To everything, there is a Season

“To everything, there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1

 

Let me pose a question to you today.  Do you believe everything happens for a reason?

 

Today, I can’t stop thinking about the words from the book of Ecclesiastes 3:1

 

My purpose for asking this question is many times at least for me I try to follow or understand what the Holy Spirit is speaking to me about.

 

This is not meant to be a sermon or intended to give you any prophecies.  It is however for me to share my faith and understanding God’s grace on my specific calling or purpose in life.

 

It’s also about following your intuition in life and being the best version of yourself.

 

This past weekend I attended my 50th Class Reunion in Williamsburg, VA and it was spectacular.

 

Ironically, a few months prior I was thinking about when my 50th Class Reunion was when one of my friends was telling me about attending her class reunion.

 

About 30 days later, I received a letter in the mail from the committee chairperson notifying me of my 50th class reunion.  The letter provided what steps to take on Facebook and the email addresses to contact them if I was going to attend.

 

Without hesitation I began to make plans to attend this historic event, knowing 50 years is a milestone that many have yet to experience.

 

When I arrived at the Hotel this past Thursday night, one of my classmates, which I didn’t recognize, politely asked me if I was there for the Denbigh High School 50th Class Reunion.

 

It was through that conversation that lasted an hour when I found out the last and only class reunion (our tenth year) happened in 1984.

 

I also attended our tenth-year class reunion.

 

Knowing that information made this past weekend even more special hearing her speak about those she hung out with and that she was responsible for finding the venue for the dinner on Saturday night.

 

It was heartbreaking to also hear of those who were deceased and how God has allowed me the opportunity to be in the presence of all those attending this past weekend.

 

In addition, during the tour of our high school, we went into the cafeteria, and I asked if it was okay to speak to the Varsity Football Team.  They were assembled there with the coach before they played our rival on Friday night.

 

I was given the green light to speak as many of my classmates who listened to me also attended the game and tried to reenergize our losing team to excel.  It was an experience that you just had to be there to experience.

 

Although we may have lost the football game, in spirit, we won by being present for our team.

 

Embracing “Everything happens for a reason,” and what took place this weekend was the fellowship and seeing each other while everyone caught up on each other’s lives and events.

 

Knowing that family is important, anytime I’m close or in the vicinity of where I grew up, I also spent some time with two of my siblings, which made it special.  I was also able to pay my respects by visiting my mother’s gravesite with one of my sisters who lives in the area.

 

This weekend although fast-paced pace reminded me of Seals & Crofts – We May Never Pass This Way Again.

Bing Videos

 

Today, I realize how blessed I am knowing fifty years ago to have graduated from High School, gone straight into the Army, attained the rank of Command Sergeant Major, and retired twice (Military and Civilian).

 

It’s a humbling experience when you find out those who are not here today, and you are by the grace of God.

 

I am so glad that I listened to the Holy Spirit in deciding to attend my 50th class reunion.  Had I not I would not have connected with who our family affectionately calls “Mom’s Angel!”  (Karen).  My mother worked for Dr. Karen as her Dental Assistant.

 

After Dr. Karen retired, she and my mother forged a bond well beyond anything we could imagine.  Karen would drive from Williamsburg to Hampton, which on a good day is a 30-minute drive when traffic is flowing well.  Karen would take my mother to hospital appointments; help clean her house while living in an Assisted Living Community and pick up her medications for her.

 

This is why we call her Mom’s Angel.

 

I was Dr. Karen’s last weekend in Williamsburg, VA before moving to Colorado to assist her daughter.

 

Karen made a special trip to visit me and my wife on Friday, which was ironically All Saint’s Day.

 

On Saturday, I visited my Mother’s Gravesite which was All Souls Day.

 

I could not have planned what happened this weekend any better.

 

The entire weekend was humbling and rewarding. A tour of our school, Pizza at a local (nostalgic establishment) that celebrated 50 years of existence, a Football Game, and a Banquet.

 

When I read the names of my classmates who were deceased and looked at all the pictures displayed many died before they turned 50 years old.

 

I may not know of the specific circumstances behind their deaths; however, I do know that each of them is my classmates and it’s by God’s grace that I’m here today.

 

Today, I challenge everyone to take a moment and reflect on the words “Everything there is a season, and everything happens at just the right time.”

 

Each of us is blessed to be alive and in sound mind.

 

“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” ~ Mae West

 

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/to-everything-there-is-a-season/



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What Exactly is Fellowship?

This week we celebrate Thanksgiving, with many of you entertaining and enjoying the company the fellowship of others.

 

Last week, I had the opportunity to fellowship with various Toastmasters located in a specific division related to our district.

 

We had 13 Toastmasters from various clubs enjoying a potluck-style dinner and sharing stories for two hours.

 

As Toastmasters, we’re taught to think fast on our feet with impromptu conversations such as “Table Topics.”

 

It involved the three C’s Chaos, Confusion, and Clutter with a fourth C being added Casserole.

 

I’m sure we have all been there during the Thanksgiving Holiday involving  the four “C’s.”

 

Chaos is inevitable with large gatherings.

 

Confusion can occur with everyone bringing the same dish.

 

Clutter is when I think of all the preparation for guests arriving and ensuring the home is ready for hosting our guests.

 

Finally, through the years everyone has their favorite Casserole. Many of us remember the Green Bean Casserole that continues to make its presence at many gatherings.

 

Therefore, enough was said about the Casserole.

 

My question to you is what exactly is fellowship and how does it effect our mindset?  The Bible is full of reasons why fellowship is important, yet many don’t understand the importance of fellowship.

 

What is fellowship? Why is it important? 1 John 1:7

 

I’ve only touched on one aspect of fellowship.

 

Work-life balance and fellowship.  I found it interesting that “According to Lifeway Research, 43% of pastors say they need to give attention to work-life balance.”

 

Video: Tips for Work-Life Balance in Ministry – Lifeway Research

 

I also want you to think about, the mindset of how Thanksgiving this year will be spent, as it relates to many Americans celebrating Thanksgiving.

 

How Americans celebrate Thanksgiving | Pew Research Center

 

For those that are traveling don’t forget about practicing some patience as part of your work-life balance with record numbers traveling this year.

 

Holiday travel: Record number of Americans expected to drive, fly for Thanksgiving holiday across the U.S. – ABC7 New York

 

What I was also not aware of was the mandate on roadside diners in New York City coming down after Thanksgiving.

 

Outdoor dining | NYC restaurants must remove roadway sheds by next week as the post-COVID program dwindles participation.

 

“The permanent outdoor eating program, Dining Out NYC, allows restaurants to keep dining sheds on the sidewalk year-round, albeit in a modular setup easier to put up and take down than the large structures that defined the COVID era in the city. But streeteries in the roadway are only allowed between April and November and must be taken down for the winter by next Friday, Nov. 29, so the curb can be restored for automobile parking.  Restaurants out of compliance could face fines of up to $1,000. Roadway setups can return on April 1, 2025.”

 

Outdoor dining | NYC restaurants must remove roadway sheds by next week as post-COVID program dwindles participation | amNewYork

 

I can imagine the three C’s (Chaos, Confusion, and Clutter) all being in full effect for those who are in the process or have already taken steps to avoid fines for not complying.

 

Sometimes we just don’t know what the other states are going through during this Thanksgiving season.

 

As you and I count our many blessings for this year, the question is how will you eliminate “Chaos, Confusion, and Clutter” from your Thanksgiving holiday?

 

In looking inward this Thanksgiving, I’m reminded of this quote:

 

“The best way to show my gratitude is to accept everything, even my problems, with joy.”  – Saint Teresa of Calcutta

 

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and remember:

 

“The secret of happiness is to live moment by moment and to thank God for what He is sending us every day in His goodness.”  – Saint Gianna Beretta Molla

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/what-exactly-is-fellowship/



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What’s Your Code?

As many prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday, I’m asking you what’s your code.

 

What is it that unlocks within you that makes you the person you are today?

 

I recently visited one of my favorite chicken restaurants and they were playing Christmas music.

 

Christmas music is one of my favorite times of the year because it only happens for a short time.  Sure, we can listen to Christmas music all year if we want; however, it is a time when it sets or unlocks for me one of my codes.

 

I also realized this upcoming weekend within my faith the liturgical year will end this weekend.

 

The new liturgical year will start with Advent.

 

It’s a specific code within that helps me be me.

 

There is something special about Christmas music that unlocks different emotions that are hard to describe.

 

Each of us has our codes which help guide us throughout the year.

 

It doesn’t have to be tied to your faith, as one who also believes in adding value to others.

 

Every time I’m able to add value to another person, it unlocks those unwritten rules or principles that help me be accountable for my actions.

 

In the military, there were various codes, some spoken and some unspoken that I lived by each day.

 

One of the many conversations that I had while in the military was that once you walk out those gates and enter the Civilian world, there were different codes awaiting me.

 

Today, you and I can see how the COVID-19 Pandemic brought about various codes that have changed this world and how we operate in it.

 

We have also learned about the inception of Artificial Intelligence (AI).   AI has changed how we operate even further.

 

Interestingly enough, my codes which are embedded within me have not changed.

 

What about you?

 

What I’ve learned is that people will be people.

 

There is a quote that says, “People who switch up depending on who is around them need to stay far-far away from me.”

 

How consistent are you in who you are representing to others each day?

 

Another quote is “Some people will walk all over you with the shoes you bought them.”

 

This is why I don’t buy shoes for others.

 

These two quotes are examples of codes and lessons I’ve learned in cracking codes.

 

Some of us can’t see it coming until it’s too late.

 

Today, I challenge you to think about the specific codes that help you operate in this environment as you deal with others around you.

 

What do others see when they encounter you and how do their codes line up with yours?

 

I always think it’s interesting that there was such a thing as “Black Codes” during 1865–1866 that somehow in 2024, has found its way into our lives.

 

Sometimes overtly and sometimes covertly.

 

You may have a different opinion, however, it’s my opinion.  I know that when I travel outside my normal boundaries it’s the subtle reminder of my first quote “People who switch up depending on who is around them need to stay far-far away from me.”

 

Black Codes (1865) | Constitution Center

 

The late Jim Rohn says, “You’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”

 

Therefore, I would rather spend my time with people who have similar codes that match the behaviors I want to be around.

 

I’ll close on a positive note and tell you that there is a Third Option.

Not the award-winning Marriage Program that has been helping couples since 1988.

 

I’m talking about something different.  The book by Miles McPherson.

 

The Third Option – Miles McPherson

 

Each of us has ingroups and outgroups which I learned from reading “The Third Option” years ago.

 

It has also helped me understand my specific codes.

 

Ingroups and Outgroups: How Social Identity Influences People – Effectiviology

 

Ingroup vs. Outgroup – What’s the Difference? | This vs. That

 

In ten days, we will celebrate Thanksgiving. How will your codes show up in adding value to others and what options are you contemplating this holiday season?

 

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/whats-your-code/



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Why Hire Public Speakers Near Alabama? Enhance Your Event with Local Talent

 


Organizing an event, whether for a corporate gathering, community function, or educational seminar, often requires the right mix of talent to ensure a memorable experience. One key element to elevate an event’s impact is hiring a professional public speaker who can engage and inspire your audience. Here’s why selecting public speakers near Alabama can be an excellent choice for your event and the factors to consider.


1. Local Expertise and Relevance

Hiring a public speaker from Alabama brings a unique advantage of local insights. Speakers familiar with the region can make connections to cultural, social, or economic aspects that resonate with your audience, creating a more relatable and impactful message. A speaker with local expertise can engage attendees with stories and references that feel relevant, making the experience both personal and memorable.


2. Cost-Effectiveness and Accessibility

Opting for public speakers near Alabama also comes with logistical and financial benefits. Local speakers are often more affordable, as transportation and accommodation costs are minimized or even eliminated. This can make a significant difference if you’re organizing an event on a tight budget. Additionally, local speakers are more accessible in terms of scheduling flexibility and are less likely to face travel-related disruptions.


3. Community Connection and Networking Opportunities

Local speakers often have established networks within the community. By hiring someone from the Alabama area, you not only engage a skilled speaker but also have the opportunity to connect with their network of contacts, collaborators, and followers. This can enhance networking opportunities during and after your event, creating lasting connections and opening doors for future collaborations or partnerships.


4. Authenticity and Relatability

An Alabama-based speaker can bring an authentic voice to your event, speaking directly to the interests and concerns of local audiences. Whether your event attendees are corporate professionals, students, or community members, a public speaker who understands the local culture and community dynamics will be more relatable. This relatability enhances the overall impact of the presentation, leaving your audience with a positive impression and takeaways that resonate.


5. Supporting Local Talent and the Economy

Hiring local public speakers also supports the Alabama community, encouraging the growth of local talent. By choosing a professional speaker from the area, you contribute to the local economy and foster the development of homegrown expertise. Supporting local professionals also reflects positively on your organization, as it demonstrates a commitment to investing in the community.


6. Adaptability to Regional Preferences

A speaker familiar with Alabama's preferences and expectations can tailor their message to match the specific needs and dynamics of local audiences. They understand the language, the values, and the tone that resonate within the region. This adaptability ensures that the message is well-received, increasing engagement and creating an impactful experience for your attendees.


7. Customizable Content and Presentation Style

Public speakers near Alabama are more likely to offer customization in their content and presentation style, as they can meet with you or your team in person to discuss the specific goals of your event. Local speakers are often willing to collaborate closely, allowing you to shape their presentation to align with the event’s theme and your organization’s objectives. This level of collaboration ensures a more tailored experience that can effectively address the unique needs of your audience.


8. Building Long-Term Relationships with Local Experts

Hiring public speakers from nearby areas provides an opportunity to build long-term relationships. These connections can be valuable for future events, as you’ll have a reliable roster of talented professionals who are familiar with your brand and audience. Establishing these relationships also allows for more seamless planning for future occasions, as local speakers are likely to be more available for follow-up engagements or community collaborations.


9. Immediate Availability for Follow-Up Sessions or Workshops

If your event includes multiple sessions, workshops, or an ongoing training program, hiring a local speaker offers the advantage of immediate availability. Public speakers near Alabama can more easily attend additional sessions or provide one-on-one consultations, creating a more comprehensive and supportive experience for your participants. This flexibility can be particularly useful for corporate training events, where continuous engagement can lead to better outcomes.


10. Familiarity with Alabama’s Corporate and Social Landscape

For corporate events specifically, public speakers familiar with Alabama’s business environment can offer tailored insights into the region's corporate landscape. This knowledge can be invaluable for topics related to industry trends, business leadership, or community engagement, providing an added layer of depth and relevance for attendees.

 



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