Gratitude Lifts Our Altitude and Attitude

In the book The Traveler's Gift, Anne Frank is quoted as saying, "Too many times I have offered up the prayers of a bigger, always asking for more and forgetting to give thanks. I do not wish to be seen as a greedy child, unappreciative and disrespectful. I am grateful for sight and sound and breath. If ever in my life there is a pouring out of blessings beyond that, then I will be grateful for the miracle of abundance.

I will greet each day with laughter. I will smile at every person I meet. I am the possessor of a grateful spirit.

Today I will choose to be happy."

P. 110

Passion; It's What Works

"Getting started, getting finished -- both ends of a journey require a demonstration of passion." A quote attributed to Cristobal Colon (Christopher Columbus to you) in the book The Traveler's Gift by Andy Andrews, as he greets the 64th day at sea certain that he would see land on that day. He continues, "Passion is a product of the heart. Passion is what helps you when you have a great dream. Passion breeds conviction and turns mediocrity into excellence! Your passion will motivate others to join you in pursuit of your dream. With passion, you will overcome insurmountable obstacles. You will become unstoppable!"

Passion in the pulpit is what makes people believe you believe. Folks who hear a passionate sermon will respond with passion if your conviction and enthusiasm is genuine. Passion about God gets the results every sermon seeks; to reach all and bless those in need a blessing.

The opposite of passion is going through the motions; an unprepared, uninspired talk or report on something you read but did not feel.

You feel me?