I’ve had the fortunate opportunity to visit a number of 3rd world countries in the last ten years via mission trips, vacations and work. What I’ve seen and experienced in each country is a genuine happiness and contentment. The people I’ve spoken with and interacted with have nothing materially, but are always smiling, friendly and passionate about life. The days …
WF Pride: Focus on Unity and Humility
Michael Jordan: “talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships.” Over the years, many leaders will affirm what Michael Jordan had to say about the effectiveness of teamwork, on the court, field, or in the corporate or operation settings. “Teamwork” has been defined before as the combined action of a group of people, especially when effective and efficient. But …
WF Pride: Willingness and Desire to Sacrifice and Serve
Physical pain is something we all go through in some form or another in our lifetime. From burning our hand on the stove as a little kid, spraining our ankle or knee playing sports, or breaking a bone, it all hurts to varying degrees. Here recently my wife endured excruciating back pain. When she described it to me as worse …
WF Pride: Excel in Communication
When my kids were little, I used to sneak outside early Easter morning to hide the Easter Eggs and candy all around the house and yard while Kristen prepared breakfast. Early April weather in Michigan always seems to be cold and dewy. I think the neighbors thought I was crazy – running around the yard in my robe and boots …
WF Pride: Discipline and Accountability
Let’s be honest here, we all know we should eat healthier foods, eat smaller portions, drink more water, eliminate sugary drinks, exercise regularly and get the right amount of sleep. Then why don’t we do it? If we know what the better choice is, why do we choose the donut over the apple? Why the Coke over the bottled water? …
Wf Pride: Integrity
Our home has a place for nearly everything, and I like it that way. Maybe I’m a little anal, or maybe my wife just trained me well. Whatever it is, I enjoy the organization of it. And as I get older, it helps me remember where stuff is. I like that the shoes go in front of the closet, and …
WF Pride: Recognition and Respect of Others
When I was in elementary school there was little saying that kids would chant to the local bully, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me!” But when you stop and think about it, the saying isn’t accurate. Words can and do hurt – sometimes worse than physical pain – and once said, can never …
WF Pride: Positive Attitude and Passion for Life & Work
This past weekend, many countries throughout the world celebrated ‘Valentine’s Day.’ It’s a time when people exchange cards, candy, gifts or flowers with their special ‘valentine’. The day of romance we call Valentine’s Day is named for a Christian martyr, Saint Valentine, and dates back to the 5th century. Some people look forward to this for weeks and months on …
WF Pride: Focus on Unity and Humility
Tibetan-born Sherpa Nawang Gombu and American Jim Whittaker reached the top of Mount Everest on May 1, 1963. As they approached the peak, each considered the honor of being the first of the two to step to the summit. Whittaker motioned for Gombu to move ahead, but Gombu declined with a smile, saying, “You first, Big Jim!” Finally, they decided …
WF Pride: Willingness and Desire to Sacrifice and Serve
As a father of four, there is nothing I wouldn’t do for my kids. As much as they are similar in their looks and last name, they are all unique and different in so many ways. And of course I like to take credit for their good qualities, and blame the areas that need improvement on my wife – as …