Well, did you all have a good holiday (assuming you celebrated something)? I was away at my brother’s house in Virginia for an entire week and had a fabulous time celebrating Christmas with his family along with my Mom and Dad. The week flew by all too quickly and before I knew it, I was back home in Ohio. I’ll talk more about my holiday experience in the next gratitude post later this week. (Photo: Stuck in Customs’)
Luckily because I brought my new laptop with me, I was able to post the first of two parts of an interview i did with Lance from Jungle of Life last week and what a hoot it was!
Did you see it?
If not, before you read any further, please go to the Stephen Hopson Interview with Lance of Jungle of Life, Part I of II and get to know this very special person. My interview with him generated a huge response and I wouldn’t be surprised if that happened again with Part II today. This young man has touched a lot of people’s hearts and souls with his work over at Jungle of Life and they came out in full force to let us know how much they enjoyed seeing him in the spotlight over here. I couldn’t be more happy to do that for a deserving person who has consistently shown how much he cares about you and I.
With that said, I’m very excited to present Lance once again, LANCE, COME OUT FROM THE “GREEN ROOM”!!!!
11. What is your favorite word? Least favorite?
Favorite: Journey. It’s not just a musical group (although they did have some great songs!). When I think of “journey” I think of how our travels have taken us all to where we are today. And that our “journey” yet to come, what lies ahead of us – is filled with whatever we put into it. We’re all on a “journey”, our own “journey” – and we each have the power to direct our own “journey” in the directions we choose!
Least favorite: Can’t. This word brings up in me the whole idea of not being even willing to try. It says “defeat” before even giving something a chance.
Stephen’s Response: You know what? The word journey is exactly what I talk about during my speaking engagements. I believe I am a spiritual being having a human experience on this journey of life. We all came here for a specific divine mission and when it’s all over, we “go home.” Once I realized this from a bigger view, I began to realize how every one of us has a job to do.
I also don’t like the word “can’t” but as you can imagine, I encounter that word every day in business. It’s amazing how easy that word slips from our mouths (even mine, I admit it). If only we could slow down our responses and see the big picture. There’s always a solution to a problem – ALWAYS. We just have to find it. I would not have become the world’s first deaf instrument rated pilot if I agreed with everyone who told me that would not be possible with “You can’t do that – it says so in the FAA rule booklet!”
12. What was the most embarrassing moment of your life that you now look back at and laugh, cry or smile? What was the lesson you learned?
Have you ever been sick, Stephen – throwing up kind of sick? I’m sure you have, as have all your readers. Maybe you can relate. Imagine being a kid in elementary school – and getting sick while at lunch. And throwing up all over the lunchroom table, all over your friend’s lunches, all over the table…you get the idea. Embarrassing. I think it would be, still today, if it happened to me. I know it was definitely embarrassing as a young kid in elementary school! And to think, I was rarely sick when I was in school. The thing is, everyone got over it. I look back now and laugh. Well…it’s a guarded laugh. I really don’t wish this on anyone – either to have this happen, or to witness it (ugly mess)! The lesson I learned: Embarrassing moments happen. People forget much quicker than we do. And life goes on…
Stephen’s Response: OMG, your experience actually reminds me of what happened when I was in sixth grade getting ready for a class photo. Firstly, the boys were required to have a tie, which I didn’t have (my mom had to bring it in, to my chagrin). Then shortly after the tie was put on, I must have spilled something on my shirt, leaving a big dark stain. Can you imagine?!? I thought my world would collapse! But like you said, it was quickly forgotten but not by me! LOL.
13. Name the top 5 articles from ”Jungle of Life” that you believe readers at Adversity University would benefit from.
- Kindness Comes In Small Gestures – A look at kindness, and how small things can mean the most.
- Fear: Does It Hold You Back? – Sometimes, fear can hold us back. Unless we take steps to turn those fears into positives. This is a look at how we can do this in our daily lives.
- Spread Your Wings and Fly – When your comfort zone starts to become a little too comfortable, it’s time to spread your wings and fly!
- Sometimes You Just Have to Take That Leap – The unknown. It’s out there for all of us. Here I take a look at what it’s like to take that first step into the unknown, using skydiving as a real life example of doing this.
- Weeds…In Your Life -A look at our lives, the “weeds” we have in there, and how important it is for us to get rid of these “weeds” that keep us from reaching our full potential.
Stephen’s Response: You amaze me – do you know why? Because I’m a pilot and two of your articles above use some form of avaition to get your point across like skydiving and “spreading your wings and fly”! I loved all of these articles, especially “Kindness Comes in Small Gestures.” That was a tearjerker. I felt as if I were right there witnessing the scene between your boy and the girl who couldn’t get her mitten on. That one is destined to become a classic at your blog!
14. What do you hope God will have to say to you when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?
You have shined brightly, my son – welcome home.
My hope is that I am a light in this world, in some small way that I have made someone’s life better. I’m reminded of one of my favorite quotes:
“To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children…to leave the world a better place…to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
Stephen’s Response: Indeed you shone brightly Lance! I think all of my readers and yours would have to agree with that. Isn’t it amazing how the power of blogging gives all of us an equal chance of being recognized? Loved? Respected? Honored? Revered? Blogging gives people like you and me the chance to flourish without being rejected by the big publishing houses “because you don’t have enough of an inspiring story” or “the market isn’t big enough for your stories.”
15. What’s the top five items on your “Bucket List”? (Inspired by the movie ”The Bucket List” with Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman).
- Write a book - I’m starting down this road as we speak, and it’s both scary and exciting at the same time!
- Complete a half-marathon and/or mid-distance triathlon – I’ve competed in short races in both of these events. It would be really an exciting experience to compete at some of the next levels up (even if by compete I mean just finishing the race!)
- Travel - I’m leaving this one open-ended, as I don’t necessarily have one destination in mind. More of a real desire to see much of this world, and the beauty that exists in all her many reaches.
- Learn to play the guitar - I love the sound of the guitar, and it would be very cool to be able to play someday.
- Climb a mountain – To really be out in the wilderness, to hike to a mountain’s peak, and experience it’s beauty from on top – that would be an amazing experience! This would be a rugged, back to the basics, getting in touch with yourself, type of journey.
Stephen’s Response: I hope you plan to blog about your marathon experiences and take lots of pictures because that’ll keep yourself accountable and inspire the rest of us to take up some form of exercise to whip ourselves in shape. I agree that climbing a mountain and experiencing the view at the top would be an incredible experience. Come to think of it, I’ve never actually done that myself. Hmmmmmmm……….
16. Being deaf, I am always curious to know which sounds other people love and hate to hear. Tell us a sound you absolutely adore and a sound you detest.
Sound I love: Young children laughing – the sound of a baby or young child laughing is such a sweet, innocent, real laugh. It brings a smile to my face every time I hear this. I recall my own children, moments I’ve had with them – and the sweet sounds of pure joy their bodies have echoed. Moments I’ll cherish always. And moments I still love to hear from any young child I encounter… It really is true joy coming from their bodies!
Sound I detest: Screaming/arguing/fighting. I notice this (surprise, surprise!) amongst my own kids. Really, it doesn’t happen that much, yet – they are kids, and they will fight sometimes. In a way, I can accept this, knowing it is part of growing up, and of learning to get along with those you live with. When it bothers me even more is when I hear it from other adults. I find it sad – sad that we sometimes have to resort to this. Why? I know that we can get emotionally “worked up” – yet I question if this screaming at others is really the right solution. Maybe it has a place in certain situations. Still, it is a sound I do detest. That, and fingernails on a chalkboard (we don’t really have many of those anymore, though)…
Stephen’s Response: Can you tell I like asking this question? It gives me a chance to “experience” different sounds just by reading the person’s response (in this case, that would be you Lance). Ever since I started the interview series last year, no one has given the exact same answer, making the diverse responses I get to this question to be very interesting!
18. We all have our likes and dislikes. What would you say turns you on and what turns you off? Give the first answer that comes to your mind without censoring or editing it.
Like: Honesty. When someone is honest – even in the face of looking bad themselves, this is very much a quality that I like. It speaks very highly of their character and ethics, two traits I very much admire.
Dislike: Bitter cold. In two forms. First, in the real, physical form – bitter and cold temperatures – that can chill us to the bone. I’m in Wisconsin – we have our days! When I hear below and zero in the same sentence, uh-oh… And also – bitter cold – in the form of attitudes from others. No matter what our position, what our title, what we’ve “earned”, what our status – we should still treat others with respect and kindness. A cold and bitter attitude is a real turn off.
Stephen’s Response: Yes, honesty or transparency is a winner, especially if we have a vested interest in the outcome that could go down the drain in a hurry if the truth were known (whatever it is). I notice that when you’re honest about something that has you in dire straights, the other person isn’t usually expecting it and has to take a moment to adjust since the opposite answer was expected. Does that make sense?
I’m with you about the “bitter and cold” attitude. While I try to have compassion for cold people, I certainly don’t make it my business to hang around them! Their energy is often toxic.
19. And finally but not least, where can we find out more about you?
The best place to find out about me is my blog, the Jungle of Life. Stop by, and explore this place I call the jungle, which probably isn’t all that different from your own jungles! You can also find me on Twitter. If you don’t find me at either of these places, I’m probably sleeping…
Stephen’s Response: And that’s a wrap folks! Be sure to check Lance’s blog but I’m warning you – you’ll get hooked! Thanks Lance for coming over to Adversity University to spend some quality time with us today! We are so sorry to see you leave and go back to the jungle but many of us will be looking for you in the days ahead. We’ll weave through the well worn paths to find you resting in the middle of the jungle. I have nothing but the best wishes for a great new year for you and your family!
Stephen, thank you, very much, for this moment you’ve given me here. It’s been a wonderful opportunity to share a little (well…maybe more than a little!) about myself. Your questions were challenging, and that’s good – you made me really think about my answers on all of these. You’re doing great work here Stephen! It has truly been an honor to be here these past two weeks…
Lance, the pleasure was all mine. I love shining the spotlight on people who are authentic, walks the talk and treats other people with love, honor and respect. You’re all that and much more. It was a privilege and honor to host you here at Adversity University! I know you and I will continue to stay in touch in 2009 and I’m looking forward to it!
Folks, there you have it. I’ll be writing again soon with a gratitude post and share with you lots of good stuff happening. It’s going to be a GREAT year for all of you. Just put your mind to it and be prepared to be amazed.
Until then, enjoy the rest of the week.
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9:47 pm on December 30th, 2008 1
Stephen – Thank you, once again, for this wonderful opportunity to be here! You have been a superb host, and I really do feel honored by time you’ve given me on your site!
I love how you describe your journey – a spiritual being having a human experience. That’s really powerful to think about, and to really grasp the idea of what we really are, deep in our souls.
Your tie, in the sixth grade – yes, I can see that being pretty traumatic – a very impressionable age! What we remember, and what others remember – not always the same! And that’s usually good!! I know it was in my case!
The “Kindness Comes In Small Gestures” piece is probably my favorite article. That it has been so well-received is testament to really just how important true kindness is – and that it doesn’t have to be large and fancy.
I do know you’re a pilot! And, truth be told, that’s something on my bucket list as well – learning to fly – it just didn’t make the top 5! I started down that road (err…runway) in college, and who knows, maybe I’ll find my way back there some day…
Blogging has truly been an amazing experience for me – one in which I feel so connected to many of my visitors. It really is a very loving and supportive community.
Stephen, this has been great being here! You’ve been awesome, and really have a wonderful place you’ve developed. I look forward to what the new year has in store for you, and to the new heights you’ll be soaring to!
10:00 pm on December 30th, 2008 2
Thank you Stephen for organizing this interview and showing us more of Lance.
@ Lance, I am visualizing you high on a mountain right now
10:12 pm on December 30th, 2008 3
Hi Stephen and Lance – I was patiently waiting for this part of the interview as Stephen’s questions always get more difficult in part two. (I remember).
Like Lance, I too have the same favorite and not so favorite sounds. Laughter has a beautiful ring to it.
I also like the word “journey”. It says so much and is very inspiring to think of where the journey of life will take us.
Another fabulous interview, Stephen!
12:00 am on December 31st, 2008 4
What a great interview! I like the personal questions. I think when I meet my maker she will welcome me into her arms and give me a big hug. A tear will role down her check and onto my back, which will cause me to grow angle wings. Probably a stretch, but a cool vision.
I like that Lance said, “you’ve shined brightly.” That’s a great way of saying “you did great work.”
I never knew Stephen was deaf. I think blogging is a perfect outlet. I’ve made such great connections from blogging and never saying or hearing a word.
12:09 am on December 31st, 2008 5
Thank you Lance and Stephen. These words are so inspiring to me! It has been so nice getting to know each of you. Blogging is such a great way of meeting new people and when you find blogs such as this that share great people…well what could be better.
Lance, I feel like I know you even more. Every word you spoke I know came straight from the heart.
Happy New Year to each of you!
Tammy
12:37 am on December 31st, 2008 6
I so enjoyed this interview in both parts and on one night’s read. I believe that the interviewer asked good questions and the interviewee gave true answers and there was a reciprocal conversation which made two lights shine.
A young man in my 4th grade class was “in love” with me and the teacher knew and put him at the desk next to mine….the third day of the arrangement he threw up all over the desk and me and our school work. I have never forgotten it and that was when I learned to accept people for who they are at that very moment. The young man showed me great kindness which I appreciated and the incident made it into the high school yearbook and even after he had moved away.I know he was embarrassed but I learned so much about myself and how to be respectful of others and not join in when it is hurtful.
Thank you both for such a good interview to start out the New Year and keep in mind.
I have the Emerson Quote on my bathroom mirror…it is lovely.
1:25 am on December 31st, 2008 7
Lance: Another very inspiring interview and you have such a gift with words. As I shared with you on your site, Words are so important and you use them for such an amazing mission. I can see why your words were an inspiration to Stephen.
Stephen: What a great idea to choose such a gifted person to highlight on your blog. I certainly look forward to following your posts this next year and learning more about your life and work. It seems that by your questions and responses you too have a mission in life that is similar to Lance. I find the blog experience to be so much more than it appears on the surface. I have made very meaningful touchpoints with others in a way that has been surprising. Although it is possible to blog and not be authentic, I find in the community of blogs I read, they are truly good and joyful people with loving friends and family that they care about, have some type of mission to encourage others and want to also use their blog to record the life events of their families. Thank you for using this format for so much good. Have a great 2009!
2:50 am on December 31st, 2008 8
What a great 2nd part! I was surprised to see some of the “seemingly” off topic questions but they do give more insight to what you are really like now that I think about it, Lance! I’d have to think about a few of those answers myself that is for sure. Anyway, great interview and thanks for putting out all those great responses Lance.
Do you find it odd that I like the sound the screaching nails on a chalkboard? I love how it makes people squirm and smile and laugh no matter what their mode it. It also makes me smile every single time, no matter how annoying it is.
3:21 am on December 31st, 2008 9
And the second part was even better….
Lance, you are a light to this world. You are in many ways making many lives better. You are shining here today in this interview, but you do it every day. You deserve all the best.
It’s a good thing I wasn’t at the lunch table with you. There would have been two messes to clean up.
Stephen, thanks for asking Lance these tough questions so that we could get to know him even better.
What a great interview!
8:00 am on December 31st, 2008 10
Stephen, Thank you so much for doing this interview with Lance. He is an amazing person. He is insightful, kind and very supportive of us all. We are lucky to have him in the blog world!
8:40 am on December 31st, 2008 11
@Davina – Thanks for your continued support, Davina. Now…I need to find that mountain to climb!
@Barbara – I thought, looking at the questions, that this second part was going to be easier…boy was I wrong! This one really took some time and thought. Laughter does exude a certain, very joyous ring doesn’t it! Thanks, Barbara, for everything!
@Karl – That’s a very cool vision Karl – it’s like you’ve earned your wings – after doing the good works here on earth – and that’s a pretty awesome thought! Blogging is a great outlet, really for anyone who enjoys writing. I think what really makes Stephen unique is how he really has embraced life and all the beauty that is in it! And he’s a real and shining example of really “living” life – and that’s what makes him such an awesome guy, and real inspiration for all of us!
@Cricket – Thank you, Tammy. Know that your words mean the world to me. Here’s to a great year ahead!
@Patricia – Okay, Patricia – that’s a real example of NOT forgetting something! You did good, at that age – being respectful and not hurtful aren’t easy things to do – especially if others are teasing someone. That Emerson quote really is great isn’t it!
@Avtcoach – Your words are very moving to me. I too, am surprised at how personal blogging can become, and how connected we can be with our visitors. Stephen’s site here, is a perfect example of truly good and joyful people, in action! Coming here just exudes goodness!
@Mike – Yes, I had to really think about these questions – just like the first set! The screeching nails – YES I find that odd!! And funny (I’ll pass on being in the same room as you when there’s a chalkboard involved…). Dry erase boards, I’m good with them!
@Jennifer – Thank you, really, so much, Jennifer. If I’m a light to this world, it’s only because I’m reflecting off of me what is shining toward me – that’s you, and all my visitors, my family, friends, etc. The lunch table…yep, let’s not go there!
@Natalia – Thank you, Natalia. It really is an honor to be here, and to have met such amazing people (like you) along the way!
11:14 am on December 31st, 2008 12
Hi Lance
Writing a book….now that intrigues me…looking forward to hearing more.
Juliet
11:58 am on December 31st, 2008 13
Great, very thorough interview. Lance, I like that your favorite word is “journey.” That would certainly be in my top 3.
12:56 pm on December 31st, 2008 14
Great part II Stephen and Lance. I’m with Barbara my favorite sound is laughter. And Lance fighting/arguing is absolutely my least favorite, I instantly cover my ears.
The day after Christmas we celebrated with my husband’s family and one of the kids in is family got a new guitar – my husband has a musically inclined family, as do I. I never learned and as I watched them all play the guitar I thought “I want to learn how to play the guitar this year.” Maybe we can compare notes!
Happy New Year!
1:40 pm on December 31st, 2008 15
Dear Stephen -
Thanks for introducing Lance to me. I had not read his blog before.
I loved his article on kindness. So easy to do and so often we forget the small things.
This quote resonated with me deeply -
“We all have opportunities, every day, to be a little kinder. To help. To serve. Is your built-in radar seeing these opportunities? Or, have you become “too busy” to notice what’s on this radar screen?”
I never make New Year resolutions – but this one is on my radar for 2009.
3:33 pm on December 31st, 2008 16
Stephen, you are a gifted interviewer! Such seemingly simple questions… And such warmth in your “conversation.” And this all read as if I was watching you two on television…what a treat! It’s been a pleasure getting to know a bit about you, too.
Lance, you. are. amazing. As I read the questions, I was wondering how I’d answer. Not half as thoroughly as you, I’m sure. “Shined brightly.” You do. You do! ~ Julie
3:35 pm on December 31st, 2008 17
I am engaged by the depth and subjects discussed in this interview. The idea of journey is mind-blowing. Personally, I do not feel as though I exist in human form for an experience before I “go home.” Rather, I believe I am engaged in a continually-evolving experience that helps me to realize I never left. Human beings evolve to realize they grow up to create illusions for the purpose of learning to remove the veils they have placed over their own faculties. I find your blog very stimulating. We are all immersed in a profound university of life. It is a very personal journey as well as a collective experience. Your own level of awareness enables you to connect to different experiences on the universal learning curve.
5:20 pm on December 31st, 2008 18
Kudos to you both. Love the deep questions as much as I loved the genuineness ringing within the answers. Very refreshing all the way around gentlemen.
6:16 pm on December 31st, 2008 19
Lance has definitely been a light in my world and I enjoyed learning more about this amazing blogger.
7:15 pm on December 31st, 2008 20
Ain’t Lance great! Really one of the shining stars of the blogosphere.
At least he didn’t puke on a public official like the Prime Minister of Japan, as our former prez did, and on video!
I’m reading this without my glasses and first thought he said “You have SINNED brightly, my Son – welcome home.”
Off to read those of his 5 best posts I missed.
7:31 pm on December 31st, 2008 21
“spiritual being having a human experience” I remember reading this in a book somewhere and it really changed my perspective on things because I could see better where my actions were coming from: my true self or my 3rd dimensional earth self.
My other fave is “We’re all spirits just walking around in people costumes.”
I have a like/dislike that is the same but different based on context: Silence. On the positive, it is valuable to learn silence and have moments of silence in one’s life for peace and to connect with one’s inner self. On the flip side, when silence is used to put someone in what I call “Emotional Siberia.”
In this context, silence is used to shut someone out, to punish, or to blame. I have done this to people myself, and have been on the receiving end. Karma. Knowing what it feels like has taught me to work on my conflict resolution and connecting skills because you can learn how to argue and disagree yet still hold hands.
7:58 pm on December 31st, 2008 22
Hi Lance, You do shine brightly! (Although I guess sinning brightly would be good too Jannie
). My sister uses a recording of her one and a half year old laughing as the ring tone for her cell phone. Every time I hear her cell phone ring it makes me smile.
11:11 pm on December 31st, 2008 23
I enjoyed reading parts I and II of the interview. It’s obvious that Lance writes and speaks from the heart. He comes across as very authentic and sincere. I wish Lance all the best in the new year and in the writing of his new book.
Thanks, Stephen, for featuring a great blogger like Lance!!
1:28 pm on January 1st, 2009 24
This interview made me knowing the deep of Lance’s personality. I think Lance has given a new perspective on self improvement blogosphere. Thank you again, Stephen.
3:13 pm on January 1st, 2009 25
I have no doubt that you will hear God say those world and more Lance. You have such a goodness in your heart that radiates to others. Are you sure you’re not an angel?
My most embarrassing moment (or at least one of them) When I was in the 7th grade, I was in a department store walking toward the dressing room carrying one of the first real bras I bought. The sales lady stopped me and said, “young man where are you going with that?” I just wanted to die right there. I did have short hair but you would have thought the purse on my shoulder and the need for the bra would have given her a clue.
Lance you have such a good spirit. You will shine where ever you go, on a mountain top or through a blog. Your light cannot be extinguished! It’s backed by too much for that to happen my friend.
9:09 pm on January 1st, 2009 26
@Juliet – The book idea…is starting to fall into place – and it is proving to be a very exciting time – I’m sure there will be more to come!
@Amanda – Thank you, Amanda! There is something about that word, journey, that really just feel “right” for me…it really has a place in my heart… Glad you like it as well!
@Stacey Shipman – Compare notes – pun intended??? I’m laughing (oh, and that’s your favorite sound!)…where is this going anyway?! Oh…the difference…I’m not sure I qualify as musically inclined (that’ll be my challenge…I guess). Happy New Year, to you too, Stacey! And thanks for all your support…
@Corinne – The kindness article is probably my favorite too. Those few moments, while I sat there watching this all unfold, was precious. And really moved me to question my own acts of kindness – or really, lack of, sometimes. Thanks for stopping over, Corinne!
@Julie – Julie, thank you for saying so many wonderful things about me – I feel warmed to my soul. And, I also agree about Stephen – he has such warmth and comfort in his words – it makes it easy to “open up” here and really be “me”. Thank you for helping to make my 2008 as great as it was!
@Liara – Liara, your comments always, always make me think about how what you’ve said applies to me. You have such a unique and beautiful way of looking at life – one in which I find fascinating. Thank you for continuing to make me think, make me really review my life and beliefs – you are a wonderful friend. …and now, more for me to think about…
@Tom – Thank you, Tom!
@Stacey / Create A Balance – Stacey, thank you so, so much for all your continued support, for your caring, for your time – if I’m a light at all – it’s really because of the wonderful people like you, who reflect their light off of me (I think I said this before – it’s worth repeating though).
@Jannie – Jannie, thank you! Your words mean the world to me! And, there are NO videos of that little puking incident – it only lives in my memory! “You have sinned brightly” — sometimes…that’s probably pretty true!!
@Stephanie – …and should we take off those costumes, sometimes? I love this, because when I read it, I think about how we sometime put up facades, walls, to “protect” us. And yet, are we being real when we do this? Probably not. And are we really living life as we’re intended to? “Emotional Siberia” – Stephanie, this is exactly what I do sometimes – as bad as it is – and what I really do need to work on. I love your description – “Emotional Siberia” – it really is a great description of it. Stephanie, thank you for all of this – it really does help me on my journey…
@Marelisa – Thank you, so much, Mare! Sinning brightly…Jannie has a way of making us all laugh!! That does sound like a very happy ringtone! And, Mare, thank you for being a great supporter and friend for really, since very near to the beginning!
@Evelyn – Thank you, Evelyn! Really, this is the way I do try to come across – hearing that this from you, really means very much.
@Arswino – Thanks, Arswino, for this.
@Laurie – Well…I don’t have wings! …some would say my halo would be tarnished! You’ve really been a great friend Laurie, and you continue to offer words that make me really believe what I’m doing is the right thing. So, your embarrassing moment – it does make you wonder, doesn’t it, what some people think before they open their mouths (or, if they think at all before they do…). Thank you for all your supports these last few months, Laurie…
8:33 pm on January 2nd, 2009 27
I’m going to have to agree here. I hate the word can’t. THe only other word I hate more than can’t is won’t.
4:11 pm on January 4th, 2009 28
@Success Factors – Thanks for stopping by! Can’t and won’t – two words that are definitely worth limiting in our vocabulary…
8:42 am on January 5th, 2009 29
@ Laurie:
Yes, Lance is an angel but so are you! Can you see what’s happening here? We are all lightworkers, attracted by each other’s light and congregating where we are seen. Because you see in Lance the light of an angel, that means you see it in yourself too.
We are all reflections of one another. We mirror each other. That’s why Lance and I have had a good following on our blogs because we create goodwill, love, support and light.
You shine too, Laurie!
8:42 am on January 5th, 2009 30
@ Arswino:
Thank you for participating in the interview series and for sharing with us your thoughts! Have a fabulous 09!
8:47 am on January 5th, 2009 31
@ Evelyn Lim:
Yes I agree that Lance writes from the heart – I saw that immediately when I first visited his blog a while back. I’m glad you enjoyed reading up about him.
We have another interesting person coming up this week who is making a career of passing on kindness around the world. I think you’ll like this guy too. Stay tuned!
8:48 am on January 5th, 2009 32
@ Marelisa:
Isn’t that such a great idea? Having a ring tone set so that you automatically smile when her cell phone rings? That’s actually a great tool to help you snap out of the doldrums if you happen to be in it!
8:52 am on January 5th, 2009 33
@ Stephanie Quilao:
I find it fascinating that you mentioned “3rd dimensional earth self” because I’ve been reading a lot lately about the Year 2012 and how the earth itself is making its ascension from the 3rd dimension to the 4th and 5th dimension. What that apparently means is the vibration of the planet is increasing rapidly to a point where the the earth will be unlike what we have now. There’ll be global kindness, love, equality, light and abundance for all, unlike what we have now.
It’s the very reason why our financial institutions are crumbling, making way for honest leaders and business people. The crooks are falling by the wayside. It’s amazing. And people like Lance, myself, his subscribers, my subscribers are all drawn together because we are lightworkers, attracted to the light. We will rise up in vibration as the earth makes its ascension. Sooner, rather than later, you’ll be calling yourself a 4th or 5th dimensional earth self!
8:52 am on January 5th, 2009 34
@ Jannie:
Haha, that’s funny. You have SINNED brightly. Hahaha.
8:53 am on January 5th, 2009 35
@ Stacey / Create a Balance:
I’m glad and thankful I was able to bring everyone to the table to introduce Lance and make him a bit more known to the blogging world. It made me feel good to be a part of that. Thanks for joining in!
8:55 am on January 5th, 2009 36
@ Tom Volkar / Delightful Work:
Thanks Tom for letting us know that the questions and answers rang true for you. That means your inner spirit was speaking up about it. That means a lot to me. When I created this interview series, I listened to my inner spirit while writing up these questions because I wanted them to stand out from the pack and make a difference. It’s through comments like yours that are telling me I’m on the right track. I’m grateful to know this – thanks!
8:59 am on January 5th, 2009 37
@ Liara Covert:
That’s a good point that you are in a continually-evolving experience that helps you realize you never left. Interesting. Very interesting. I’m so glad you find my blog simulating – thanks!
University of life – that’s a nice title right there – maybe I ought to change the title of this blog to that. Hmmm…………I like it! Can I use it? LOL.
9:00 am on January 5th, 2009 38
@ Julie:
Thanks Julie – I love interviewing people and probing a little deeper than normal. It’s fun. When I do it, I pretend I’m in a live studio with hot lights and whirring cameras with a live audience. The visualization is so simulating that it helps me respond back to the interviewee (in red). Makes it a little more fun, you know?
By the way, you shine brightly too!
9:03 am on January 5th, 2009 39
@ Corinne Edwards:
You’re welcome Corinne – he was fun to get to know huh?
Speaking of kindness, I have another person coming on this week who actually lives out kindness! I believe you’re going to enjoy getting to know this new person.
Glad to know kindness is on your radar for 09 – me too! You’re a lightworker, just like me and everyone else on here.
9:04 am on January 5th, 2009 40
@ Stacey Shipman:
Laughter, especially a good, long hard belly laugh is definitely a fabulous feeling. It feels so nurturing down there when it happens. My goal is to laugh more. It’s truly man’s best medicine!
In fact, I read somewhere the story of a lady who had cancer who made a point of watching “Laurel and Hardy” TV shows to laugh her way out of cancer! It’s true. She was healed because she made a point of laughing several times a day! Amazing.
9:05 am on January 5th, 2009 41
@ Amanda Linehan:
I’m glad you enjoyed the interview. Journey is a very powerful word. We are definitely all on one. How could we not be?
9:05 am on January 5th, 2009 42
@ LifeMadeGreat | Juliet:
Same here – I’m curious to see his book come out. Which reminds me, I need to PUSH myself to get mine out. UGH.
9:06 am on January 5th, 2009 43
@ Natalia Burleson:
You’re quite welcome. (Taking a bow). I am thankful I am able to find and locate people who are a good fit for the interview series. I’ve been lucky so far. We’re lucky to have you in the blogosphere too!
9:07 am on January 5th, 2009 44
@ Jennifer:
That’s what they say, don’t they? That the second part gets better. It’s like that in the movies, on TV, in books, etc.
I’m laughing at the scene of the lunch table. ACK! That poor kid.
9:09 am on January 5th, 2009 45
@ Mike King:
I know, isn’t it funny how sometimes questions can seem to be “off-topic” yet be right on target? That was my intent. Glad you enjoyed it Mike.
Yes, I do find it “odd” that you like the sound of screeching nails on a blackboard. Thank goodness I’ve never heard that sound but when I do it, it makes me very cold. Very cold. I get goose bumps all over. Now that’s odd, isn’t it? LOL. We’re a couple of oddballs, right? Haha. Good to have you here, thanks.
9:11 am on January 5th, 2009 46
@ avtcoach:
Thanks for the compliment about finding and inviting Lance to be interviewed here. It was all-around fun and a life changing experience for sure. That’s the power of blogging. We don’t have to worry about “big publishing house editors” looking down and saying, “That’s not good enough, delete it!” We can do what we want and inspire/uplift unlimited people. It appears that the interview series is doing just that and I’m very humbled and grateful for it. I thank God I started that series and I anticipate doing it as long as it is God’s will.
You have a great 09 too!
9:14 am on January 5th, 2009 47
@ Patricia:
You read both interviews in one night? Wow, that’s way cool! Yes, when there is a genuine two way conversation going on, whether in an interview situation or a one on one conversation, it allows both people to shine as you indicated happened here.
How sweet your teacher put that young man next to you in your 4th grade class! What an angel. Do you remember how you felt when that happened? Did your heart flutter? Or did you feel that “little girl embarrassment” sort of thing? I’d love to learn more about this beautiful incident!
9:17 am on January 5th, 2009 48
@ Cricket:
Yes, blogging has opened the world for me in amazing ways. I thank God we have the ability to write to our hearts content and help inspire others. I’ve learned so much about blogging and there’s so much more to learn! It’ll be interesting to see where blogging takes all of us – I’m talking about Lance, myself and you along with everyone else who participated in this interview series.
And finally, speaking from the heart is where authenticity shines.
9:19 am on January 5th, 2009 49
@ Karl Staib – Work Happy Now:
I love it! Your angel wings growing as a result of a hug from God at the Pearly Gates. What a fabulous vision.
Heartwarming too.
I continue to be surprised that people don’t know I’m deaf. Well, I guess I don’t talk about it in every single article because there’s really no need to but I do talk about it in the “About page.” And some of my stories do mention it. But the blog I run here is not about deafness. It’s about life’s experiences and the journey we are all on together. Being deaf just happens to be a small part of it.
9:20 am on January 5th, 2009 50
@ Barbara Swafford – Blogging Without A Blog:
Haha, hello there Barbara! Good to have you back here. I’m glad you enjoyed it. It’s like having an alumni come back for a visit since you were once interviewed here too. I love it!
Maybe one day I’ll organize an event of all the people who were interviewed here and have some sort of celebration or something? Like a “Hall of Fame” kind of thing? Nah, “fame” is too egoistical – we’ll think of something else, okay? LOL
9:21 am on January 5th, 2009 51
@ Davina:
And I’m visualizing you on the mountaintop too! Such a beautiful vision to have.
9:23 am on January 5th, 2009 52
@ Lance:
Oh yes, that 6th grade tie incident – whoa. I was embarrassed as hell. LOL. Come to think of it, this memory also triggers the smell of my teacher’s cheap perfume. She wore this splitting-headache type of perfume that would make me droopy everytime she walked by. Imagine that!
Hey, maybe the chemicals from her perfume made me spill whatever stuff I spilled on my shirt that day!
It’s been GREAT having you here too. You’ve truly uplifted and inspired this little world of mine over here and I’m grateful to you for it. Have a great 09 and I know we will stay in touch.
1:47 pm on January 9th, 2009 53
Great interview! You both have shared some wonderful wisdom and insight. This is my first visit to your blog, however won’t be my last! Thank-you for sharing your gifts.
11:28 pm on January 9th, 2009 54
Stephen, the subjects of your posts and the nature of your interviews are thought-provoking and inspiring. I feel very grateful to have discovered your blog. I continue to enjoy exploring glimpses of your life experiences. Your positive energy stimulates creative self-expression in your readers and I am also constantly expanding my own life perspective. You are a blessing and I applaud you.
9:13 am on January 10th, 2009 55
@ Liara Covert:
Am I am very grateful you discovered this blog! Thank you so much for letting me know how much my writings have touched you. That reminds me….I’ve got to get going and start writing again! I’ve been out of touch the last month or so, mostly decluttering, clearing the energy fields and emerging from the self imposed cocoon.
9:21 am on January 10th, 2009 56
@ Mark:
I’m so glad you enjoyed our interview. As you can see, the results were far reaching and many people like yourself were inspired, moved and lifted higher. I love when that happens. It gives me such a natural state of “high.”
Best wishes for a great rest of the year Mark!
9:46 am on January 14th, 2009 57
Stephen, I love your humor. Each human being is explorin his or her own perception of the university of life. No person owns or possesses the concept at exclusion of others. It actually belongs to everybody.
3:04 pm on January 14th, 2009 58
@ Liara Covert:
That’s true – the university of life belongs to everyone but not everyone is aware that it is there for the use. Some people sleepwalk and that’s not a judgment, it just is. Others are just waking up while still others have been on the awareness path for a while.
As for me, I began my spiritual awareness quest in the mid-1990′s when I stopped being a party boy and began a new spiritual journey that would lead me to places I never dreamt of going to before (physically, mentally and spiritually).
6:02 pm on January 17th, 2009 59
Lance, Thanks for sharing your 5 top articles from your blog with us. I just finished reading all 5 and loved the valuable lessons from each of them. As usual, a great interview, Stephen
6:25 pm on January 17th, 2009 60
@ Patricia – Spiritual Journey Of A Lightworker:
I also enjoyed his top 5 articles. He has a way of writing that just affects me in a profound way. No wonder he has a terrific level of response in the comment secton!
6:38 am on January 18th, 2009 61
Patricia, I’m really happy that you enjoyed the five articles I included – they all are ones I enjoyed writing very much, also.