Passion In ACTION...

I’ve been thinking about writing for a while now, however, it wasn’t until I discovered a true purpose for my writing, that I was able to really take action in bringing these words to you. I have always known deep down, that when I speak from the heart, the words seem to flow magically, like a concert pianist playing Mozart flawlessly. I believe that there is a divine, guiding force working through me to create the words that you are now reading. Some may refer to it as, inner voice, or higher power, and others may call it authentic self, God, or spiritual self. It really doesn’t matter what label you place on it or what name you want to call it, because it all emanates from the same Source, which is Love.
I have always held a strong inner belief that we are all here for a purpose. It is truly amazing how much happiness and success it can bring into your life, once you discover what your purpose is. In my review of the literature written about success and happiness, I have discovered countless examples of people who are living proof of this. Jim Rohn is one example that comes to mind. I was reading an article that Jim had written, and throughout the article he continually focused on one message saying “the major key to your better future is YOU”. As you go through this book you will be reading about many people who are examples of living a successful and purposeful life. I am sure you could add a few of your own examples to the list, some living, and some no longer with us.
I believe that once you discover a purpose for your life, everything else will fall into place, including money, happiness, and success. How do I know this? Well, let’s just say I’ve experienced it myself. Think of me as a good friend who cares about your happiness and success. When you succeed, I’ve succeeded in getting my message across, which gives me great pleasure.
Nine years ago, on March 22 in 1998, I made a decision to give up drinking after many years. San Diego is where I first became sober after my second DUI. It was during that time that I began work on my first book, how will you paint your life today? In the early stages of sobriety, I was encouraged to get my thoughts on paper by a person who believed in me and my writing abilities before I did. I noticed that my life began to dramatically improve once I made a decision to allow my Higher Self to pilot my life. This one decision had a significant impact on the way I look at things today. It reminds me of some profound words that Wayne Dyer often refers to his talks.
“When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change”
“You can either be a host to God or a hostage to your ego”
How many times do we allow ourselves to be held hostage by our ego? Today, I still have challenges, and I make my share of mistakes, just like everyone else, but my ability to transform these challenges into happy and successful situations is far greater in sobriety. Don't worry; I'm not here to give you a speech on drinking, God, or the twelve steps. The purpose of this story is to share what has worked for me over the years. Only you can decide what’s best for you. We each have our own monsters to face. Your struggle could be eating, gambling, or some other form of unhealthy behavior. Let me share another story with you.
In a New Hampshire hospital where I once worked, there was a 98 year old man name Charlie Griffin who traveled throughout the corridors and patient rooms each day making people smile and feel good with his funny hats, and loving presence. He told me that he has over fifty different hats to choose from as he starts his day. Charlie had an infectious energy that healed, energized, and transformed people that he came into contact with. He is a great example of passion in action. I asked a friend of mine who had seen him in action, if she would share a few words about him. This is what she wrote.
“Charlie was a familiar face at the hospital when I would visit my aunt. He always had a different hat on. I thought to myself, what kind of person volunteers and takes time out of his day to uplift the spirits of people he has never known before? After several visits, I figured out what kind of person Charlie is. A person filled with love. For love is the driving force behind Charlie's ability to connect with people through the gift of laughter. He is able to bring a positive outlook to an otherwise sad circumstance. If it had not been for my aunt being in the hospital, I would have never had the fortunate experience of knowing him. How has Charlie affected my life? I'll never forget him”.

During the time that I was working there, I asked him if he had a few minutes to talk to me about the volunteer work that he did at the hospital. I told him that I was working on a book, and I wanted to share his story with others. I invited him into my office and began asking some questions. “So Charlie, tell me something. How long have you been doing this, and what made you decide to volunteer your time? Charlie sat there thinking for a minute, and said “well, I started volunteering about 12 years ago after my wife died. I felt that it was a great way to repay for the great care that she received while she was at the hospital” I continued. Could you tell me a little more about your background and what your purpose is, as you interact with patients, families, and staff in the hospital?
“I worked as a lawyer for 60 years prior to doing this. I try to find positive things that people can hang on to. We all need hope, you know. My purpose is to leave each person with a smile on their face. During Christmas and Valentines Day, I bring the patients a red carnation. On Mothers day they receive a pink carnation, and on St. Patrick’s Day they receive a green carnation. I pay for them myself”. Charlie, you are certainly an inspiration to us all! Is there anything else that you want to say before you continue on your journey down the hall? “Volunteering is something that makes me feel good. It gives me a reason to get out of bed in the morning!” I hope these brief stories help you to Wake UP…Live the Life You Love. It’s never too late to get started!