vain.”

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

I just had to recommend Independence Day.

The aliens are coming and their goal is to invade and destroy Earth. Fighting superior technology, mankind’s best weapon is the will to survive. (Description Source: IMDB)

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

I know the quote below is generally taken out of context and a couple of words are missing, but I believe Ben would have approved.

Those who sacrifice liberty for security deserve neither.

Source: Benjamin Franklin

THIS WEEK’S POLL

RESULTS OF LAST WEEK’S POLL – No poll last week

THIS WEEK’S JOKES

What did one flag say to the other flag?
Nothing. It just waved!
From Eloise, age 9, Charlottesville, VA

Teacher: “Where was the Declaration of Independence signed?”
Student: “On the bottom!”
From Christy, age 14, Denver, CO

What did King George think of the American colonists?
He thought they were revolting!
From Scott, age 11, Colorado

Source: Jokes by Kids

CONCLUSION

For those of you that have supported me by purchasing a copy of my book, please do me a favor and let others know what you thought of it at Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

If you have ideas how I can make this blog more valuable to you and others, or if you wish to be placed on my weekly distribution email, please let me know at:

harmonybooksfilmsllc@comcast.net

Also, if you enjoy this blog, why not pass it on to your friends as well as consider liking my Facebook page Harmony Books & Films, LLC.

I think comments make this blog so much more interesting and helpful, so why not start a conversation? All you have to do to leave a comment is to click on the last line of the weekly post, where it says, “Leave a comment”.

06/22/15 – Desiderata

June 21, 2015June 22, 2015 Wm. Allen8 Comments

THIS WEEK’S THEME: FINAL THOUGHT “DESIDERATA” BY MAX EHRMANN

Regarding the terrible events that took place in South Carolina, I will just say that this kid is as dumb as dumb can be and there are just too many other kids and adults just like him. Plus, I understand in China parents are treated like their children. If the children earn respect, than the parent is accorded that same level of respect. If the child deserves no respect or worse, so is the fate of the parents. So why did the parents permit this dummy to be so darn dumb. I suspect he could have been stopped way sooner, when he was very young if the parents did a respectable job of raising their little monster. This was a crime against all people of good will. I have no forgiveness in me for acts this terrible against innocent people just trying to be good people.

Unrelated to the above, I learned Friday that a good friend of mine died that morning. He was Bryant Greene and he was extraordinary in every sense of the word because he was simply one of the best people you could ever hope to meet. Consequently, this week’s posting is going to be different and I will return to the usual format next week.

Here is a department photo taken a long time ago of us celebrating meeting our department goal for the year. Interestingly, Bryant (the fellow on the right) wasn’t part of our department, but he was such a good friend to all of us and helped us to reach our goal that he had to be including in our photo.

I thought Bryant was such an excellent example of what leadership should be like, that I named one of the bosses in the film “Smokers Choice” – Bryant Greene.

In another film, “Perceptions”, Bryant actually played the boss in the film.

In “Perceptions”, we actually held table top rehearsals; however, the film never received much play.

But it was still fun to make a film and we had a few back yard celebrations.

Bryant Greene

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

Desiderata

Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons,
they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment
it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe,
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.

Source: Max Ehrmann, Desiderata

If you want to comment, just click on the last line of the weekly post, where it says, “Leave a comment”.

06/15/15 – Armageddon

June 15, 2015 Wm. AllenLeave a comment

THIS WEEK’S THEME: EATING & EXERCISE

I was reading a Panera Bread advertisement in Sunday’s (6-14-15) New York Times that 1/3 of our kids are overweight or obese and 1/3 of adults are obese. Ok, I understand that a genetic medical condition may cause some to fall into the overweight or obese category. But I believe that for many, it is the result of poor food choices and failing to make some time to exercise.

I have no desire to offend any of you; which means I am. Isn’t it true that every time someone walks up to you and says they don’t want to offend you–you are going to get offended.

I am willing to offend some of you, because I care about your health and want you to have a long, healthy and active life. Please start making better food choices and carve out some time in your busy life for exercise.

I don’t believe it is ever too late to change; you just have to start and it is best to start right now.

Here is Art, who is the founder of Team Armageddon (a powerlifting team), setting a world record Friday (6/12/15). By the way, Art is 60 years old.

Here is another member of Team Armageddon. Nora is 72 years old and like Art, she has set numerous records.

I’m 68 years old and on Friday lifted 44 pounds more than the Michigan state record.

In my book, I devoted my first chapter on diet and my second chapter on exercise, I think being healthy goes a long ways towards helping one to live an extraordinary life. In case you don’t read my book, please remember that eating trumps exercise–my waistline is proof of that.

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

SELF-HELP BOOKS IN ADDITION TO MY OWN

I mentioned food typically trumps exercise but remember being slim is not the same as being fit. I’ve read Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin’s book, Skinny Bastard and afterwards found it difficult to look at food the same way as before I read their book. Although I have not read their other book, Skinny Bitch, I believe it says much of the same stuff just with a female orientation.

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

Shallow Hal is a very funny movie and an excellent reminder that there is a whole lot more to a person than just their mere physical appearance.

After a chance encounter with a self-help guru, obnoxiously superficial Hal is unknowingly hypnotized to see women’s inner beauty. Soon he falls in love with lithe sweetheart Rosemary, blissfully unaware that she weighs 400 pounds. (Description Source: Netflix)

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

The medical literature tells us that the most effective ways to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and many more problems are through healthy diet and exercise.

Source: David Suzuki

THIS WEEK’S POLL

RESULTS OF LAST WEEK’S POLL ON HOW LONG IT HAS BEEN SINCE YOU HAVE PREPARED YOURSELF TO WIN SOMETHING

The results of last week’s poll imply that many of you are not challenging ourselves, when 30% of you indicate that it has been more than five years since you have prepared to win anything. Fortunately, at least 60% of you have tried to win something (contest, job, etc.) within the last 12 months.

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

“I’m embarrassed by how much my stomach sticks out”, says Bill

“Have you tried to diet”, says Julie

“Yes, but no matter what color I try, it still looks like it is sticking out”, said Bill

CONCLUSION

For those of you that have supported me by purchasing a copy of my book, if you have gotten around to reading it, please do me a favor and let others know what you thought of it at Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

If you have ideas how I can make this blog more valuable to you and others, or if you wish to be placed on my weekly distribution email, please let me know at:

harmonybooksfilmsllc@comcast.net

Also, if you enjoy this blog, why not pass it on to your friends as well as consider liking my Facebook page Harmony Books & Films, LLC.

06/08/15 – Raw

June 8, 2015 Wm. AllenLeave a comment

THIS WEEK’S THEME: WINNING

This Friday, I will be in the National Raw (without wraps or similar items) Deadlift Competition for my category (Men, 65 to 69, weighing 198 or a little less). So this week’s theme comes from Chapter 52 – “Winning” from my book.

But I didn’t select the theme because I expect to win in my category, although at my age I am often the only one who shows up. I selected the theme because in my book, I start this chapter’s narrative with the sentence, “You will never ever be extraordinary until you stop being concerned with becoming a winner …”

I can’t recall the gang that said this to me years ago, when I expressed my doubts as to my being up to their standards, but I do recall what I was told. You don’t have to win; you just have to fight.

Strange, where good advice comes from and the circumstances that bring it forth, but good advice is good advice period. I long since modified that last line to say, “You just have to try.”

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

SELF-HELP BOOKS IN ADDITION TO MY OWN

It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want To Be” by Paul Arden is one of the most easy to read books I have come across, and it makes a strong case in my opinion for trying–you just may succeed. I will say one thing for certain, if you don’t try; you will definitely not succeed.

If you are at all interested in being extraordinary, this super easy and fun to read book will help you. I have read and reviewed it many times.

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

I think Bedazzled is a fantastic film and I urge you to watch it and find out for yourself how this film relates to this week’s theme.

I took my own advice and watched last week’s film recommendation again and each time I see this film I become more and more impressed with it for so many reasons. You should check this film out.

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

“What good is being the best,

if it brings out the worst in you.”

Source: Rodney Dangerfield

I couldn’t have more respect for anyone than this guy who always claimed, “I don’t get no respect.”

THIS WEEK’S POLL

RESULTS OF LAST WEEK’S POLL ON SEEING AND HEARING

It seems that a third of us question what we see and are told. If you wish more details, you can scroll down to last week’s post and view the complete results.

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

Sam was about to lose his small business, so she went to the church and prayed to win the lotto; but didn’t win.

The next day he was about to lose both his business and his car, so he went to the church and prayed he would win the lotto; but he still didn’t win.

On the third day, he was about to lose his business, his car and his house and prayed that he would win the lotto.

Suddenly he was surrounded by a blinding white light, and he heard the booming voice of God declare, “Hey, you have to meet me half way and at least buy a ticket.”

CONCLUSION

If you have read my book, please let others know what you thought of it on Amazon at:

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

If you have ideas how I can make this blog more valuable to you and others, or if you wish to be placed on my weekly distribution email, please let me know at:

harmonybooksfilmsllc@comcast.net

Also, if you enjoy this blog, please pass it on to others as well as consider liking my Facebook page Harmony Books & Films, LLC.

I especially appreciate those of you who leave comments. Carolyn, thank you for leaving a comment last week. Folks, remember all you have to do to leave a comment is to click on the last line of the weekly post, where it says, “Leave a comment”.

06/01/15 – SEEING AND HEARING

June 1, 2015 Wm. Allen2 Comments

THIS WEEK’S THEME: SEEING AND HEARING

This week’s theme comes from Chapter 40 of my book.

Ordinary people see and hear what they want to believe and rarely recognize things that are contrary to their beliefs. And even when they do recognize contradictions, they tend to make excuses for what they saw and heard.

Whereas, the extraordinary person not only tries to see and hear what is really there, but even more important, the extraordinary person tries to see and hear what isn’t there.

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

SELF-HELP BOOKS IN ADDITION TO MY OWN

Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions, was written in 1884 about the culture in the age of Queen Victoria, as well as describing life as viewed from various dimensions. I’ve long since lost my copy, but I believe this book is free on iTunes. The book makes a good argument that we see the world not as it is, but as we are.

This mind-bending early science fiction classic imagines life in a 2-dimensional world. It’s a universe populated by lines, squares, and circles, whose perfect flatness creates all new definitions of life, art, and society. Edwin A. Abbott, writing under the pseudonym of “A Square,” combines scathing social satire with a brilliant examination on how we all accept our limits of perception, and how much people who transcend these perceptions are often met with resistance. [Source: iTunes]

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

I found Café to be a really fun and interesting movie that really illustrates this week’s theme so well. I really hope you watch it.

A good-hearted musician struggles to find a way to tell his beautiful barista coworker that he loves her, despite the fact that she is in a relationship. Meanwhile, regulars and customers at the café where they work have their own problems and encounters. A police officer keeps his eye on his wayward cousin, who owes money to a charismatic dealer, and a married man contemplates his relationship with a good-looking new acquaintance. However, one customer learns he is in fact (Spoiler alert, so I stopped the description here).[Source: IMDB]

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

“We see the world, not as it is, but as we are──or,

as we are conditioned to see it.”

Source: Stephen Covey

THIS WEEK’S POLL (Please check as many as apply)

RESULTS OF LAST WEEK’S POLL ON UNITED STATES WARS SINCE WWII

It seems 85% of you question why the U.S. always seems to be in a war; the remainder of you believe those wars have resulted in the world being a better place.

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

A man instead of going home like he usually does on Friday afternoons, stayed out the entire weekend hunting with the boys and spending his entire paycheck.

When he comes home, his angry wife yells at him for over an hour.

Finally, his wife stopped yelling and simply asked, “How would you like it if you didn’t see me for two or three days?”

He replied, “That would be fine with me”.

Monday went by and he didn’t see his wife.

Tuesday he didn’t see his wife.

Wednesday he didn’t see his wife.

Finally on Thursday, the swelling went down just enough to where he could see her a little out of the corner of his left eye.

CONCLUSION

If you have read my book, please let others know what you thought of it on Amazon at:

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

If you have ideas how I can make this blog more valuable to you and others, or if you wish to be placed on my weekly distribution email, please let me know at:

harmonybooksfilmsllc@comcast.net

Also, if you enjoy this blog, please pass it on to others as well as consider liking my Facebook page Harmony Books & Films, LLC.

I especially appreciate those of you that leave comments. All you have to do to leave a comment is to click on the last line of the weekly post, where it says, “Leave a comment”.

Harmony Books & Films, LLC

Tired of being ordinary, then here are some tips for becoming extraordinary.

Month: June 2015

06/29/15 – Día de la Independencia

06/22/15 – Desiderata

06/15/15 – Armageddon