How To Find And Live Your Dreams (by Dr Bruce Wilkinson)

Article Title: How To Find And Live Your Dreams (by Dr Bruce Wilkinson)
Shared by Craig Lock

Category: Dreams,Inspiration, Dr Bruce Wilkinson, Hour of Power, Motivation, Empowerment, Words of empowerment and inspiration
Web Site: http://www.brucewilkinson.com/

Submitter’s web sites: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=la_B005GGMAW4_sr?rh=i%3Abooks&field-author=Craig+Lock

http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4 and http://goo.gl/vTpjk

Craig’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at http://www.anewdawnbook.wordpress.com

http://www.sharefaith.wordpress.com

http://www.buildbridgesofunity.wordpress.com

http://www.buildbridgesofunderstanding.wordpress.com

http://www.breakdownwalls.wordpress.com

http://www.breakdownbarriers.wordpress.com

http://religiousunity.wordpress.com

http://www.peacepursuit.wordpress.com

http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com + so many others I can’t keep track (obsessive or WHAT!)

Other Articles are available at: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565 andhttp://www.ideamarketers.com/library/profile.cfm?writerid=981
(Personal growth, self help, writing, internet marketing, spiritual, ‘spiritual writings’ (how ‘airey-fairey’), words of inspiration and money management, how boring now, craig

Publishing Guidelines:
This article (as with all my articles) may be freely published (with acknowledgment to Dr Bruce Wilkinson and Hour of Power, please)..

“We share what we know, so that we all may grow.”

*
How to Find and Live your Dreams

“I’d rather attempt something great and fail…
than try nothing and succeed.”
– inspiring words from Norman Vincent Peale
(US preacher and author)

Author’s Note:
This article was largely based upon a most inspiring adress by Dr Bruce Wilkinson as aired on the TV program, The Hour of Power in New Zealand on TV3 many years ago. Though it is quite “religious” (and no matter what the concept of God, or a Higher Power/ Supreme Being means to you), I have personalised some of the information and applied the principles to my own life (with a dash of humour), as in this piece.

The Rev Robert Schuller has been a great inspiration and “mentor” to me in following my personal dream for many years and I’m sharing this piece with the hope and in the spirit of inspiring other people to follow their personal dreams. That is my ‘mission’ and dream!

craig

April 2003

*

What would you do with your life, if you KNEW that you COULD NOT FAIL?

What dream did you carry in your heart when you were a child?

Perhaps it was to be a fireman, a nurse, a policeman, an actor, a footballer, racing driver, a musician or perhaps even a writer (“oh no”!)… but definitely NOT an “insurance man”!

What is your soul telling you to aim for in your life TODAY?

I believe that many dreams (big or small) start in prayer – in close communion with the Source of Life, the One who knows us best, our Creator, God, the Infinite Spirit of the Universe.
HOW does this happen?

With FAITH and “possibility thinking”. And “heaps” of prayer. Prayer changes our thoughts into another, a higher (loftier) DIMENSION – the SPIRITUAL. It’s a change of CONSCIOUSNESS Another analogy may be like this: Just as we live, work and play in the “real world”, we can also operate a business or touch lives in another realm, the “world of cyberspace”, as I’m hopefully doing in sharing this article). In moments of meditation and prayer (spiritual awareness) our Higher Self connects with the divine, a Force/Being/Spirit far Greater than ourselves – our spirit connects with Infinite (Divine) Spirit; so that we draw on an Higher Power with unlimited potential… the power of God, the Essence of Life, or as Napoleon Hill termed ‘Infinite Intelligence’.

And God, Infinite Spirit, a Deity, the Ground of all Being, I believe, communicates through the conduit (medium or channel) of our subconscious minds. My “very analytical scientific” friend, Andy (a micro-biologist) calls it the ” ‘God-gate’ to Infinite Intelligence, the Great Designer”. We then just have to use our tools of BELIEF (faith) and ask the right questions. EXPECT an answer to our questions, a solution to our life problems (even many big ones, like mine!). TRUST the process, then leave to ‘Invisible Intelligence, Infinite Spirit to work things out for you – the best way possible to move forward. Just relax and allow the Universe’s Infinite Wisdom to send you the right answers: the Almighty , the Grand Designer of Life WILL.

“Let go, let God, let good.”

*
Here are some good points made by Dr Wilkinson…

* I truly believe that God, the Great Dream Giver, the Ultimate Source, the Ground of our very Being also has a dream for every life and especially YOUR life.

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you…
Before you were born, I set you apart.” (Jeremiah 1:5)

and the big dreamers are the ones who’ll change the world…
so making it a better place for ALL.

* The secret of the dream: you never know how you’re going to do it before you COMMIT to doing it.

* When God gives you a dream in your heart, it is always too big for you to do…ALONE. So you need a “Partner”. A “Co-creator”. It seems overwhelming at first – impossible, way out of your reach; yet somehow it gets achieved. No, not achieved…but surpassed.

“The dreams of great dreamers are never achieved; but with God’s help are always transcended – into true miracles…beyond one’s wildest dreams.”

* Your dream is at the centre of who you really are: It’s the ‘essence’ of who you are as a person – the core of your very BEING. The dream of God is the reason for the way you are – it drives you and gives a sense of meaning and purpose to your life: to follow your unique destiny.

* The dream is always outside your comfort zone. (I thought mine was impossible (and “crazy”), from where I was (“never in a million years”). However, even our “big-little” dreams fit perfectly into God’s bigger plan, His Grand Dream for the Universe. So make your dreams big enough for God to fit in.

“Lord, Reveal Your power and somehow fit my “little” dream, my ‘little’ life into Your grand plan for this world.”

* When you start out tentatively, don’t focus on the fear – focus on the dream. Then the dream becomes more important than the fear.

* Dreams happen when you accept the fact that the dream is your calling, something YOU simply HAVE to do to fulfil you. COMMIT fully to it. Say: “I don’t know HOW I’ll do it, but God will give me the way, if I just proceed and follow the dream. Just DEPEND on God, the Essence of Life to accomplish the “seemingly impossible”! Take that first step in FAITH; then watch what happens.

I have absolutely “zilch” idea where my journey is leading, but in “partnership with the Ultimate Source” guiding me each step of the way, it’s tremendously exciting, sliding down “the rapids”, er sorry, “waterfalls of life”.

It’s the will of God, our Creator, that we follow our personal dreams – fulfilling God’s dream is what we have been made to do, based on our skills, talents, gifts and aspirations. In short, our unique personas, who we are as ‘human beans’. It’s our unique calling in life: to do what we are DESTINED to do and it usually involves helping (serving) others, ie. meeting a human need to help others or make their lives easier or better in some way. I believe the key is making some contribution, however small we may think it is, to the betterment of humanity.

“All of us can become great, because we can all SERVE.”
– Martin Luther King (or was it Mother Teresa…or both??)

CHOOSE to follow your dream; because, if you don’t, do you realise how many people will be affected? Because a dream often lies in helping someone else’s dream, or helping them towards achieving it. It is God’s dream and consequently can never be selfish.

All dreams start in FAITH, but ones faith gets strengthened as you take one step after the next (one gets “led”). Faith really works and it get’s stronger by the day, when you look back and see how far you’ve come along the path.

Never give up on your unique calling, YOUR dream, Say, “I will UNTIL.” Finally , when you feel stuck in moving ahead with your dream…once you’ve done all you can, SURRENDER your dream to God, the “Ground of All Being, Truth, Goodness and Joy”.

“Let go, let God, let good.”

My dream in sharing this piece is hopefully helping others to fulfil their potentials, their individual dreams through encouragement (and perhaps upliftment). You can’t imagine the more you pursue the dream, the more God, the Grand Designer of Life, is going to use you in ways you never imagined possible. I am continually amazed at what we’re doing each day…from what started out as the seed of a vision twelve long years ago (when I had no idea how to turn on a computer!). Though many times facing innumerable obstacles and often feeling stuck, I simply surrendered my dream to God, the Universe. Then I’d get some insight or somehow the Universe, Essence of Life, Infinite Spirit would just move me ahead and open up a path for the vision. “Co-incidences?” This journey is a true ‘miracle’ in action, I believe, that so many people around the globe are involved and helping me greatly, as one person can’t do it alone. (Thanks so much, all of you for your many skills and gifts that I don’t have – you know who you are and also that I’m a total “non-techno wally”!). Once you embark on God’s dream for your life, watch the way the Universe brings people into your life to help you and to expand the vision (because you can’t do it alone). Also my faith is considerably strengthened each day, as I see the process DOES work…and one can see how far you’ve come from those tentative first steps. I’m greatly enjoying this most enjoyable and exciting journey, as I follow my personal dream(s).

craig April 2003

After that little personal interlude… to continue with Dr Wilkinson’s message in a few final words…

*

You’re never too old and you’re never too young to dream big dreams!

Will you go through life one day regretting that you DARED TO DREAM?
Will you too surrender to your personal (“impossible”) dream?
Absolutely NOTHING is impossible* (I can certainly vouch for that!).

“It’s kinda fun to do the impossible.”
-anon

“It always seems impossible…

until it get’s done.”

– Nelson Mandela

All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.”

– Walt Disney

“Faith sees the invisible, believes the unbelievable and
receives the impossible.”
– Corrie Ten Boom

Always remember,
God’s dreams are far bigger than you could have imagined yourself.

Just TRUST God, the Essence of Life, the Ground of Our Being, Ultimate Source and enjoy the journey towards your dreams. Absolutely NOTHING is impossible. Just BELIEVE in your dream.
You CAN do ANYTHING with God’s help (just live in an attitude of dependence) and your individual journeys can be used to honour the infinite love of our Creator.

So how about doing something about following your passion and pursuing your dream TODAY?

Shared by Craig Lock (“Information and Inspiration Distributer, Incorrigible Encourager and People-builder”)

LIVE the dream

“Life is about finding, then following the dream… and
one’s dream/vision comes to reality through believing in
yourself, making the commitment and then creating it.”

– craig 2003

“A man (OOPS, or woman) without a dream is destined never to fulfil his or her full potential in life. Never give up on your dream…

but take time to smell the flowers on your very individual journey.’ Be yourself and daily count your blessings;

then try to make a difference in the world – however small.

Try to shine your own little ray of sunshine to make the lives of others easier in some small way.
You can derive the greatest pleasure from treading the wildest uncertain path down the ‘river of life…

and just being you.”

“Our talents are our gifts from God…
but what we do with them are our gifts TO God.”

PPS: Thank you sincerely, Drs Wilkinson and Schuller for sharing your insights and wisdom in encouraging me down my ‘untrodden path’, as I follow my dreams; but most of all, for serving as a vessel to illuminate God’s unlimited love for all of us, His children.

LOVE is the greatest and most powerful force in the world;
so shine your own unique bright light on an often darkened world …in a spirit of living at the highest level of humanity.

“When the world is filled with love, people’s hearts are overflowing with hope.”

– craig

About the submitter:
In his life mission Craig hopes to help, encourage, motivate, uplift and perhaps even inspire people to be their best through realising their full potentials. His dream is seeing people finding, striving for the “seemingly impossible” and one day perhaps even realising their personal goals and dreams having great FUN along the magical journey of life

http://members.tripod.com/~lock77/ http://www.craiglockbooks.com and http://www.selfgrowth.com/experts/craig_lock.html

The various books* that Craig “felt inspired to write” are available at:

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=la_B005GGMAW4_sr?rh=i%3Abooks&field-author=Craig+Lock

http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4 and http://goo.gl/vTpjk

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at

http://www.newbooksbycraig.wordpress.com

http://www.sharefaith.wordpress.com

http://www.buildbridgesofunity.wordpress.com

http://www.buildbridgesofunderstanding.wordpress.com

http://www.breakdownwalls.wordpress.com

http://www.breakdownbarriers.wordpress.com

http://religiousunity.wordpress.com

http://www.peacepursuit.wordpress.com

http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com + so many others I can’t keep track (obsessive or WHAT!)

“We have it all within, but we get from without, the Ultimate Source.”
– craig

THIS PIECE MAY BE FREELY PUBLISHED (with acknowledgment to Dr Schuller and Dr Bruce Wilkinson, please)

“What we learn in the darkness…
we are to share in the eternal light.”

“The dream still burns … but the rest of us should take heart. The key here is the dream, rather than its realisation.”

picture from http://www.flick.com

“Schumachers 2010 return shows the dream still burns – but the rest of us ‘losers’ should take heart. The key here is the dream, rather than its realisation. It may not be explicable to us mere mortals, but the more I heard about this ‘Heaven on Earth’ called the Zone, the more I was convinced it is the true Holy Grail – not just for racing drivers, but for all human beings in whatever we do. Finding it often enough inevitably leads to ‘winning’ in earthly terms, but it only comes into reach, when you rid yourself of the obsession with the end result. The shortcut to the Zone is to join the wimps, forget about winning and revel in the beauty of playing the game.”

“The untapped potential in every human being is limitless: we are perfectly capable of producing all by ourselves, true magic.”

– powerful (and great) writing from Clyde Brolin in his excellent book ‘Overdrive: Formula One in the Zone’ (web site www.overdrivef1.com)

from http://raceinthezone.wordpress.com

 

* The various books (including ‘Stirling’ and ‘The Prize’) that Craig “felt inspired to write”are available athttp://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4

http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html
http://www.creativekiwis.com/index.php/bookswww.lulu.com/craiglock
and http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/craiglock (e-books) * Hard-copies and e-books, fiction and nonfiction: self help, novels, travel, humour, writing, inspiration and money management

All proceeds go to needy and underprivileged children – MINE!

The world’s smallest and most exclusive bookstore”

“Life is about finding, then following the dream… and one’s dream/vision comes to reality through believing in yourself, making the commitment and then creating it.”

– me

“Together, one mind, one life at a time, let’s see how many people we can impact, encourage, empower, uplift and perhaps even inspire to reach their fullest potentials.”

from http://raceinthezone.wordpress.com/

 

“I truly want to let the light shine through my words to impact and help others…to inspire people throughout our (sometimes happy and sometimes dark and sad (yet always beautiful and magical) world.”“I truly want to let the light shine through my words to impact and help others…to inspire people throughout our (sometimes happy and sometimes dark and sad (yet always beautiful and magical) world.”

QUOTE

Posted on August 25, 2013

“I truly want to let the light shine through my words to impact and help others…to inspire people throughout our (sometimes happy and sometimes dark and sad (yet always beautiful and magical) world.”

The various books* that Craig “felt inspired to write” are available at:

http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4
http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.htmlwww.lulu.com/craiglock 
and http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/craiglock

All proceeds go to needy and underprivileged children – mine!

“Together, one mind, one life at a time, let’s see how many people we can impact, encourage, empower, uplift and perhaps even inspire to reach their fullest potentials.”

PPS

Don’t worry about the world ending today…

it’s already tomorrow in “the little scenic and tranquil haven” that is New Zealand (or “Godzone” as it is sometimes affectionately known)

Share this:

 

The Power of Words (Thought and Prayer): Words Determine Our Destiny

The Power of Words (Thought and Prayer):

Speak it (what you really want to happen) into existence

“Just as you have spoken in My hearing, so it will be done.”

(New Living)

and/or

“I will do to you the very things I heard you say.”

(NIV)

So words determine our destiny!

The various books* that Craig “felt inspired to write”

First Light Makorori, Gisborne by Dawn Furmage
(Credit: http://www.aa.co.nz)

are available at: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4 http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html http://www.creativekiwis.com/books.html and http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/craiglock (e-books
– Numbers 14:28

“Lord, broaden my horizons and expand the sense of possibility”

“Lord,
broaden my horizons and expand the  sense of possibility”

How to Turn the Ordinary into the Extra-ordinary (from Charles Price)

Article Title: How to Turn the Ordinary into the Extra-ordinary (from Charles Price)
Shared by: Craig Lock
Category (key words/tags): Spiritual Growth, Faith, Christianity, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Charles Price, Living Truth, Thoughts on Jesus, Empowerment, Transformation, Quotations, Thoughts, Inspiration “Inspiration, Spiritual”, Inspirational Writings (enough there now, craig)
Web site: www.livingtruth.ca

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at https://sharefaith.wordpress.com and http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com and http://craiglock.wordpress.com

Other Articles are available at: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565 and http://www.ideamarketers.com/library/profile.cfm?writerid=981
(Personal growth, self help, writing, internet marketing, spiritual, ‘spiritual writings’ (how ‘airey-fairey’), words of inspiration
Publishing Guidelines:
This piece (as with all my articles) may be freely reproduced, electronically or in print. If they help at all, or make any difference in people’s lives by bringing some joy, then I’m very happy.

“We share what we know, so that we all may grow.”

*

HOW TO TURN THE ORDINARY INTO THE EXTRA-ORDINARY

Here are my notes from Charles Price (Living Truth Ministry 30th August 2009)

My Note:
Where the term “Him” is used, use whatever term which you use to describe God, Source of Life
*
“The Son can do nothing without the Father.”

“I am here to fulfil.”

Whatever He says, DO IT!
Listen. Ask for His co-operation.
God is the initiator of anything significant.
Jesus gives a command.
Every act is precipitated by an act of obedience.

Depend on Him. Just TRUST
He takes the ordinary and produces the extra-ordinary – his raw material is the ordinary.
God does things you and I could never do… so revealing His glory. Jesus’s disciples put their faith in Him.
*
THE (MY) GREATEST RACE

Paul had a purpose in living – he had the single-mindedness of an athlete in training. St Paul lived with a selfless attitude in serving and giving.

What we put into our minds determines what comes out in our words and actions. Paul tells us to program our mind with thoughts that are true, honourable, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and worthy of praise.

Don’t let anything take your eye off the goal – knowing Christ. Focus all your energies towards winning the race.

Shine your light brightly for Christ, the One who makes the ordinary extra-ordinary.

Charles Price

www.livingtruth.ca

“Lord,
Use my ‘little’ life as a vehicle for Your endless possibilities.”

About the submitter:

In his life mission Craig hopes to encourage, motivate and inspire people to be their best through realising their full potentials and live their very best lives (without being too much of a “boring Mr Goody-goody two shoes” (as he’s lost the other one!). Craig believes in the great potential of every human being in the journey of life and loves to encourage people to share their individual (and guiding) spirits, so that they become all that they are CAPABLE of being.

Shared by craig

“When (or is it perhaps if??) you arrive in a place (or rather state ) known as heaven, let faith, hope and love be the wings of the chariot that carried you there.”

– me (as adapted from the words of Jonathan Edwards, a former minister in Massachusetts (New England)

About the submitter:

In his life mission Craig hopes to encourage, motivate and inspire people to be their best through realising their full potentials and live their very best lives (without being too much of a “boring Mr Goody-goody two shoes” (as he’s lost the other one!). Craig believes in the great potential of every human being in the journey of life and loves to encourage people to share their individual (and guiding) spirits, so that they become all that they are CAPABLE of being.

The various books that Craig “felt inspired to write” are available at: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4 and http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html

He is presently “working” on his latest novels ‘The Awakened Spirit’ and ‘From Seeds of Hate to the Bonds of Love’, based on some true and inspiring stories
of the unquenchable, the indomitable human spirit, that lies within each one of us. Stories of ‘Endless Possibilities, Far and Unlimited (Grand) Horizons’

“A book is small enough to hold in your hand; but when you read it, the walls fall away and you’re in a room as big as the world.”

“Outside of a dog, a book is a man’s best friend. Inside a dog it’s too hard to read.”

– Groucho Marx

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) is at https://sharefaith.wordpress.com and http://craiglock.wordpress.com

“The world’s smallest and most exclusive bookstore”

“Together, one mind, one heart, one life at a time, lets see how many people we can impact, encourage, empower and perhaps even inspire to reach their fullest potentials.”

THESE THOUGHTS MAY BE FREELY PUBLISHED

“Our prayers are answered not when we are given what we want; but when we are challenged to be what (all that) we can become.”
– Morris Adler

“The Greatest Race: Living by (with) faith, hope and love is the highest podium any person can reach, God’s podium that anyone stand on.”

 

– craig

May (let) the light of God shine brightly on your path up ahead

 

 

Say ‘YES’ to your Potential” (a Self Help Book by Skip Ross): A SUMMARY

“But those who hope in the Lord

will renew their strength.

They will soar on wings like eagles;

they will run and not grow weary,

they will walk and not be faint.”

– Isaiah 40:31

Article Title: “Say ‘YES’ to your Potential” (a Self Help Book by Skip Ross): A SUMMARY

Submitted by: Craig Lock

Category (key words): Success, personal growth, Skip Ross, motivation, life purpose, human potential, success principles, spiritual, inspiration, empowerment

Web sites:http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=la_B005GGMAW4_sr?rh=i%3Abooks&field-author=Craig+Lock
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4http://www.creativekiwis.com/index.php/books and http://goo.gl/vTpjk

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com

Other Articles are available at: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565 and http://www.ideamarketers.com/library/profile.cfm?writerid=981 (Personal growth, self help, writing, internet marketing, spiritual, ‘spiritual writings’ (how ‘airey-fairey’), words of inspiration

Publishing Guidelines:

This piece (as with all my articles) may be freely published, electronically or in print. .

“We share what we know, so that we all may grow.”

                                *

“SAY ‘YES’ TO YOUR POTENTIAL”

Introduction:

Craig has been studying the amazing powers of the human mind, as well as the “secrets of success” for the past two decades (no, most of his life). This article (in point form for brevity) is largely based on my notes from a most inspiring and uplifting address by an American, “Skip” Ross from many years ago (however the principles, I believe, are eternal truths). I am sharing the contents of the Amway man’s work, plus some of my own writings in the spirit of encouraging and hopefully even inspiring those people, who really want to achieve their dreams in life, whatever they may be ” to just GO FOR IT”.

Thank you sincerely, “Skip” for sharing (with humour) your most uplifting words of wisdom in encouraging me to follow my passion and to reach for my personal dreams. I (in turn) am passing them on through the amazing power of the www, as my dream is helping others to realise their personal dreams in life.

Now on the article (at long last!)…

* American athlete, Glenn Cunningham was severely burnt as a child. However, Glen was determined to become the “fastest human being alive”. He won Olympic Gold medals and was named ‘Athlete of the Century at Madison Square Garden, because of his persistence, which turned adversity into greatness.

Jesse Owens: “What do you want to be? You name it and then believe God will help you get it.” “Jesse was so inspired by these words”, said his coach. Jesse Owens simple answer to this question was: “I’ve got a dream – to be the fastest human being alive.”

Build a ladder to it, your “stairway to success”.

1. The first rung is determination (persistence)

2. dedication

3. discipline

and

4. attitude

Jesse Owens faced many challenges in his life. He was born poor and skinny; yet he won 4 Olympic gold medals. All because young Jesse had a dream and was willing to climb the ladder to success. He was prepared to pay the price by putting in the EFFORT.

Winston Churchill in the shortest three word address said: “Never give up!” Repeat this affirmation.

Release the power within you.

When you know from the outset, that “I WILL do it,” then you can concentrate all your time, energy and talents on doing it now.

A person with PERSISTENCE will succeed over the person with more talent, more education or more money.

“Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not. Nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not. Unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not. The world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence, determination and hard work make the difference.” – Former American President, Calvin Coolidge.

Lack of persistence is one of the major causes of failure in various endeavours; yet it’s evident that it is a weakness which permeates the human race.

Virtually all the greats of this world have experienced temporary defeats. Those are the learning times, the opportunities to grow and achieve your destiny. If you get up one more time than you fail, you will make it through.

“Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumph even though checked with failure, than to take rank with those poor spirits, who neither enjoy much nor suffer much; because they live in the grey twilight, that knows not victory nor defeat.” – Theodore Roosevelt

Only quitting spells defeat. Like Winston Churchill said, Never, ever give up.

Say, “I WILL UNTIL” *

Positive thinking does not always work; particularly when it is in direct contrast to the picture you have of yourself. One’s self image is the sum total of the attitudes, facts and feelings you have accumulated about yourself. Everything we think, feel and do is influenced by this picture. You may be a very gifted singer; but first you have to believe that about yourself to use that ability to your full potential. An individual’s self concept is “the core of their personality”. This view of themselves affects every aspect of their behaviour (and being): the ability to learn, the capacity to grow and change, your choice of friends, mates and careers. A strong self image is the best possible preparation for success in life.

Since none of us have reached our full potential in life, we can change our self image from what it is today, to what we WANT it to be.

You can even change your personality, to be any kind of person you choose to be. How do you do this?:

1. Understand the source of your self image. Your past experiences have made you believe the way you are.

2. Believe, really BELIEVE it can be changed.

3. DECIDE what kind of person you’d like to be. *

If you are a believer in Scripture (literally or figuratively), write a character description of the kind of person Jesus Christ was. Then try to BECOME more like that kind of person ( “Imperfect I” try to do that, often failing! See my article at http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/what-each-one-of-us-can-learn-from-the-character-and-life-of-jesus

If you are not a “believer”, look at the lives of great men and women through the centuries. Discover what it was about them that made them great. Pick one who may have been extra-inspirational to you?

* For Abraham Lincoln it was perhaps his utmost honesty.

For:

* Madame Curie – it was her persistence (also with Thomas Edison)

* Mother Theresa – her compassion and

* Winston Churchill – his wisdom (and determination).

* Gandhi – his vision. and

* Nelson Mandela – his great ‘generosity and nobility’ of spirit in reaching out to former enemies.

Submitter’s note: A very good friend of mine (a former micro-biologist) uses this technique of imagining (visualising) multiple figures of history sitting with him (people, like Edison, Henry Ford, etc – a technique mentioned in Napoleon Hill’s excellent book ‘Think and Grow Rich’) , whilst I have the ‘simple and direct’ approach of just “speaking”  to Jesus (as my ‘long-suffering friend/confidante’ in a state of meditation and contemplation, when I have a problem or major decision to make. Then I  seem to get some “extra wisdom with a ‘helicopter view’ of the situation” . It seems to work for me …always. No, we are not “loonies” ready to be “locked away”!

“We have it within; but we get it all from without. There is a well-spring of strength, wisdom, courage and great imagination within each one of us; but once we draw on this truth, it gets watered from without, by a Higher Source – the Ultimate Source of Life and Love, which is God, the very Ground of our Being.”

– me

Whichever way, now you should be able to begin to develop a new picture of the kind of person you really want to be.

4. Write this picture down in the present and in a positive state. Not “I hope to be”, but say “I WILL”. = a positive statements of faith.

Decide WHO and WHAT you want to be. This is far more important than material things you want or achievements in business.

5. Spend time with the person you’d want to be. YOU are responsible for the kind of life you live, for the image you have of yourself – but not locked into any image of the past. YOU are totally unique. You can pick up a trashy novel. You will leave this earth someday a little better or a little worse for your living. Accept the responsibility inherent in your potential greatness.

However, it’s a big challenge – this responsibility to make the most of your unique potential. Recognise and grasp your God-given equipment. Learn and apply these principles and move your life forwards. Change for the better! Live a life free of fear and worry, accomplishing worthwhile goals, a life filled with joy and happiness. Living a balanced life is most important – especially the spiritual aspect. The spirit of God, our Creator Who/That empowers us through the power of the subconscious mind is the channel, which breathes life into all of us through enthusiasm and inspiration.

NB: Whatever a person focuses their thoughts upon, becomes reality in their lives.

“As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.” – Proverbs

It’s up to US to CHOOSE our path in life and make the most of our God-given gifts. So DECLARE WHO YOU really WANT TO BE – say ‘YES’ to your unlimited potential’! Stop day dreaming and just do all that you can and BECOME.

BE happy and have great fun along the amazing journey of life.

Shared by Craig Lock Eagle Productions NZ (“Information and Inspiration Distributor, Incorrigible Encourager and People-builder”)

“If you are rich, work If you are burdened with seemingly unfair responsibilities, work If you are happy, continue to work. Idleness gives room for doubts and fears. If sorrow overwhelms you and loved ones seem not true, work If disappointments come, work. If faith falters and reason fails, just work. When dreams are shattered and hope seems dead, Work, work as if your life were in peril; It really is. No matter what ails you, work. Work faithfully and work with faith, Work is the greatest material remedy available. Work will cure both mental and physical afflictions. Work.”

– author unknown

“True success is simply being the person you really want to be.”

“Do not follow the well-beaten track of others towards success – like the rainbow, it is often an illusion always just beyond our reach. Make your own path and let your spirit blaze a brilliant trail towards the pot of gold, the prize for the gift – one that is uniquely you and YOUR successful journey down the mysterious and magical river of life.”

“The task ahead of you can always be overcome by the power within you…and the often seemingly difficult or even “impassible”) path ahead of you is never as steep with the great spirit that lies within you.”

“With passion and purpose in our individual lives, we can touch others and in so doing illuminate the hearts and minds of humanity to make a better world (through helping raise consciousness). Let us offer an alternate vision for the world to embrace: one that banishes the fanatical ideology of intolerance and hatred to the darkness from which it emerged. Each one of us in our own little ways can and must offer a compelling new horizon: a bright future of justice, tolerance, respect for other traditions and values and especially a vision of hope and thoughts of peace fuelled by the eternal flame of love, which can light the darkest night… always ” – craig (as inspired by the words of Wahid Abdurrahman (spelling??), Former President of Indonesia)

“Our talents are our gift to God… but what we do with our talents are our gifts TO God.”

“God creates us with different gifts. Each one of us comes into the world with a different collection of life circumstances that often severely challenge us, things that give us joy and in expressing our talents allow us to bless the people, the world around us.”

About the submitter:

Craig’s mission is in his own small way, to try to help people live happier, more fulfilling and successful lives. He likes (no, loves) to share knowledge and insights from his life experiences with dashes of humour to try and help others in ‘every little way’ he can… without being too much of a “Mr goody-goody boring” two shoes” (as he’s lost the other one)

The various books* that Craig “felt inspired to write” are available at: The various books* that Craig “felt inspired to write” are available at http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=la_B005GGMAW4_sr?rh=i%3Abooks&field-author=Craig+Lock
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4http://www.creativekiwis.com/index.php/books and http://goo.gl/vTpjk

All proceeds go to needy and underprivileged children –
MINE!

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com

“Together, one mind, one life (one small step at a time), let’s see how many people (and lives) we can encourage, impact, empower, enrich, uplift and perhaps even inspire to reach their fullest potentials…and strive for and perhaps one sunny day even achieve their wildest dreams.”

“If the Lord makes you successful, I’ll keep you humble.” – a wife (I won’t say whose)

THIS PIECE MAY BE FREELY PUBLISHED

PPS:

As they carry me to my deathbed, I’ll be saying: “Lord, Can you just give me one more hour to finish off this article. PLEASE!”

– craig (as inspired by the quote of singer, Barry Manilow

“YOU can soar like an eagle”

(that’s a simile , by the way)

Picture (great) by my old friend John (“the world’s third worst photographer”, so he calls himself), but whose photographic talents I definitely do NOT possess)!

web sites: http://www.johnsphotopics.wordpress.com

http://www.capetownmypictures.wordpress.com

and http://www.jetpix.wordpress.com

Summary of the Book “Say ‘YES’ to your Potential” – Part Four (by ‘Skip’ Ross with Carole C. Carlson)

Article Title: Summary of the Book “Say ‘YES’ to your Potential” – Part Four (by ‘Skip’ Ross with Carole C. Carlson) Submitted by: Craig Lock

Category (key words): Success, success principles, motivation, empowerment, mind, mind power, life purpose, spiritual, spiritual gifts, inspiration, Skip Ross

Web Sites: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4 and http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com and newbooksbycraiglock.wordpress.com

Other Articles are available at: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565and http://www.ideamarketers.com/library/profile.cfm?writerid=981 (Personal growth, self help, writing, internet marketing, spiritual, ‘spiritual writings’ (how ‘airey-fairey’), words of inspiration and money management, how boring now, craig Publishing Guidelines:

This piece (as with all my articles) may be freely published, electronically or in print. .

“We share what we know, so that we all may grow.”

# Summary of the Book “Say ‘YES’ to your Potential” – Part Four (by ‘Skip’ Ross with Carole C. Carlson)

Introduction to this inspiring and uplifting book by Skip Ross: Craig has been studying the amazing powers of the human mind, as well as the “secrets of success” for the past two decades. This article (in point form for brevity) is largely based on my notes from a most inspiring and uplifting book by an American by the name, “Skip” Ross from many years ago (however the principles, I believe, are eternal truths). I am sharing this summary, the contents of the Amway man’s work in the spirit of encouraging and hopefully even inspiring those people, who really want to reach their full potentials, achieving their dreams in life, whatever they may be “to just GO FOR IT”. And as I write this summary, I too learn about these eternal principles.

Thank you sincerely, “Skip” and Carole for sharing (with humour even though quite “religious” in parts) your most uplifting words of wisdom in encouraging me to follow my passion and to reach for my personal dreams. I (in turn) am passing them on through the amazing power of the www, as my dream is helping others to realise their personal goals and dreams in life.

Now on the article (at long last!)… * HOW TO TURN YOUR DREAMS INTO REALITY

The Principle of CREATION:

Decide what it is you really want, define it clearly, then specifically and write it down. Shakespeare: “We are such stuff as dreams are made of.” Jesse Owens was one who followed his dream. He came from a very poor background, weak legs and poverty; yet he became one of the greatest track athletes of the century.

1. What is your burning desire? What do we really want in your life (to have, achieve, or what legacy do you wish to leave on this planet)? If our burning desire is for good: a skill, that will benefit us, our family, or mankind, and harm no other living creature, it can become a reality. Why are we afraid to try? Some people are too afraid to try; because they are too afraid to fail. Then get up and try again. We are goal-oriented creatures; so we are designed to continue accomplishing. Henry Ward Beecher put it this way: “But if a man has come to the point, where he is so content that he says, ‘I don’t want to know any more, or do any more, or be anymore’, he is in a state in which he ought to be changed into a mummy.”

The successful person is always willing to risk failure. The only way we can grow is to keep stretching our capacities. Move out of your comfort zone(s); do things we’ve never done before. Don’t be afraid to feel that burning desire.

2nd step: The Principle of CREATION – the power of well defined goals: Write down 10 things you want to happen in the next year. Don’t worry about HOW they are going to happen. Just write them down and read them every morning and night. It happens. Your sub-conscious mind will bring them to pass. If you want your dreams to come true, don’t oversleep!

“God desires us to soar like eagles, but many are content to scratch like sparrows…or turkeys!”

Talent does what it can genius does what it must.”

– Edward George Bulwer-Lytton.

“We have nothing to fear, but fear itself” – Eleanor Roosevelt???

“Hope deferred makes the heart sick; but when dreams come true at last, there is life and joy” (Proverbs 13:12).

THERE IS AN ARTIST WITHIN EACH ONE OF US Utilise the Principle of Visualisation: “Get a clear mental picture of what you want, infuse it with emotion, and hold onto it.” Einstein: “Imagination is more important than knowledge.” Napoleon believed “the human race is governed by its imagination.” “Imagination disposes of everything; it creates beauty, justice and happiness, which is everything in this world.”

There is tremendous power in imagination. We are very creative people, and yet most of us have stifled that creative ability. Unleash your creativity. We are more capable, have more talent and ability than we think we have. Practice in your imagination. Studies have shown that visualised experience is almost the same as the real thing. The principle of visualisation, infused with emotion, really works. Those who see the invisible can do the impossible. When the invisible goals are visualised and injected with enthusiasm, emotion and specific descriptions, the power of the principle of visualisation is displayed. Famous American golfer (and perhaps the greatest golfer of all time, sorry “Tiger”), Jack Nicklaus said that before every shot he visualises it in his mind’s eye. Nicklaus sees (saw) himself adressing the ball, the position of his head, the back swing, the club head meeting ball…His head is down, then he looks up and watches the trajectory of the ball. Of course, it then hits the green, rolls towards the cup, in line for his next shot. Every shot is visualised in that manner – as close to perfection…and it often is!

The technique definitely works. Without a VISION a nation will perish, a worthy goal will wither, a person, a ‘creative child of God’ will be defeated. Get a clear mental picture of what you want, infuse it with emotion, and hold onto it.

“Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadow.” – Helen Keller

The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here; but it can never forget what they did here.” – Abraham Lincoln

I believe, success is not merely arriving at a destination; but it is a process and the great satisfaction and joy lies in the journey itself.

So

BE happy and have great fun as you travel on your own journey, perhaps riding the ‘rapids of life’. *

Shared by Craig Lock Eagle Productions NZ (“Information and Inspiration Distributor, Incorrigible Encourager and People-builder”)

* that’s a metaphor, btw

“The important thing is not to win, but to take part. The important thing in life is not the triumph, but the struggle. The essential thing is not to have conquered, but to have fought well.”

“True success is just being the person you really want to be.”

“Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become.”

“The task ahead of you can always be overcome by the power within you…and the often seemingly difficult or even “impassible”) path ahead of you is never as steep with the great spirit that lies within you.”

“Even when your own light appears to be extinguished, another human being may light that candle once more, turning it someday into a bright flame.” – craig

“Our talents are our gift to God… but what we do with our talents are our gifts TO God.”

“God creates us with different gifts. Each one of us comes into the world with a different collection of life circumstances that often severely challenge us, things that give us joy and in expressing our talents allow us to bless the people, the world around us.”

About the submitter: Craig’s mission is in his own small way, to try to help people live happier, more fulfilling and successful lives. He likes (no, loves) to share knowledge and insights from his life experiences with dashes of humour to try and help others in ‘every little way’ he can… without being too much of a “Mr goody-goody boring” two shoes” (as he’s lost the other one)

The various books that Craig “felt inspired to write” are available at http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4 and http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com

“Together, one mind, one life at a time, let’s see how many people we can impact, uplift, empower, encourage and perhaps even inspire to reach their fullest potentials.”

THIS PIECE MAY BE FREELY PUBLISHED

“If the Lord makes you successful, I’ll keep you humble.” – a wife (I won’t say whose) PPS: As they carry me to my deathbed, I’ll be saying: “Lord, Can you just give me one more hour to finish off one last article. PLEASE!” – craig (as inspired by the quote of singer, Barry Manilow)

Don’t worry about the world ending today… as it’s already tomorrow in little scenic and tranquil New Zealand

Summary of the Book ‘Say ‘YES’ to your Potential’ – Part Three (by ‘Skip’ Ross with Carole C. Carlson)

Article Title: Summary of the Book ‘Say ‘YES’ to your Potential’ – Part Three (by ‘Skip’ Ross with Carole C. Carlson) Submitted by: Craig Lock

Category (key words): Success, personal growth, success skills, success principles, Skip Ross, self help, inspiration, inspirational books,, motivation, empowerment, mind, mind power, life purpose, spirit, spiritual writings, dreams, empowerment, follow your dreams, words of empowerment and inspiration(enough there now) .

Web Sites: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4 and http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com and newbooksbycraiglock.wordpress.com

Publishing Guidelines:

This piece (as with all my articles) may be freely published, electronically or in print. .

“We share what we know, so that we all may grow.”

# Summary of the Book “Say ‘YES’ to your Potential” – Part Three (by ‘Skip’ Ross with Carole C. Carlson)

Introduction: Craig has been studying the amazing powers of the human mind, as well as the “secrets of success” for the past two decades. This article (in point form for brevity) is largely based on my notes from a most inspiring and uplifting book by an American by the name, “Skip” Ross from many years ago (however the principles, I believe, are eternal truths). I am sharing this summary, the contents of the Amway man’s work in the spirit of encouraging and hopefully even inspiring those people, who really want to reach their full potentials, achieving their dreams in life, whatever they may be “to just GO FOR IT”.

Thank you sincerely, “Skip” and Carole for sharing (with humour even though quite “religious”) your most uplifting words of wisdom in encouraging me to follow my passion and to reach for my personal dreams. I (in turn) am passing them on through the amazing power of the www, as my dream is helping others to realise their personal dreams in life.

Now on the article (at long last!)… * Dynamic living is continually in the process of accomplishing worthwhile goals.

Setting goals and pursuing them is exciting. Have a goal, look ahead, not back on previous experiences – as in the life of Jesus. Utilise the process of goal-setting. Decide what we want – what we want to do or be – then set the goal. Don’t look at the past; when we set goals on the basis of yesterday’s experience, we limit the future by the past.

We are goal orientated creatures. When the goal is set and you commit yourself to that goal, you will find a way to make it become reality.

Success: is it a destination or a journey? To be without a goal is to die psychologically. However, balance in life is the key. God has given us the equipment to achieve that kind of living. So start for the top and say, “I can.” The collected verses of Edgar A Guest.

3. Einstein said that the average person uses only 2 of his or her intellectual capacity. William James said 10. At best it’s 15. Often that great potential within each one of us is summoned at a point of crisis, and very seldom at any other time. We are richly endowed by God. There are so many things we can do, if we use what God gives us. The poet Robert Browning once said: “My business is not to remake myself, but to make the absolute best of what God has made.”

God made you a genius with supernatural potential.

4. GIVE and you will receive.

Life is meant to be lived to the utmost. Ecclesiastes 7:13: “See the way the Creator does things and fall into line. Don’t fight the facts of nature.”

Plant seeds of LOVE, not hate. The Living Bible says: “For if you give, you will get! Your gift will return to you in full and overflowing measure, pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, and running over. Whatever measure you use to give – large or small – will be used to measure what is given back to you (Luke 6:36).” One thing we can all give – a word of praise .

Proverbs 16:24: “Kind words are like honey – enjoyable and healthful.” Give the word of praise for 90 consecutive days, and it will change your life. What you give you will receive, and in the process of receiving praise, you will be encouraged and become a better person. Expect – be open to receive, when it comes. By watering others, we water ourselves.

“If you hear a kind word spoken Of some worthy soul you know, It may fill his heart with sunshine If you only tell him so. If a deed, however humble, Helps you on your way to go, Find the one whose hand helped you, Seek him out and tell him so.”

A man is known by the company he keeps (or should it be avoids). George Washington: “Associate yourself with men of good quality, if you esteem your own reputation; for ’tis better to be alone, than in bad company.” We can’t afford negative people in our lives.

“Tune out negative voices from without and within” – American baseball legend, Babe Ruth

Concentrate (center) on your strengths and never allow your weaknesses to detract from what you do best. We need to control what goes into the subconscious mind; because it is limited in its ability to perform by the raw materials that we give it (like sowing seeds in a garden). Do selective reading/viewing by using the principle of EXCLUSION. Get rid of what you don’t want to make room for what you do want in your life.

BE happy and have great fun along the journey of life.

Craig Lock (Eagle Productions NZ)

“True success is just being the person you really want to be.”

“The task ahead of you can always be overcome by the power within you…and the often seemingly difficult or even “impassible”) path ahead of you is never as steep with the great spirit that lies within you.”

“Our talents are our gift to God… but what we do with our talents are our gifts TO God.”

“God creates us with different gifts. Each one of us comes into the world with a different collection of life circumstances that often severely challenge us, things that give us joy and in expressing our talents allow us to bless the people, the world around us.”

About the submitter: Craig believes in (and loves) sharing information and insights to try to make a difference in this world: to help and especially encourage people along life’s magical journey … and that brings him the greatest joy. His mission is in his own small way, is trying to help people live happier, more fulfilling and successful lives.

The various books that Craig “felt inspired to write” are available at http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4 and http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com and newbooksbycraiglock.wordpress.com

“Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become.”

THE SENILITY PRAYER

“Lord, Grant me the senility to forget the people I never liked anyway, the good fortune to run into the ones I do, and the eyesight to tell the difference.”

“Together, one mind, one life at a time, let’s see how many people we can impact, uplift, empower, encourage and perhaps even inspire to reach their fullest potentials.”

Change YOUR world and you help change THE world…for the better”

THIS ARTICLE MAY BE FREELY PUBLISHED

“If the Lord makes you successful, I’ll keep you humble.” – a wife (I won’t say whose)

PPS: As they carry me to my deathbed, I’ll be saying: “Lord, Can you just give me one more hour to finish off one last article. PLEASE!” – craig (as inspired by the quote of singer, Barry Manilow)