John Harrell's Blog, page 76

Solving Problems

Our world is facing enormous, almost overwhelming challenges. We have homelessness, hunger, political divide, human trafficking and many more, too many to name. It would be easy to throw our hands up and just give up. But that wouldn’t be the right thing to do.

We are not going to solve our problems in their entirety. But if we move the needle in the right direction, we will make a difference in the lives of others. Plus, we will inspire others to do the same. This is how you get things done.

We can make a difference. It begins with me…

Transparency

When you approach life unguarded, you will be amazed at how much deeper your connections with others are. By being open and transparent you encourage others to be the same. Your vulnerability allows them to feel safe and trust you.

Try it. Do not concern yourself with judgement. People are judging anyway. Be open…

Political Divide

In the United States, we have fallen into a trap. A dangerous trap. We have decided that our only “friends” can be the people we agree with politically. I’m not sure how we got here.

Since the founding of the United States, we have had disagreements about politics and policies. For a long time it was healthy debate, not unhealthy hatred. We could battle things out but go have a drink afterwards. Everything was good between us. Why did it change?

People aren’t robots. They have thoughts, feelings, dreams and desires. They rarely align perfectly with everyone else’s aspirations. We must come to the realization that it’s okay to disagree. And we can do it without destroying relationships…

Doubt

Do you doubt yourself? If so, why? You didn’t have doubts as a child. None of us walked perfectly when we started walking, but we never doubted our ability to master walking.

The world is hard and harsh. Our setbacks can cause doubt to creep in. But the lessons from childhood are still relevant. Don’t give up on your dreams, no matter what! Go for what turns you on and never look back.

You can do anything you set your mind to. Anything…

Useful

The word useful means “able to be used for a practical purpose or in several ways.” A car is useful to get us where we need to be. Sleep is useful, too, when you think about it.

Let’s consider the people God used. King David was an adulterer. Gideon was deeply insecure and afraid, always doubting God. And Moses was a murderer. Yet God used them in awe-inspiring ways. They are prominent figures in the Bible, the greatest book ever written.

If God used them, perhaps He can use me, too. I believe I’ll let Him…

The Determined People Podcast: Interview with Chris Almendarez

Today’s guest is a devout man of God whose world came crashing down on him in 2015 when his lovely wife Jana was diagnosed with cancer. Chris Almendarez, president of the Round Rock Express Minor League Baseball team, joins us to share his story of faith and love, how God has guided him through the most difficult times in his life, and the amazing charity work that he has become involved in in honor of late wife. Towards the end, we also sneak in some baseball talk. Make sure to tune in for this harrowing tale of love, loss, and faith on today’s Determined People Podcast.

Eye Level

Do you look people in the eyes when you speak to them? Eye contact is a subtle, yet important way to recognize people, to make them feel important.

Everyone wants to feel seen and heard. When we make the effort to make and hold eye contact, we give them the recognition they want.

Focus on whoever you are engaged with. Consider them to be the only person in the world during that moment. Watch what happens…

Men

It seems we have a shortage of good men in the world. The rapid rise of fatherless homes has created a crisis of identity for young boys.

What does a man look like? He is responsible, accountable and unselfish with his time. He is the last one to be served because he serves others. He is defined by his character and integrity, both of which are unshakable.

We need men to stop abandoning their responsibilities. It’s fun to be the “Disney Dad,” but our young people need more. I encourage you to ascend to the challenge…

Law Enforcement

I am pro-law enforcement. I know a good amount of dedicated police officers who do policing the right way. They are protectors, guardians and warriors combined into one.

Law enforcement officers have a unique skill set. They provide protection for everyone, including those who are protesting them. It’s a calling, for sure, and not for just anyone.

Let’s honor our devoted police men and women. They deserve it because they have earned it…

Chameleons

Be the same person no matter the crowd you find yourself in. Consistency is a valuable trait.

The first step to being your authentic self is knowing who you are. Once you learn that, you are free to express yourself in the most real way possible.

Don’t change color for the crowd you are in. Be yourself…