These past couple weeks have been the lull of winter. The desire for spring to come around, knowing that the winter is going to keep coming. I’ve continued to feel the pulls of desire and wanting to be further along than I am. It’s also been a time of gratitude. Valentine’s Day is a good time to be thankful for having a spouse.
Source: American Ulysses
Reflection:
As time has moved on I continue to think Grant was one of the better US presidents. This review of his life was an enjoyable change of pace. Generally, I don’t read or listen to biographies. It appeared that he struggled with his initial time in the Army after West point. He dealt with drinking and depression. He had significant struggles in his 30s with debt, trying to find himself and not knowing his life’s direction. He didn’t come to age until the Civil War in his 40s. His quick rise to power as General of the Union troops. His ability to continue living a life of honor. One that valued human life after seeing the toll of war. That even he was not immune to greed and the desire to be in a financially secure position. The telling of his story made him seem relatable. It was fascinating to see the parallels that are taking place within the political arena and how the reputation attacks took place 150 years ago.
Source: Lead the Field – Earl Nightingale
Lesson: “We will not receive not what we idly wish for but what we justly earn. Our rewards will always be in exact proportion to our service.” Earl Nightingale
Reflection: This was my second time through this piece. If anything, this provides hope. That if you focus on your dream and give to others, you will be comfortable in this life. In this piece there was a story of someone accepting an average job, clocking in and out for their paycheck, living in the suburbs, and just going with the flow. This existence is the vertical dead. My joke to my wife is we don’t have to live like everyone else, because we don’t have friends. I don’t think social avoidance is the answer to keeping up with the Jones.
Seeking Progress 