I’m always telling my oldest that his brothers won’t want to play with him if he always makes the rules and always wins.  In the same way, my friendships can’t grow if I never give others a chance to reciprocate and be there for me the way I’ve enjoyed being there for them.

I guess I hoped for the best, but wasn’t sure what led some people to a 25th anniversary celebration and what led others to a lawyer’s office for divorce.  As my 16th wedding anniversary approaches and I think about how we got here, I can see look back and see ways we’ve been intentional.

The thing that makes you different might just be the very thing that makes someone’s day.

I’ve watched over a dozen episodes now, and the number one takeaway every single boss has is compassion.

So whatever negative connotation you have about teens and iPhones and social media, just stop.  Give these kids a chance and they will prove to you that there is good to come.

You get nothing by simply wishing for it.  Every day that goes by is one that you will never get back.  You can either waste your time or invest your time.

You’ve seen me write a few different times about what I’ve learned when it comes to relationships and people and connecting.  My life is exponentially better today than it was years ago; that’s largely due to the people I’ve invited in along the way. 

As a kid I could win any “no smiling” contest.  I could easily stand there and watch other kids do all kinds of stupid stuff and not crack a smile…because I was born without a sense of humor. 

A few times over the last several weeks I’ve circled back with someone who asked me a hard question or told me something I didn’t necessarily want to hear. 

Since life is just one big improv comedy show anyway, I bet we can apply this same theory to our relationships.  What if instead of trying to one-up each other, we actually accepted what was put out there by our people, celebrated with them, and added to their joy?  What if we kept their momentum going instead of derailing their excitement?  I think you’re going to want to find yourself a tribe who gets this.

In the light of the opportunities held in fall fresh starts, I’ve been thinking more about my writing.