I absolutely hate shoe shopping. It’s hard to find shoes that fit. Plus, shoes are expensive. Ninety-dollars ( $90) seems to be the going rate for a pair of shoes. And if you want really nice shoes, be prepared to pay $130, $150 or $195 – and those aren’t just for high fashion. At these prices, I’ll only be buying about two pair a year.
What I really wanted to rant and rave about was the difference in shoe departments at Twelve Oaks Mall. My first stop was Lord & Taylor. They had a decent selection of heels, but I was looking for flats. I recalled in past shoe-buying ventures how the sales people would converge on me. So, I quickly looked through the shoe selection before a sales person could assist me. The department was orderly and there were sales people. This was important to note.
Next stop: Macy’s. What a mess. Every time I go to that store, there is merchandise stacked up, spread on the floor, and in general disarray. This time was no exception. I started at the sales shelf, if you could call it that. A wire frame shelf barely held the shoes in place. Many were just thrown on the floor. Oh well, there were only very high heels anyways. Hookers would be delighted in the selection.
Surprisingly, Macy’s did have some flats displayed on the 30 or so pods of shoes in the regular (non-sales) section. And some were around $50 – more of what I hoped to pay. I selected four styles that I thought would work. Then I sat down, remembering store etiquette – when you’re ready to try on shoes, take a seat. They’ll come to you. While I was waiting, I noticed that the nearby soap department permeated the shoe area with a distinctive musky smell. I wondered if I had forgotten to put on my deodorant.
I decided to clock them. It was 8:20. At 8:25, I was getting antsy. Patience isn’t my virtue. Finally, after watching three harried sales people (all women) scurrying about, picking up trash, picking up boxes of shoes, bringing shoes to the wrong people and generally looking flustered and unorganized (the fourth sales person simply walked off the floor when I thought I might be able to snare her), a store employee ventured near me. There were six boxes of shoes to my left. She didn’t say, “Can I help you?” She did say, “Are these shoes yours?” pointing to the boxes as she was preparing to scoop them up and whisk them away.
“No, they’re not mine. But I do need help,” I said, caving in to being a hapless customer in need of assistance. Otherwise, I would have fled. I was disappointed to learn that out of four shoe styles selected, they only had one in my size.
Surprisingly again, that pair fit. I hate to reward bad retail, but I ended up buying the shoes. Fortunately, when I took them up to counter, the shoe sales person miraculously appeared (they must still work on commission). Yet, the counter was so cluttered with shoes that the sales person swiped my card on the register and I had to unearth the credit card screen on the counter in order to sign my name. She said, “Don’t mind the mess.” I thought, “Hey, I found some shoes, who cares about a counter full of shoes that couldn’t walk back into their boxes.”
I still had a half hour to spare. Plus I recalled that Lord & Taylor was open until 9:30 p.m. I would finish there.
Onward to Nordstrom’s, which is famous for shoes. As I entered the shoe department, the first pair I picked up was $275. Gag. I ventured on, vowing to see what made this store so exceptional in the shoe department. I wasn’t disappointed. The sales help was wonderful. At least three people asked if they could help me and I wasn’t even sitting down yet. Finally, I did find two pair of black shoes that I wanted to try on. Disappointment again. They only had one pair. But the sales lady (who was all of 20-something) said, “Sorry that I didn’t have the other ones, but these are the more comfortable ones anyway.”
Yes, they would probably have been comfortable with nylons but not with casual socks, which is what I planned on having on my feet along with my jeans or casual pants.
It was 9 p.m., but the sales people assured the customers, “We won’t hurry you.” One sales woman was helping an older woman who was taking a lot of time trying on shoes and complaining all the while. Yet, the sales woman was kind and helpful. I doubt any of the Macy’s sales people would be that attentive.
I must mention that when I stopped back in at Lord & Taylor to look for something to wear to a Las Vegas concert, I was delighted to find a sweet blouse and it was on sale. I knew that I’d probably only wear it once (and no, I’m not the performer). Even that late in the retail world (after 9 p.m.) at least two sales people greeted me with a pleasant hello and offer of assistance.
What’s the moral of this story? Good service is recognized. Even though I did patronize a store that needs to get its act together, I hope that all retailers – from discounters to high-end stores – continue to put the customer first.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Monday, September 14, 2009
New anniversary line launched
My company’s new offering, Minted Memories®, has been launched. It’s a product line of unique anniversary booklets and videos for companies celebrating milestone anniversaries. My first batch of letters to prospects went out today. I was prepared to send them last Friday, but thought that day might be too ominous – like stepping on a crack, breaking a mirror or walking under a ladder – since it was 9/11. So, good things can and do occur on Mondays.
Mark Salloum, of VideoMagic, and I are eagerly awaiting some orders for Minted Memories® videos. My graphic designers and I are ready to put our unique stamp on booklets ordered through the program. Their skills at designing annual reports, newsletters and brochures will be just as amazing when applied to this format.
Meanwhile, the memory book for my mother is in the layout stage. When completed, it will be a fitting personal tribute to a woman who has had an incredible impact on just about everyone that she met and, most especially, her children.
These projects reflect solid values, hard work and the ability to overcome adversity to reach prosperity. In their own way, each offers a tribute and sense of hope. Best of all, these stories allow us to get a closer look at the amazing people who have brought some great things to life. Whether successful companies or close-knit families; in times of turmoil, we need more of both.
Mark Salloum, of VideoMagic, and I are eagerly awaiting some orders for Minted Memories® videos. My graphic designers and I are ready to put our unique stamp on booklets ordered through the program. Their skills at designing annual reports, newsletters and brochures will be just as amazing when applied to this format.
Meanwhile, the memory book for my mother is in the layout stage. When completed, it will be a fitting personal tribute to a woman who has had an incredible impact on just about everyone that she met and, most especially, her children.
These projects reflect solid values, hard work and the ability to overcome adversity to reach prosperity. In their own way, each offers a tribute and sense of hope. Best of all, these stories allow us to get a closer look at the amazing people who have brought some great things to life. Whether successful companies or close-knit families; in times of turmoil, we need more of both.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Summer of my discontent
I don’t know about you, but this was truly a boring summer. I guess that I had to wind down from all the excitement of my daughter’s senior year playing award-winning basketball for Hillsdale College.
I didn’t go on any trips except for a family reunion in Washington D.C. I didn’t update the house or put in new landscaping – which means more work and money to be spent later. I didn’t update my Web site or launch a new venture (which I’ll have to do in the fall).
It was quiet. It was dull. It was recessionary. It was often cold and rainy. Yet, it was life.
What I did do more of this summer was simply listen. I listened to the stories of those without jobs. Those who have been ill. Those who’ve lost a loved one. Those who’ve lost houses. Women whose long-term marriages failed – with husbands who just up and left. And, I feel lucky. Daily I count my blessings and thank God for a great life, smart kids (mine and others), a solid business, love, laughter, close friends and good health.
I guess sometimes life needs to be dull. It helps us regroup, rest and get ready for the next curve in the road. I wouldn’t mind if that curve leads to greater opportunities and a better economic climate. That would be the shot in the arm we all need.
I didn’t go on any trips except for a family reunion in Washington D.C. I didn’t update the house or put in new landscaping – which means more work and money to be spent later. I didn’t update my Web site or launch a new venture (which I’ll have to do in the fall).
It was quiet. It was dull. It was recessionary. It was often cold and rainy. Yet, it was life.
What I did do more of this summer was simply listen. I listened to the stories of those without jobs. Those who have been ill. Those who’ve lost a loved one. Those who’ve lost houses. Women whose long-term marriages failed – with husbands who just up and left. And, I feel lucky. Daily I count my blessings and thank God for a great life, smart kids (mine and others), a solid business, love, laughter, close friends and good health.
I guess sometimes life needs to be dull. It helps us regroup, rest and get ready for the next curve in the road. I wouldn’t mind if that curve leads to greater opportunities and a better economic climate. That would be the shot in the arm we all need.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
How women can feel empowered
Do you want to know how to feel powerful, strong and ready to take on the world? It all starts with muscle-building activity.
Lifting weights is one of the best ways to feel stronger. I know that it doesn’t feel feminine – especially when you are doing it – but it’s amazing what weightlifting will do for one’s body and mind. Take a cue from my girlfriend, Cheryl, or Michelle Obama – to see that it also creates very shapely arms. I must confess that I don’t weight lift anymore, because with swimming, which already creates bigger arms, I was beginning to look like the incredible hulk. But I do remember the sense of power and mastery that it gave me. I thought, if only more women knew about this. It can be as pleasing as eating chocolate but far less fattening.
The second recommended muscle-building activity is to grab a racket and start smashing some tennis balls across the court. My girlfriend, Susan, and I have done that twice this summer and loved the experience. In addition to just volleying, we played two sets – splitting the wins. It was totally empowering…not to mention simply fun and a great way to raise one’s serotonin level – a neurotransmitter associated with happiness. I eagerly await our next match.
Finally, another great muscle-building activity is to read – preferably novels and not the candy-coated stuff. Real novels let your mind wander, imagine and enter someone else’s life and space, bringing new perspectives. A couple weeks ago, I read Ken Follett’s “World Without End,” a companion to “The Pillars of the Earth” which I had read a few years earlier. He is a masterful storyteller and always portrays women as heroines. You go, Ken. You’re my hero.
Now women – or girls as we like to be called - (from 18 to 80), go pick up a racket or some weights or even a novel and start becoming more powerful.
Lifting weights is one of the best ways to feel stronger. I know that it doesn’t feel feminine – especially when you are doing it – but it’s amazing what weightlifting will do for one’s body and mind. Take a cue from my girlfriend, Cheryl, or Michelle Obama – to see that it also creates very shapely arms. I must confess that I don’t weight lift anymore, because with swimming, which already creates bigger arms, I was beginning to look like the incredible hulk. But I do remember the sense of power and mastery that it gave me. I thought, if only more women knew about this. It can be as pleasing as eating chocolate but far less fattening.
The second recommended muscle-building activity is to grab a racket and start smashing some tennis balls across the court. My girlfriend, Susan, and I have done that twice this summer and loved the experience. In addition to just volleying, we played two sets – splitting the wins. It was totally empowering…not to mention simply fun and a great way to raise one’s serotonin level – a neurotransmitter associated with happiness. I eagerly await our next match.
Finally, another great muscle-building activity is to read – preferably novels and not the candy-coated stuff. Real novels let your mind wander, imagine and enter someone else’s life and space, bringing new perspectives. A couple weeks ago, I read Ken Follett’s “World Without End,” a companion to “The Pillars of the Earth” which I had read a few years earlier. He is a masterful storyteller and always portrays women as heroines. You go, Ken. You’re my hero.
Now women – or girls as we like to be called - (from 18 to 80), go pick up a racket or some weights or even a novel and start becoming more powerful.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Education goes hand in hand with handiwork
Few people would argue that education is a worthy pursuit. On par with an education should be learning some type of skill or handiwork. Bear with me as I back my way into this logic. Just the other day, I was at Kohl’s with my boyfriend shopping for some new shorts (no, not that kind – the outerwear). He wanted plaid. I’m looking at the plaids, thinking something’s off here. Then, it struck me. The plaids at the seam did not match up. No one taught the seamstresses in Malaysia or India this basic sewing step. It’s synonymous to matching the pattern on wallpaper or making sure the nap on corduroy goes the right way. More likely, they just ignored this plaid-matching step as a cost-saving move.
Back in junior high, I was sent to sewing classes with two of my three sisters. Sewing was a great skill to have. I made many of my own clothes and also learned a lot about fabric. My sister, Margaret, took sewing to the nth degree as she does with many things, making blazers, dresses, pantsuits and later quilts. My daughter, Kelly, knows how to sew and quilt. And my sister-in-law, Cindy, has taken quilting to a new art form. Check out her designs here: http://www.cindygrisdela.com.
Yesterday, I was at my boyfriend’s community garden plot, which was looking all verdant and vibrant and I told him, “I’m proud of you for doing this.” It’s a good character trait to have something that you put a lot of effort into and get a lot of pleasure out of.
In these hard economic times, there aren’t a lot of jobs. But for those who have a skill or a special interest that they enjoy, they can still get satisfaction from a job well done. In addition to working for a living, it helps to have something you like to do that is productive or simply brings enjoyment, such as music or painting. Therefore, I recommend that we not only educate our youth but also encourage them to learn some type of handiwork. Don't even get me started on how my dad insisted my brothers help him around the house, fixing things. Guess what? They became handy. And that's another great skill to have.
Back in junior high, I was sent to sewing classes with two of my three sisters. Sewing was a great skill to have. I made many of my own clothes and also learned a lot about fabric. My sister, Margaret, took sewing to the nth degree as she does with many things, making blazers, dresses, pantsuits and later quilts. My daughter, Kelly, knows how to sew and quilt. And my sister-in-law, Cindy, has taken quilting to a new art form. Check out her designs here: http://www.cindygrisdela.com.
Yesterday, I was at my boyfriend’s community garden plot, which was looking all verdant and vibrant and I told him, “I’m proud of you for doing this.” It’s a good character trait to have something that you put a lot of effort into and get a lot of pleasure out of.
In these hard economic times, there aren’t a lot of jobs. But for those who have a skill or a special interest that they enjoy, they can still get satisfaction from a job well done. In addition to working for a living, it helps to have something you like to do that is productive or simply brings enjoyment, such as music or painting. Therefore, I recommend that we not only educate our youth but also encourage them to learn some type of handiwork. Don't even get me started on how my dad insisted my brothers help him around the house, fixing things. Guess what? They became handy. And that's another great skill to have.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Making memories
I’ve been thinking about my mom a lot lately. She passed away March 20, 2008 at age 81. I’m working on a memory book about her, with entries from my seven siblings, some aunts and friends. It’s almost done. I only have to finalize the copy, add the photos and have a designer do the layout. Yet, just as the shoemaker who can’t fix his family’s shoes, I’m dragging my feet on this project. I’m not sure why. I can get my clients' work done on schedule, whether it’s a newsletter, annual report, community report, e-newsletter, speech or Web site. But implementing my own ideas or completing non-compensatory projects often loom as monumental challenges.
Maybe it’s because I don’t think the actual book could ever encapsulate what a tremendous presence my mother had on our lives: not only her kids, but also nearly everyone she came in contact with. She was quiet but underneath that sea of calm was a churning of ideas, concern, compassion, questions and connection. She loved people and learning about them. Rather than having a WIIFM attitude (what’s in it for me), she took the perspective of how she could improve other people’s lives.
With a family of eight children and a solid 50-plus year marriage, she didn’t have a chance to fully develop her career abilities. That was a different era, yet she had earned a bachelor’s degree from Marygrove College in Detroit and two master’s degrees: from Wayne State University in Detroit and Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland. Once the kids were older, she became director of the religious education program at St. Alphonsus in Dearborn, our home parish. For about 10 years, that was her illustrious career. During that time, she impacted many lives and hosted fun holiday parties.
Writing this blog entry is motivational. I will continue on. I will complete it…hopefully in time for our family reunion this Labor Day weekend. I’ll just focus on how cool it will be for her family and friends to have a keepsake memory book of a wonderful woman who quietly spoke volumes about the true values in life.
Maybe it’s because I don’t think the actual book could ever encapsulate what a tremendous presence my mother had on our lives: not only her kids, but also nearly everyone she came in contact with. She was quiet but underneath that sea of calm was a churning of ideas, concern, compassion, questions and connection. She loved people and learning about them. Rather than having a WIIFM attitude (what’s in it for me), she took the perspective of how she could improve other people’s lives.
With a family of eight children and a solid 50-plus year marriage, she didn’t have a chance to fully develop her career abilities. That was a different era, yet she had earned a bachelor’s degree from Marygrove College in Detroit and two master’s degrees: from Wayne State University in Detroit and Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland. Once the kids were older, she became director of the religious education program at St. Alphonsus in Dearborn, our home parish. For about 10 years, that was her illustrious career. During that time, she impacted many lives and hosted fun holiday parties.
Writing this blog entry is motivational. I will continue on. I will complete it…hopefully in time for our family reunion this Labor Day weekend. I’ll just focus on how cool it will be for her family and friends to have a keepsake memory book of a wonderful woman who quietly spoke volumes about the true values in life.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Get inspired!
Who’s your mentor? How weird is it to say “my daughter?” Shouldn’t it be the other way around? My daughter, Katie, has been an inspiration to many athletes, as a forward/post player for Hillsdale College Women’s Basketball. The incredible thing is that she pretty much sat on the bench her first two years, even though she did amazing things in high school. Those were the times that she really didn’t like basketball too much – she had so much to give and couldn’t execute. She was more or less, a caged tiger.
Yet, when uncaged her junior year, she didn’t waste any time getting the job done. I’ve often called her “a gazelle” on the court, because she is so fast, sleek and effective in her every move. Her records are now legendary (Summary here: http://www.mlive.com/sports/jackson/index.ssf/2009/05/hillsdale_colleges_katie_cezat.html) … but more importantly, the way she played the game was so inspiring. She savored it. She excelled at it. She totally encompassed it and made it her game.
I think many of us have the potential to do that with our own skills, but we are held back by various forces. My challenge to you is to be the best at whatever it is you are the best at. And, we each have our gift. Don’t hide it. Don’t let two years on the bench or a down economy diminish your dreams and destiny. Work on it. Believe in it. Do it.
Let’s let Katie inspire us all!
Yet, when uncaged her junior year, she didn’t waste any time getting the job done. I’ve often called her “a gazelle” on the court, because she is so fast, sleek and effective in her every move. Her records are now legendary (Summary here: http://www.mlive.com/sports/jackson/index.ssf/2009/05/hillsdale_colleges_katie_cezat.html) … but more importantly, the way she played the game was so inspiring. She savored it. She excelled at it. She totally encompassed it and made it her game.
I think many of us have the potential to do that with our own skills, but we are held back by various forces. My challenge to you is to be the best at whatever it is you are the best at. And, we each have our gift. Don’t hide it. Don’t let two years on the bench or a down economy diminish your dreams and destiny. Work on it. Believe in it. Do it.
Let’s let Katie inspire us all!
Monday, April 13, 2009
What was your dinner table talk on Easter Sunday?
I’m blessed with a large family – seven siblings, 13 nieces and nephews, and my own three children (ages 19, 21 and 25). At holidays, we typically get together with at least part of the crew – more than half of them live out of state. This Easter was another good one – hosted by my brother, Mike, and sister-in-law, Cathy – the best cook in the family. We had a great time with a delicious meal, the Masters on big-screen TVs, and spirited conversation.
I wonder if our conversation matched others around the country. We talked a lot about the economy, and the expenditure of billions to set it all right. We got into the nitty-gritty of what went wrong. And then we sighed. What the hell can we do about it?
I’ve gotten to the point where I’m really angry about it. My sister, Barb, noted, “Who do we turn to? Our elected officials are just regular people – what do they know about economics?” I replied that it requires all of us to be better educated about money and finances. Plus, it comes down to values. We need to return to making money the old-fashioned way. Instead of faking gains through the sale of derivatives, we need to create things, make them and sell them. Let’s not outsource our key talents and money-making ability.
We’ve got such a powerful base of engineers in Michigan. Let’s put that brain power to work…now. Would the venture capitalists please step up? Let’s work together to get the answers and move this country forward. Government can only do so much. We, the people, need to make it happen. That’s the strength and destiny of the American people. We “can do.”
I wonder if our conversation matched others around the country. We talked a lot about the economy, and the expenditure of billions to set it all right. We got into the nitty-gritty of what went wrong. And then we sighed. What the hell can we do about it?
I’ve gotten to the point where I’m really angry about it. My sister, Barb, noted, “Who do we turn to? Our elected officials are just regular people – what do they know about economics?” I replied that it requires all of us to be better educated about money and finances. Plus, it comes down to values. We need to return to making money the old-fashioned way. Instead of faking gains through the sale of derivatives, we need to create things, make them and sell them. Let’s not outsource our key talents and money-making ability.
We’ve got such a powerful base of engineers in Michigan. Let’s put that brain power to work…now. Would the venture capitalists please step up? Let’s work together to get the answers and move this country forward. Government can only do so much. We, the people, need to make it happen. That’s the strength and destiny of the American people. We “can do.”
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
March Madness has begun!
The Hillsdale Chargers women’s basketball team is heading into the GLIAC tournament in fine fashion. The way these women have played all season – with 9 heart-stopping game-ending finishes (3 that led to a Chargers loss and 6 that resulted in a win) – they are a true entertainment value. I’m the parent of one of those Chargers, Katie Cezat (senior center/forward).
It was heartening to learn that 1,000 fans showed up at the Hillsdale College gym on Tuesday, March 3, 2009, to watch yet another narrow win by the Chargers. This time, it was over the Lake Superior State Lakers, who were formidable opponents, belying their #7 seed vs. our #2 seed. (You can probably tell that I’m not a sports writer, but I am a die-hard fan.)
Crowd support had a lot to do with this win. When you get a group of teeming fans behind you, they can literally lift you up when you’re down. And, we were down: by 12 points with 4 minutes left. For details, go to:
http://www.hillsdale.edu/admissions/news/news_story.asp?iNewsID=1550&strBack=/athletics/default.asp
http://lssulakers.com/sports/w-baskbl/2008-09/news/hc-ls_gt_3-3-09
At any rate, for those of us who don’t play basketball but appreciate those who do, the GLIAC tournament will be one of the most exciting match-ups ever with some cream-of-the crop teams: Grand Valley State, Michigan Tech, Ferris State and Hillsdale. These games are one bright spot in an otherwise cold season (both temperature-wise and economy-wise).
Don’t be surprised if ambulances are lined up outside the SDC gym in Houghton this weekend to attend to us aging baby boomer parents and fans who’ve had one heart-stopping game too many. Let the games (and fun) begin!
For those of you who don’t have an interest in basketball, I’ll give you a take-away point. With good fans on your side, you can achieve more than you ever thought possible.
It was heartening to learn that 1,000 fans showed up at the Hillsdale College gym on Tuesday, March 3, 2009, to watch yet another narrow win by the Chargers. This time, it was over the Lake Superior State Lakers, who were formidable opponents, belying their #7 seed vs. our #2 seed. (You can probably tell that I’m not a sports writer, but I am a die-hard fan.)
Crowd support had a lot to do with this win. When you get a group of teeming fans behind you, they can literally lift you up when you’re down. And, we were down: by 12 points with 4 minutes left. For details, go to:
http://www.hillsdale.edu/admissions/news/news_story.asp?iNewsID=1550&strBack=/athletics/default.asp
http://lssulakers.com/sports/w-baskbl/2008-09/news/hc-ls_gt_3-3-09
At any rate, for those of us who don’t play basketball but appreciate those who do, the GLIAC tournament will be one of the most exciting match-ups ever with some cream-of-the crop teams: Grand Valley State, Michigan Tech, Ferris State and Hillsdale. These games are one bright spot in an otherwise cold season (both temperature-wise and economy-wise).
Don’t be surprised if ambulances are lined up outside the SDC gym in Houghton this weekend to attend to us aging baby boomer parents and fans who’ve had one heart-stopping game too many. Let the games (and fun) begin!
For those of you who don’t have an interest in basketball, I’ll give you a take-away point. With good fans on your side, you can achieve more than you ever thought possible.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
President Obama paints a vision that Americans can embrace
The inauguration of President Barack Obama can’t pass without my comments. His presence in the White House is a breath of fresh air. He’s a true leader in his demeanor, judicious thinking, inclusiveness and eloquence. In his speech, President Obama successfully portrayed a vision for the future that people can understand and embrace.
When listening to his address, I thought it had a somber tone. I expected more of the uplifting, “let’s rally behind the team” type of speech. I wasn’t disappointed, just maybe a little let down. I wanted a hopeful message that the country would be on the right track and soon.
In order to truly absorb the speech, I wanted to read it. I was delighted to find it laid out with such elegance and respect in the commemorative supplement of the Detroit News (yes, we still need newspapers!). Reading the speech brought me to tears. His fluid, riveting manner of speaking is rooted in careful deliberation. As a writer, I can see the effort that he puts into this noble craft that remains one of the best ways to communicate. I connected with just about each and every point of his speech.
He used powerful imagery when he told corrupt leaders, “We will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.” He made many points that recalled the country’s historic upheavals, and used the right touch of symbolism when he said, “…a man whose father less than 60 years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.” Through these touch-points, the message was crystal clear: when we work through conflicts and discord based on our founding principles, we emerge stronger as a nation.
When President Obama delivered the speech, I was a bit distracted by looking at the crowds – a majestic sea of nearly two million faces of all races and ages. Reading his speech in a quiet time brought greater clarity. The sincerity of his message reflects a man who, I believe, will be able to lead the country to new heights and renewed greatness. But it will take time.
The inauguration was a day for celebration and hope. It was a day that all Americans could unite and wrap their arms around our country’s principles and also around each other – because President Obama made us truly realize we are all in this together and only by working together will we emerge stronger. He struck the right chord when he said, “On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.”
Thank God that this is a great county and we have a great leader.
When listening to his address, I thought it had a somber tone. I expected more of the uplifting, “let’s rally behind the team” type of speech. I wasn’t disappointed, just maybe a little let down. I wanted a hopeful message that the country would be on the right track and soon.
In order to truly absorb the speech, I wanted to read it. I was delighted to find it laid out with such elegance and respect in the commemorative supplement of the Detroit News (yes, we still need newspapers!). Reading the speech brought me to tears. His fluid, riveting manner of speaking is rooted in careful deliberation. As a writer, I can see the effort that he puts into this noble craft that remains one of the best ways to communicate. I connected with just about each and every point of his speech.
He used powerful imagery when he told corrupt leaders, “We will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.” He made many points that recalled the country’s historic upheavals, and used the right touch of symbolism when he said, “…a man whose father less than 60 years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.” Through these touch-points, the message was crystal clear: when we work through conflicts and discord based on our founding principles, we emerge stronger as a nation.
When President Obama delivered the speech, I was a bit distracted by looking at the crowds – a majestic sea of nearly two million faces of all races and ages. Reading his speech in a quiet time brought greater clarity. The sincerity of his message reflects a man who, I believe, will be able to lead the country to new heights and renewed greatness. But it will take time.
The inauguration was a day for celebration and hope. It was a day that all Americans could unite and wrap their arms around our country’s principles and also around each other – because President Obama made us truly realize we are all in this together and only by working together will we emerge stronger. He struck the right chord when he said, “On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.”
Thank God that this is a great county and we have a great leader.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Shake things up in 2009
Change. It’s the mantra of President-elect Obama. And we’ve seen first-hand how destructive staying on a dead-end course can be: whether it’s war, the economy at large, or even in our own businesses and careers. Let’s do something different – something with a lasting, beneficial impact. The hard thing is being patient enough to await the desired results of a new direction or tactic. It’s called perseverance.
Being in business nearly 15 years now, I’ve managed to tweak my business plan as needed to survive the ups and downs of the marketplace. This year will be no different. I plan to expand by assisting clients with presentations (organization, speechwriting and take-home materials) and becoming more Internet savvy – to learn how my experience of providing PR and marketing print materials for professional services, universities, health care and nonprofits can be supplemented with Web content. Can I still maintain the personal approach that small business owners are known for? The trick will be to do this without breaking the bank (although many of them are already broke!)
Change can also revitalize one’s day-to-day routine. When the sidewalks aren’t iced over, my fitness walk consisted of about a three-mile journey covering two local high school campuses. On Jan. 3, I took a different track – literally and figuratively. I stopped at the first school – which is closer to my home – and walked around that track four times, then ran up the bleachers four times. Same distance was covered without having to journey to the second school but a new twist was added to the workout with the steps. That change alone rejuvenated my approach to what had become routine. Come spring, I hope that my reward will be some needed weight loss.
Try it in your own life: shake up your routine or tweak your goals and see what happens. Check out this website to analyze what may be at a dead-end in your personal or professional life. Then take the needed steps to change it.
http://www.yeartosuccess.com/members/y2s/blog/VIEW/00000014/00000142/Recognize-the-Dead-End.html
Being in business nearly 15 years now, I’ve managed to tweak my business plan as needed to survive the ups and downs of the marketplace. This year will be no different. I plan to expand by assisting clients with presentations (organization, speechwriting and take-home materials) and becoming more Internet savvy – to learn how my experience of providing PR and marketing print materials for professional services, universities, health care and nonprofits can be supplemented with Web content. Can I still maintain the personal approach that small business owners are known for? The trick will be to do this without breaking the bank (although many of them are already broke!)
Change can also revitalize one’s day-to-day routine. When the sidewalks aren’t iced over, my fitness walk consisted of about a three-mile journey covering two local high school campuses. On Jan. 3, I took a different track – literally and figuratively. I stopped at the first school – which is closer to my home – and walked around that track four times, then ran up the bleachers four times. Same distance was covered without having to journey to the second school but a new twist was added to the workout with the steps. That change alone rejuvenated my approach to what had become routine. Come spring, I hope that my reward will be some needed weight loss.
Try it in your own life: shake up your routine or tweak your goals and see what happens. Check out this website to analyze what may be at a dead-end in your personal or professional life. Then take the needed steps to change it.
http://www.yeartosuccess.com/members/y2s/blog/VIEW/00000014/00000142/Recognize-the-Dead-End.html
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