Thanksgiving

Tomorrow is a day that has been set aside for Americans to give thanks and remember our forefathers and their bravery in establishing this great and powerful nation. As the pilgrims did so long ago…take time to say thanks.

Here are some wonderful quotes and poems to encourage us in our thanks.

The Pilgrims made seven times more graves than huts. No Americans have been more impoverished than these who, nevertheless, set aside a day of thanksgiving. ~H.U. Westermayer

Thanksgiving Day comes, by statute, once a year; to the honest man it comes as frequently as the heart of gratitude will allow. ~Edward Sandford Martin

Our rural ancestors, with little blest,
Patient of labour when the end was rest,
Indulged the day that housed their annual grain,
With feasts, and off’rings, and a thankful strain.
~Alexander Pope

He who thanks but with the lips
Thanks but in part;
The full, the true Thanksgiving
Comes from the heart.
~J.A. Shedd

Thanksgiving comes to us out of the prehistoric dimness, universal to all ages and all faiths. At whatever straws we must grasp, there is always a time for gratitude and new beginnings. ~J. Robert Moskin

There is one day that is ours. There is one day when all we Americans who are not self-made go back to the old home to eat saleratus biscuits and marvel how much nearer to the porch the old pump looks than it used to. Thanksgiving Day is the one day that is purely American. ~O. Henry

Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us, and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips, and shows itself in deeds. ~Theodore Roosevelt

We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures. ~Thornton Wilder

I am thankful for all of you.

Dr. Keith

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Help Me!

All of us reach at least one point in our lives where we really need help.  It could be financial.  I could be relational.  It could be spiritual.  It could be most anything but the truth is…none of us are able to live a life that is void of pain and hardship.  It is during those times that we all need the help of others.  We need people to love us so much that they are there when we really need them.  But here’s the interesting part…sometimes, in the midst of trouble and hurt, our help comes from unexpected places and people.  Sometimes, it is not those that we expect will help that do, rather it is sometimes those that we don’t that do.  I am not sure what that really says but it is just something I have observed.

Today, my encouragement to you is: Be willing to help.  Don’t do so expecting something in return.  Rather, do so because it is the right thing to do.

I send love and blessings,

Dr. Keith

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Score

This is the season when sports are on many minds.  Football is really getting going and the baseball season is coming to an end with post-season.  Regardless the sport…one this is necessary for victory…to SCORE.

Well, the Christian life is one win which scoring is important too.  I don’t mean the way you may think.  I don’t mean that we should compete with others or keep a track of our “good deeds” thus providing us with a “passing score.”  Rather, I am speaking of score as an acronym taken from Heb 12.1-3.  Please allow me to share that with you:

S–seek the council of others.  The older I get the more I realize that there is so much I don’t know.  Because of that, I find myself constantly being willing to ask others for advice or help.  And, most importantly, I find myself seeking God’s voice and His Word for council.  The man/woman who thinks themselves all wise is surely not.

C–consider the cost.  Just like those football players who enjoy the trill of competition on Sunday have to endure the endless hits and laps on Tuesday, so mush the Christian disciple be willing to fight the good fight each day even when the day seems hard, frustrating, or even painful.  Have you considered the cost of your service?  Are you willing to pay it?

O–obliterate distractions to your success.  Perhaps there is no greater distraction to the full and happy life of discipleship than sin itself.  No, we aren’t perfect and yes, we will sin…but there should be a willing desire for the Holy Spirit to lead us in life, strengthen us in challenge, and defend us in fight.  Submission to His guidance and power is the best way to obliterate any distractions.

R–reach for the goal.  If you ask any “successful” person how they got that way.  Most, if not all, will tell you that they set goals for themselves and kept working toward them until they achieved them or at least got as close as possible.  So…let me ask you…have you got goals for your Christian life?  Why not?

E–expect victory (success).  With God–all things are possible.  That includes your faithful walk with Him.

 

So…there you go.  My Christian version of SCORE.  Take what you will.  Use what you can.  But, always love.

Blessings,

Dr. Keith

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Choose your words carefully

“A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered.” Proverbs 17.27

Words are power.  With them we can build up.  With them we can tear down.  The old expression, “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me,” is a lie.  In truth, words can hurt.  What’s worse, they can even kill.

On the flip-side, words can be very uplifting, very therapeutic, very comforting.  Words can be full of life, information, and challenge.

It is my belief that in today’s world, far too many words are being shared and many of those shouldn’t be.  We in modern society are often afraid of silence, especially in the presence of another.  In truth, silence is a blessing, for in it, wisdom and inspiration can bring forth the right words to share.  For instance, it is not unusual at all within the Native American tradition, that older ones will use extensive amounts of silence during a visit and only share words as needed to convey important teaching, information, or love.

How do you know a “fool?”  Just listen.  Their words, many times extensive, will give them away.

My word for us today is restraint.   Restrain yourself from flippant responses.  Restrain yourself from always “tooting your own horn.”  Restrain yourself from angered outbursts.

Instead…use that inner wisdom to choose your words carefully.  For by your words…man will know your heart.

Blessings and love I send your way,

Dr. Keith

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What if…

There is a nagging fear within you that is based on an uncertainty about a particular issue. Recognize the issue, examine the “worst- case” scenario, and then realize that in almost every situation , that is not the outcome. The fear of “what if” is robbing you of today’s joy.

Blessings,

Dr. Keith

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Inside out verses Outside in

One only has to take a quick walk along the beach where I live and see the emphasis on outward beauty.  There are bikini-clad ladies greased up and absorbing the rays and there are young men, shirts off, muscles bulging, throwing a football or Frisbee.  Each works hard to attract the attention of the other.  In fact, many are seeking the attention although there is no desire for a connection of any kind.

There are billions of dollars spent on every weight-loss product or plan on the market today. Some people spend an alarming percentage of their pay on the newest and hottest fashions.  Hair-dye and hair restoring products are sold at amazing levels…all in an attempt to look younger, more outwardly attractive.

Now, as I write these words, it may at first sound like I am opposed to working on the outward self.  No, I am not.  In fact, I am trying hard to exercise, eat better, and take better general care of my body to not only improve my health, but also improve my outward appearance.  I admire someone that has the dedication to build a six-pack middle where I have more of a keg.  I admire those that spend hours on a machine to build the perfect legs.

There is nothing wrong with trying to improve our “outside.”  But…and this is a big but…don’t sacrifice or ignore the inside.   Our society today puts so much emphasis on the outside, it often ignores the value of the inside.  In truth, outward beauty only lasts, for most, a short time.  Who we are on the inside is what lasts.  It is what gives true value to our lives.  It is what impacts the lives of others.  It is what will be remembered after we are no more.

So, I ask you dear friend…are you working on the inside?  Stretching your faith muscle, your dream muscle, your hope muscle, you kindness muscle…will radiate true beauty and worth.

Do not give up on improving your outward.  It’s okay to spend money to improve your appearance.  It’s okay to buy clothes that make you feel pretty (as long as you stay in your budget).  But be willing to invest money and time into your inward improvement too.

I want to see people change their lives…from the inside out…for that is where lasting impact occurs.

Blessings,

~Dr. Keith

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Move that Furniture

I know I am somewhat unusual but I really do embrace change.  One of the things I enjoy changing in my furniture. I am not suggesting that you have to change your furniture around all the time, although you might be surprised at the results, but I am suggesting that you take a look at your willingness to make some changes in your life.

What are some valid reasons for change?

  1. To seek optimization.
  2. To adjust for additions or even subtractions in the make-up of one’s room, business, or…life.
  3. To simply “shake things up.”  Sometimes being too familiar and comfortable keeps us stuck or in a rut.

Of course there are many other reasons for change.  Some of self-induced, some are forced upon us.  But, here is the thing…having the right attitude about change is crucial.  Of course, isn’t that true of any situation…attitude is vital.

Okay…that’s it for now.  Guess it’s time to move the sofa…LOL.

Blessings,

Keith

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“Clearing the Clutter of Unworthiness” by my good friend, Pat Hastings

The only reason a person doesn’t have the life they want is that somewhere in the back of their mind they don’t believe they deserve it. They don’t believe they are worthy which is why they will not take responsibility for making it happen. I needed to clear the “spiritual clutter” of unworthiness to give flight to my dream.

It’s been my dream to vacation in Hawaii for several years. Two years ago, I placed a beautiful picture of a sea turtle swimming in Maui, Hawaii in my intention book.  I prayed with it daily and visualized my dream manifesting.

My trip to visit my brother in New Jersey was delightful and relaxing, until I arrived at the airport for my return flight. “Why can’t I check in at the kiosk?” I wondered. When I finally reached the desk, the clerk politely said “Miss, you are a day early; your flight is tomorrow morning.”  “Well, can I get a flight out today and what will it cost?” I asked. I gulped when she informed me it would cost $170. That was more than what I paid for the whole flight. She could see my dilemma and informed me that she heard Southwest had cheaper flights. So off I went to Southwest. Yes, I could get a fight out that day and it was $30 cheaper.

I thanked God, trusting that all would turn out for the good. I didn’t beat up on myself, which would have been so easy to do. While walking through the airport, a very nice young man caught my attention. He invited me to sign up for a Southwest credit card. I normally wouldn’t be bothered, but the deal was a free flight anywhere in the US. As I completed the application and walked away, I said to myself “this is for my flight to Hawaii.”

A month later, I was invited to speak at a local church about my book, “Simply a Woman of Faith.” Ellen approached me after the talk with a big smile on her face. She said “I loved your talk and I am also stepping out in faith.” “Oh, what are you doing?” I asked. “I am going back to live in Hawaii.” My eyes lit up and I said, “it’s been my dream to vacation in Hawaii someday.”  She smiled and said, “You can stay with me.” I could hardly speak. She then whipped out a postcard from her pocketbook of the condo she owned – overlooking the ocean in Maui, Hawaii.  Not only did she invite me to stay with her, but she said I could stay as long as I wanted- and could use her car. I manifested a beautiful place to stay, a new friend and a free round trip ticket to Hawaii.  Last year my dream came true and I vacationed in Hawaii. Dreams do come true when we believe.

I have been on the spiritual path for over 35 years and have experienced powerful healings and transformation. God continues to reveal the limiting beliefs that are unconscious that block the flow of divine supply. If I had not cleared the emotional and spiritual clutter, I would have missed out on this wonderful gift and opportunity.

As I prepared for my vacation to Hawaii, I was surprised when the feelings of anxiety and guilt surfaced.  As I dialogued with God, this is what came up.

Pat: I am feeling anxious and guilty God, what is this all about? I thought I was done with guilt. I feel guilty leaving my business and I am scared. I know I am doing the best I can to change. Is it worthiness issues that are coming up?

God: You know what I say about guilt and what you teach others.

Pat: Yes, I do. So why am I feeling guilty and where is this coming from?

God: All your life, you have thought you had to work hard, achieve, do more, be more and it’s time to shift, really shift and ALLOW me to do the work.

Pat: What do you mean God? How do I shift this? I want so much for my business to be successful so I can help others to heal and transform like I have.

God: I know and I want this for you to. Remember, I called you to this ministry and it is your mission to help others to heal their fear and believe in themselves. You heard my voice and you said, yes.

Pat: Yes, God I remember. I get mixed up sometimes with how much money I am making as a measure for my success and worthiness.

God: You are not alone. Many women feel bad about themselves and have a hard time receiving the good that I want to give them. They too equate their job, what they do with who they really are, their essence and the spark of the divine they are.

Pat: Do I need to just let go, surrender, trust you are working in my life and love myself into wholeness and health?  Can I believe this trip is a gift from you and there is no need to feel guilty?  Please help me God.

God: I am helping you. You must go in and change your thinking, like changing the channel of the TV when you don’t like something. You are in control of your thoughts and it’s up to you to change them. I cannot do that for you.

Pat: What shall I change them to? “I deserve to go away, rest, and BE. I trust myself and you God that you opened the door.  I have everything I need in this moment. Miracles are coming to me right now.  I open my heart to receive all that you have for me. I am worthy and deserving to receive.”

God: I see your heart Pat and I know how you want to do my will and serve me. I want you to expect my favor and a powerful, peaceful two weeks of surprises. Just keep trusting yourself and your intuition. I am blessing you in this moment. You are my beloved whom I am well pleased.

Pat: Thank you God. I stand tall in this truth of who I am and who you are. I now choose to believe I am worthy and deserving to receive.

What happened during my trip to Hawaii was truly amazing. I received so many gifts and miracles. It was truly a gift from God with magic and many miracles – just like God promised. Going to Hawaii started with a thought, then a deep desire and then pictures in my intention book that I prayed with for over two years.

I have been invited to go back to Hawaii to “house sit” for the month of September and will be giving workshops and speaking at Unity Church. It just keeps getting better and better as I allow myself to RECEIVE the good God wants to bestow on me.

Let go of the emotional and spiritual clutter and never give up on your dreams.You don’t need to know HOW it will happen. All you need to do is to “Show Up” and believe. Your dreams will come true.

______________

To find Pat, visit her website at Simply A Woman of Faith.

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Graduation Time!

I am so proud of my son who graduates from the NC School of Science and Math on June 4th.  It is quite an accomplishment to get in–an even bigger one to finish.  This fall…he’s off to UNC Chapel Hill.  Yep…he will be a Tarheel.

Yesterday, while driving around Wilmington, NC, I spotted a proud mother taking a picture of her daughter in cap and gown outside of UNCW.  The class of 2011 just finished and now is ready to face the world…albeit a challenging one vocationally for many.

Graduation–a time of ending–at time of beginning.  Isn’t it interesting to see how students react to this major event in their lives.  For some, there is sadness.  They are sad for what they are leaving behind.  But for others, there is excitement for what lies ahead.

I don’t know about you but I really want to be like that second graduate.  Sure, sometimes is is easier to re-live the past, especially its comforting parts.  But, it’s much more exciting to look forward at all the opportunities and adventures that await us.  I am not getting younger by the calendar.  In fact, I have a birthday coming up June 2nd. I have also been through my share of graduations from formal education.  But, even though I may never experience a formal graduation again…I do commit myself to living as a graduate each new day, if possible.  Each day I try to say goodbye to yesterday and hello to today.  I want to welcome the opportunities that await me.

Here’s to the Class of 2011.  Congrats!  Now–go for it!

Dr. Keith

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Welcome!

Welcome to the new site. Will be working hard to get it up and running over the next couple of day.

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