When was the last time you heard someone say that we are living on borrowed time?

 

How do those words resonate with you?

 

Earlier this week, I was reminded of that specific phrase when I noticed that I needed to change out the batteries of one of my clocks.

 

Metaphorically, we are all set to stop without notice.

 

Every birthday that each of us receives is a gift.

 

We take for granted that our batteries don’t need to be changed.

 

I don’t mean this to be morbid; however, why do some people live long, productive lives and others do not?

 

If we knew how long we were going to live, I’m sure our decisions each day would be different.

 

Each of us is dealt with different experiences in the game of life.

 

I remember being 30 and bulletproof, living on the edge, and learning different experiences growing up.

 

Today, I am grateful that I wasn’t worried about borrowed time and for being willing to step outside the norms.

 

As we look into our mirrors each morning, what are we seeing?

 

Are we seeing how our youth has left us as we age gracefully, or are we complaining about life?

 

We subconsciously live on borrowed time, yet we don’t act like it.

 

We don’t act like it because sometimes life happens and gets in the way of things we need to accomplish.

 

As I write, I’m aware of the people who continually pray for me each day as it relates to Psalm 121:8.

 

“The Lord will watch over your coming and going, both now and forevermore.”  Psalm 121:8

 

One thing that is consistent is that we all know there are only 24 hours a day.

 

As many navigate busy schedules and various activities planned, we can’t extend the day beyond 24 hours.

 

Maybe you were like me and used cutting-edge technology to keep you on track with time.

 

I started out using the “Palm Pilot” in the late ’90s to manage my time better with all the meetings I needed to attend.

 

However, as we all know, newer devices such as smart phones and tablets eventually replaced the Palm Pilot.

 

Palm Pilot: Everything You Need to Know – History-Computer

 

It seems sometimes you and I can’t escape time, even with technology.

 

I’m aware of the use of Facebook; for example, family and friends display how many use their time, showing us all the various activities of travel and enjoying life with no regrets.

 

Ironically, I am aware that no matter how well you plan, sometimes we get distracted as time runs out, and we find ourselves late or almost late for an event.

 

For some, it’s in their DNA to run late, and they don’t believe in backward planning.

 

Maybe they underestimate the time it takes to prepare and travel from one location to another.

 

Nevertheless, you might be living on borrowed time if you are one of those people.

 

Today, we have so much that requires our full attention, yet not enough time to complete it.

 

Returning to the metaphor of clocks with batteries, take notice of all the timepieces in your house and the last time you had to set them physically.

 

We are all at some time going to get a power surge and knock our clocks off tasks.

 

Better yet, many complain about our weekends.  They are too short, and they wonder where the time went.

 

Sometimes, we get overwhelmed by competing events that take us off our daily routines.

 

I know, for example, that each time my dog wakes me up in the middle of the night, my sleep patterns are off, and I feel like I’m on borrowed time.

 

Therefore, on this day, think about how much of your borrowed time is productive.

 

In the end, will you have any regrets for not taking full advantage of it?

 

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/living-on-borrowed-time/

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Many took time out of their busy schedules this past Thursday (May 2, 2024) to pray.  I was one of them as I celebrated the National Day of Prayer.

 

Home – National Day of Prayer Task Force

The theme “Lift up the Word-Light Up the World” resonated with me as I reflected on it the entire day.

 

“For you are my lamp, O Lord, and my God lightens my darkness. For by You I can run against a troop, and by my God I can leap over a wall. This God—his way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; He is a shield for all those who take refuge in Him.”

2 Samuel 22:29-31

This weekend reinforced my faith as I participated in various activities honoring Sister Thea Bowman’s legacy during our Knights of Peter Claver and Ladies Auxiliary 76^th Annual Gulf Coast District Conference held in Jackson, Mississippi.

 

I attended four prayer services starting Friday Night, Saturday morning, Saturday evening, and Sunday morning.

 

It was a great time seeing various Courts and Councils from Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, North Carolina, and South Carolina all under one roof with one faith.

 

The Saturday evening Mass was celebrated with the Most Reverend Joseph R. Kopacz, Bishop of Jackson (Catholic Diocese of Jackson).

 

Last year, during the 75^th Annual Gulf Coast District Conference in Mobile, AL, Father Manuel Williams, C.R. (Mission Director and Pastor) introduced us to Sister Thea Bowman’s world.

 

This year, Sister Thea Bowman’s legacy connections spanned the entire weekend.

 

Thea Bowman (fspa.org)

 

The Legacy of Sister Thea Bowman – Wisconsin Life

 

As a nation, we are continually challenged and divided, and all faiths need prayer.

 

Therefore, for me, the National Day of Prayer was something I fully embraced that lasted the entire weekend.

 

Regardless of our religious preferences, we can pray for one another and those who help unite all.

 

My question is, how did you spend your National Day of Prayer this year, and do you have something to share as well?

 

“Prayer is not asking. It is a longing of the soul. It is daily admission of one’s weakness.” – Mahatma Gandhi

 

Therefore, we all have our weaknesses and struggle to find peace tied to our inner peace.  Today, I wish you the best in whatever religious practices you have, and may your heart and soul find the grace of God.

 

As you go about your day, I challenge you to think about the theme, “Lift Up the Word-Light Up the World.”  Although National Prayer Day has passed until next year, what can we do to keep the light burning in our hearts?

 

I now invite you to consider what Sister Thea Bowan said about being a tremendous light.

 

“I think the difference between me, and some people is that I’m content to do my little bit. Sometimes people think they have to do big things in order to make change. But if each one would light a candle, we’d have a tremendous light.”  ~Thea Bowman

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/national-day-of-prayer-2024/

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For those who were able to celebrate Mother’s Day yesterday with both your living and heavenly Mothers, I pray that your mental health awareness is intact.

 

I know from experience that the grieving process is different for many people.

 

I still have my days, too, as I find days when I think about my mother.

 

Many of you are probably unaware of the Green Ribbons being worn this month.

 

“Did you know that 1 in 5 Americans will experience a diagnosable mental health condition this year?”

 

Where to Start 2024 MHA May Toolkit (mhanational.org)

 

Knowing that May is Mental Health Awareness Month, I am vested in 51 documented credits toward clinical mental health.

 

Therefore, I continue to stay up to date with understanding the challenges of mental health.

 

I know the effects mental health can bring, as I’ve seen family members who have Alzheimer’s or Dementia.

 

This month, I wrote in my journal about the care given to my Brother-in-Law as various Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) take care of him.

 

Ironically, this past week was also National Nurses Week, which ran from May 6 to May 12, 2024.

 

I took time to say thank you to the nurses.

 

Knowing that nurses have an essential role in our lives, many don’t see the burden they carry for the ones we love going into the next chapter of their lives.

 

I witnessed how nurses assisted doctors with various intake procedures this past week.

 

Nurses offer compassion and kindness to those who need it most.   Nurses are also often a source of comfort, safety, and security while being passionate about helping others.

 

In short, Nurses add so much value, yet many continue to take their services for granted.

 

I often wonder, with the stresses of life in 2024, who is taking care of the mental health of our Nurses these days?

 

Many remember the pandemic of 2020 and how they carried the burden, and, in most cases, they are still carrying the burden with people still infected today.

 

Nurses are human beings like you and me; their mental health is also essential.

 

Nevertheless, as we celebrate mental health month, it’s celebrated during a month of many other celebrations.

 

Gerontology and Mental Health are two areas I have learned to understand as I age and see the effects of others.

 

Mental Health Concerns and Aging | Psychology Today

 

Each time I visit the doctor, nurses ask questions about depression, suicidal thoughts, feelings of hopelessness, and other probing questions concerning my mental health.

 

I do not want to write about anything that I have not experienced, and with two doctor’s appointments this month already, my mental health is being checked.

 

What about yours?

 

Today, you and I don’t have to look far to see the stigma attached to mental health.

 

Psychiatry.org – Stigma, Prejudice and Discrimination Against People with Mental Illness

 

As you go about this week, think about all the people in your life and how you can better support their mental health as well as your own.

 

“Courage doesn’t happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life.” ~ Shannon L. Alder

 

“Never give up on someone with mental illness.  When “I” is replaced by “We,” illness becomes Wellness.” ~ Shannon L. Alder

 

Remember, “There is no health without mental health.” ~ David Satcher

 

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/mental-health/

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Planning an event in Alabama? Finding the right speaker can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But fear not! This blog post will equip you with the knowledge and resources to find the perfect public speaker in Alabama for your next event.

Why a Public Speaker Matters

A captivating speaker can elevate your event from good to great. Public speakers bring energy, expertise, and a fresh perspective to your event, keeping your audience engaged and ensuring they walk away with valuable takeaways.

The Right Speaker for the Right Occasion

The key to a successful speaker selection lies in understanding your event's goals and target audience. Here are some factors to consider:

• Event Theme: Is it a motivational kick-off meeting, an industry conference, or a client appreciation gala? The theme will guide your speaker search.
• Target Audience: Who are you trying to reach? A young tech startup might benefit from a high-energy speaker, while a seasoned professional audience might prefer a more formal approach.
• Desired Outcome: Do you want to inspire, educate, or entertain? Knowing your desired outcome helps narrow down speaker options.

Alabama's Diverse Public Speaker Talent Pool

Alabama boasts a rich pool of public speakers with a wide range of expertise and speaking styles. Here are some examples:

• Motivational Speakers: These inspiring individuals can energize your team and ignite a desire for success.
• Industry Experts: Bring in thought leaders to share their knowledge on specific industry trends and challenges.
• Business Leaders: Leaders from Alabama's thriving business community can offer valuable insights and real-world experience.
• Storytellers: A captivating storyteller can connect with your audience on an emotional level and leave a lasting impression.

Beyond Expertise: Essential Speaker Qualities

Expertise is crucial, but it's not the only factor. Look for speakers with:

• Stage Presence: They should be confident, articulate, and comfortable commanding a room.
• Engaging Style: Can they hold the audience's attention and keep them actively involved?
• Strong Communication Skills: Clear and concise communication is essential for delivering a powerful message.
• Ability to Tailor Content: A great speaker can adapt their material to fit your specific event needs.

Finding Your Perfect Match: Resources and Tips

Now that you understand the importance of Perfect Public Speaker in Alabama, here are some resources to help you find the perfect fit:

• Speaker Bureaus: Partnering with a reputable speaker bureau connects you with a vast network of speakers and simplifies the search process.
• Online Directories: Several online directories list public speakers by location and expertise.
• Industry Associations: Industry associations often have their own speaker recommendation services.
• Social Media: Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to research and connect with potential speakers.

Beyond the Search: Booking and Preparation

Once you've identified a few potential speakers, it's time to explore their availability, fees, and presentation styles. Here are some additional tips:

• Read Reviews and Watch Videos: Gain insights into the speaker's style and audience reception.
• Schedule a Call: Discuss your event goals and ensure the speaker understands your expectations.
• Provide Clear Requirements: Clearly outline the presentation topic, time constraints, and any audio/visual needs.
• Offer Feedback: After the event, provide the speaker with constructive feedback to further strengthen their performance.

Conclusion: A Successful Event Starts with the Right Speaker

By following these tips and leveraging the wealth of public speakers in Alabama, you can transform your event into a memorable and impactful experience. The right speaker can engage your audience, deliver valuable insights, and leave a lasting impression, propelling your event towards resounding success. So, ditch the speaker struggles and get ready to find the perfect match for your Alabama event today!

 

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As you start the week off, what lesson have you learned that continues to resonate with you?

 

One thing that I have learned is that no man is an island.

 

Today, I witnessed people who are stand-alone type individuals.

 

They are stand-alone because they believe the world revolves around them.

 

Sometimes, it takes a significant emotional event to see the light at the end of the tunnel!

 

As I reflect on the background to John Donne’s ‘No Man is an Island’ sermon, we must understand its context.

 

https://nosweatshakespeare.com/quotes/famous/no-man-is-an-island/

 

I’ve learned as a soldier, civilian, husband, father, and friend to know those five words: “No Man is an island” when I become challenged.

 

Many of us have learned the lessons of these five words in our lives.

 

There are times when we can’t do something or some things alone.

 

We need help.

 

The times when we tell ourselves that failure is not an option and realize we must call in for reinforcements to help pull us out of the proverbial mud or the quagmire that is holding us back.

 

Sometimes, we get stuck in our thinking, needing the assistance of a mentor, friend, colleague, or even a protégé to see the bigger picture.

 

Ironically, during the COVID-19 pandemic, also known as the coronavirus pandemic, a global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), many experienced the need to see or be around people.

 

Lesson 7, particularly in the article from Yale Medicine, says, “Community is essential—and technology is too.”

 

https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/8-lessons-covid-19-pandemic

Yet sometimes, we are not willing to fully understand the situations we are placed in until it’s a significant emotional event for us.

 

If you have not witnessed a significant emotional event (SEE), keep living, and you will.

 

Significant Emotional Event & The Impact on Your Employees | VanHooser.com

 

As I write today, I’m also thinking of the five letters VABES that I learned during one of my courses at Darden Business School taught by James G. Clawson on Level 3 Leadership.

 

It stands for Values, Assumptions, Beliefs and Expectations.

 

80157 03 033-042 r0 rz (virginia.edu)

 

Although ten years have passed, the lessons I learned at Darden Business School are potent reminders that no man is an island.

 

They are my powerful reminders because I see the VABES of others around me each day, not to mention reflection on my own VABES.

 

I realize sometimes we all, me included, need help pulling off our “rose-colored glasses” to understand that no man is an island.

 

Rose Colored Glasses – An Idiom Of Optimism Or Ignorance (grammarist.com)

 

As we prepare to enter the month of May, many High Schools and Colleges are also preparing for graduation.

I’m sure each graduating student has learned and incorporated various VABES, which they will soon understand or make a reality.

 

Some will enter the workforce as a culture shock, while others will still try to figure it out, thinking they can do it independently.

 

I pray that the significant emotional events (SEE) we’ve learned in our lives have taught us various lessons on being resilient that we can pass on to others.

 

Therefore, as you start your week, think about the lessons you have learned and those you continue to understand that you want to pass on to others.

 

“Never discourage anyone who continually makes progress, no matter how slow.” ~ Plato

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/lessons-learned-in-life/

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