Your Litmus Test

On this day, as we celebrate, I’m humbled to have served and honor those service members who have died in military service to our nation.

For them, the “Litmus test” was courage.

I’m honored to have visited and walked the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial for those who died in the Normandy landings and the Battle of Normandy.

A powerful phrase, “All gave some, some gave all,” honors the sacrifices of military service members as it recognizes that everyone contributes, but some make the ultimate sacrifice.

This past week, I had an epiphany of what many people would call a “Litmus Test” after having an opportunity to vote in local state elections.

I realized many years ago that freedom isn’t free, especially for those considered to have given their lives in defense of it.

The emphasis behind the words of “Litmus Test” was confirmed in my mind early Saturday morning, May 23, 2026, when I witnessed a woman about 30 years old on a two-wheeled pink scooter balancing a gas can while waiting for the traffic signal to turn green in the turning lane opposite me.

I felt sorry for her when her actions and circumstances didn’t go in the positive direction she expected.

As the light changed to green, she not only dropped the gas can, spilling gas on the road, but she also created an accident waiting to happen.

The two cars behind had to navigate around her while dealing with her environmentally hazardous spill.

In my mind, she failed the litmus test of driving a scooter while balancing a small gas can with the spout attached.

What was she thinking that she could balance and drive with both hands at the same time? She had to let the can drop or get run over.

Surely, she hadn’t thought it through.

If I were a local Sheriff or Police officer, she would have been fined immediately.

As for the local state elections, I thought to myself: Why is voter turnout so low, and what does it take to get people to vote?

I thought about what the litmus test was for our Alabama lawmakers to redraw congressional districts.

Having some data from previous elections, I’m fully aware that the black vote is critical in Alabama, yet despite getting people to the polls, it continues to be a major challenge.

Each of us has our own litmus test for what success might look like in any area of our lives.

Yet year after year, voting remains an issue among people of color as boundary lines are redrawn across the state.

Supreme Court clears path for Alabama to redraw congressional map – CBS News

“The new lines in House Districts 1, 2, 6, and 7 will only matter if the Supreme Court allows Alabama to redistrict.”

Having personally supported Representative Terri Sewell (District 7) in the past through her annual Job Fair, which she conducts each year, I’m sure there is a litmus test for what success looks like, as it’s her largest constituent event of the year.

“The state plans to revert to Legislature-drawn maps for both congressional districts (2023) and state senate districts (2021). If Alabama adopts the 2023 map, it would go from two majority-Black congressional districts back to one, a shift that directly imperils the seats held by Sewell and Figures.”

Supreme Court Lets Alabama Redraw Maps, Threatens Dem Seats

Not that I even want to be in politics or talk politics; it’s interesting to me, since moving to Alabama, how redrawing lines can affect voters and the outcome of future elections.

In my opinion, there is a push to go backward instead of forward.

Not that I’m a betting man, I’m sure there was a litmus test being conducted on how all parties did both good and bad.

I’m also aware that, leading up to the recent state elections, last week, watching or listening to commercials, that family values were important to younger voters.

Most U.S. parents pass on their religion and politics to their kids | Pew Research Center

Whether teachers want to admit it or not, the curricula taught in schools are either a hindrance or a support to understanding that the Government is probably slanted towards one particular party.

How Families and Algorithms Influence Youth Politics

I believe that by November 2026, we will see the results of my litmus test, and it probably won’t be a surprise.

Take a moment to think about the various litmus tests you have undergone over the years.

LITMUS TEST Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster

It can be said that “What We Value in Ourselves We Use as A Litmus Test to Judge Others.”

A Litmus Test to Determine Character | by CW Ethridge, Just Figuring It Out | Medium

What is that litmus test you are running in the background of your mind that you tell yourself today, I can do a specific task.

It was easy for me as I loved being a Soldier and sacrificing 30 years of my life in that occupation, putting my life on the line for the freedom of others.

Maybe telling yourself today that you’ll go to church this week, exercise, or even get up early. We all have names for the litmus test we are running in the background of our minds.

Here are two quotes about the litmus test for you to ponder today.

“Most often, qualifications are defined by the credentials of the person who last held the job. If that is to continue to be the litmus test, white males will continue to be the top choice on any list if the interviewer is also a white male.”  Madeleine M. Kunin

“For me, the litmus test to know whether or not I’m doing the right thing is to examine whether my decisions are love-based or fear-based.”  Robert Gant

Today, take a moment and reflect on the words “What We Value in Ourselves We Use as A Litmus Test to Judge Others.”  What was the last litmus test you took part in that was a key decision you had to make?

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/your-litmus-test/

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Boost Communication, Build Influence, and Lead with Confidence through Curtis Leadership and Training

Think about the best leader you have ever worked with. They probably did not just tell people what to do. They listened. They made people feel included. They communicated clearly and stayed calm under pressure. When they walked into a room, people paid attention — not because of their title, but because of who they were. That kind of leadership is not something you are born with. It is something you build. And with the right training, anyone can develop it.

If you or your team want to communicate better, have more influence at work, and lead with real confidence, you do not need to figure it out alone. You need a proven program that teaches these skills in a clear, practical, and encouraging way. That is exactly what this training was built to do.

A Program Built on Real Experience and Proven Methods

Curtis Leadership and Training is a Maxwell-certified program designed to help individuals and organizations grow stronger leaders at every level. It is built and facilitated by a retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major who served for 30 years on active duty and spent over 14 years in federal civil service leadership. This is not a program written by someone who read about leadership. It was built by someone who lived it — in the field, in the boardroom, and everywhere in between.

The program brings together the world-class leadership principles of John Maxwell and applies them through hands-on sessions, open conversations, and real-life practice. Every module is designed to be practical and easy to apply. You will not just learn ideas — you will practice skills you can use the very next day at work.

Boost Communication: Say Less, Connect More

Most people think good communication means being a good talker. But the truth is, the best communicators are the ones who make other people feel understood. That is the difference between simply talking and truly connecting — and that difference changes everything at work.

In this program, you will learn the five factors that help people connect: the relationships you build, what you know and share, what you have accomplished, what you can do, and how you have lived your values. You will also learn how to adjust how you talk to different kinds of people, how to have tough conversations without making things worse, and how to handle workplace conflict in a healthy way. For any team struggling to communicate clearly, these skills are a game changer.

Build Influence: Lead Because People Choose to Follow You

Through Curtis Leadership and Training, you will discover something important: real influence has nothing to do with your job title. It comes from how you treat people, how consistently you show up, and whether others trust what you say and do. When you build that kind of influence, people do not just follow your instructions. They follow your lead.

The program walks you through five different ways people try to influence others — from force and intimidation to genuine, two-way trust. You will figure out where you currently land on that scale and learn how to grow into the kind of leader people are grateful to work with. When you increase your influence, your leadership grows. And when your leadership grows, so do the people around you.

Lead with Confidence: Know What to Do Even When Things Get Hard

Confident leaders are not the ones who have all the answers. They are the ones who know how to stay calm, keep thinking clearly, and keep moving forward — even when things get messy. That kind of confidence is a skill, and it can be learned.

This program teaches you how to set goals that stick, build the kind of personal resilience that helps you bounce back from setbacks, plan strategically for your team or organization, and lead through a crisis without falling apart. One of the most life-changing parts of this program is the Emotional Intelligence module. You will understand yourself better — how your emotions affect your decisions and how your energy affects the people around you. That self-awareness changes the way you lead, communicate, and connect.

Handle Conflict. Build Teamwork. Grow Together.

Every team has conflict. That is normal. What matters is how your team handles it. Do people speak up or shut down? Do disagreements get resolved or swept aside? When conflict is handled well, it actually makes teams stronger. It builds honesty, respect, and better ideas.

This training gives your team tools to resolve conflict in healthy ways, build genuine trust with each other, and create the kind of environment where everyone feels like they belong and their voice matters. You will also explore how to tap into the full wisdom of your workforce — especially in diverse teams — and how to build collaboration that makes your whole organization better.

Twenty Modules. One Clear Goal: Better Leaders.

Curtis Leadership and Training covers 20 structured modules across five areas: Leadership and Management, Conflict Resolution, Performance Measurement, Team Building and Communication, and Productivity and Resiliency. Each module builds on the last, so by the end of the program, participants do not just have a set of new skills — they have a clearer, more grounded sense of who they are as a leader and how they want to show up for the people they serve.

Whether you are an individual looking to grow, a manager ready to lead better, or an organization that wants to build a stronger culture from the inside out, this program meets you where you are and helps you move forward with purpose.

Conclusion

The leaders your organization needs are already on your team. They just need the right training to bring out what is already inside them. Investing in people is never wasted. It is the most important thing a leader can do. And it starts with one simple decision to take the next step forward.

Take the next step today. Explore the full course catalogue at McKinley's Thoughts and discover how 20 Maxwell-certified leadership modules can transform the way your team communicates, collaborates, and leads. Visit mckinleysthoughts.com/courses/ to review the full curriculum and connect with us to schedule your organization's training today.

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Reflections

This past weekend (May 1-3, 2026), I attended one of my annual conferences.

It was our 78^th Gulf Coast District Conference in Hoover, Alabama, hosted by Zone Four of the Knights of Peter Claver and Ladies Auxiliary.

The theme was “Claverism and the Holy Spirit-The Force That Moves You.”

Ironically, each morning or evening, our Chaplain offered a reflection during our prayer services.

For me, it was the Saturday morning prayer service that he asked us to think about what percentage of “Faith” we have tied to our religion.

What was interesting was that he told us that none of us in the room is 100 percent reliant on our faith.

He went on to use a grade card, saying that 75% would be like a “C” in school.

This allowed me to reflect even more deeply, knowing that many of us, me included, rarely received a “C” in anything.

Therefore, today I must ask you have you ever thought about what is the percentage of faith tied to your religion?

As you look at your own scorecard, think about the last time you faced challenges and setbacks.

Think about how you dealt with losing a loved one or a family member recently.

Think about how you deal with adversity daily and how much you rely on the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the force that moves me each day in my life.

Father Vernon, our Chaplain, is famous for saying that “You have to go through it to get to it.”

In my opinion, what each of us goes through each day, both good and bad, reflects our faith.

Who we call upon when times are both good and bad is only known by us.

As I now have passed six years of journaling five things to be grateful for each day, I know where I am in my faith.

I can look back at those moments when I relied on my faith to get me through both the good and the bad times.

One thing is for sure: life is what you decide to make it.

I believe that you can be the healthiest person in the world, and when it’s your time, it’s your time.

Therefore, the question is, what percent of your faith is tied to your religion?

Knowing that you can’t be 100 percent, because we’re all human and have flaws, take a moment to think about your rating of yourself.

Today, I challenge you to think about yourself as a person of faith as we begin this week.  Take a moment and also reflect on your life and how far you have come to be the person you are today.

“I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection. ‘Tis the business of little minds to shrink, but he whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death.”  Thomas Paine

“Even the darkest night will end, and the sun will rise.” – Victor Hugo

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/reflections/

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The D Words

A few weeks ago, was interesting because I heard our Priest’s homily at Mass, which made me think.

He spoke about various words that start with “D”.

Every word made you think about being disillusioned.

As I sat and listened to all the negative words that evoke feelings of disillusionment, such as a loss of hope, trust, or belief, it’s amazing how our minds work.

Many of us don’t often think twice when we hear words such as Disappointed, Dissatisfied, Disenchanted, Disillusioned, Disbelief, Disheartened, Dispirited, Dejected, Dismal, or Despairing.

What is it that keeps our minds focused on the positive and not the negative?

You’re probably asking where am I going with this specific thought today?

Maybe it’s because of my connection to building a stronger defense against any words that suggest a loss of hope, trust, or belief.

As you watched or listened to most of what the news covered this past weekend, I’m sure one of those words that start with “D” came to your mind.

In case you missed it, it was the White House Correspondence Dinner on April 25, 2026, and the Shooter from California.

White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting updates: Shooting suspect called himself ‘Friendly Federal Assassin’ in manifesto

I believe it doesn’t matter how many times something happens in America; those with power will refuse to do something about it.

It has been said now that all those who attended the White House Correspondence Dinner know how it feels to have an active shooter in their midst.  Yet the gun laws in America will not change.

Just like the Priest who gave our congregation his homily about the letter D and the words tied to it, he never saw this weekend coming full circle.

Safety in America remains a challenge.

I’m sure there are multiple lessons to be learned, even after seeing the number of Secret Service and Security personnel protecting the President of the United States was revealed.

So, the question is, what is your one word that starts with “D” from this past weekend’s White House Correspondence Dinner?

“Do not be like the cat who wanted a fish but was afraid to get his paws wet.”  William Shakespeare

At some point, you will need to get beyond your fears and get your paws wet.

Those in attendance at the Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C. got more than their paws wet.

We’ll have to wait and see what happens next.

Today, I challenge you to think about the Letter “D” in your life, not in a negative way, but in a positive way.

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/the-d-words/

 

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Artemis 2

The United States of America has plenty to celebrate with the successful return of the Artemis 2 Astronauts to Earth after their ten-day mission.

Artemis 2 astronauts celebrate successful return to Earth | Space photo of the day for April 13, 2026

We should all celebrate the great minds and people who made this mission possible.

I’m reminded of the phrase that you can be anything you want if you put your mind to it.

There is a quote or phrase attributed to the late Rev. Jesse Jackson, saying, “If my mind can conceive it, and my heart can believe it, then I know I can achieve it.”

I wonder if the mission pilot Victor Glover, who is the first person of color to fly to the moon, thought those words. We should also keep in mind that NASA did not accept minorities into its astronaut corps until 1978, six years after the last Apollo astronauts launched for the moon.

On the other end of the spectrum was his second mission specialist, Christina Koch, who is the first person to have attended U.S. Space Camp at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, and then fly to the moon.

We can all celebrate their success in life.

Although my youngest grandson attended the U.S. Space Camp® at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, when he was ten or eleven, the impact of sending him to something special during the summer hasn’t fully played out yet.

The next U.S. Space Camp® at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, is scheduled for May 24–29, 2026 (Space Camp Expedition 35).

It’s an investment in the future.

Space Camp | U.S. Space & Rocket Center

Of course, living here in Huntsville, we know why facilities have specific names, such as the Von Braun Center, and why Huntsville is named the “Rocket City.”

History

It’s a humbling experience to understand the history of those who paved the way, such as the German-born American rocket engineer, Wernher von Braun. Dr. von Braun (1912–1977)

Interestingly, there were many other firsts, notably NASA’s Artemis 2 mission, which was the first to launch astronauts toward the moon in more than 50 years.

Moon milestones: A rundown of Artemis 2’s many spaceflight firsts

Not to mention that the Artemis 2 astronauts have also seen parts of the far side of the moon that have never been directly viewed by humans before.

As history was made this past week, only time will tell fifty years from now how all this data will be put together.

I’m sure that both Victor Glover and Christina Koch never saw this moment coming as part of the Artemis 2 astronauts.

Maybe these three quotes will inspire you to look beyond the stars, just as they did.

“Exploration knows no bounds; it’s a journey beyond the stars.” – Neil Armstrong

“In the vastness of dreams, find the courage to reach for galaxies yet unseen.” – Carl Sagan

“Unleash your imagination—sometimes, the extraordinary is just a thought away.” – Stephen Hawking

Today, although you and I didn’t go to the moon, I challenge you to think about what unexpected blessing you didn’t see coming your way that has taken you on a journey out of this world.

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/artemis-2/

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Winners and Losers

For all sports enthusiasts, we know there can only be one winner, as both the Ladies’ and Men’s Basketball Final Four concluded a few weeks ago.

Many of us were always taught that it’s not how you play the game, but how you finish the game.

We were also taught to be gracious in our defeat.

We found out during the Final Four game between UConn and South Carolina that the losing UConn head coach, Geno Auriemma, had a meltdown.

It was evident when Geno Auriemma of UConn had to apologize the day after his confrontation with head coach Dawn Staley of South Carolina.

We also witnessed, days later, how South Carolina graciously accepted the loss in the final game against the UCLA Women’s team.

Every one of us should strive to be number one, but sometimes that is just not possible.

For the Michigan fans that beat the Men’s UConn Huskies, it was the first national championship since 1989, “Go Blue.”

Although I have no allegiance to Michigan, I can only imagine the electricity of winning 37 years later.

Both the winning head coaches of the UCLA Women’s Team, Cori Close, and Michigan’s Men’s Team, head coach Dusty May, know the feeling of winning.

To the losing Women’s Team of South Carolina, head coach Dawn Staley, and the Men’s Team of UConn, Connecticut Huskies head coach Dan Hurley both know the feeling of losing.

Each of us is always a step away from greatness.

Both winning and losing are always a step away.

Having lived in Augusta, Georgia, for over seventeen years and attended the Masters four times, on Sunday, there are always winners and losers.

In this case, Rory McIlroy was the winner after a terrible Saturday the day before, setting the standard with a historic performance and a massive six-shot lead.

Rory McIlroy wins Masters 2026 to become fourth man to defend title: Live reaction and leaderboard – The Athletic

Sometimes it doesn’t matter if you’re number one or the favorite to win, as Scottie Scheffler came in second.

Nevertheless, there was a lesson learned from both men playing this week at the Augusta National.  It’s about being patient and remaining in control of your golf game.

Nevertheless, congratulations to Rory McIlroy for being able to pull off the win on Sunday by joining Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo, and Tiger Woods as the only other golfers who have won the tournament in back-to-back years.

Today, I’m reminded of my mantra for this blog by Bruce Lee: “As you think, so shall you become.”  I’m fully aware that winning or losing doesn’t always have to involve sports.

We can win or lose in our minds as well.

Today, I challenge you to reflect on how you are winning or losing in the game of life.

“Winning and losing are both temporary experiences that shape character, resilience, and perspective.”

“You have no choice about how you lose, but you do have a choice about how you come back and prepare to win again.”  Pat Riley

I’m sure that quote by Pat Riley resonates with many, and it’s one of the quotes on winning and losing that stand out for me this week.

Or as Magic Johnson says, “In life, winning and losing will both happen. What is never acceptable is quitting.”

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/winners-and-losers/

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Why Choosing Motivational Speakers in Huntsville, AL Can Inspire Real Change

In today’s fast-paced and often overwhelming world, many individuals find themselves struggling with stress, lack of direction, or low confidence. Whether you are dealing with personal challenges, career uncertainty, or simply looking to improve your mindset, the right guidance can make all the difference. One of the most powerful ways to spark transformation is by learning from experienced professionals who specialize in inspiring change, building resilience, and unlocking potential.

The Power of Professional Motivation

Motivational speakers bring more than just words—they deliver experiences that reshape perspectives. Through real-life stories, practical strategies, and engaging delivery, they help individuals see possibilities they may have overlooked. These professionals are skilled at connecting with audiences on a personal level, making their messages relatable and actionable.

For example, experienced speakers often draw from years of leadership, training, and real-world challenges to deliver impactful sessions. Many, like those featured on McKinley’s Thoughts, combine leadership expertise with coaching techniques to help individuals and teams grow effectively. Their sessions are not only inspiring but also tailored to meet specific needs, ensuring meaningful and lasting results.

Why Personalized Guidance Matters

Not all motivation is created equal. Generic advice may provide temporary inspiration, but personalized guidance creates lasting change. This is why choosing Motivational Speakers in Huntsville, AL can be especially beneficial. Local speakers understand the community, its challenges, and the unique needs of individuals and organizations in the area.

They tailor their message to address real-life concerns—whether it’s workplace stress, personal growth, or overcoming obstacles. By customizing their approach, they ensure that every listener walks away with actionable steps they can apply immediately.

Building Confidence and Resilience

One of the biggest benefits of working with motivational speakers is the boost in confidence and resilience. Many individuals struggle with self-doubt or fear of failure, which can prevent them from reaching their full potential.

Motivational speakers help break these mental barriers by encouraging a positive mindset and teaching practical techniques for overcoming adversity. According to industry insights, these speakers “ignite momentum, challenge complacency, and spark action,” leaving audiences energized and ready to move forward.

This transformation is especially valuable for people dealing with personal setbacks, career transitions, or emotional challenges. With the right guidance, individuals can develop a stronger sense of purpose and direction.

Inspiring Action Through Real-Life Stories

One of the most impactful aspects of motivational speaking is storytelling. Hearing about real-life struggles and successes creates a deeper emotional connection and inspires action.

For instance, many professional speakers have decades of experience helping individuals and organizations transform their lives. They craft messages that resonate deeply, helping audiences elevate their thinking and take meaningful steps toward success.

These stories not only inspire but also provide practical lessons that can be applied in everyday life. Whether it’s improving relationships, achieving career goals, or maintaining a positive outlook, the lessons learned can lead to real and measurable change.

Supporting Mental and Emotional Well-Being

Motivation isn’t just about success—it’s also about well-being. Many people seek guidance to improve their mental and emotional health, especially during challenging times.

Motivational speakers play a crucial role in this area by promoting positivity, self-awareness, and emotional resilience. Their sessions often include techniques for managing stress, building healthy habits, and maintaining a balanced mindset.

Organizations and individuals alike benefit from this holistic approach. In fact, many events featuring Motivational Speakers in Huntsville, AL focus on improving morale, enhancing productivity, and fostering a healthier work or personal environment.

Driving Personal and Professional Growth

Growth is a continuous journey, and having the right support system can accelerate progress. Motivational speakers act as catalysts for change by providing clarity, direction, and encouragement.

They help individuals set realistic goals, develop actionable plans, and stay accountable. This is particularly valuable for those who feel stuck or unsure about their next steps.

In Huntsville, where demand for motivational speakers continues to grow, many individuals and organizations are turning to these professionals for guidance. With thousands of successful engagements and positive feedback, it’s clear that their impact is both significant and lasting.

Why Choose a Trusted Speaking Service

Choosing a reliable and experienced speaking service ensures that you receive high-quality, impactful sessions. Professional speakers bring credibility, proven methods, and a genuine passion for helping others succeed.

Companies offering motivational speaking services focus on delivering tailored programs that address specific challenges and goals. Whether you’re an individual seeking personal growth or an organization aiming to inspire your team, these services provide the tools and support needed to achieve meaningful results.

By working with a trusted provider, you gain access to expert insights, proven strategies, and a supportive environment that encourages growth and transformation.

Take the First Step Toward Transformation

Real change begins with a decision—the decision to grow, improve, and take control of your future. With the right support and guidance, achieving your goals becomes not only possible but also sustainable.

 

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