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How much has happened in your life so far ? How fast has technology advanced ? In the new year it's always good to look back, as it puts everything into perspective. So let's have a look what has happened in the last 100 years and see what a huge difference a century makes.

100 YEARS AGO

The average life expectancy was 47 years.

Only 14 percent of the homes had a bathtub.

Only 8 percent of the homes had a telephone.
There were only 8,000 cars and only 144 miles of paved roads.
The maximum speed limit in most cities was 10 mph.
The tallest structure in the world was the Eiffel Tower!
The average wage in 1908 was 22 cents per hour.
The average worker made between $200 and $400 per year .
A competent accountant could expect to earn $2000 per year, A dentist $2,500 per year, a veterinarian between $1,500 and $4,000 per year, and a mechanical engineer about $5,000 per year.
More than 95 percent of all births took place at HOME .
Ninety percent of all doctors had NO COLLEGE EDUCATION!
Instead, they attended so-called medical schools, many of which were condemned in the press AND the government as 'substandard. '
Sugar cost four cents a pound.
Eggs were fourteen cents a dozen.
Coffee was fifteen cents a pound.
Most women only washed their hair once a month, and used Borax or egg yolks for shampoo.
Canada passed a law that prohibited poor people from Entering into their country for any reason.
Five leading causes of death were:

1. Pneumonia and influenza 2. Tuberculosis 3. Diarrhea 4. Heart disease 5. Stroke
The American flag had 45 stars.

The population of Las Vegas , Nevada, was only 30!
Crossword puzzles, canned beer, and ice tea hadn't been invented yet!
There was no Mother's Day or Father's Day.
Two out of every 10 adults couldn't read or write.

Only 6 percent of all Americans had graduated from high school.
Marijuana, heroin, and morphine were all available over the counter at the local corner drugstores. Back then pharmacists said, 'Heroin clears the complexion,gives buoyancy to the mind,regulates the stomach and bowels, and is, in fact, a perfect guardian of health'

Eighteen percent of households had at least one full-time servant or domestic help.
There were about 230 reported murders in the ENTIRE ! U.S.A. !

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Can you imagine what all is going to change in the next 100 years ? Yes, I always harp on about time and the importance of utilizing the time you have to its fullest. Especially now in this new year. Will you look back at the beginning of 2010 and say – I did it, or will you have regrets, because you wasted your time. Here' a touching story to put time back into perspective.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME

Over the phone, his mother told him, "Mr. Smit died last night. The funeral is Wednesday."

Memories flashed through his mind like an old newsreel as he sat quietly remembering his childhood days. "Jack, did you hear me?"

"Oh, sorry, Mom. Yes, I heard you. It's been so long since I thought of him. I'm sorry, but I honestly thought he died years ago," Jack said.

"Well, he didn't forget you. Every time I saw him he'd ask how you were doing. He'd reminisce about the many days you spent over "his side of he fence" as he put it," Mom told him.

"I loved that old house he lived in," Jack said.

"You know, Jack, after your father died, Mr. Smit stepped in to make sure you had a man's influence in your life," she said.

"He's the one who taught me carpentry," I recalled. "I wouldn't be in this business if it weren't for him. He spent a lot of time teaching me things he thought were important...Mom, I'll be there for the funeral."

As busy as he was, he kept his word. Jack caught the next flight to his hometown. Mr. Smit's funeral was small and uneventful. He had no children of his own, and most of his relatives had passed away. The night before he had to return home, Jack and his Mom stopped by to see the old house next door one more time. Standing in the doorway, Jack paused for a moment. It was like crossing over into another dimension, a leap through space and time. The house was exactly as he remembered. Every step held memories. Every picture, every piece of furniture.... Jack stopped suddenly.

"What's wrong, Jack?" his Mom asked. "The box is gone," he said. "What box? " Mom asked.

"There was a small gold box that he kept locked on top of his desk. I must have asked him a thousand times what was inside. All he'd ever tell me was the thing I value most,'" Jack said.

It was gone. Everything about the house was exactly how Jack remembered it, except for the box. He figured someone from the Smit family had taken it.

"Now I'll never know what was so valuable to him," Jack said. "I better get some sleep. I have an early flight home, Mom."

It had been about two weeks since Mr. Smit died. Returning home from work one day Jack discovered a note in his mailbox. "Signature required on a package. No one at home. Please stop by the main post office within the next three days," the note read. Early the next day Jack retrieved the package. The small box was old and looked like it had been mailed a hundred years ago. The handwriting was difficult to read, but the return address caught his attention. "Mr. John Smit" it read. Jack took the box out to his car and ripped open the package. There inside was the gold box and an envelope. Jack's hands shook as he read the note inside.

"Upon my death, please forward this box and its contents to Jack Rogers. It's the thing I valued most in my life." A small key was taped to the letter. His heart racing, as tears filling his eyes, Jack carefully unlocked the box. There inside he found a beautiful gold pocket watch. Running his fingers slowly over the finely etched casing, he unlatched the cover. Inside he found these words engraved: "Jack, Thanks for your time! John Smit."

"The thing he valued most...was...my time."

Jack held the watch for a few minutes, then called his office and cleared his appointments for the next two days. "Why?" Janet, his assistant asked.

"I need some time to spend with my son," he said. "Oh, by the way, Susan… thanks for your time!"

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take,

but by the moments that take our breath away,"

"Thanks for your time"

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One way to make use of your time effectively, is to think out of the box. I cannot put it better than in the last story for this month.

CHANGE OF STRATEGY

Once there was a man standing on the pavement with a sign which read, “I am blind, please help”.

A creative advertising executive walked past and stopped to observe him. The blind man only had a few coins in his hat and most people walked past. He dropped in a few coins and took the blind man's sign and wrote a new message on the back. This he then placed prominantly next to the blind man.

Later that afternoon the advertising executive walked passed the blind man again, and noticed that his hat was full of money notes and high value coins. The blind man recognised this man's footsteps and queried whether he was the chap that had re-written his sign, and what he had written. The advertising executive responded, “Yes, and I wrote nothing that wasn't true – I just wrote your sign a little differently.” At that he left.

The new sign read : “TODAY IS THE FIRST DAY OF SPRING, AND I CANNOT SEE IT!”

Moral of the story : Sometimes you just need to change your strategy when things are not going your way – and it may just turn out for the best.

Remember, if you always do what you have always done, you will always get what you have always gotten.
So make 2009 the best year ever – change your strategy !

Tags: Free Motivation, Wolfgang Riebe, January 2009 'Useletter, Free 'Useletter', Free Self Help, Www.wolfgangriebe.com

Welcome to the February 'Useletter'. It certainly is turning out to be '2000 & Mine' – I find that being positive and believing that this is going to be an awesome year, is attracting so many more things into my life and that it rubs off on everyone I come into contact with. This year I launched my new inspirational talk, 'Discover Your Passion' and am already helping so many people re-discover the fun in life. In fact, being someone that believes in humour, I open my talk with a saying, “Life is like a roll of toilet paper – the closer you get to the end, the quicker it goes!” It's mostly the baby boomers and older that really appreciate that saying. Why, because as we get older, time does fly. And we realise that one has to make the most of every precious day. It simply isn't worth it to get depressed and annoyed.
In fact one of my resolutions this year was NOT to listen to the news and NOT to read the political pages of any newspaper. Wow, it has made a huge difference in my outlook. I now don't have all these corrupt politicians irritating me anymore. Suddenly, I am smiling more and believing that the future is bright. And guess what? It's not difficult to do! If each and everyone of us just negated all those little irritations in life – everyone would be more positive, and the whole world would change overnight. Just try it! Please note, I said I don't read the political nonsense – however, I still keep myself updated with the financial markets and the business world – it's important to stay informed.

We are so bombarded by negative news daily, that it has become part of most peoples lives. In a year that is going to be mine, I definitely am not going to let an outsider influence my positive goals and thoughts. So, if I can share a bit of advice to find your passion this year, DON'T hang out with negative people, and DON'T read negative press. Remember the universal law : like energy attracts like energy – I want to attract health and happiness into my life, and I can only do so by connecting with like-minded people.
It's a decision on your part. It's an attitude – and on that note, here's an elderly gentleman that we can ALL learn an important lesson from.

A WISE OLD MAN

A man of 92 years, short, very well-presented, who took great care in his appearance, was moving into a retirement home. His wife of 70 had recently died, and he was obliged to leave his house of 40 years.

After waiting several hours in the retirement home lobby, he gently smiled as he was told that his room was ready. Slowly he walked to the elevator, using his cane, as the young helper described his small room to him, including the sheet hung at the window which served as a curtain.

"I like it very much", he said, with the enthusiasm of an 8 year old boy who has just been given a new puppy. "Sir, you haven’t even seen the room yet, hang on a moment, we are almost there. "

" That has nothing to do with it ", he replied. " Happiness is something I choose in advance. Whether or not I like the room does not depend on the furniture, or the decor – rather it depends on how I decide to see it. I already decided in my mind that I like my room. It is a decision I take every morning when I wake up. "

"I can choose. I can spend my day in bed enumerating all the difficulties that I have with the parts of my body that no longer work very well, or I can get up and give thanks to for those parts that are still in working order. Every day is a gift, and as long as I can open my eyes, I will focus on the new day, and all the happy memories that I have built up during my life. "

" Old age is like a bank account. You withdraw in later life what you have deposited along the way. "
So, my advice to you is to deposit all the happiness you can in your bank account of memories.”

So you see, it was his decision to be positive and happy. He chose to do so. And together with that choice come the decision NOT to let outside influences get you down. Yes! It is not that easy to do at first, but start with little changes, such as not reading the negative things in the newspaper. As you practice, it becomes easier and easier, and before you realise it, you have change your whole outlook to life.
MORE LIFE WISDOMS
Health:

LIFE
Try an imagine a future time, where archeologists have just discovered a buried library.

And in these ruins they found a book, written by scholars, scientists and philosophers, all about the 21st century and the downfall of it's people.
A time where :

So what was it, that the future had learnt from the past ?

 That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular. It is not the breath we breathe, that counts. But every moment that takes our breath away. Savour each and every precious moment in life and with your loved ones. One day when you look back at your life, it won’t be the material things that you remember, but the moments that took your breath away with those close to your heart.
 Never look back too often, because, then you won’t be able to see ahead. Stop living in the past and realise that it is love, not time, that heals all wounds.
 Consider that everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile. After all, a smile enriches all those who receive it, without making poorer those who give it. And it takes but a moment, yet the memory of it sometimes lasts forever. In fact, a smile is the most inexpensive way to improve your looks.
 Realise that under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved. And when you say, “I Love You’, mean it. Similarly, when you say, “I’m Sorry”, look the person in the eye. You may be only one person in the world, but you may also be the world to one person.

 Be careful how you think, as your life is Shaped by your thoughts. Our thoughts are energy ! Think positive and be with positive people – and life will treat you well. The world is like a mirror, if you face it smiling, it smiles back at you.
 Don't cry because it's over; smile because it happened.
 And that even if you want to live on top of the mountain, never forget that all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.
 Live as you would have wished to live, when you come to die.
 And remember that the purpose of life, is to life a life of purpose.

Have a brilliant February!

Tags: Free Motivation, Wolfgang Riebe, February 2009 'Useletter', Free 'Useletter', Free Self Help, Www.wolfgangriebe.com

Welcome to the March “Use Letter”. I have noticed how many people have followed through with my '2000 and mine' belief and are really having an awesome year. However, with all the doom and gloom from the media on a daily basis – it is becoming more and more difficult to remain positive – or is it ? Most DEFINITELY not ! Life is so awesome and there are so many fantastic things to be grateful for, which, if we just become a little more aware – WILL keep you positive. A good friend of mine, Delycia, sent me 11 Rules to change the world. There is so much depth to these and if we all follow them – the world and your own life WILL be more positive.

SUBJECT: 11 RULES TO CHANGE THE WORLD ... AND YOUR LIFE!

1. You be the change, you dream of seeing (Mahatma Gandhi). "If everyone of us would sweep their own doorstep, the whole world would be clean," observed Mother Teresa. She was right.

2. Make time every day to reconnect to your highest ideals and boldest dreams. Without hope, people perish.

3. Leave every person you meet better than you found them. Life's too short to withhold encouragement and kindness.

4. See every setback as a stepping stone and every problem as a blessing in disguise. Contrary to what critics might say, these are NOT corny aphorisms. They are timeless truths of humanity. (And critics are just people too scared to grow their dreams anyway - pay no attention to them. The world needs more people lifting people up rather than putting people down).

5. Go the extra mile in everything you do.

6. Do what's right rather than what's easy. Being a great person isn't a popularity contest.

7. Care for your health. You elevate the world by elevating yourself, and your health really matters. Why be the richest person in the graveyard?

8. Tell your kids they are geniuses - and how much you adore them. Each of us are born geniuses but lose that gift within the first 6 years of our lives as we adopt the fears and limiting beliefs of those around us. Your kids are the leaders of the future. Grow their potential. Now.

9. Learn something new every day. As you grow, you begin to see possibilities you didn't have the eyes to see before. Read from an inspiring book, (click here) listen to an audio program, visit a good blog, go to a powerful workshop or have a conversation with an elder. One idea is all it takes to transform your life.

10. Keep your life simple! The secret to success and happiness is building your life around a few important things. The person who tries to do everything accomplishes nothing. What's the point in being busy doing the wrong things?

11. Remember that life is a mirror and we receive what we give out. To get more joy, give more joy. To have more respect, give more respect. To realize your dreams, help others realize theirs.

Last month I was literally inundated by people requesting the free E-Book of the last few year's inspiration (You can still do so on my “Free Inspiration” page on my website. Many asked if I don't have a proper published book as it would be a great bedside table read, or gift. I do listen to what you ask. The book is now at the publishers and will be available within the next two weeks. It's a 5 x 8 size book with over 200 pages of the best stories and quotes I have shared in this 'Use Letter'. The Title is “Life Lesson for the Heart”. You can order it off my website (click here) via PayPal, or click here and I'll send you banking details for a direct deposit. Also, if you are looking for a totally novel corporate gift for your clients – I can have special runs printed with your corporate logo on it.

It seems a general thread in my 'Use Letter' that I add stories about time. One of the reasons is that I have just finished the previous month's one, and suddenly I am working on the new one. Where does the time go. It's already March ! Over and over I stress the importance of savouring each and every day and truly living in the moment. A very dear friend of mine in LA, Sharon Williams sent me this beautiful story a few weeks ago about age and behind content with who you are. I don't know who the author is, but feel that is just so insightful and I needed to share it with you.

OLD AGE, I DECIDED, IS A  GIFT 

I am now, probably for the first time in my life, the person I have always wanted to be. Oh, not my  body! I sometime despair over my body, the wrinkles, the baggy eyes, and the sagging butt. And often I am taken aback by that old person that lives in my mirror (who looks like my mother/father!), but I don't agonize over those things for long.. 

I would never trade my amazing friends, my wonderful life, my loving family for less grey hair or a flatter belly. As I've aged, I've become more kind to myself, and less critical of myself. I've become my own friend. 

I don't chide myself for eating that extra cookie, or for not making my bed, or for buying that silly cement gecko that I didn't need, but looks so avante garde on my patio. I am entitled to a treat, to be messy, to be extravagant. 

I have seen too many dear friends leave this world too soon; before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging. 

Whose business is it if I choose to read or play on the computer until  4 AM and sleep until  noon ? 

I will dance with  myself to those wonderful tunes of the 60 & 70's, and if I, at the same time, wish to weep over a lost love ... I will. 

I will walk the beach in a swim suit that is stretched over a bulging body, and will dive into the waves with abandon if I choose to, despite the pitying glances from the jet set. They, too, will get old. 

I know I am sometimes forgetful. But there again, some of life is just as  well forgotten. And I eventually remember the important things. 

Sure, over the years my heart has been broken... How can your heart not break when you lose a loved  one, or when a child suffers, or even when somebody's beloved pet gets hit by a car? But broken hearts are what give us strength and understanding and compassion. A heart never broken is pristine and sterile and will never know the joy of being imperfect. 

I am so blessed to have lived long enough to have my hair turning grey, and to have my youthful laughs be forever etched into deep grooves on my face. So many have never laughed, and so many have died before their hair could turn silver. 

As you get older, it is easier to be positive. You care less about what other people think. I don't question myself anymore. I've even earned the right to be wrong. 

So, to answer your question, I like being old. It has set me free. I like the person I have become . I am not going to live forever, but while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been, or worrying about what will be.... And I shall eat dessert every single day. ( If I feel like it). 

Have a super March!

Tags: Free Motivation, Wolfgang Riebe, Free 'Useletter', March 2009 'Useletter', Free Self Help, Www.wolfgangriebe.com

Welcome to April's Useletter. This month I want to share a few stories with you about enjoying life and being grateful for the little things. This whole global economic turndown seems to be making everyone negative. Even I am quiet (hint, hint) as companies are holding back on booking inspirational speakers – which doesn't make sense – this is the time when everyone needs to be motivated. To me it's a mindset. This should be the time when you reflect upon your life and be grateful for the smaller things. It is sad to see how most people judge their happiness according to their material worth – no wonder we are in an economic downturn. It's a mental downturn too! If you just look at all the good things around you, your health, your family and your friends. The beautiful country we live in. At the end of the day it is our inner thoughts which affect our outer behavior, and on that note – enjoy the first lesson.
YOUR WORDS, YOUR DREAMS, AND YOUR THOUGHTS HAVE POWER TO CREATE CONDITIONS IN YOUR LIFE.

What you speak about, you can bring about.

If you keep saying you can't stand your job, you might lose your job.

If you keep saying you can't stand your body, your body can become sick.

If you keep saying you can't stand your car, your car could be stolen or just stop operating.

If you keep saying you're always broke, guess what? You'll always be broke.

If you keep saying you can't trust a man or trust a woman, you will always find someone in your life to hurt and betray you.

If you keep saying you can't find a job, you will remain unemployed.

If you keep saying you can't find someone to love you or believe in you, our very thoughts will attract more experiences to confirm your beliefs.

Turn your thoughts and conversations around to be more positive and power packed with faith, hope, love and action.

Don't be afraid to believe that you can have what you want and deserve.

Watch your "Thoughts," they become words;

Watch your "Words," they become actions;

Watch your "Actions," they become habits;

Watch your "Habits," they become character;

Watch your "Character", for it becomes your "Destiny"

So.......To prevent any obstacles.......

GET OUT OF YOUR OWN WAY!

If I must reflect on my life right now, my two daughters are at an age where they are becoming so insightful and it is such a pleasure listening to their views and questions on life. The way in which they see the beauty in simple things is often a great reminder for me to 'come right' and stop fretting the small stuff. Hence here is a great insight to life, as seen from a young girl's perspective.

WINDSHIELD MESSAGE FROM A CHILD

One rainy afternoon I was driving along one of the main streets of town, taking those extra precautions necessary when the roads are wet and slick.

Suddenly, my daughter, spoke up from her relaxed position in her seat. "Dad, I'm thinking of something."

This announcement usually meant she had been pondering some fact for a while, and was now ready to expound all that her seven-year-old mind had discovered. I was eager to hear. "What are you thinking?" I asked.

"The rain;" she began, "is like sin, like all the negative stuff around us, and the windshield wipers are the good and the positive, wiping our negative away." After the chill bumps raced up my arms I was able to respond.

"That's really good." Then my curiosity broke in. How far would she take this revelation?

So I asked... "Do you notice how the rain keeps on coming? What does that tell you?" She didn't hesitate one moment with her answer: "Negative things happen all the time. When they do, we need to wipe them away. We must also remember that if negativity stops, just like the rain, it will come back again – that's just how it is. Then we just need to turn the wipes on again and wipe it away again. People always make it such a big deal. Why ? To flick the switch to turn the wipers on is no effort at all, and that is how all people should see it in real life. So when something negative happens, they should automatically switch over to the positive mode.

I will always remember this whenever I turn my wipers on.

Everyone want to know the real 'secret' to life and continually imagine it to be something complicated, phenomenal and insightful. In fact it's all about the lessons in this month's 'Useletter'. As in the storey below.


FAMILY

Are you aware that if we died tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of days. But the family we left behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives. And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more into work than into our own family, an unwise investment indeed, don't you think? So what is behind the story?

Do you know what the word FAMILY means?

FAMILY = (F)ATHER (A)ND (M)OTHER (I) (L)OVE (Y)OU


THE SECRET

One day, one friend asked another, "How is it that you are always so happy? You have so much energy, and you never seem to get down."

With his eyes smiling, he said, "I know the Secret!"

"What secret is that?"
To which he replied, "I'll tell you all about it, but you have to promise to share the Secret with others."

"The Secret is this: I have learned there is so little in life that I need to be truly happy. I must live in the moment and take every day as it comes. I have learnt that most of the time I don't need half of what I think I do. My health, food in my stomach, my family and shelter, that's really the most important of it all. Since I learned that 'Secret', I am happy."

The questioner's first thought was, "That's too simple!"

But upon reflecting over his own life he recalled how he thought a bigger house and car would make him happy, but it didn't! He thought a better paying job would make him happy, but it hadn't.

When did he realize his greatest happiness?
Sitting on the floor with his children, playing games, eating pizza or reading a story. Spending quite time sitting next to his wife out in nature, and just appreciating the scenery ... the simple things in life.

Now you know it too!

Stop being materialistic and conditioned by the media and everyone around you. If there was no fuel, no electricity and no computers, would it really change who you are ? If anything, it would make you spend more time with your family and appreciate the simpler things in life. In fact you would be forced to do so and suddenly realize that this is the secret. But instead you let modern technology, stress and everything around you control who you are. STOP! And just start realizing that to be truly happy in life, it's the things that don't cost money, that are really important.

Someone asked me at a conference recently if there was anything in life that saddens me. Yes, the inability of people to accept each other for who they are, and to unconditionally love each other as fellow human beings. If everyone would only realize that life and people give back what you put in. See how the Chinese understood this thousands of years ago.

RELATIONSHIPS

A long time ago in China, a girl named Li-Li got married and went to live with her husband and mother-in-law. In a very short time, Li-Li found that she couldn't get along with her mother-in-law at all. Their personalities were very different, and Li-Li was angered by many of her mother-in-law's habits. In addition, she criticized Li-Li constantly.

Days passed days, and weeks passed weeks.
Li-Li and her mother-in-law never stopped arguing and fighting. But what made the situation even worse was that, according to ancient Chinese tradition, Li-Li had to bow to her mother-in-law and obey her every wish. All the anger and unhappiness in the house was causing Li-Li's poor husband great distress.

Finally, Li-Li could not stand her mother-in-law's bad temper and dictatorship any longer, and she decided to do something about it. Li-Li went to see her father's good friend, Mr. Huang, who sold herbs. She told him the situation and asked if he would give her some poison so that she could solve the problem once and for all. Mr. Huang thought for a while, and finally said, "Li-Li, I will help you solve your problem, but you must listen to me and obey what I tell you."

Li-Li said, "Yes, Mr. Huang, I will do whatever you tell me to do." Mr. Huang went into the back room, and returned in a few minutes with a package of herbs. He told Li-Li, "You can't use a quick-acting poison to get rid of your mother-in-law, because that would cause people to become suspicious. Therefore, I have given you a number of herbs that will slowly build up poison in her body. Every other day prepare some delicious meal and put a little of these herbs in her serving. Now, in order to make sure that nobody suspects you when she dies, you must be very careful to act very friendly towards her. Don't argue with her, obey her every wish, and treat her like a queen."

Li-Li was so happy. She thanked Mr. Huang and hurried home to start her plot of murdering her mother-in-law. Weeks went by, and months went by, and every other day, Li-Li served the specially treated food to her mother-in-law. She remembered what Mr. Huang had said about avoiding suspicion, so she controlled her temper, obeyed her mother-in-law, and treated her like her own mother.
After six months had passed, the whole household had changed. Li-Li had practiced controlling her temper so much that she found that she almost never got mad or upset. She hadn't had an argument with her mother-in-law in six months because she now seemed much kinder and easier to get along with.

The mother-in-law's attitude toward Li-Li changed, and she began to love Li-Li like her own daughter. She kept telling friends and relatives that Li-Li was the best daughter-in-law one could ever find. Li-Li and her mother-in-law were now treating each other like a real mother and daughter. Li-Li's husband was very happy to see what was happening.

One day, Li-Li came to see Mr. Huang and asked for his help again. She said, "Dear Mr. Huang, please help me to keep the poison from killing my mother-in-law! She's changed into such a nice woman, and I love her like my own mother. I do not want her to die because of the poison I gave her." Mr. Huang smiled and nodded his head. "Li-Li, there's nothing to worry about. I never gave you any poison. The herbs I gave you were vitamins to improve her health. The only poison was in your mind and your attitude toward her, but that has been all washed away by the love which you gave to her."

MORAL: Have you ever realised that how you treat others is exactly how they will treat you?

There is a wise Chinese saying: 'The person who loves others will also be loved in return.'

Tags: Free Motivation, Wolfgang Riebe, April 2009 'Useletter', Free 'Useletter', Free Self Help, Www.wolfgangriebe.com

Stress Management
A lecturer, when explaining stress management to an audience, raised a glass of water and asked, "How heavy is this glass of water?"

Answers that were called out ranged from 20g to 500g.
The lecturer replied, "The absolute weight doesn't matter. It depends on how long you try to hold it. "If I hold it for a minute, that's not a problem.  If I hold it for an hour, I'll have an ache in my right arm.  If I hold it for a day, you'll have to call an ambulance."
"In each case, it's the same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes. "  He continued, "And that's the way it is with stress management.  If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, as the burden becomes increasingly heavy, we won't be able to carry on."
"As with the glass of water, you have to put it down for a while and rest before holding it again. When we're refreshed, we can carry on with the burden. "

"So, before you return home tonight, put the burden of work down. Don't carry it home. You can pick it up tomorrow. Whatever burdens you're carrying now, let them down for a moment. Relax, pick them up later after you've rested. You can then tackle them with renewed energy and more efficiently.

There are many things in life that will catch your eye, but only a few things that will catch your heart…. pursue those instead.

Have an awesome May and if you enjoy my 'Useletter' forward it to your friends and get them to subscribe – it is my goal to get the subscriber total up to 10 000 before June. Remember – the more people you help – they more they help – and the greater a world becomes.

Tags: Free Motivation, Wolfgang Riebe, May 2009 'Useletter', Free 'Useletter', Free Self Help, Www.wolfgangriebe.com

Here we go again ... 6 months until Christmas! What have you done with the first half of the year?Have you achieved those dreams and goals you made in January? Have you spent time with your loved ones, and told them more than once that you love them? This is a good time to reflect of the last six months, and if you cannot say. “Yes” to any of the above questions, you still have time to do it. Make the rest of this year the best year of your life ... remember 2000 and mine?

If you have lost the passion – check out on the right, I have just launched an audio CD for the car or home where I talk you through finding your passion again. I find that many people are especially negative and use the excuse that the current global economic crises is to blame that they haven't achieved their goals this year. Well I have news for you – it's a MINDSET! You have to chose to be positive, and if you think I am being overly optimistic, let the first story this month put a smile on your face and be the start of everything positive in your life.

RECESSION ... HA!
In a small town on the South Coast of France, the holiday season is in full swing, but it is raining so there is not too much business happening. Everyone is heavily in debt. Luckily, a rich Russian tourist arrives in the foyer of the small local hotel. He asks for a room and puts a Euro100 note on the reception counter, takes a key and goes to inspect the room located up the stairs on the third floor. The hotel owner takes the banknote in a hurry and rushes to his meat supplier to whom he owes E100. The butcher takes the money and races to his supplier to pay his debt. The wholesaler rushes to the farmer to pay E100 for pigs he purchased some time ago. The farmer triumphantly gives the E100 note to a local lady of the night who gave him her services on credit. She goes quickly to the hotel, as she was owing the hotel for her hourly room use to entertain clients. At that moment, the rich Russian is coming down to reception and informs the hotel owner that the proposed room is unsatisfactory and takes his E100 back and departs. There was no profit or income. But everyone no longer has any debt and the small townspeople look optimistically towards their future.
COULD THIS BE THE SOLUTION TO THE GLOBAL FINANCIAL CRISIS?

Everyone is so caught up in materialistic gain, instead of the important things in life such as family, friends and health. The following story is rather sad, but yet very enlightening. If you are letting the global crises get you down, then you need to learn the lessons from the next two stories. True wealth lies in respect and love for each other, our health, and savouring the simple things in life.

THE WOODEN BOWL

You will remember the tale of the Wooden Bowl for a long time. A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and four-year-old grandson. The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered The family ate together at the table. But the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and Failing sight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor. When he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth. The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess. “We must do something about father”, said the son. “I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor.” So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner. There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner. Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl. When the family glanced in Grandfather's direction, sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone. Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food. The four-year-old watched it all in silence. One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor. He asked the child sweetly, “What are you making?” Just as sweetly, the boy responded, ”Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up.” The four-year-old smiled and went back to work. The words so struck the parents so that they were speechless. Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done. That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table. For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason, neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled.

On a positive note, I've learned that, no matter what happens, how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.
I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles four things: A rainy day, the elderly, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights. I've learned that making a 'living' is not the same thing as making a 'life.'
I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.
I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back sometimes.
I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you But, if you focus on your family, your friends, the needs of others, Your work and doing the very best you can, happiness will find you. I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.

I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one. I've learned that every day, you should reach out and touch someone. People love that human touch - holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.

I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.

And if that didn't give you a reality check as to what really is important in life, I'm sure this story will.

DAD
“Watch out! You nearly broad sided that car!” My father yelled at me. “Can't you do anything right?” Those words hurt worse than blows. I turned my head toward the elderly man in the seat beside me, daring me to challenge him. A lump rose in my throat as I averted my eyes. I wasn't prepared for another battle. “I saw the car, Dad. Please don't yell at me when I'm driving.” My voice was measured and steady, sounding far calmer than I really felt. Dad glared at me, then turned away and settled back. At home I left Dad in front of the television and went outside to collect my thoughts.

Dark, heavy clouds hung in the air with a promise of rain. The rumble of distant thunder seemed to echo my inner turmoil. What could I do about him? Dad had been a lumberjack in Washington and Oregon. He had enjoyed being outdoors and had revelled in pitting his strength against the forces of nature. He had entered gruelling lumberjack competitions, and had placed often. The shelves in his house were filled with trophies that attested to his prowess. The years marched on relentlessly. The first time he couldn't lift a heavy log, he joked about it; but later that same day I saw him outside alone, straining to lift it. He became irritable whenever anyone teased him about his advancing age, or when he couldn't do something he had done as a younger man.

Four days after his sixty-seventh birthday, he had a heart attack. An ambulance sped him to the hospital while a paramedic administered CPR to keep blood and oxygen flowing. At the hospital, Dad was rushed into an operating room. He was lucky; he survived. But something inside Dad died. His zest for life was gone. He obstinately refused to follow doctor's orders. Suggestions and offers of help were turned aside with sarcasm and insults. The number of visitors thinned, then finally stopped altogether. Dad was left alone. My husband, Dick, and I asked Dad to come live with us on our small farm. We hoped the fresh air and rustic atmosphere would help him adjust. Within a week after he moved in, I regretted the invitation. It seemed nothing was satisfactory. He criticised everything I did. I became frustrated and moody. Soon I was taking my pent-up anger out on Dick.

We began to bicker and argue. Alarmed, Dick sought but this didn't help either. Something had to be done and it was up to me to do it. The next day I sat down with the phone book and methodically called each of the mental health clinics listed in the Yellow Pages. I explained my problem to each of the sympathetic voices that answered. In vain. Just when I was giving up hope, one of the voices suddenly exclaimed, “I just read something that might help you! Let me go get the article.” I listened as she read. The article described a remarkable study done at a nursing home. All of the patients were under treatment for chronic depression. Yet their attitudes had improved dramatically when they were given responsibility for a dog. I drove to the animal shelter that afternoon. After I filled out a questionnaire, a uniformed officer led me to the kennels. The odour of disinfectant stung my nostrils as I moved down the row of pens. Each contained five to seven dogs. Long-haired dogs, curly-haired dogs, black dogs, spotted dogs all jumped up, trying to reach me. I studied each one but rejected one after the other for various reasons, too big, too small, too much hair. As I neared the last pen a dog in the shadows of the far corner struggled to his feet, walked to the front of the run and sat down. It was a pointer, one of the dog world's aristocrats. But this was a caricature of the breed. Years had etched his face and muzzle with shades of grey. His hipbones jutted out in lopsided triangles. But it was his eyes that caught and held my attention.

Calm and clear, they beheld me unwaveringly. I pointed to the dog. “Can you tell me about him?” The officer looked, then shook his head in puzzlement. “He's a funny one. Appeared out of nowhere and sat in front of the gate. We brought him in, figuring someone would be right down to claim him, that was two weeks ago and we've heard nothing. His time is up tomorrow.” He gestured helplessly. As the words sank in I turned to the man in horror. “You mean you're going to kill him?” “Ma'am,” he said gently, “that's our policy. We don't have room for every unclaimed dog.” I looked at the pointer again. The calm brown eyes awaited my decision. “I'll take him,” I said. I drove home with the dog on the front seat beside me. When I reached the house I honked the horn twice. I was helping my prize out of the car when Dad shuffled onto the front porch. “Ta-da! Look what I got for you, Dad!” I said excitedly. Dad looked, then wrinkled his face in disgust. “If I had wanted a dog I would have gotten one. And I would have picked out a better specimen than that bag of bones. Keep it! I don't want it.” Dad waved his arm scornfully and turned back toward the house. Anger rose inside me. It squeezed together my throat muscles and pounded into my temples. “You'd better get used to him, Dad. He's staying!” Dad ignored me. Did you hear me, Dad?” I screamed. At those words Dad whirled angrily, his hands clenched at his sides, his eyes narrowed and blazing with hate. We stood glaring at each other like duelists, when suddenly the pointer pulled free from my grasp. He wobbled toward my dad and sat down in front of him. Then slowly, carefully, he raised his paw. Dad's lower jaw trembled as he stared at the uplifted paw. Confusion replaced the anger in his eyes. The pointer waited patiently. Then Dad was on his knees hugging the animal. It was the beginning of a warm and intimate friendship.

Dad named the pointer Cheyenne. Together he and Cheyenne explored the community. They spent long hours walking down dusty lanes. They spent reflective moments on the banks of streams, angling for tasty trout. They even started to attend Sunday services together, Dad sitting in a pew and Cheyenne lying quietly at his feet. Dad and Cheyenne were inseparable throughout the next three years. Dad's bitterness faded, and he and Cheyenne made many friends. Then late one night I was startled to feel Cheyenne's cold nose burrowing through our bed covers. He had never before come into our bedroom at night. I woke Dick, put on my robe and ran into my father's room. Dad lay in his bed, his face serene. But his spirit had left quietly sometime during the night. Two days later my shock and grief deepened when I discovered Cheyenne lying dead beside Dad's bed.

I wrapped his still form in the rag rug he had slept on. As Dick and I buried him near a favourite fishing hole, I silently thanked the dog for the help he had given me in restoring Dad's peace of mind. For me, the past dropped into place, completing a puzzle that I had not seen before. Cheyenne's unexpected appearance at the animal shelter, his calm acceptance and complete devotion to my father, and the proximity of their deaths. And suddenly I understood. I had an insight.

Life is too short for drama & petty things, so laugh hard, love truly and forgive quickly. Live while you are alive. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity. Forgive now those who made you cry. You might not get a second chance. Lost time can never be found.

On that note, I trust you have enjoyed this month's motivation and that I have managed to make you realise the importance of family and relationships. Stop being influenced by the negative media and start appreciating those close to you. One day, those will be the memories that count.

Tags: Free Motivation, Wolfgang Riebe, June 2009 'Useletter', Free 'Useletter', Free Self Help, Www.wolfgangriebe.com

I thought I would wait until today before sending out the newsletter, as the 1st didn't fall in the beginning of the week, and I always thus “Useletter' i's a good thing to start off your Monday. I trust you agree. So how was your June? Mine was awesome and I noticed some interesting things this month. One of my functions gave me the chance to spend some time with a good friend of mine along the Rhine river, enjoying the scenery and castles on the banks. I still commented to him what 'soul food' this was and how beautiful the surroundings were. How many Germans had actually visited the Binger Loch (A well known area on the Rhine), or even knew of it? Right here in the middle of Europe was this awesome place with scenery like no where else, yet most sit at home complaining about the global recession and bad times. Similarly I had a client that flew me per helicopter over the Pilansberg to Sun City. Again, I had my video camera out, capturing the moment, and was blown away by the natural beauty.

I repeat, I had an awesome month. No, not because I flew all over the place, but because I got to enjoy some of the world's most beautiful scenery along the way. It also made me realize that no matter what country you are in, or where you live, we truly have many beautiful spots on this globe. Do you still visit and take in the natural beauty around you? Most people never do. They always think the grass in greener on the other side ... ha, guess what, if it is ... you have to mow it more often! Seriously though, it never is. The real secret to happiness lies deep within you and your attitude to life. It's good to travel internationally and visit a few countries – it also makes you realise that everywhere there are problems, crime, recession, high cost of living, etc. Not just at home!

I did some serious motivating and training this month and met a huge number of people. Guess what many had in common. They where all caught up with this so called recession and doom and gloom, that they have forgotten to live. Spend some time going for a walk and appreciating the nature around you. Take a drive to an well known area near where you live and spend the day there appreciating things you never noticed before. How will this help you? Well, I don't think I am different from anyone else, but my trip along the Rhine and the flight over the Pilansberg – that was soul food. But the cherry on top, was coming home to my two daughter who ran into my arms. That first night home, just cuddling and playing with them and seeing the excitement in their eyes – now I want to go experience that scenery with them too.

This brings me to the 1st lesson this month. We must stop wishing our lives by hoping for better times. The best time of life is RIGHT NOW! It's entirely up to you whether it will or won't be.

First, I was dying to finish high school and start university.

Then I was dying to finish university and start working in a job.
Soon I was dying to marry, have children and raise a family.
No sooner was I dying for my children to grow old enough and leave the house so that I could go back to work again.
And then after a while I was dying to retire.
Now, I am dying ...
And suddenly I realized I forgot to live!

Don't let this happen to you. Live every day in the moment and enjoy it to the fullest! Whether you wake up negative or positive, it takes exactly the same effort. So why not go for positive? The Red Indians have always been incredibly spiritual and wise people, here's a similar lesson from them.

THE BATTLE WITHIN
An old Cherokee describes an experience going on inside himself....

"It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves. One is evil - he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.

The other is good - he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. This same fight is going on inside you - and inside every other person, too."

The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather: "Which wolf will win?"

The old Cherokee simply replied, "The one you feed."

Similarly, we need to stop comparing our lives to others. Speaking and appearing at conferences & events, I watch people the whole time ... it's always about who is there, what are they wearing, what have they achieved, etc. Honestly, it gets tiring! Why don't people learn to be comfortable with who they are? Life would be so much simpler. Here's a great lesson on coming to terms with who you really are:

MASKS
Don't be fooled by the face I wear, for I wear a thousand masks, And none of them are me. Don't be fooled, for goodness sake, don't be fooled.

I give you the impression that I'm secure, that confidence is my name and coolness is my game, And that I need no one. But don't believe me. Beneath dwells the real me in confusion, in aloneness, in fear. That's why I create a mask to hide behind, to shield me from the glance that knows.

But such a glance is precisely my salvation. That is, if it's followed by acceptance, if it's followed by love. It's the only thing that can liberate me from my own self-built prison walls. I'm afraid that deep down I'm nothing and that I'm just no good, And that you will reject me.

And so begins the parade of masks. I idly chatter to you. I tell you everything that's really nothing and nothing of what's everything, of what's crying within me. Please listen carefully and try to hear what I'm not saying. I'd really like to be genuine and spontaneous, and me. But you've got to help me. You've got to hold out your hand.

Each time you're kind and gentle, and encouraging, Each time you try to understand because you really care, my heart begins to grow wings, feeble wings, but wings. With your sensitivity and sympathy, and your power of understanding, you alone can release me from my shallow world of uncertainty.

It will not be easy for you. The nearer you approach me, the blinder I may strike back. But I'm told that Love is stronger than strong walls, And in this lies my only hope. Please try to beat down these walls with firm hands, but gentle hands, for a child is very sensitive.

Who am I, you wonder...

I am every man you meet. I am every woman that you meet.

And I am also you.

So before you judge and/or compare yourself to others, think carefully of these wise words! In a similar vein, the next story is a good way to end of this track of thought.

LIFE AS A JEWEL
One afternoon a wise man speaking to a group of people on the banks of a river. A man was idly inspecting a stone he had picked up along the road, thinking of the vast throngs who had come to hear this wise "Master." At the first break he asked the wise man, "You teach a way for every person to find liberation. But many of those who listen still seem to spend much of their time in conflict, and in seeking out excitement and other idle pursuits. Why do they waste away their lives so?"

"Most people don't recognize its value," he replied, "although human life is the dearest treasure on this earth."

"Surly everyone can see the value of life," asked the man.

"No," said the wise man. "Each man places his own value on things according to what he thinks. A different man with different knowledge will place a different value. That stone you found in the dirt will make a good example. Take it to the marketplace and see what you can get for it."

Puzzled, the chap took the stone to the marketplace and at a stall that sold sweets asked what the vendor would trade for it. The man laughed. "Go away, you're wasting my time."

He next tried a produce seller. "I have paying customers to wait on," said the grocer. "I'll give you an onion for it just to get you out of here."

He tried several more shops with no better response. Finally he came to the shop of a jeweler. The jeweler's eyes opened wide when he saw the stone. "I'm sorry," he said, "I don't have enough money to buy your gem. But I will give you a hundred Euros if you will let me look at it a while longer."

Well, this man hurried back to the river bank and the old wise man, to tell him what had happened.

"See," he said, "how when we are ignorant we mistake a valuable gem for a worthless stone. If someone had told you its value before you knew what it was, you would have thought they were crazy. Such a jewel is human life, and whatever you've traded for it, that is what is yours."

And finally, I need to end off this month's 'Useletter' with a wonderfully cute and funny story which I feel I just had to share.

And finally, I need to end off this month's 'Useletter' with a wonderfully cute and funny story which I feel I just had to share.

THE LITTLE OLD LADY

A local news station was interviewing an 86-year old lady who had just gotten married ... for the 4th time!
The interviewer asked her questions about her life, about what it felt like to be married again at 86, and then about her new husband's occupation.

|he's a funeral director,” she answered.

“interesting,” the journalist thought. He then asked her if she wouldn't mind telling him a little about her first 3 husbands and what they did for a living.
She paused for a few moments, needing time to reflect on all those years.

After a while, a smile came to her face and she answered proundly, “My first husband was a banked whom I married in my early twenties.In my forties I married a circus ringmaster and in my sixties a preacher. Now in my eighties it's the funeral director.”

The journalist looked at her, quite amazed, and quizzed her as why she had married four men with such diverse careers.

“Easy son,” she aswered. “I married one for the money ... two for the show, ... three to get ready, ... and four to go!”

Have a great July, and if you want to read any of the previous month's 'Useletters', please visit my blog by clicking here.

Tags: Free Motivation, Wolfgang Riebe, Free 'Useletter', July 2009 'Useletter', Free Self Help, Www.wolfgangriebe.com

So many people have been telling me that this recession has taught them to go back to basics and appreciate the simpler things in life. In fact they have found that even though times are tough, they are finding time to reflect and appreciate family, friends and the nature around them. They have found that making do with less, is not so bad as everyone thought it would be. I think it's sad that a recession was needed to bring people back to this realization. Maybe my travelling, maybe my age, maybe my wife, or even my children have been the ones that have helped me understand this a long time ago. Although this has always been the way I have led my life and I am glad that many people are now seeing the light, it is sad that it takes a recession to make people wake up. My only hope is that when it all turns and things are going well, that the lesson will remain. So on that note I want to spend time this month on becoming a better you ... and keeping it that way.

How often do you hear the saying, 'What comes around, goes around'? Daily? The big question of course is, “How often do you apply it?” In my life I have seen the power of this so often, and this has played a huge role in me being able to let go of anger and hatred. I don't think enough people realize that if you are dishonest, or do bad things to someone, the universe is going to hit you back ten times harder. Sometimes one may think that these 'bad' people get away with the things they do, but you never really know what goes on in their lives. Again, from my experience, live has taught me that it ALWAYs comes back to them. In the same vein, those that do could, lead a pure and honest life, and give to society, are rewarded in so many ways. The story below has been around for a while and many different variations have found their way into my email 'In Box'. It puts those universal laws of attraction into perfect perspective.

WHAT COMES AROUND GOES AROUND

“Good morning,” said a woman as she walked up to the man sitting on ground. The man slowly looked up. This was a woman clearly accustomed to the finer things of life. Her coat was new. She looked like she had never missed a meal in her life. His first thought was that she wanted to make fun of him, like so many others had done before. “Leave me alone,” he growled.... To his amazement, the woman continued standing. She was smiling - her even white teeth displayed in dazzling rows. “Are you hungry?” she asked. ”No,” he answered sarcastically. “I've just come from dining with the president. Now go away.”
The woman's smile became even broader. Suddenly the man felt a gentle hand under his arm. “What are you doing, lady?” the man asked angrily. “I said to leave me alone.” Just then a policeman came up. “Is there any problem, ma'am?” he asked. “No problem here, officer,” the woman answered. “I'm just trying to get this man to his feet. Will you help me?” The officer scratched his head. “That's old Jack. He's been a fixture around here for a couple of years. What do you want with him?”

“See that cafeteria over there?” she asked. “I'm going to get him something to eat and get him out of the cold for a while.” “Are you crazy, lady?” the homeless man resisted. “I don't want to go in there!” Then he felt strong hands grab his other arm and lift him up. “Let me go, officer. I didn't do anything.” “This is a good deal for you, Jack,” the officer answered. “Don't blow it.” Finally, and with some difficulty, the woman and the police officer got Jack into the cafeteria and sat him at a table in a remote corner. It was the middle of the morning, so most of the breakfast crowd had already left and the lunch bunch had not yet arrived... The manager strode across the cafeteria and stood by his table. “What's going on here, officer?” he asked.

“What is all this, is this man in trouble?” “This lady brought this man in here to be fed,” the policeman answered. “Not in here!” the manager replied angrily. “Having a person like that here is bad for business.” Old Jack smiled a toothless grin. “See, lady. I told you so. Now if you'll let me go. I didn't want to come here in the first place.” The woman turned to the cafeteria manager and smiled. “Sir, are you familiar with Eddy and Associates, the banking firm down the street?” “Of course I am,” the manager answered impatiently. “They hold their weekly meetings in one of my banquet rooms.”
“And do you make a goodly amount of money providing food at these weekly meetings?” “What business is that of yours?” “ I, sir, am Penelope Eddy, president and CEO of the company.” “Oh.” The woman smiled again. “I thought that might make a difference.” She glanced at the cop who was busy stifling a giggle. “Would you like to join us in a cup of coffee and a meal, officer?” “No thanks, ma'am,” the officer replied. “I'm on duty.” “Then, perhaps, a cup of coffee to go?” “Yes, ma'am. That would be very nice.” The cafeteria manager turned on his heel, “I'll get your coffee for you right away, officer.”

The officer watched him walk away. “You certainly put him in his place,” he said. “That was not my intent. Believe it or not, I have a reason for all this.” She sat down at the table across from her amazed dinner guest. She stared at him intently. “Jack, do you remember me?” Old Jack searched her face with his old, rheumy eyes. “I think so -- I mean you do look familiar.” “I'm a little older perhaps,” she said. “Maybe I've even filled out more than in my younger days when you worked here, and I came through that very door, cold and hungry.” “Ma'am?” the officer said questioningly.

He couldn't believe that such a magnificently turned out woman could ever have been hungry. “I was just out of college,” the woman began. “I had come to the city looking for a job, but I couldn't find anything. Finally I was down to my last few cents and had been kicked out of my apartment. I walked the streets for days. It was February and I was cold and nearly starving. I saw this place and walked in on the off chance that I could get something to eat.” Jack lit up with a smile. “Now I remember,” he said. “I was behind the serving counter. You came up and asked me if you could work for something to eat. I said that it was against company policy.” “I know,” the woman continued. “Then you made me the biggest roast beef sandwich that I had ever seen, gave me a cup of coffee, and told me to go over to a corner table and enjoy it. I was afraid that you would get into trouble... Then, when I looked over and saw you put the price of my food in the cash register, I knew then that everything would be all right.”
“So you started your own business?” Old Jack said. “I got a job that very afternoon. I worked my way up. Eventually I started my own business.” She opened her purse and pulled out a business card. “When you are finished here, I want you to pay a visit to a Mr. Lyons...He's the personnel director of my company. I'll go talk to him now and I'm certain he'll find something for you to do around the office.” She smiled. “I think he might even find the funds to give you a little advance so that you can buy some clothes and get a place to live until you get on your feet.. If you ever need anything, my door is always opened to you.” There were tears in the old man's eyes. “How can I ever thank you?” he said. “Don't give up on humanity, there still are some good people out there. You are one of them and helped me when I was in need. The least I can do is return the favour. You changed my life, and now I want to help you change yours. At the time you may have seen it as something small you did. But it had a HUGE impact on my life.” Outside the cafeteria, the officer and the woman paused at the entrance before going their separate ways... “Thank you for all your help, officer,” she said. “On the contrary, Ms. Eddy,” he answered. “Thank you. I learnt today that there is still hope for all of us, something that I will never forget. And thank you for the coffee.”

The moral of the story. When you do a good deed, no matter how small it may seem to be – you can change someone's life. So go out and make someone's day!

Especially in today's economic climate, many peole are short with each other, lose their tempers and are stressed out. Where does this get you? Nowhere! We all have to learn to take it easy, and find inner peace within ourselves. Then life begins to change and we can live in the moment, or in the now. In fact I heard another speaker talk about living in the now and she made a great comment. She said that her son had told her to live in the now. So she started practicing this philosophy and it's great. Everytime she sees her son, she says, “Clean your room NOW! Pick up your clothes NOW!”
Living in the now means being happy with who you are and having inner peace. One of the ways you can achieve this is through love. The story below explians it so well.
WHY DO WE SHOUT IN ANGER?
A wise man asked his ollowers, “Why do we shout in anger? Why do people shout at each other when they are upset?” His disciples thought for a while, one of them said, “Because we lose our calm, we shout for that.”
“But, why do you shout when the other person is just next to you?” asked the wise man. “Isn't it possible to speak to him or her with a soft voice? Why do you shout at a person when you're angry?”
His followers gave some other answers but none satisfied the wise man.
Finally he explained, “When two people are angry at each other, their hearts distance a lot. To cover that distance they must shout to be able to hear each other. The angrier they are, the stronger they will have to shout to hear each other through that great distance.”
Then the wise man asked, “What happens when two people fall in love? They don't shout at each other but talk softly, why? Because their hearts are very close. The distance between them is very small...”
The wise man continued, “When they love each other even more, what happens? They do not speak, only whisper and they get even closer to each other in their love. Finally they even need not whisper, they only look at each other and that's all. That is how close two people are when they love each other.”
'The moral of the story. When you argue do not let your hearts get distant, do not say words that distance each other more, else there will come a day when the distance is so great that you will not find the path to return!

And finally, in the same vein, and to give you another bit of 'Food for Thought' about being pure of heart, this story should not only make you smile, but drive home the message of not being too judegmental, before looking at yourself.
IS YOUR WASHING CLEAN?
A young couple moves into a new neighborhood. The next morning, while they are eating breakfast, the young woman sees her neighbor hang the wash outside. “That laundry is not very clean,” she said, “She doesn’t know how to wash correctly. Perhaps she needs better laundry soap.”
Her husband looked on, but remained silent. Every time her neighbor would hang her wash to dry, the young woman would make the same comments.
About one month later, the woman was surprised to see a nice clean wash on the line and said to her husband, “Look! She has learned how to wash correctly. I wonder who taught her this.”
The husband replied, “I got up early this morning and cleaned our windows!”
The moral of the story. What we see when watching others, depends on the purity of the window through which we look. Before we give any criticism, it might be a good idea to check our state of mind and ask ourselves if we are ready to see the good rather than to be looking for something in the person we are about to judge.
And oh yes! I almost forgot….I see you today much clearer than I did yesterday… And you?

Tags: Free Motivation, Wolfgang Riebe, Free 'Useletter', August 2009 'Useletter', Free Self Help, Www.wolfgangriebe.com

Welcome to September's 'Useletter'.

Firstly, I have added some links below of my new Video Inspirational Quick Tips. These are short video tips of about 2mins each, where I share insights into life. They can be viewed on my new You Tube Channel, http://www.youtube.com/user/inspiringtheworld.

These are available in English, German and Afrikaans. I aim to upload 4 per month in each language. This month I deal with being more positive in life. You can simply click on the English links here, Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4. Deutsch, klicken Sie auf Teil 1, Teil 2, Teil 3, Teil 4. Afrikaans kliek op Deel1, Deel 2, Deel 3, Deel 4.If you want to watch more just go directly to the channel and click on the correct category. All absolutely FREE!

Both my daughters got their provincial colours in gymnastics again this month and it has been so wonderful watching their progress over the years, and being their whenever they compete. I am a typical dad who videos everything! The day they turn 21 I will be able to give them their whole life on DVD. Often I wish this technology had been available to my parents. It would be so nice to look back at one's childhood. But, all we baby boomers have is memories and the occasional photos.

On that note I want to share a story with you where childhood memories lasted into adulthood. The core of the message being - Do you still remember all the people that helped you throughout your life?

***************************

A GLASS OF MILK
One day, a poor boy who was selling goods from door to door to pay his way through school, found he had only one thin dime left, and he was hungry. He decided he would ask for a meal at the next house. However, he lost his nerve when a lovely young woman opened the door. Instead of a meal he asked for a drink of water.

She thought he looked hungry so brought him a large glass of milk. He drank it slowly, and then asked, "How much do I owe you?"
"You don't owe me anything," she replied. "Mother has taught us never to accept pay for a kindness."

He said..... "Then I thank you from my heart." As Howard Kelly left that house, he not only felt stronger physically, but his faith in God and man was strong also. He had been ready to give up and quit.

Year's later that young woman became critically ill. The local doctors were baffled. They finally sent her to the big city, where they called in specialists to study her rare disease. Dr. Howard Kelly was called in for the consultation. When he heard the nameof the town she came from, a strange light filled his eyes. Immediately he rose and went down the hall of the hospital to her room.

Dressed in his doctor's gown he went in to see her. He recognized her at once. He went back to the consultation room determined to do his best to save her life. From that day he gave special attention to the case.

After a long struggle, the battle was won. Dr. Kelly requested the business office to pass the final bill to him for approval.He looked at it, then wrote something on the edge and the bill was sent to her room. She feared to open it, for she was sure it would take the rest of her life to pay for it all. Finally she looked, and something caught her attention on the side of the bill.

She read these words.....
"Paid in full with one glass of milk"
(Signed)
Dr. Howard Kelly

Tears of joy flooded her eyes as she realized that love can still spread abroad through human hearts and hands."

The more I travel, and the more people I meet, I keep on asking myself the question why there is so much conflict, aggression and hatred in this world. My wife, Sonja, recently gave me a good answer, she believe there are two types of people on this earth. Those with souls, and those without souls. Kinda makes sense to me, and explains why some people are good, and others inherently bad. My goal of course is to change the world, one person at a time, and bring caring back to humanity. The next story will bring tears to your eyes. Read it first.

***************************

THE UGLY CAT

Everyone in the apartment complex I lived in knew who Ugly was. Ugly was the resident tomcat. Ugly loved three things in this world: fighting, eating garbage, and, shall we say, love.

The combination of these things combined with a life spent outside had their effect on Ugly. To start with, he had only one eye and where the other should have been was a hole. He was also missing his ear on the same side, his left foot appeared to have been badly broken at one time, and had healed at an unnatural angle, making him look like he was always turning the corner.

Ugly would have been a dark gray tabby, striped type, except for the sores covering his head, neck, and even his shoulders. Every time someone saw Ugly there was the same reaction. "That's one UGLY cat !"

All the children were warned not to touch him, the adults threw rocks at him, hosed him down, squirted him when he tried to come in their homes, or shut his paws in the door when he would not leave. Ugly always had the same reaction.

If you turned the hose on him, he would stand there, getting soaked until you gave up and quit. If you threw things at him, he would curl his lanky body around your feet in forgiveness.

Whenever he spied children, he would come running, meowing frantically and bump his head against their hands, begging for their love. If you ever picked him up he would immediately begin suckling on your shirt, earrings, whatever he could find.

One day Ugly shared his love with the neighbor's dogs. They did not respond kindly, and Ugly was badly mauled. I tried to rush to his aid. By the time I got to where he was laying, it was apparent Ugly's sad life was almost at an end.

As I picked him up and tried to carry him home, I could hear him wheezing and gasping, and could feel him struggling. It must be hurting him terribly, I thought. Then I felt a familiar tugging, sucking sensation on my ear. Ugly, in so much pain, suffering and obviously dying, was trying to suckle my ear. I pulled him closer to me, and he bumped the palm of my hand with his head, then he turned his one golden eye towards me, and I could hear the distinct sound of purring.

Even in the greatest pain, that ugly battled scarred cat was asking only for a little affection, perhaps some compassion. At that moment I thought Ugly was the most beautiful, loving creature I had ever seen. Never once did he try to bite or scratch me, try to get away from me, or struggle in any way. Ugly just looked up at me completely trusting in me to relieve his pain.

Ugly died in my arms before I could get inside, but I sat and held him for a long time afterwards, thinking about how one scarred, deformed little stray could so alter my opinion about what it means to have true pureness of spirit, to love so totally and truly.

Ugly taught me more about giving and compassion than a thousand books, lectures, or talk show specials ever could, and for that I will always be thankful. He had been scarred on the outside, but I was scarred on the inside, and it was time for me to move on and learn to love truly and deeply. To give my total to those I cared for.

Many people want to be richer, more successful, well liked, beautiful, but for me...I will always try to be Ugly.

Isn't it time we all stopped being judgemental! When you met someone, who ever they may be. Do not judge them by physical appearance. Get to know that person for who they really are. Care! Take the time to get to know them ... even those people you currently may not like. Odds are once your eally get to know them, you will discover what beauty they really possess!

And finally, here's an old story which shares a deep lesson on what is really important in life.

***************************

THE SANDS OF FORGIVENESS
A story tells that two friends were walking through the desert. During some point of the journey they had an argument, and one friend slapped the other one in the face.

The one who got slapped was hurt, but without saying anything, wrote in the sand:
TODAY MY BEST FRIEND SLAPPED ME IN THE FACE.

They kept on walking until they found an oasis, where they decided to take a bath. The one who had been slapped got stuck in the mire and started drowning, but the friend saved him.

After he recovered from the near drowning, he wrote on a stone:
TODAY MY BEST FRIEND SAVED MY LIFE.

The friend who had slapped and saved his best friend asked him, "After I hurt you, you wrote in the sand and now, you write on a stone, why?"

The other friend replied "When someone hurts us we should write it down in sand where winds of forgiveness can erase it away. But, when someone does something good for us, we must engrave it in stone where no wind can ever erase it."

LEARN TO WRITE YOUR HURTS IN THE SAND AND TO CARVE YOUR BENEFITS IN STONE.

***************************

Have an awesome month!

To catch up on old 'Useletters' visit my News & Press Blog on http://wolfgangriebe.wordpress.com
Finally, looking for an inspirational speaker? Just redone all my websites in 3 languages, Eng, Ger. & Afr.with lots of new talks, info, etc. Check out http://ww.theriebeinstitute.com.

Tags: Free Motivation, Wolfgang Riebe, September 2009 'Useletter', Free 'Useletter', Free Self Help, Www.wolfgangriebe.com

What a month! London, Cape Town, Frankfurt and Imyambaan in Mozambique ... and to top it all, a total image change ... Yes! I cut off my pony tail! You can watch that on my facebook site, or on my inspiringtheworld channel on You Tube in my segment this month on Love.
This month's free You Tube Quick tips are:(Simply click on titles to watch)

English: Love, Teamwork, Attachment, Honesty
Afrikaans: Liefde, Spanwerk, Gehegtheid, Eerlikheid
Deutsch: Liebe, Teamwork, Verbundeheid, Ehrlichkeit

A few weeks to go and Christmas is upon us. Most people I speak to are already reflecting back on the year as if it is all over ... or at least, glad it's over. This I can't understand? Every day so many great things happen in this world, and no matter how tough this year has been, I bet you can think of many good things that happened too. It's a case of seeing the glass as half full, or half empty ... my wife sees it as another glass to wash! Seriously though, if one concentrates on the good times and the good things, then it is sad when a year passes so quickly. My year has been filled with wonderful memories of family, friends, travel and lots of great appearances. It's all about how you look at life ... and this brings me to my first story this month.

Whenever I'm disappointed with my spot n life, I stop and think about little Roger. oger was trying out for a part in the chool play. His mother told me that he'd set his heart on being n it, though she feared he would not be chosen. n the day the parts were awarded, I went ith her to collect him after school. Roger rushed up to her, yes shining with pride and excitement. “Guess what, Mom?” he houted, and then said those words that will remain a lesson to e always....“I've been chosen to clap and cheer!”
Isn't that a cute story? Are you thankful for the little things in life? Okay, I know ... it's all good and well to write about how one must be positive and see the brighter side of life. And I understand that in reality, it's not easy to do. Fair enough, everyone, including myself has some 'off' days. But no matter how difficult it is, shouldn't one at least try have more good days than bad days .. as a start at least. This month I want to concentrate on deeper stories which I trust will put a few deeper pointers into perspective and make you really savour life, family and friendship more. If you just start here, life already becomes magical.

Here's a short story on how we should learn to appreciate each other just a little more.

When I was a child my mom liked to make breakfast food for dinner every now and then. And I remember one night in particular when she had made breakfast after a long, hard day at work. On that evening so long ago, my mom placed a plate of eggs, sausage, and extremely burned toast in front of my dad.

I remember waiting to see if anyone noticed! Yet all my dad did was reach for his toast, smile at my mom, and ask me how my day was at school. I don't remember what I told him that night, but I do remember watching him smear butter and jam on that toast and eat every bite!

When I got up from the table that evening, I remember hearing my mom apologize to my dad for burning the toast. And I'll never forget what he said: “Darling, I love burned toast.” Later that night, I went to kiss daddy good night and I asked him if he really liked his toast burned. He wrapped me in his arms and said, “Your mommy put in a hard day at work today and she's real tired. And besides-a little burnt toast never hurt anyone!”

So how about it – start appreciating the little things everyone does around you!

More and more I see people losing their temper in public. I see harsh words, fighting over race, religion and politics in the press and media daily. Why? ...Why can't everyone just let go of the past and learn to respect each other for who they are. Don't get me wrong, I meet many of these people as well, but sadly they are in the minority. So the next story is a reminder to those of you out there who are still dealing with many inner conflicts and short tempers. Read it carefully and please take note of the message.

There once was a young boy with a very bad temper. The boy's father wanted to teach him a lesson, so he gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper he had to hammer a nail into their wooden fence.
On the first day of this lesson, the little boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. He was really mad! Over the course of the next few weeks, the he began to control his temper, and the number of nails that were hammered into the fence, dramatically decreased. It wasn't long before the little boy discovered it was easier to hold his temper, than to drive those nails into the fence.

Then, the day finally came when the he didn't lose his temper even once, and he became so proud of himself, he couldn't wait to tell his father. Pleased, his father suggested that he now pull out one nail for each day that he could hold his temper. Several weeks went by and the day finally came when the young boy was able to tell his father that all the nails were gone.

Very gently, the father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. "You have done very well, my son," he smiled, "but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same." The little boy listened carefully as his father continued to speak. "When you say things in anger, they leave permanent scars just like these. And no matter how many times you say you're sorry, the wounds will still be there."

Friendship today, what does it mean to you. I have lost count of how many people have told me that they can count their true friends on one hand. To me that's really sad. One day when you are older, it's the memories of family and friends that are going to be with you. Are your memories going to be few, or many?

A man and his dog were walking along a road. The man was enjoying the scenery, when it suddenly occurred to him that he was dead. He remembered dying, and that the dog walking beside him had been dead for years. He wondered where the road was leading them. After a while, they came to a high, white stone wall along one side of the road. It looked like fine marble. At the top of the long hill, it was broken by a tall arch that glowed in the sunlight.

When he was standing before it, he saw a magnificent gate in the arch that looked like mother of pearl, and the street that led to the gate looked like pure gold. He and the dog walked toward the gate, and as he got closer, he saw a man at the desk to one side.

When he was close enough, he called out, “Excuse me, where are we?”

This is Heaven, sir,” the man answered.

“Wow! Would you happen to have some water?” the man asked.
“Of course, sir. Come right in and I’ll have some ice water brought right up.”The man gestured, and the gate began to open.
“Can my friend,” gesturing toward his dog, “come in too?” the traveler asked.
“I’m sorry sir, but we don’t accept pets.”

The man thought a moment and then turned back toward the road and continued the way he had been going with his dog. After another long walk, and at the top of another long hill, he came to a dirt road which led through a farm gate that looked as if it had never been closed. There was no fence. As he approached the gate, he saw a man inside, leaning against a tree and reading a book.

Excuse me!” he called to the reader. “Do you have any water?”

“Yeah, sure. There’s a pump over there.” The man pointed to a place that couldn’t be seen from outside the gate. “Come on in.”
“How about my friend here?” the traveler gestured to the dog.
“There should be a bowl by the pump.”

They went through the gate, and sure enough, there was an old fashioned hand pump with a bowl beside it. The traveler filled the bowl and took a long drink himself. Then he gave some to the dog. When they were full, he and the dog walked back toward the man who was standing by the tree waiting for them.

What do you call this place?” the traveler asked.

“This is Heaven,” was the answer.
“Well, that’s confusing,” the traveler said. “The man down the road said that was Heaven too.”
“Oh, you mean the place with the gold street and pearly gates? Nope. That’s Hell.”
“Doesn’t it make you mad for them to use your name like that?”

No. I can see how you might think so, but we’re just happy that they screen out the folks who’ll leave their best friends behind.”
On that note, as the holiday season now draws near, how about re-assessing you life and focusing on the real issues. You have a choice to end of this year as a happy person who is thankful for friends, family and experiences – it's up to you!

And with that 'food for thought' here's some interesting tips on food.

A sliced Carrot looks like the human eye. The pupil, iris and radiating lines look just like the human eye... And YES, science now shows carrots greatly enhance blood flow to and function of the eyes.

A Tomato has four chambers and is red. The heart has four chambers and is red. All of the research shows tomatoes are loaded with lycopine and are indeed pure heart and blood food.

Grapes hang in a cluster that has the shape of the heart. Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today shows grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing food.

A Walnut looks like a little brain, a left and right hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or folds on the nut are just like the neo-cortex. We now know walnuts help develop more than three (3) dozen neuron-transmitters for brain function.

Kidney Beans actually heal and help maintain kidney function and yes, they look exactly like the human kidneys.

Celery, Bok Choy, Rhubarb and many more look just like bones. These foods specifically target bone strength. Bones are 23% sodium and these foods are 23% sodium. If you don't have enough sodium in your diet, the body pulls it from the bones, thus making them weak. These foods replenish the skeletal needs of the body.

Avocadoes, Eggplant and Pears target the health and function of the womb and cervix of the female - they look just like these organs. Today's research shows that when a woman eats one avocado a week, it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight, and prevents cervical cancers. And how profound is this? It takes exactly nine (9) months to grow an avocado from blossom to ripened fruit There are over 14,000 photolytic chemical constituents of nutrition in each one of these foods (modern science has only studied and named about 141 of them).

Figs are full of seeds and hang in twos when they grow. Figs increase the mobility of male sperm and increase the numbers of Sperm as well to overcome male sterility.

Peet Potatoes look like the pancreas and actually balance the glycemic index of diabetics.

Olives assist the health and function of the ovaries.

Oranges, Grapefruits, and other Citrus fruits look just like the mammary glands of the female and actually assist the health of the breasts and the movement of lymph in and out of the breasts.

Onions look like the body's cells. Today's research shows onions help clear waste materials from all of the body cells. They even produce tears which wash the epithelial layers of the eyes. A working companion, Garlic, also helps eliminate waste materials and dangerous free radicals from the body.

And finally, looking for a great Holiday Season gift for someone, what about 'Life Lessons for the Heart'? A great bedside book to inspire you last thing in the evening. Click here to order direct, or visit Amazon.com.

Tags: Free Motivation, Wolfgang Riebe, Free 'Useletter', October 2009 'Useletter', Free Self Help, Www.wolfgangriebe.com

What a month! London, Cape Town, Frankfurt and Imyambaan in Mozambique ... and to top it all, a total image change ... Yes! I cut off my pony tail! You can watch that on my facebook site, or on my inspiringtheworld channel on You Tube in my segment this month on Love.

This month's free You Tube Quick tips are:(Simply click on titles to watch or the following link to see all videos) http://www.youtube.com/user/inspiringtheworld.
 

English: Love, Teamwork, Attachment, Honesty

Afrikaans: Liefde, Spanwerk, Gehegtheid, Eerlikheid
Deutsch: Liebe, Teamwork, Verbundenheit, Ehrlichkeit

 
A few weeks to go and Christmas is upon us. Most people I speak to are already reflecting back on the year as if it is all over ... or at least, glad it's over. This I can't understand? Every day so many great things happen in this world, and no matter how tough this year has been, I bet you can think of many good things that happened too. It's a case of seeing the glass as half full, or half empty ... my wife sees it as another glass to wash! Seriously though, if one concentrates on the good times and the good things, then it is sad when a year passes so quickly. My year has been filled with wonderful memories of family, friends, travel and lots of great appearances. It's all about how you look at life ... and this brings me to my first story this month.
 

***************************

BEING CHOSEN TO CHEER
Whenever I'm disappointed with my spot in life, I stop and think about little Roger. oger was trying out for a part in the school play. His mother told me that he'd set his heart on being in it, though she feared he would not be chosen. n the day the parts were awarded, I went with her to collect him after school. He rushed up to her, eyes shining with pride and excitement. "Guess what, Mom?" he shouted, and then said those words that will remain a lesson to me always...."I've been chosen to clap and cheer!"
Isn't that a cute story? Are you thankful for the little things in life? Okay, I know ... it's all good and well to write about how one must be positive and see the brighter side of life. And I understand that in reality, it's not easy to do. Fair enough, everyone, including myself has some 'off' days. But no matter how difficult it is, shouldn't one at least try have more good days than bad days .. as a start at least. This month I want to concentrate on deeper stories which I trust will put a few deeper pointers into perspective and make you really savor life, family and friendship more. If you just start here, life already becomes magical.

***************************

Here's a short story on how we should learn to appreciate each other just a little more.
BREAKFAST FOR DINNER
When I was a child my mom liked to make breakfast food for dinner every now and then. And I remember one night in particular when she had made breakfast after a long, hard day at work. On that evening so long ago, my mom placed a plate of eggs, sausage, and extremely burned toast in front of my dad. 

I remember waiting to see if anyone noticed! Yet all my dad did was reach for his toast, smile at my mom, and ask me how my day was at school. I don't remember what I told him that night, but I do remember watching him smear butter and jam on that toast and eat every bite! 

When I got up from the table that evening, I remember hearing my mom apologize to my dad for burning the toast. And I'll never forget what he said: "Darling, I love burned toast."  Later that night, I went to kiss daddy good night and I asked him if he really liked his toast burned. He wrapped me in his arms and said, "Your mommy put in a hard day at work today and she's real tired. And besides-a little burnt toast never hurt anyone!"
 


So how about it - start appreciating the little things everyone does around you!

More and more I see people losing their temper in public. I see harsh words, fighting over race, religion and politics in the press and media daily. Why? ...Why can't everyone just  let go of the past and learn to respect each other for who they are. Don't get me wrong, I meet many of these people as well, but sadly they are in the minority. So the next story is a reminder to those of you out there who are still dealing with many inner conflicts and short tempers. Read it carefully and please take note of the message.
                                                                                

***************************

BAD TEMPER
There was once a young boy with a very bad temper. The boy's father wanted to teach him a lesson, so he gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper, he had to hammer a nail into their wooden fence.

 
On the first day of this lesson, the little boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. He was really mad! Over the course of the next few weeks, the he began to control his temper, and the number of nails that were hammered into the fence, dramatically decreased. It wasn't long before the little boy discovered it was easier to hold his temper, than to drive those nails into the fence.

Then, the day finally came when the he didn't lose his temper even once, and he became so proud of himself, he couldn't wait to tell his father.  Pleased, his father suggested that he now pull out one nail for each day that he could hold his temper. Several weeks went by and the day finally came when the young boy was able to tell his father that all the nails were gone.

Very gently, the father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. "You have done very well, my son," he smiled, "but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same." The little boy listened carefully as his father continued to speak. "When you say things in anger, they leave permanent scars just like these. And no matter how many times you say you're sorry, the wounds will still be there."

Friendship today, what does it mean to you. I have lost count of how many people have told me that they can count their true friends on one hand. To me that's really sad. One day when you are older, it's the memories of family and friends that are going to be with you. Are your memories going to be few, or many?

***************************

 
FRIENDSHIP
A man and his dog were walking along a road. The man was enjoying the scenery, when it suddenly occurred to him that he was dead. He remembered dying, and that the dog walking beside him had been dead for years. He wondered where the road was leading them. After a while, they came to a high, white stone wall along one side of the road. It looked like fine marble. At the top of a long hill, it was broken by a tall arch that glowed in the sunlight.

 
When he was standing before it, he saw a magnificent gate in the arch that looked like mother of pearl, and the street that led to the gate looked like pure gold. He and the dog walked toward the gate, and as he got closer, he saw a man at the desk to one side.

 
When he was close enough, he called out, "Excuse me, where are we?" This is Heaven, sir," the man answered.Wow! Would you happen to have some water?" the man asked. Of course, sir. Come right in and I'll have some ice water brought right up."The man gestured, and the gate began to open. "Can my friend," gesturing toward his dog, "come in too?" the traveler asked. "I'm sorry sir, but we don't accept pets."
 
The man thought for a moment, and then turned back toward the road and continued along the way he had been going with his dog. After another long walk, and at the top of another long hill, he came to a dirt road which led through a farm gate that looked as if it had never been closed. There was no fence. As he approached the gate, he saw a man inside, leaning against a tree and reading a book.
 
Excuse me!" he called to the reader. "Do you have any water?" "Yeah, sure. There's a pump over there." The man pointed to a place that couldn't be seen from outside the gate. "Come on in." "How about my friend here?" the traveler gestured to the dog. There should be a bowl by the pump."
 
They went through the gate, and sure enough, there was an old fashioned hand pump with a bowl beside it. The traveler filled the bowl and took a long drink himself. Then he gave some to the dog. When they were full, he and the dog walked back toward the man who was standing by the tree waiting for them.
 
What do you call this place?" the traveler asked.

This is Heaven," was the answer.
Well, that's confusing," the traveler said. "The man down the road said that was Heaven too."
Oh, you mean the place with the gold street and pearly gates? Nope. That's Hell. Doesn't it make you mad for them to use your name like that?"
 
"No. I can see how you night think so, but we're just happy that they screen out the folks who'll leave their best friends behind!"

 
On that note, as the holiday season now draws near, how about re-assessing you life and focusing on the real issues. You have a choice to end of this year as a happy person who is thankful for friends, family and experiences - it's up to you!
And with that 'food for thought' here's some interesting tips on food.

***************************

A sliced Carrot looks like the human eye. The pupil, iris and radiating lines look just like the human eye... And YES, science now shows carrots greatly enhance blood flow to and function of the eyes. 

 
A Tomato has four chambers and is red. The heart has four chambers and is red.  All of the research shows tomatoes are loaded with lycopine and are indeed pure heart and blood food.
 
Grapes hang in a cluster that has the shape of the heart.  Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today shows  grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing food.
 
A Walnut looks like a little brain, a left and right  hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums.  Even the wrinkles or folds on the nut are just like  the neo-cortex. We now know walnuts help  develop more than three (3) dozen neuron-transmitters for brain function. 
 
Kidney Beans actually heal and help maintain kidney function  and yes, they look exactly like the human kidneys. 
 
Celery, Bok Choy, Rhubarb and many more look just like bones.  These foods specifically target bone strength.  Bones are 23% sodium and these foods are 23% sodium.  If you don't have enough sodium in your diet,  the body pulls it from the bones, thus making them weak. These foods replenish the skeletal needs of the body.
 
Avocadoes, Eggplant and Pears target the health and function  of the womb and cervix of the female - they look just like  these organs. Today's research shows that  when a woman eats one avocado a week,  it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight,  and prevents cervical cancers.  And how profound is this?  It takes exactly nine (9) months to grow an avocado  from blossom to ripened fruit There are over 14,000 photolytic  chemical constituents of  nutrition in each one of these foods  (modern science has only studied  and named about 141 of them). 
 
Figs are full of seeds and hang in twos when they grow.  Figs increase the mobility of male sperm and increase  the numbers of Sperm as well to overcome male sterility.
 
Peet Potatoes look like the pancreas and actually balance  the glycemic index of diabetics.
 
Olives assist the health and function of  the ovaries.
 
Oranges, Grapefruits, and other Citrus fruits look just like  the mammary glands of the female and actually assist the health  of the breasts and the movement of lymph in and out of the breasts. 
 
Onions look like the body's cells. Today's research shows onions help clear waste materials from all of the body cells. They even produce tears which wash the epithelial layers of the eyes. A working companion, Garlic, also helps eliminate waste materials and dangerous free radicals from the body.

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