A new way.

Sometimes events and people can drastically change your perception, but that doesn't always help your reality.

I realize in this blog I have gone from more of an encouraging point of view, to a story telling point of view. They can also be the same. As many of you know, I took a trip to Hawaii (have I said it enough because I don't feel like I have). This trip helped. It helped me see the many things that are just not that important in life that I was making them so. It also helped me confess where I could do better and focus more so that I would get more out of life. Lastly, it also helped me see what things mattered to me, but also my lack of control over everything. 

Honestly, there are a lot of hateful people and things in my life that I would deal with if it were up to me. It's not. Trust me, those things made it harder to come back to. I've always been pretty care-free, easy going, and knowing how to handle given situations. I'm tired of that though. I met a lot of people on this trip, and I would trade a lot of the people I have to deal with in for them. 

I did come back to some good. My business partners are some of the best people I know. I have even told them we are going to Hawaii together next time! I told the same to my mom, for the entire family (although that might have to be a different locale). 

The perception of me from those in my past is not good. My youngest son asked if I had a job Saturday. Since I don't have a typical "job", this is how the conversation went down.

Jeremy: "Dad, do you have a job?"

Me: "Yes, I work with Advocare. Why do you ask?"

Jeremy: "Because I just didn't know."

If I could get the tone of his last sentence across to you, it would tickle you. I know where that question comes from, and I hate it. (Where it comes from, not the question itself.) 

I know Hawaii will fade, and it will make me sad. Or will it? It may have become a part of me in a way that has changed many priorities, perceptions, attitudes, and demeanor. It may have just made me a better person, and helped me remember to leave all the rest behind. But you don't have to go to Hawaii to get the same results (although I do recommend it). Just go somewhere or do something you haven't done before, and do that constantly and consistently. 

My roommate found out she liked flying, traveling, sailing, and relaxing (something she didn't think she could do). I found out I like adventure (probably a little too much). I like danger, risks, and fun. I danced on stage, cliff jumped, swam with dolphins, and yes I like golfing, so I did that. Some of these things helped us figure out what we really want back home. 

Don't stay in your den for too long, it becomes dull and dark. Get out and test your limits.

This blog is dedicated to Guatama, Natalie, Katy, Roger, Ashely, Jared, Casie, Steven, Chet, Britney, and Levi.