Enjoy More

"Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one." -Dr. Seuss

The office area in which I work has a pretty open floor plan. Low cubicle walls grace our desks enabling interaction among people. It allows for easy communication and collaboration while building great connection between these same people.

At times, the conversations can get lively with a lot of jocularity. The laughing and general good nature relieves the stress of the work. I normally take the opportunity during these times to jump into the fun. I will pronounce that everyone should quit laughing...work is supposed to be serious. They will stop, realize its me and then gleefully continue.

The point to be taken is that everything we do should have some level of fun attached to it. The same holds true for school-work, our work-work, along with our non-work, and just about any type of work. Life is work and it should be interrupted with moments of fun.

There is enough stress and seriousness in life, so take some time to relax a bit with laughter. Enjoy everything you do just a little more. Enjoy your life a little more.

Feet First

"If we listened to our intellect, we'd never have a love affair. We'd never have a friendship. We'd never go into business, because we'd be cynical. Well, that's nonsense. You've got to jump off cliffs all the time and build your wings on the way down." -Ray Bradbury

A man was spotlighted recently in the Atlanta area for simply doing what was on his heart. Twenty years ago, he and his wife had it in them to see a need. So they began adopting special-needs kids.

Today he raises six of these children ranging in age from 12 to 19. The illnesses of the children include nonverbal mental retardation, cerebral palsy and Down Syndrome.

In addition, there are three biological children whom are all adults at this point in time. But the sadness is that his wife Cheryl passed away on July 21, 2011 from a stroke. So battling a job loss of 18 months and the passing of his wife, Will Stark just keeps plugging along doing what is in his heart, feet first, no regrets.

Others heard of the story, the needs and a local radio talk-show host, Bert Weiss on Q100 (Atlanta). Listeners heard the story and nearly $200,000 in donations along with a donated handicapped-accessible van cam rolling in. The generosity was heart-filled as people jumped in, feet first.

There are so many examples from this one story that can teach us lessons. The story of two people simply taking on the responsibility where they saw a need. Perseverance despite the odds and difficulties of doing what is right. And other people, hearing of the story and not hesitating to take action. Those fine people not waiting for the government, the church or anyone else to act...they acted and made a difference.

There are many opportunities each day, week, month and year to become involved. We can each make a difference, we can each impact the lives of others and make lives greater. All it takes is jumping in, feet first.

Words Into Action

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” -Howard Thurman

My fourth book has been accepted for publication. My hope is to have it available in time for Christmas. A lot of love is going into this book which should serve as a hint. My wife and I are also looking at starting an organization that you will hear more about in the coming months.

There are also plans to start putting my words to action. There might be some speaking engagements coming along soon. If you have the right venue, the right need and I have the right words, let me know by writing to josephprimm@bellsouth.net today.

Putting words into action can result in great things happening. When you put your words into action, movement begins all around you. Opportunity begins to intersect with your life. You start to impact the lives of other people and the ripple effect begins.

Stand Up To

Stand Up To Cancer

"Stand upright, speak thy thoughts, declare The truth thou hast, that all may share; Be bold, proclaim it everywhere: They only live who dare." -Voltaire

It was late in the afternoon of October 14, 2008 when my mother passed away from Pancreatic Cancer. The time was marked eerily by a previously stopped clock. It is a time that I will remember for its sadness but more for the memories she created for us.

About one month prior to her passing, Patrick Swayze appeared on the cancer research funding show called Stand Up To Cancer. He proudly stood and announced his own battle with Pancreatic Cancer. One year later he also passed away.

I could have waited until the anniversary of my mother's passing to bring this up, but when it is on my heart, that is the time to act. There are other people out there facing their own battle with cancer. Those people are your friends, your family, your children, your spouse and possibly you.

All of this means that now is the time to do something. Now is the time to act by contributing a few dollars to any number of organizations. Do your research of the organization you are giving dollars to. Find the right organization that fits for you. Your donation turns into research dollars that will help fight cancer of all types.

It also means standing up and doing something today. The same that is said about pursuing your dreams, you get up, you stand up today and begin moving towards it. Stand up today and make a difference.