Above and Beyond

To Live or Die

2008-04-09T23:14:00.003-05:00

Is life on this planet self perpetuating? Which would mean that what we see and experience is the birth and recreation of what lived before us? Which will include the good,the bad and the Ugly.What prompted this is my observations below.

When I look at nature I see cycles that cause me to question our current concept of death. What if nothing or no one really dies or disappears completely, only changes forms? What dies? Grass? Or does it change forms and blend into it's foundation to live again in another form? Trees? Do they die or change forms, blending into their original foundation? Water, coming in the form of rain, evaporating to the clouds only to return as rain? What of an animal killed and consumed by other animals or humans(You are what you eat, or is that just a figure of speech) is the animal gone or has it only changed forms,now becoming a part of the consumer?

Now more personally. What about a family member or friend described as being lost in death? Of course there is the physical decomposition which returns to the foundation of the earth in the regular cycle of life. However in the memory, habits, character traits, philosophies do they live on? Is a part of your Grandparents and parents living in you, or is that just a figure of speech? Have you ever done something or acted in a way that made you feel like you were someone else? Maybe your mother or father? Or more critically have you behaved in a particular manner and someone else told you, that is EXACTLY the way a past family member whom you have NEVER met, acts? Scary? Maybe not.

Instead of seeing a person as being gone completely in death in the traditional sense. What do you think would happen if you thought above and beyond and saw the essence of the person in and around you now, instead of only waiting and hoping to see them in the "Here After" Just a few thoughts for consideration.

Respect

The Myth of Reality

2008-03-28T09:32:00.005-05:00

We will often hear expressions like "keep it real" or "I'm gonna just be real with you" or we may watch the so called "Reality TV shows". However there is a myth about this supposed reality. That myth is that all reality is the same truth for all, as well as one reality is known and accepted by everyone. The way of the Toltec Warrior says that "we suffer because we believe what we know". The further discussion on the subject suggest that what we know are our beliefs, which is not only limited to what we have been exposed on tell-lie-vision and other media trickery but most of our beliefs have been given to us by opinionated people sharing their beliefs. Time and experience has shown that perception shapes our reality until it conflicts with natural laws of the universe. The myth of reality.

Recently I attended a presentation on Alzheimer's patients and it was said that the patients are often experiencing a different reality than that of the care provider. The statistics say that 38% more care providers will die, than the patients themselves, largely from trying to get the patients to change from their new perception of reality, or continue to accept their past reality. Therefore what is MOST important Perception or Reality? The speaker said that when you acknowledge the patients perception of reality a greater peace results for all. So how do you "keep it real" now? The myth of reality.

If a persons actions based on their perception does not interfere with your life, then what's the problem? Ahhhh maybe you need others to accept your reality/perception so you can control them? After all statistics show that 90% of the population is looking to follow someone or something rather than put in the work and experience the challenge of searching for and looking in the face of truth. The other 10% of the population knows this and have found multiple ways to profit from this knowledge.

The myth of reality. Can something be a reality that has not happened yet? How many people base their lives on that thought and call it faith? Richard Pryor said in one of his older albums " tell me some more lies so I don't have to think about the truth" MAN did he get his wish, with Reality TV,Religions,commercials, billboards etc.wow. In the movie "A Few Good Men" Jack Nicholson's character said "YOU can't Handle the Truth". King Solomon was quoted in part as saying "There is ONE eventuality... for us all" wise,stupid, black,white,rich or poor. It seems that many of us shape our reality on what is comfortable or familiar to us. Be that truth or not. There are more similarities than differences between human beings but we judge,condemn and KILL others based on our perceived reality about us and them. Minister Louis Farrakhan says that at birth and death we universally make the same sound. The divisions in people come with the perceptions we accept as realities and our actions based on our perceived realities. Then some even say their actions were GOD given (That's another blog).

As we strive to operate Above and Beyond average it would be good to remember that OUR reality is not that of everybody else and their reality is as real to them as ours is to us. What's the reality of all of this? You tell me. Respect.

2006-09-12T17:29:00.000-05:00

God Bless America

2006-09-12T17:14:00.000-05:00

Is it all or Nothing?

2006-09-08T01:54:00.000-05:00

To love someone physically,emotionally,spiritually and Intellectually and have them love you the same in all those areas is quite an undertaking to find. In fact I don't know any couple who can say that they both love each other the same in all four of those areas.Yet years sometimes a lifetime is spent looking for that ONE man or woman who has EVERYTHING for you, and you have EVERYTHING for them. Is it possible that one of the reasons for the high and rising divorce rate is that people are trying to accomplish the above, and when it does not happen in all areas they leave? Were their standards too high? Did they settle too soon, or did they ask the questions too late? Do you believe in the all or nothing concept?

Let's look at it for a minute. Physical: loves the way your partner looks. Physically appealing to the eye and sexually compatible. Intellectual: Able to communicate on any subject comfortably with each other. Provides mental stimulation and refreshment. Not intimidated by either ones knowledge. Spiritual: Each shares the same basic belief in spiritual principles that govern life, treatment of people, the purpose of life, death, family and a Higher Power. Emotional: The heart felt connection that generates passion that is unconditional.

Let's pretend that you have found that ONE person. What do you believe you both are suppose to do now? Is the pinnacle of that relationship marriage? Where did you get that idea from? What if everything is there but one area, what then? Which area can you do with out? Are you sure? Will you get that area met with someone else or just live without it or maybe keep searching for the all inclusive person?

Above and Beyond challenges you to answer those questions honestly and see where your answers take you. Maybe share it with a couple considering marriage. It is the belief of Above and Beyond that the things that we NEED are never far away just like the air we breath.

Respect,

This is not a sound check

2006-09-06T12:47:00.000-05:00

Being in the world of entertainment I am very aware of the difference between the actual show and the sound check. While at the sound check we don't dress our best, we don't sing our strongest neither do we usually complete all the songs or scenes of the play we are scheduled to perform. The purpose of the sound check is to assure that the equipment is in proper working order and all the props are in place for the actual performance.

The reality of our current times is that many of us are operating in a state somewhere between comatose and coasting, as if (the show) the actual life that we are to enjoy is at another time. A time like after we die or after we go to heaven or after the world ends or after the kids graduate or after we pay all the bills or after we lose weight or gain weight or after we get the new job or retire from the old job and so on and so on. Like this is just a dress rehearsal or a sound check. We busy ourselves passing out judgments on others while too often we are dissatisfied with our own life which makes it almost painful to see someone else happy.

We wait to love, wait to travel, wait to experience new exciting things, wait to fight for what or who we believe in, wait to demand the respect we deserve and ultimately we wait to LIVE, acting like this is just a dress rehearsal or a sound check.

To function above and beyond we must know who we are, where we are and why we are.

Lights, Camera, ACTION!!!! It's SHOWTIME!!!!!

Respect
Dr. Respect

Stanley "Tookie" Williams...Continued

2005-12-14T15:19:00.000-06:00

A man introduced to the majority of the world as the "co-founder of the Crips gang, co-founder of the murderous crips gang, co-founder of the crips crime gang and in some cases he was introduced FIRST, as the CRIPS GANG co-founder, then his name."

What an introduction! Those who control the media that you choose to listen to read or look at, can shape the thinking , perspective and opinions that we form about others I can't help but wonder if his introductions began with "Mr." or "Author of children's books." or maybe even "nominee for the Nobel Prize" would the publics opinion be any different. This is a clear reminder that our name or what we choose to be called has power that can paint pictures of an image that may or may not be who we actually are.

Now as for Mr. Williams "Redemption" that led to his positive actions for youth. Would he have made such a turn around if he were not placed on "Death Row"? If he was not given a mandatory period of time to think , read and process his actions and the resulting consequences. I don't know if we can answer those questions but as readers who think Above and Beyond we have an opportunity to take time with our freedom to think, read and process our course of action now.We can process the consequences of our actions BEFORE they happen.

Even though many would think this is a message for young people alone, I disagree. I think the parents and adults need to hear the message as well. The parents who produce, adopt and Foster parent the children need to examine if the example they demonstrate is one of thinking proactive. Programs, Boot camps, organizations that deal only with the children has been found to not be as effective as originally believed. The most effective re-education systems include training of all who are involved with the child.

If we don't want to view the execution,the self-destruction, the incarceration the funeral of our children that we still have influence over, we must constantly seek alternatives and possibilities above and beyond the average mainstream concepts that are presented.

May the execution of Mr. Stanley Tookie Williams give birth to the life of possibilities that exist for the men , women and children who are still alive.

Respect

Stanley "Tookie" Williams

2005-12-12T21:47:00.000-06:00

A story for your consideration:

There was a man who had a son who had problems with angry outburst and violent episodes. The father told him, as he worked to help him, to take a hammer, a nail and a board and bring it to him. The father told the son that every time that he had a violent outburst to hammer a nail into the board. The son agreed and continued this until he finally gained better control over his anger. The son approached the father and told him of his Improvement and "redemption". The father then said that now every time that an occasion comes up where you would have had an angry outburst and you used discipline instead take one nail out of the board.

The son followed the fathers instructions again. After an extended period of time the son brought the board back to the father and showed him the improvement that he made. The father sat his son down and asked him what he saw on the board. The son answered holes? The father replied yes. That is the damaged you did when you were angry. So even though you correct your negative behavior there are holes left from the damage that you created earlier that can not be erased.

After 12:00am December 13, 2005 unless otherwise determined. Mr.Stanley "Tookie" Williams will be given a lethal Injection for crimes, murders that he was charged with earlier in his life. Even though he has done remarkable work in attempting to give inspiration and incite to young people to help them avoid a life of gangs and drugs. Also to display a life of "Redemption". There are holes (damages) that are left behind from his previous actions and lifestyle. Now he has allowed himself to be in a situation where others can make decisions and pass judgment on him based on his alleged actions.

What message can we walk away with as those who think and function Above and Beyond? Hopefully it is that we must take the time to think twice, before we act. Hopefully it is that no matter what redemption of our past that we make, we realize that some people may continue to judge us on our past actions. Hopefully it is that we must redeem ourselves not for the benefit of others alone but for the sake of righteousness itself and for ourselves. To be continued...

Respect

Where do they come from?

2005-12-07T16:40:00.000-06:00

My dear and trusted friend Malcolm and I were talking today about a few of our experiences over the past thirty years. We discussed the powerful messages of approximately seven to ten men that were shared with us. This sharing happened during the mandatory time that we spent walking together in order to be considered true brothers.

Now the interesting thing about this story is that none of the men that provided our intense training are any where to be found in any of the professional arenas or personal circles that we have and do travel in. Even though that is where we met them. This includes the "Master Trainer". In addition to that, the people who introduced them to us are all dead. Now we add to that this fact. The messages that we received and the lessons that we were taught, have been life saving for us and we use some version of them daily.

Now this might freak you out. Once I saw one of the men (or at least I thought) I saw one of them in the past thirty years at a press conference on TV. The news papers had pictures of everyone at the event except the one I "thought" I saw.

Do you believe that some people are truly sent into your life for a purpose, then once that purpose is satisfied they are removed? There are many who say that. I believe that facts and statistics don't lie. They are what they are. However I do believe that liars use facts and statistics to validate whatever point they are trying to make.

When you think of the five people that you spend most of your time with, do you think they were "sent" in your life? If so what was their purpose? Were you "sent" in their life? What then was/is your purpose? Who does the sending...in your opinion? Do you think this sending is done on a daily basis? Who were those masked men who entered the lives of Malcolm and I? Are all of these things purely coincidental? Is it by chance that people come and go out of our lives?

As a reader of thoughts Above and Beyond I encourage you to never stop asking the questions that lead to a better understanding of self, direction and purpose.

Respect

Prioritize What?

2005-12-06T19:46:00.000-06:00

Today in the training presented by the "Men of Respect". We concentrated on a facet of the Triple A Plan (a strategy for survival) which emphasizes the need to prioritize before we make the mental adjustment to activate a plan.

In life depending on our direction we need to always assess what is most important at any given time. Then place that important matter in the forefront. Although while sitting in a classroom or training center this may seem like a very easy decision to make. However there are times when the thing that we chose to put first may be unacceptable, unappreciated and disliked by those close to us. That includes family and associates. How do you handle that? There are many who prioritize other peoples priorities in attempts to blend in with family and friends. This on occasion is not a bad thing. However being the creatures of habit that we are, many of us have lost site of the things in life that matter most to us, and we become "Master Blenders" instead of individual architects of our own destiny. Allowing those who we are blending with to live their life, and ours simultaneously. When this happens we become one of the 70% of the population that is always looking for someone to follow, or the 20% that remain in a state of confusion and don't know why we do what we do. Instead of the 10% that are living the life that we truly choose.

What would cause a person to give up identifying and prioritize things that are important to oneself.

Consider these examples:

A domineering companion who we happen to love, but does not love us back with the same understanding.

An employer that pays us what we need to take care of our responsibilities, but not allowing our creativity to be expressed.

A child that we want to please in ways that maybe we were lacking as children.

Most important own internal message, that to consider our interest as important would be a selfish act.

Above and beyond suggest that we love ourselves enough to rediscover the things are important to us without becoming angry at our oppressors. Even if it is us. Once it is rediscovered PRIORITIZE it, knowing that there may be some discomfort involved.

Respect

How are you living?

2005-12-06T00:44:00.000-06:00

While watching the first real snowfall the other day I began to think about the beauty of nature and its diversity. If nobody would notice, why the need to have each snow flake be different? What was the creator thinking,if not to create a unique beauty above and beyond?

Every tree, blade of grass, leaf and mountain has its own uniqueness. However together they make a breathtaking scene. As humans though we ...if not careful, believe that there is only one right way to live in peace. Where did we learn that? Only one way to pray. One way to love.

Have you ever found a certain kind of music that moves and excites you naturally but because of a conditioned thought you restrain yourself from the natural emotion because you have been taught that you should not like or respond to certain music? Who taught you that?

Many of us become judgmental of those who think different,look different and act different than us. We also deny ourselves the joy of experiencing variety in life due to fear of being judged by others. Did you judge someone today? Did you speak negatively against someone? Did you disrespect someone because their method was different than yours? Has nature not taught, the only one way to live in peace is to live in harmony with the rest of creation? Including our fellow humans.

"We will either learn to live together as brothers, or die together as fools."
Dr.Martin Luther King Jr.

Are you free enough to live your life without fear of judgment? Are you free enough to allow others to live their lives free of your judgment? Are you living above and beyond and pursuing harmony?

Respect

Look before you leap

2005-09-07T12:15:00.000-05:00

There are people who are feeling anxious to help those who are surviving the recent hurricane of katrina. I along with the Men and Women of Respect are also prepared to take action. However there are some things that we all must consider to be the most affective in operating above and beyond.

If you are traveling with a group, do you know who the leaders are and what their leadership will look like? Do you TRUST the leadership. Have you ever worked with a group during a crises. Are you aware of group dynamics. If a member of your group is physically threatened , what are you prepared to do? These are questions to answer before you get on the road to travel that distance. There are some people who have difficulty going to the grocery store together...and that's in their own neighborhood.

Just because someone has been devastated does not make them automatically compatible with you and your family. If you work outside of the home , what will they do while you are gone? If you work from your home will you be able to still be effective with house guest. There are eating habits to consider, sleeping, health issues, use of alcohol and or other drugs, respect for others and their property, sexual behavior. That was just your habits. Now what about your guest? Did you just plan to say "make yourself at home" and all that it may entail from the above list? I know some people who are uncomfortable with their own family putting their hand in the ice tray or not cleaning the tub when they get out or making up the bed in the morning. Does that seem like small things? Well they are...UNTIL it is your personal issue AND it is in YOUR home.

Some of us will travel to assist while others may open their homes , churches and places of business. It is my desire that we "See the end in the beginning." This is not to discourage anyone just make sure that we "Plan ahead to get ahead."

Respect,

Katrina wants to know

2005-09-02T22:38:00.000-05:00

This catastrophe that has hit our country is a wake up call on many levels. Take a moment to consider these questions.

Would you have done things differently if you were in the disaster area?

How do you respond now when you hear or see warning signs, in health, relationships or threats of natural disaster?

Can you really count on the government to take care of your basic needs in a crisis?

If New Orleans was 68% white and not 68% black would the relief efforts be different?

If race is a factor in the relief efforts, who needs to look at things differently the survivors or the rescuers?

Is religion a determining factor for those who survive?

Those who died and are dying, do you believe it was "Just Their Time To Go"?

Do you feel connected or effected by the devastation from Katrina?

Does your city have an evacuation plan?If they do, are you aware of what it is?

Does your family have a strategy for survival in a crisis?

If you are the leader of your family, does the second in command know what you know?

Based on your answers to the above questions, what are you prepared to do now to function above and beyond???

Respect

The Birth

2005-07-05T10:12:00.000-05:00

July 4, 2005 @1:22 pm my oldest daughter ( Rayna Crystal Marcella Gentry Poland) gave birth to a 7 lb 6 oz little girl. I had the honor of watching the infant being held by her Great grand mother, while her Great grand father looked on in joy. Four generations in one room. A true time for celebration. I was so proud of her and her husband who was also there with her the whole time for the birth of both of their children.

What causes some to stop the celebration of life? On that day July 4, there were deaths of natural causes, rapes, murders and other violent as well as non- violent crimes committed. However we concentrated of the celebration of life.

It appears that as we grow older there is not enough celebration of the opportunities that life has to offer us today. We concentrate on the disappointments, setbacks, sicknesses and the let downs of THIS life. But look for happiness after this life ends. For those who think that way, I ask the question: Why celebrate a birth? I answer we celebrate because our life is a gift to be valued to the highest degree above and beyond mediocre.

Our children are taught what to appreciate, value and celebrate from us... The adults. They watch us twice as much as the listen. Do you live your life as a celebration? I say that it is time. Happy birthday to all who woke up today to read this message. CELEBRATE!!!

Respect

Luther Vandross

2005-07-03T13:36:00.000-05:00

The man that helped us remember that a "House is not a home" when there is no one there to truly share with. The man that pointed out that love is "So Amazing". The man that functioned above and beyond as a vocalist and entertainer. This man, as we have come to know him is gone.

What do we learn? Well, we can appreciate the OUTSTANDING music that he provided. We can admire the determination to take his performances to the next level of excellence. We can grieve the loss of this phenomenal individual. But what do we learn.

Life will constantly give us lessons that we can learn from . These may come from things that we experience or they may be things that others experience.

From the loss of our dear brother Luther I learn that if you are heavy ( Big Luther) or small ( Little Luther) somebody will always have something negative to say about us. I learn that we MUST work to be comfortable with ourselves first. I learned that until you put your own signature on a song it is just a song. But as a vocalist you have an opportunity to put your personal stamp on your music, that will make it memorable. Luther REALLY lead that lesson by example. I heard him sing a chewing gum commercial once. I never knew that a gum song could sound so good. I also learned that even though many widely recognized spiritual leaders and everyday folk prayed for his speedy recovery and return to the entertainment stage, it did not happen. That reminded me that if our prayers are not in line with the plans of the Divine Supreme Being it will not happen. Maybe our prayers should be that God's will is done ( what ever that is) OR that the highest good is manifested, although it may be outside of our present realm of vision. I learned that our tomorrows here in this life are not guaranteed. We must LIVE while we are alive. I learned that I and those who knew/enjoyed his music will carry some of the spirit of Luther Vandross with us although he is no longer physically with us.

What do you learn from this experience?

May the family, friends and fans of Mr. Vandross have the spirit of peace, especially during this time.

Respect

Nikki Giovanni

2005-06-22T20:54:00.000-05:00

This sister touched my spirit years ago with her poem " My House". She said something like "If I wanna cook yams and call em sweet potatoes then I can , because it is my house and my kitchen."It seems that she was free to be and express herself without intent to offend , but if an offence did occur, she would not discontinue her delivery of the message. I admired that. I wondered if this was just her written material and not her actual character. I had the honor of meeting her on a couple of occasions. I was not disappointed with her presence. Ms. Giovanni was consistent with her written word. This in my opinion, was functioning above and beyond, because so many people live inconsistent and double lives. I thought I would share one of her poems with you. Maybe if you like, you can share one of your favorite poetic selections. Until then enjoy.

CHOICES

if i can't do

what i want to do

then my job is to not

do what i don't want

to do

it's not the same thing

but it is the best i can

if i can't have

what i want then

my job is to want

what i've got

and be satisfied

that at least there

is something more to want

since i can't go

where i need

to go then i must go

where the signs point

though always understanding

parallel movement

isn't lateral

when i can't express

what i really feel i pratice feeling

what i can express

and none of it is equal

i know

but that's why mankind

alone among the mammals

learns to cry

Respect

To do list

2005-06-21T18:03:00.000-05:00

The truth is that even when we die, there will still be things on our "To Do List" that was not completed, and that's o.k. We frustrate ourselves in attempts to finish everything before we can relax , enjoy and appreciate.

The way many of our minds have been conditioned is that we are always looking to finish a project before we can enjoy our life. That project may be school, raising children, losing weight or retiring from a job. The irony of that situation is that as soon as we complete a project, another project is identified in our mind, creating dissatisfaction with our current state of affairs. This makes it difficult for us to enjoy the present. You can't enjoy your work because of thinking about what you are going to do on the weekend. Before the weekend is over you are already thinking about having to get ready for work the next week, and then... plans for next weekend.

To function above and beyond average we must learn to take some "still" time for ourselves everyday. That time is just to give thanks and appreciate what we have and where we are. This way we won't be caught on the treadmill of work, accomplishment, dissatisfaction , new project then back to work again. The dissatisfaction is the disruptive element in that listing of activities. We must find time to enjoy what we have. We get a new car but don't go anywhere of interest other than work. We make more money but don't take time to enjoy spending it on things that will benefit us and our families because we have to work all the time. We order cable television but don't have time to watch it. We join a health club but don't take time to go. We put nice things in our home but are so busy trying to maintain it that we don't have time to enjoy what's inside. We are so busy complaining about not having the "IDEAL" relationship that we miss the value of those who are already in our life.

The purpose of the to do list is to put stuff on it. However, it is important that we remember to put ourselves on the list. Contrary to the opinion of many , that is not being selfish. In fact, if we take good care of ourselves we will be better able to provide for others.

Respect

Survival is just the beginning

2005-06-20T15:55:00.000-05:00

In session today we spoke about a woman by the name of Melinda Lopez. This woman fell off of a shrimp boat. She survived the fall but had to last in the water for an excess of thirteen hours before finding an oil rig to rest on. Although finding an oil rig it was another ten hours or so before she was rescued. Survival was just the beginning.

In our RESPECT training we teach that survival is not the end, but it is a necessary step on the way to functioning above and beyond. Even though you overcome one ordeal, it is not over, until it is over. More often than not, we prepare ourselves only for the survival of things like, a test, a surgery, a trip or an even an event, positive or negative. But we don't remain in a state of alertness after that.

A student survives first semester of school and falls off and fails on the second. Survival was just the beginning.

A couple survives the excitement of the wedding day and soon after gets a divorce. Survival was just the beginning.

A patient survives surgery and later gets sick in the aftermath from complications. Survival was again just the beginning.

A mother survives childbirth and now...Well, I think you get the point. Yes, that was just the beginning.

This message is designed to help us not function as the average person who drops their guard prematurely after overcoming a hurdle. But stays alert and prepared at all times. We rise ABOVE and BEYOND.

Respect

Why the difference?

2005-06-17T23:48:00.000-05:00

I am very well aware that males and females are different just by nature of physical and emotional make up. But when and how were the standards established that makes certain things acceptable for one and not for the other?

Let's take work for example. Some divide it into two categories. Women and men's work. I wonder what happens if you live alone. Is a man doing woman's work if he cooks , cleans or grows flowers? Now for a woman, If she does carpentry, plumbing and fixes on cars does that make her manly and not woman like?

How about relationships? If a man has a lot of women that he sexually deals with, some refer to him as a Player or maybe a Pimp. I know some of you call him a "Dog". By the way have you noticed that men have been called dogs so long that we now refer to ourselves affectionately as that? Anyway back to the subject. If a woman deals with a lot of men sexually she is considered a whore or "Hoe" ( depending on where you are from.) This is not to suggest that either one is right, I am just pointing out the differences.

How about sensitivity? If a woman does not show emotion she is sometimes referred to as trying to be "hard" like a man. If a man shows sensitivity, he is sometimes referred to as being soft like a woman. Where is the balance?

There are so many terms, habits and mind sets that keep us divided more and more. I am not saying that men and women should be more like each other. I am saying that usually the differences are used in putting one gender down while ignoring or condoning the same behavior other one.

For us to function above and beyond it would be good to appreciate the strength of our women without criticism and respect the sensitivity in men without being demeaning. However balance is always important. Until Monday.

Respect

I will love you until...

2005-06-16T22:06:00.000-05:00

Do you believe that conditions exist on pure love? There are so many people who say they will love you as long as you have a job, as long as you love me, as long as you are faithful and so on and so on. Does pure love function in this manner? What would happen if you allowed yourself to love someone JUST BECAUSE?

When we look at pure love, let's see if we really do control it. There are those who say there is such a thing as love at first sight, (If that exist... And I believe it does.) How could that have been planned and controlled? Did it just happen. It seems that love has an existence of it's own. It seems that we can force it to appear BUT it will not be in the purest form because it will need conditions to exist. You know what I mean? A house, money, convenience.

Many people believe that if you love someone then you are suppose to marry that person, OR spend the rest of your life with them. Who came up with that idea? Seriously. Think about it. If you find that you love someone what do you believe you are suppose to do? Maybe the answer is just love them. Treat them with respect, maybe share time and experiences with them, if that is appropriate. By the way it may not be appropriate. Yes, the person you love MAY be married to someone else. Does that mean that you can't love them? Maybe it means that you can't share things with them that you would share if they were not married but what does that have to do with loving them?

Imagine the gift that would be to give a person, unconditional love. The question is can you manufacture that kind of love if it does not already exist? A love without expectations. There is so much that we do ONLY if we get the same thing or close to it in return. Why do we do this? Some people don't speak to strangers not because of fear of physical harm but fear that the person may not speak back. What does that have to do with our expressions of kindness...If we are coming from a pure place.

Now this does not mean that we should teach our children to not say thank you or return kind acts and expressions to others when they express that to them . It does mean that we may not want to allow others to control our expressions of love IF we feel it AND if we seek to function above and beyond.

Imagine the freedom to love and expect nothing in return. Is there anyone that you love unconditionally? This is by no means suggesting that anyone accept disrespectful treatment. It is just designed to help all of us become more free to function from our highest self. I have included the words to the song "AS" by Stevie Wonder. I think if we must use conditions, he provides some very good ones.

Respect

STEVIE WONDER LYRICS
"As"
As around the sun the earth knows she's revolving And the rosebuds know to bloom in early May Just as hate knows love's the cure You can rest your mind assure That I'll be loving you always As now can't reveal the mystery of tomorrow But in passing will grow older every day Just as all is born is new Do know what I say is true That I'll be loving you always Until the rainbow burns the stars out in the sky---ALWAYS Until the ocean covers every mountain high---ALWAYS Until the dolphin flies and parrots live at sea---ALWAYS Until we dream of life and life becomes a dream Did you know that true love asks for nothing Her acceptance is the way we pay Did you know that life has given love a guarantee To last through forever and another day Just as time knew to move on since the beginning And the seasons know exactly when to change Just as kindness knows no shame Know through all your joy and pain That I'll be loving you always As today I know I'm living but tomorrow Could make me the past but that I mustn't fear For I'll know deep in my mind The love of me I've left behind Cause I'll be loving you always Until the day is night and night becomes the day---ALWAYS Until the trees and seas just up and fly away---ALWAYS Until the day that 8x8x8 is 4---ALWAYS Until the day that is the day that are no more Did you know that you're loved by somebody? Until the day the earth starts turning right to left---ALWAYS Until the earth just for the sun denies itself I'll be loving you forever Until dear Mother Nature says her work is through---ALWAYS Until the day that you are me and I am you---AL~~~~~~WA~~ ~~~~~AA~~~~~~~AA~~~~ Until the rainbow burns the stars out in the sky~~~~~AA~~~~ ~~~~AA~~~~~~~AA~~~~~~~~~AA~~~~~~~YS~~ALWAYS We all know sometimes lifes hates and troubles Can make you wish you were born in another time and space But you can bet you life times that and twice its double That God knew exactly where he wanted you to be placed so make sure when you say you're in it but not of it You're not helping to make this earth a place sometimes called Hell Change your words into truths and then change that truth into love And maybe our children's grandchildren And their great-great grandchildren will tell I'll be loving you Until the rainbow burns the stars out in the sky--Loving you Until the ocean covers every mountain high--Loving you Until the dolphin flies and parrots live at sea--Loving you Until we dream of life and life becomes a dream--Be loving you Until the day is night and night becomes the day--Loving you Until the trees and seas up, up and fly away--Loving you Until the day that 8x8x8x8 is 4--Loving you Until the day that is the day that are no more--Loving you Until the day the earth starts turning right to left--Be loving you Until the earth just for the sun denies itself--Loving you Until dear Mother Nature says her work is through--Loving you Until the day that you are me and I am you-- Now ain't that loving you Until the rainbow burns the stars out in the sky Ain't that loving you Until the ocean covers every mountain high And I've got to say always Until the dolphin flies and parrots live at sea~~AL~~~WA~~~AYS Until we dream of life and life becomes a dream-Um AL~~WA~~AYS Until the day is night and night becomes the day-AL~~~~WA~~AYS Until the trees and seas just up and fly away-AL~~WA~~~AA~~~~~ Until the day that 8x8x8 is 4~~~~~AA~~~~~~~AA~~~~~~~AA Until the day that is the day that are no more-AA~~~~AA~~AA~~~AYS Until the day the earth starts turning right to left-AL~~~WA~~~A~~~AA Until the earth just for the sun denies itself-~~AA~~~AA~~~AA~~~AYS Until dear Mother Nature says her work is through-AL~~~WAYS Until the day that you are me and I am you Until the rainbow burns the stars out in the sky Until the ocean covers every mountain high Until the dolphin flies and parrots live at sea Until we dream of life and life becomes a dream Until the day is night and night becomes the day Until the trees and seas just up and fly away Until the day that 8x8x8 is 4 Until the day that is the day that are no more Until the day the earth starts turning right to left Until the earth just for the sun denies itself Until dear Mother Nature says her work is through Until the day that you are me and I am you

Do you say what you mean?

2005-06-15T09:21:00.000-05:00

How often is it that you say this? " I know what I said, but that's not what I meant to say." Words are very critical in order to have and maintain effective communication. But maybe you feel that's too much thinking. How often do you consider what you are going to say before you say it? There are those who feel it is easier to apologize for something said unintentional than to think prior to speaking. The tongue is capable of leaving lasting impressions for positive or negative wounds that may not heal without scars.

I was listening to some news reporters speaking after the verdict of the Michael Jackson case. There were quite a few to say " He was ACQUITTED, that does not mean he is INNOCENT." They are very particular about the language and use of words.

I was taught when recording conditions of clients in a state hospital to ONLY write what you see, NOT what you think it means. For instance, If it was during the night and I had to document, I would write something like this: The client was noted lying in his bed with his eyes closed breathing. I could not write. The client was sleeping. Do you see the difference?

What if your doctor was not specific in his language to you concerning your condition or to his assistants during surgery? What about an attorney defending a case for you . How about an employer in his instructions to you concerning your job responsibilities?

The above areas seem pretty obvious, but why is it that we seem to sometimes not take our words in personal conversation as serious? Maybe we believe we should be able to relax when we are with friends and not have to really say what we mean. There is even the possibility that we have become accustomed to talking to people who don't really listen, therefore we are not as conscious about what we say. I find that people who know they are listened to seem to be a little more conscious about what they say before they say it. What do you think about that?

While on the subject of words , they say there are thousands of words available to us, but most people stop adding words to their vocabulary in their late twenties to early thirties. When is the last time you added a new word to your language? Is your language above and beyond average?

There is always the matter of interpretation. That is a topic for another discussion . This week we would like you to do two things. 1) See if you are actually saying what you mean in conversation and 2) add one new word to your conversation this week. I believe if you do this it will have a renascent effect on your communication.

Respect

You wanna talk to who???

2005-06-14T23:23:00.000-05:00

If given an opportunity to talk with anyone you would like, who would you choose? Some choose millionaires . Others choose religious leaders. There are those who choose political figures. Some might even select long lost friends or family members.

Think further about if you would want to listen or speak or both. I continue to believe that what we need is already available to us. I dare say that much of what we want is also available to us if we really want it.

I pose to you the same questions I have asked previously. Do you have a burning desire to communicate with this person? Are you willing to put in the required work to make it happen? Lastly, are you willing to make a plan and follow it? Once these questions are answered we discover how serious we are about what we say we want. Many operate only according to the manner the question was asked earlier, which is. "If given the opportunity..."

We are waiting for someone to give us the opportunities we want. Think for a moment about the person that you would like to talk with. Have you made any efforts to communicate with that person within the last two weeks? If the answer is no, then you are most likely waiting for someone to do it for you, OR maybe you don't really want to do what you said. Maybe you just think it's a pretty good idea, if it happens on it's own, with no work from you. If the answer is yes and you have made attempts, then this just means your work is not over yet. There could also be the mental barrier like maybe we believe that we are not important enough to communicate with individuals of a certain celebrity.

The goal of this message is to help us look at and believe that when we are functioning above and beyond, we can accomplish whatever we want, even if it is as simple as having a conversation with that special person. There is no human on this earth more valuable than you are or less. You have GREATNESS inside of you. You can make your dreams a reality.

Respect

Thirty to ninety days

2005-06-13T21:52:00.000-05:00

They say that it takes the average person only thirty to ninety days to end up in a situation that could render them homeless, if they were not able to get a check from their regular jobs. That's a pretty profound thought. We ride by homeless people and on occasion pass judgment on their lot in life. How many bad decisions do you think it took for him or her to end up in that situation? There is a statement that I learned when I worked in a Detox unit. It goes like this: "But for the grace of God go I." This is a statement that can keep us humble if we believe it and ponder it. In one instant, your whole life can change. If you question that, ask the mother whose six month old baby was shot by boys riding by their house on bicycles, while they sat on their porch.

Residual /passive income is a term that some have been aware of for a while , but for those of us who have not taken the time to learn or practice developing those monetary habits then it may be necessary for us to do what others are already doing. Such as read financial literature, communicate with a financial advisor and connect with others who are investing their money in that manner. If we don't know anyone personally, we can read or listen to audio tapes of those who are knowledgeable about money and investing.

There are many chances for us to develop investment opportunities so that our money can work for us. One of the basic things that might help us is reading a book called "Rich Dad, Poor Dad." One interesting point the book made was that many of us don't know the difference between an asset and a liability. The book says that most think that a house is the ideal asset, but if it is not making us money then it is a liability. We might also benefit from remembering that money is not the end, it is a means to an end.

There is so much information available to those who want to function above and beyond if we just look for it. It truly does take a lot of effort to redirect our movement if we have been doing things a certain way for a while. Are you up for the challenge?

Thirty to ninety days. That's not a lot of time is it? What will you do now?

Respect

Now that's too much information

2005-06-10T11:27:00.000-05:00

There are people who communicate on a need to know basis. Above and Beyond wonders today, who is it that really needs to know AND when is information too much?

The government will not provide all of the information that is going on in the country in terms of terrorist threats to avoid panic. Are we getting not enough, or too much?

I was at a concert once when the power went out. By activating one of my survival strategies, I got close to the officials that were getting information from the outside. I discovered (with my covert tactics) that the building and it's guest were in danger and needed to evacuate immediately. The announcements of the level of threat and danger was never given to the general population. Not enough information? Who needed to know more?

Local police officials told me personally, they did not want citizens notifying other residents about robbery's by written notice, for fear of their reaction. See what I mean?

If you had a family member going into a country that is at war, how much information would you want on a daily basis about that war?

If your significant other found themselves attracted to another person, do you need to know that? Why or why not?

If someone flirts and expresses a personal interest in you, do you need to share that information with your significant other? Why or why not?

If you are diagnosed with a serious illness possibly terminal, should you share that with everyone? Who determines who should know?

Who should decide what should be shared? The person with the information OR the person who wants to know???

As a mandated reporter to the state. I was instructed to share any information that a client may provide if it was a physical threat to themselves or others. So let's rule that one out. Now, tell me this. When is information too much and when is it not enough?

Frustration in life often comes between individuals when expectations are not met. We at Headquarters think it is possible that we are not all using the same standards and rules. Therefore our expectations are off center. Also due to the sensitivity of the subject we often don't even ask the questions OR we lie to protect the one asking the questions. That's not right is it? Or is it?

Maybe you can discuss this around the water cooler today. I will talk with you again on Monday. Remember, we strive to function ABOVE and BEYOND.

Respect

Did you know that's contagious?

2005-06-09T21:08:00.000-05:00

What you have as the dominating traits of your character is highly contagious . The incubation period may be years after first exposed. For instance, the infestation of negativity produces symptoms of pessimism in those who are around it for a period of time. That may take the form of complaining, discussing problems more often than solutions, speaking in a condescending way about others, hollering, angry outburst that may result in violence, and holding resentments. Now the devastating thing about contagious infections is that they also feed on their own existence until full blown. The eyes are usually affected at the onset of the condition and continue to deteriorate with the progression of this infestation making the patient unable to see themselves as they actually are.

There is also the saturation of positive thinking and enthusiasm that some are consumed with. I have personally watched this up close among most of my colleague's. You should see what happens when a person gets around someone who has a full blown case of positive thinking with secondary optimism. It causes others to get excited about living. They give greater attention to being in good shape in the four aspects of life. Their mind, heart, body and spirit. They start to encourage other people in their efforts more. They compliment instead of criticize. They look for solutions instead of just identifying problems. They create win/win situations in their negotiations. They live their days like holidays instead of working five days looking forward to two off. This also feeds on itself until it consumes the whole person.

On occasion these two elements meet in the same room, and some times in the same person. This is when the GREAT battle begins for the survival of the fittest. To function above and beyond we must remember that both of these are VERY powerful and EXTREMELY contagious. (The friend of a fool is a fool. The friend of a wise person is another wise person. Who are you walking with?) They may lay dormant for years and then resurface. If you notice either of these present, please prepare yourself to embrace or quarantine. Nurture or eliminate.

Currently YOU my dear readers are contagious. The question is: what are you spreading?

Respect