Baby Steps

Writing has become a sort of hobby for me. Unfortunately, like most fledgling "authors", the time to write is a perpetual challenge. Life's demands seem to increase while the hours appear to grow shorter. Well, I shall once again attempt to "learn forward" and find ways to fulfill my dream of making a difference through the written word.

Since undergoing heart bypass surgery in January, 2004, I have faced the reality that I must either change some habits or face the consequences of my poor choices. I have taught my children for years that with every choice there is a resulting consequence. Dr. David Jeremiah has said, "You can choose your choices, but you cannot choose the consequences of your choices." As a result, I have come to a point in my life that I must make some choices.

This past Sunday night I watched a portion of Dr. Charles Stanley's Extraordinary Life broadcast. I was impressed with the three areas he has chosen to emphasize:

• Health
• Wealth
• Spiritual Devotion

Each area has presented its own set of challenges to me over the years. Each area has obstacles that I must overcome in order to walk away victorious. I am committed to use this opportunity to grow and move to the next level of service. Difference Makers will become a diary of my daily quest to improve the health, wealth and spiritual devotion of myself and my loved ones.

Andy Andrews has written a powerful book entitled The Traveler's Gift. I quote from chapter 3 (pp. 32-33) and the first "paper" David Ponder is given to read:

"I am where I am today--mentally, physically, spiritually, emotionally, and financially--because of decisions I have made. My decisions have always been governed by my thinking. Therefore, I am where I am today--mentally, physically, spiritually, emotionally, and financially--because of how I think. Today I will begin the process of changing where I am--mentally, physically, spiritually, emotionally, and financially--by changing the way I think.

My thoughts will be constructive, never destructive. My mind will live in the solutions of the future. It will not dwell in the problems of the past. I will seek the association of those who are working and striving to bring about positive changes in the world. I will never seek comfort by associating with those who have decided to be comfortable.

. . . The buck stops here. I control my thoughts. I control my emotions."

Join me, if you will, on this journey. I will attempt to be as transparent as possible through it all. I invite your comments, criticisms and compliments. My effort is to offer my own journey for the possibility of making a difference in the life of someone else.

Always make a difference!