New address!

FYI,

I have moved this to a blog to incorporate my passion for mentoring single adults Thank you for visiting!

http://hesingledout.me/

Blessings,

g

Join the Revolution!!

I am totally regressing to my youth!! Which, in honesty, if you look at it…..how long did our ancestors live? They had long, active, productive lifestyles, & were 100% self sufficient!

I grew up on a farm where we raised everything we ate from animals, produce, grains, etc.  My mother canned vegetables, we butchered our own animals, made our own milk , churned our own butter.  I even remember making hominy in a huge iron kettle pot over a fire.  My mom sowed most of our basic clothing and to me life was grand. I worked hard, loved to drive the tractor and learned the laws of sowing and reaping….literally.  My dad was my hero and had the greatest people skills on the planet.  Guess who I took after?  Well… the never- meeting- a- stranger part anyway!

I remember I used to never eat meat, ever.  My mom took me to the doctor b/c I was sick one time and he told her to increase my meat intake.  I remember vividly coming home that day stomping behind the cows on their trail to the creek, repeating with each stomp, “I HATE MEAT, I HATE MEAT”  My mom would then sit me down before anyone else ate and force me to eat meat.  I was just as content with raw vegetables.  I ate everything raw–tomatoes, corn off the cob-fresh off the stalk, potatoes –both white and sweet, peas, beans, etc.

What happened? Well I conformed.  Then…over the past several years I noticed I do not eat red meat.  I was in the grocery store one day and the meat counter guy was showing me some beautiful roasts and I had an “ah-ha” moment.  I couldn’t remember the last time I purchased anything red.  I hardly ate burgers.  Chicken & fish were my primary source of protein, other than peanut butter.

In the last couple of years I decided to change my diet lifestyle.  I was obese at over 220lbs. and was not going to go into a larger size clothing.  I began sugar busters, which to me wasn’t a diet, it was a lifestyle change.  Then when one of my bff had gastric bypass surgery, I began disciplining my self with portion control. Before long…I began losing weight.  It wasn’t fast, but it was sure & steady.  I went from a size 24-26 down to a 10-12.  During the winter I gained some back and I am back to my strict habits. I will not subject my body to the strain obesity causes.  During my over 20 years of working in the healthcare profession as an ER/ICU nurse….many of the diseases we treated could be contributed to diet and lack of nutrition.  We are eating ourselves to death!

Paul Zane Pilzer wrote “The Wellness Revolution” –Through media discovered just this week, I am seeing the trend change in a huge sense. The production of the movie, Food, Inc. and the eye opening exposure to Meat.org –mini video narrated by Paul McCartney, I am convinced I have got to return to my roots. Besides…how do you explain such cruelty? To feed the masses? Really?

Many, many of our biz partners have began the quest to embrace a healthy lifestyle. Since we are in the # 1 health and wellness company in the world, this just makes logical sense.  One found a local farmer that raises “free range” cows and is looking to see if he has chickens. This also supports local economy instead of big businesses that only feed their pockets.

Do you know what this really tells me?  A couple of years ago I laughed when people talked about organic and free range.  When you are hungry to grow and change, your knowledge base expands and you accept things much better than ever before.  What I have seen is that we have chosen to change quickly without any hesitation.  I am so proud of us! The eyes of my understanding has been enlightened! Generations will thank us!

I am determined to live a long, prosperous lifestyle.   When Chris Brady interviewed Paul Zane Pilzer at our last Mona Vie TEAM Major Leadership Convention, he asked if we were on the right path.  Paul said absolutely we were, but we just wasn’t doing it fast enough.  Funny how things this week has fired up the health & wellness curiosity! Head to heart hunger is a force that cannot be reckoned with!

One million leaders can make an impact in more ways than one can imagine! Let the Revolution begin with you!  Healthy, Wealthy, & Wise!

http://www.meat.org/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5eKYyD14d_0

http://www.the-team.biz/mv944365

G

More than just a business!

Many people ask questions about your success in business. Chances are they are asking the wrong questions.

For example:

When someone asks the standard question: “So, how much are you really making in your little business?”
This question may seem appropriate if the only thing you rate a business on is money. Truth is, there are many people in our nation that have the income status of multi-millionaires or even billionaires that have no relationships, they are dead spiritually, and are mentally drained. Money is only 20% of business success. I choose to invest more in my business than I do in my entertainment, such as cable, satellite, clubs, etc., long enough til I can  treat a $100 bill as though it were a$10.  Then I will begin my philanthropic endeavor. What are you currently doing that will enable you to do that?

When people say, “You are not as involved in the “church” as you were before, all you think about is your business!”

What they don’t seem to realize is that being involved in mentoring and developing people as leaders, educating them on having healthy relationships, helping them succeed financially whereby avoiding divorce, bankruptcy and other financial downfalls is more “ministry” than preaching to them. When you can accept, approve, and & appreciate them where they are, but love them enough to challenge them to evolve into what God has purposed for them to become, is one of the highest forms of ministering to the dying, hurting world. Sorry the sentence is so long, but…..you get the point! Laughing and crying with them every step of the journey is priceless. We will only see the true rewards of what that has done in their lives when we get to Heaven and see the lives their life changed.

What about when they tell you that you just need to, “Work hard, secure a place in the company, contribute to the 401K, and do what it takes for that promotion!”

What they can’t possibly see is that corporate America is not the safe, secure place it used to be. The industrial age is over….this is the age of the entrepreneur. The thinking that worked in that age is no longer applicable to us now. Times have changed! You need to be responsible for securing your future and your retirement. Not only think for yourself, but for your children and the generations to come. People that seek security over opportunity lose both.

If someone at your job has been there 5 years longer than you, can you see where that is an asset? Do they have the fruit on the tree that you would like to pick?

Well, not in my employment circle. Eval was done and there wasn’t even a mention for a raise, let alone knowing anyone here that has the freedom I want. Now don’t get me wrong….I have developed some great friendships here, just not envious of the financial window. I see the same people day in and day out coming to a place that takes them away from their family and dreams instead of allowing them to accomplish them.

Our government certainly is not doing that. Not to get political, but have you received your projected Social Security Earnings Statement lately? Well…. my last statement clearly said there would be nothing for me once I arrive at their projected retirement age. Who are they to say when I can retire? Sad, but true….you need to be responsible for your family. I would rather work hard on a 2-5 year plan than their 45 yr. plan any day. Look at what you are doing right now….do you honestly want to be doing this until you retire only to know you have to live on 1/2 to 1/3 of what you make now? That is a no-brainer question for me! Let’s not even discuss what is currently happening in our healthcare system. Geez!

What about the social aspect of your J.O.B.? Are those relationships healthy provoking you to accomplish great things? Let’s say you are the boss…..can you have friends or is there a chance of showing favoritism?  Are you surrounded by people that you will work in the cubie beside, but  never entertain the thought of  socializing with them on the outside?  Having all the money in the world would be a futile attempt at true happiness if you have no one to share it with.  We need relationships….healthy relationships!

Let’s face it! If you are mentally drained because you have chosen to design your family around your J.O.B., please don’t wonder why you are not sleeping, are having anxiety attacks, & your kids run to their rooms when you come home.  Why not design your business around your life and control the freedom you want.  Besides…when you learn to tap into the marvelous world of books, you will discover there are amazing mentors waiting to work with you in any area of difficulty you may be facing.  All it requires is to open the first page and take advantage of their wisdom and experience.  Forget the old adage, “Experience is the best teacher!” Actually it is again, only partially true.  Someone else’s experience is the best teacher and will save you time and probably sanity to just tap into the well spring of their journeys.

I encourage you to look at the the 5 Aspects of Human Behavior that we need not only to  survive, but thrive.

Spiritual, Social, Economical, Political and Mental. If there are areas not being met at your J.O.B., we need to talk!

Be encouraged….there is an organization comprised of top world leaders and people that have proven that focusing on all 5 areas in an attempt to make sure you succeed as a whole person. This way…you can in turn help others and enjoy the ripple effect of your efforts. It is more than just a business. You get lost in the minutia of serving others and you wake up one day only to realize you are truly living your dream.

Freedom & Liberty...We offer both!

I got in TEAM to have fun and make money…..I stayed in because I desire to make a difference. I am writing my story of success and want to be at 100%!

G

http://www.the-team.biz/mv944365

Steering Through Chaos

For those of you that may or may not be involved with a great church directed by a fabulous Pastor, you will appreciate this.

Since 2004 I have been involved with The Oaks Fellowship, Red Oak Texas.  The pastor is so cool!  When I began attending TOF, I had so much religious baggage, layers & layers of walls around my heart.  Previous religious experiences had left me searching for the “real deal”.  Well….immediately after attending TOF, I realized God had landed me right where I needed to be.

The ultimate decision of where I would attend church was left to my son, Bryce, who was 15 at the time. If you can imagine the dysfunctional thoughts I just mentioned above meshed with doubting God, you will understand what I was up against.  Moving from Louisiana to Texas encompassed only 2 prayers.  Bryce’s relationship with God would be restored & my career.

We visited on a Sunday and these were Bryce’s words as we walked to the entrance of the church. “Mom, how do you feel knowing you don’t know anyone here, no one know’s your name, you are not on staff, or in a leadership position?”  To which I replied, “It feels great, because this is not about me this time, it is all about you.”  That first Sunday, a youth leader invited Bryce to a home group.  A month or so later I was enrolling him for a summer discipleship course on a Wed nite and on the way to the car, he said this.  “Mom, please don’t take me out of this church. I feel like I belong here , these people are who I need to be around, & I  believe this is where I need to be.”  Even as I write this post, tears fill my eyes knowing how my heart felt at that moment.

Bryce found his own identity.  He was not, “Geneva’s son”, or “Summer’s little brother”, but he was Bryce.  He grew in leaps and bounds, become involved in home group, fine arts performance & coaching, etc.  This is where he emerged from doubting if God still cared to wanting to be in full time youth ministry. There were rough patches in the past several years, but to this day he loves God and desires to fulfill the call of God on is life.

Me? I became the Director of the Singles Ministry, taught S.S., led a small group, developed leaders within the singles ministry, helped form another ministry for single parents, formed a consortium between 9 area singles ministries from 2 counties in which we all supported one another.  Just prior to beginning the ministry pilot of , Living Single Again, (the next step after Divorce Care), I resigned my position to focus on my business–A leadership development organization!

Why the walk down memory lane? None of this would have been remotely possible had it not been for a tremendous pastor/mentor/leader/coach—Scott Wilson. I have been saved and fully devoted, serving in church since 1986.  I was a judgmental wreck when we started at TOF.  Within months, I personally took off the layers surrounding my heart, submitted to leadership and wanted to serve.

Scott Wilson is not only an incredible pastor, visionary, husband, dad, friend and community leader.  He is recognized by national leaders and has become a tremendous author.  His latest book, “Steering through Chaos” is sure to become a leading best seller.

Since being at TOF basically at the beginning stages of our growth spurt, I can say from experience in leadership, you do not sustain the growth we have during these economic times without a solid plan.  Change is imperative.  I remember a story of a young 17th. century pastor that had an extremely large church that did not change with the times and his church was reduced to nothing.

Scott has always listened, not only to the voice of God, but also to his people, his community and to what is happening nation wide.  For this I am eternally grateful.

If you are a pastor, youth leader, community leader or anyone with a heart to learn, grow and change….this is a must read. Change is eminent, transition is difficult.  Know where you are going, know who you are following & most of all….know how to lead!

I love my pastor, church family and that ability of knowing I will always be challenged to change! Finding The Oaks was truly the Providence of God!

G

Lose your “self” today!

This was a post from my friend, Lisa Huggins Hartman. As I read it, I began to realize it has a completely different meaning to me today than it has over the past 20+ years.

I hope you see my heart!
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The Message Translation:
Mark 8:34-37:
Calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am. Don’t run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I’ll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to saving yourself, your true self. What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you? What could you ever trade your soul for?
_____________________________________________________

This is so powerful, yet so simple. I like this “in your face” translation because there is just no other way to live—out loud, on purpose, full of passion!

While reading Lisa’s post, I pondered what the true call on our lives is. Just my thoughts, not theologically researched! The Gospel or good news that was preached to the Gentiles/Jews/Pharisees/Greek, etc. was there is a different way to live. There is a better covenant, built on better promises. The kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost. I have noticed now more than ever….people needs this good news almost more than they need oxygen.

With all the distractions the world has to offer, people failing in fear due to an economy they have no control over, & joy is nowhere to be found…..we have to “lose” ourselves in order to show them a better way.

We run to this CAUSE as long as it is smooth and don’t upset our lifestyle. In our lifetime, we would never incur the discomforts that our ancestors endured for the sake of good news! Now, even more than ever, I honor them.

Losing one’s life is sacrifice. I have witnessed this in my mentors/friends/biz partners more in the past 2 years than I have ever seen in my lifetime. They have become my modern day heroes. I chose to follow God & become a fisher of man…..I am sacrificing the old self & as the scripture above describes….to find the real me–my true self! As I strive for this daily, moment by moment, completely & totally surrendered, I am surrounded by people leading by example, doing the same & more.

I am denying “me” to serve others first, ahead of me. I do not covet recognition, but want them showered with praise.

I am losing my selfish ambitions to assure their purpose, goals, & dreams, are discovered.

I am losing my life of sitting on the couch to watch TV for mindless entertainment in order to make someone has their house note paid.

I am losing my life of compulsive shopping habits, practicing delayed gratification, so that I can drive 11 hours just so a new biz partner can witness the feeling of being in a stadium of over 10,000 people praying for a CEO of a “juice company”. To behold what it is like being a part of an organization with the top leaders in the world as they humbly teach from their heart the vision of developing a million leaders. Why this vision? To instill character based leadership principles–God first, Family second, Biz third & to turn our nation back to the nation God intended it to be! Yeah…& you think it is just a “juice business”!!

I am losing my life of selfish, self centered, self righteous mentality, to fast and pray for someone that needs me to stand in the gap so that they can make the right decisions for their family. You see by losing it….I can rejoice with them when these prayers are answered!

I am losing my life of making sure I go the extra mile, so in return I can hear a grown man cry because he now knows his purpose in life, & what he needs to do spiritually, mentally, & emotionally for his family/others.

I am losing my life to pursue my personal vendetta against divorce only to hear story after story, after story of how marriages are being restored. Witnessing that other kids will never have to be subjected to what my 2 kids endured. I am front row, center watching single mothers give their kids/grandkids, “Success for Teens”, hear children recite CD’s, understand the difference in character. What sweet revenge on divorce. Breaking the cycle for generations.

I am losing my life of precious sleep to read a book that will help me learn how to communicate more effectively.

I am losing my life of listening to the “water-cooler” gossip at lunch to read. I have learned how our country desperately needs leaders, how to raise myself from failure to success in selling, how to think/dream bigger, how to speak a love language that will make someone feel accepted then how to accept, approve and appreciate them, how to win friends & influence people, how Thomas Jefferson Education system needs to be adopted by our nation, how we must be prepared for the coming aristocracy, how the next millionaires will come from the next trillion dollar industry, how to make slight edge changes that will affect every area of my life, how to be a go-giver & to know the anatomy of peace. People may feel like they are in a pit with a lion on a snowy day, but I may have the advice to help them make critical choices! All this knowledge by simply sitting in the courtyard alone, or at a table alone while immersing myself in the greatest mentors of history, a book! You see….there is no amount of gossip that would educate me on these topics.

I am losing my life to commit to one Saturday a month, travel out of town, spend time & gas to make sure someone hears that they were never promised this business would be easy, but it is oh so worth it!

You see…when friends said I was foolishly stepping out of the singles ministry to dedicate my life to a business they were clueless. I didn’t step out….I stepped UP & was promoted into a higher calling. A calling that put requirements on me to learn, grow, develop myself, pray, trust God in measures I have only thought of trusting him for. A calling that has allowed me to sit before some of the greatest men/women in my lifetime to glean from their wisdom, learning how to pay it forward!

I have lost it!! But…what I have gained for my loss is beyond words. In the end I have found my life—the real me—serving others first. I have embraced discomfort & learned from it. There is no greater sacrifice or joy! I think in essence……that is what the scripture describes—-to follow Jesus first…the greatest servant leader of all time.

What good would it be for me to gain success, power, influence, and significance if I can’t stand behind those I have put before me to achieve it? Amazing people whose lives would still be in shambles had I not lost mine, and people that have enriched my life more than they could possibly know. How sad my life would be today had I chosen to save my life and never experience theirs.

I am thankful for the Word of God. It is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. The entrance of this very word brings light and understanding to the simple.

Simply put…..I would lose my life all over again to gain what I have thus far. The greatest thing about it is…..I have only just begun!

Lose your “self” today—find someone to serve!

G

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