tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70918860790608728002024-03-13T01:32:23.482-07:00Dr. Rick BarrettAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-76950291660828430282012-01-15T16:16:00.000-08:002012-01-15T16:16:03.320-08:00The Lady and the Scarf<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:DoNotShowComments/> <w:DoNotShowInsertionsAndDeletions/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/> <w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> <w:Word11KerningPairs/> <w:CachedColBalance/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<div class="MsoNormal">When do you stop caring enough to stop giving?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">For one woman, the answer is never.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I think that’s a pretty good answer.</div><div class="MsoNormal">After all, giving is simply the end result of love.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">A dear friend of mine has been using her talent in what some may consider a dying art to express her love and to help others.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Leena is 96 years old and knits and crochets blankets, hats and scarves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She shares these wonderful gifts with people she loves and cares about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My wife and I are the proud recipients of a few pieces of her loving handy work.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Leena was even kind enough to knit a tiny hat and blanket for my great niece who will be born in just a few weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leena has never met my nephew and his wife, nor was she asked to make these items for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She did it because her heart told her to.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Leena <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>is also an inspiration because she makes these hats, scarves and blankets for total strangers too.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Every day, she works on another hat, blanket or scarf that will bring warmth and comfort to someone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once completed, her son delivers them to a homeless person! Yes, she continues to knit for people she doesn’t know, but who are in need of the product of her talent, love and kindness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These handcrafts not only provide physical warmth, but emotional warmth as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Naturally she is not a high output machine that can churn out thousands or even hundreds of items a day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, small the quantities may be, they will certainly make a difference in the lives of those that receive them.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">When should we stop giving?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>According to Leena’s example…never.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Doesn’t this make you stop, reflect and ask… if Leena can do it then why can’t I?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">If Leena has something to contribute then what do I have to contribute?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">If Leena is doing this at 96 years of age then what’s holding me back at my age?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">It certainly causes me to check myself, take a second look and ask…</div><div class="MsoNormal">…what else can I do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who else can I provide shelter, warmth, food, money, or…to? Who else can I spread love to?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Leena humbles me.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Leena makes me think.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Leena makes me proud.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Leena is inspiring!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWq8DCHMn6X-sDgAnKtXiaD2ToKSaj8CbJxVr1Sucktc0JIkNFRy-gKLV24Fk7CWQrV7Yr4zk1E8zxayAUZuZxBD7T5o_njTNY9n1vgW6mqd4Av2-K8RHFNV4Z1BZ4IsNWed5RalHkw65R/s1600/DSCN0452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWq8DCHMn6X-sDgAnKtXiaD2ToKSaj8CbJxVr1Sucktc0JIkNFRy-gKLV24Fk7CWQrV7Yr4zk1E8zxayAUZuZxBD7T5o_njTNY9n1vgW6mqd4Av2-K8RHFNV4Z1BZ4IsNWed5RalHkw65R/s320/DSCN0452.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Master Craftswoman herself...Leena!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</style> <![endif]-->It seems that if one has a desire…a passion…is inspired and their heart is big enough…</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">They can turn their time, talents and treasures into something that will benefit everyone—regardless of their age.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I think there will always be people who need, from time to time, help from others.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I hope there will be an endless supply of Leenas in the world who will rise to the occasion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank God for Leena and others like her.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">If Leena’s story inspired you, I’d love to hear from you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or if you know someone who has a unique way of giving, please share it with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just go to my <a href="http://givetolivebook.com/">givetolivebook.com</a> website and send me an e-mail.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I look forward to hearing from you.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-37624266323738211252012-01-15T14:21:00.000-08:002012-01-15T14:21:51.046-08:00Could A Simple Music CD Save Your Life?<div>Having been invited to a friend's beach house in Alabama for New Years meant...<br />
<br />
</div><div></div><div>I spent eight hours driving through the night into the wee hours of the morning arriving to my destination at 4:30 a.m., safely. This, after working a full day, driving home after 7:00 p.m. and of course, packing the car.<br />
<br />
</div><div>So, no sleep for basically 24 hours.<br />
<br />
You know how it is...likely you've done a similar thing. Eight hours of driving in the dark with trucks whizzing by you,through some areas of patchy fog, your eyes growing tired, trying to stay focused...to stay awake.</div><div><br />
</div><div></div><div>My two precious cargo passengers (my wife and my mom sleeping most of the time.<br />
<br />
</div><div></div><div>Well, of course, you listen to music right? At least that's what I did. Naturally, you don't want soft, sleep inducing music either!<br />
<br />
</div><div></div><div>Luckily, I had been given a pre-released copy of some great new music created and performed by my friend, Joe Vitale.<br />
<br />
</div><div></div><div>You've read about Joe before and you may remember that he wrote the bonus book included in my book, <b>Give to Live; The Real Secret to Manifesting Life's Rewards</b>. (Available free as an e-book at <a href="http://www.givetolivebook.com/">www.givetolivebook.com</a>)<br />
<br />
I was fortunate to have this CD, that no one else but the musicians have, in the car for the trip. The CD is titled<b> Strut</b>.<br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpr0nxytqzZ78QqPiqu5HrwP-GVx-7bBzc85OSxFef2lW7z6sojPr0dD6nySprqSTTdXGrOVHThLrRLIkZ2CBcfN4ta8pr5zudW4NjBCwKOdMSlDstsfXgHOPkpktpocpx_a_hSm5FX8pz/s1600/strut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpr0nxytqzZ78QqPiqu5HrwP-GVx-7bBzc85OSxFef2lW7z6sojPr0dD6nySprqSTTdXGrOVHThLrRLIkZ2CBcfN4ta8pr5zudW4NjBCwKOdMSlDstsfXgHOPkpktpocpx_a_hSm5FX8pz/s1600/strut.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strut! by Joe Vitale</td></tr>
</tbody></table>You may guess by the name that it is a lively collection of music and it will definitely keep you awake and tapping your foot. Of course, listening while driving, you may notice yourself accelerating unconsciously and exceeding the speed limit.<br />
<br />
</div><div>While I can't prove that <b>Strut</b> saved my life, it is certainly possible. Besides the driving benefit the music</div><div>is designed to inspire and motivate...to improve your life on a daily basis...potentially also saving your life.<br />
<br />
</div><div>Joe told me he now has CD's available for everyone. Yes, they have officially been released and are available at the website: <a href="http://getupandstrut.com/">http://getupandstrut.com</a></div><div><br />
Check it out...I know you'll enjoy it. It's a great way to start the New Year! </div><div><br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6gM2av_qZK8xuZRNT3x0uvGOWjW2ffBxtmd4tHDlptD6NupehGebogxQkSQ_PbMDcqeTq2gDcFEW9OsJ-vgTIP1jiJYJpTnv3ks8Sh9lRVdGv-mac2eDlnW9_0zsW39ZprP7npfCumUUB/s1600/photo-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6gM2av_qZK8xuZRNT3x0uvGOWjW2ffBxtmd4tHDlptD6NupehGebogxQkSQ_PbMDcqeTq2gDcFEW9OsJ-vgTIP1jiJYJpTnv3ks8Sh9lRVdGv-mac2eDlnW9_0zsW39ZprP7npfCumUUB/s1600/photo-11.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Footprints in the sand</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqHUFDU79M5KrreJ0lAQFsGGFydzThOQbuhwNmOHh4EYsupuTLsD1UU1i92tbd55lh_hz7R_fvH3QLt-ywTIXFLSMPN5pd3dcxFf39vXG8Uam0GLDVnG85uJmtwvj4Hmz-ceBuOQ4UaKkq/s1600/photo%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqHUFDU79M5KrreJ0lAQFsGGFydzThOQbuhwNmOHh4EYsupuTLsD1UU1i92tbd55lh_hz7R_fvH3QLt-ywTIXFLSMPN5pd3dcxFf39vXG8Uam0GLDVnG85uJmtwvj4Hmz-ceBuOQ4UaKkq/s1600/photo%25281%2529.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A glorious sunset!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-39957591170857824692011-11-11T08:37:00.000-08:002011-11-11T08:37:39.541-08:00Honoring America's HeroesLast night's celebration honoring America's Heroes sponsored by my Rotary Club and Operation American Heroes was a wonderful event. It was the first night of a two night event designed to raise money for our local servicemen returning home with problems and for our first responders. <br />
<br />
You can support them at <a href="http://www.operationamericanheroes.org/">www.operationamericanheroes.org</a>. The audience was full of people who believe service above self. We even had a man who fought at Iwo Jima. <br />
<br />
The keynote speaker was retired General William Boykin, former commander of U.S. Army Special Forces and founding member of Delta Force. He was inspiring.<br />
<br />
General Boykin asked all of us who had served in the military to repeat our induction oath. Part of which is to defend our constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic. He reminded us that there was no expiration date attached to that contract we voluntarily agreed upon. He charged us<br />
with continuing to fight and defend our great country.<br />
<br />
General Boykin asked everyone to place God first and adhere to our values so that we may continue being blessed and proud to be Americans. The man was inspiring yet down to earth. He was humble and honorable. It was a distinct pleasure to meet him, shake his hand and thank him for his<br />
service to our country and our world. He signed his new book for Mary and I, "Never Surrender, A Soldier's Journey to the Crossroads of Faith and Freedom".<br />
<br />
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I look forward to reading it.<br />
<br />
Today, remember and honor our servicemen and women. Lower yourself to one knee and praise God. Be thankful for our freedoms. Spread peace and love wherever you go. But stay vigilant and ready to defend and fight for freedom.<br />
<br />
Wishing you a blessed day!<br />
Dr. Rick BarrettAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-81126702488780780812011-09-11T10:36:00.000-07:002011-09-11T10:36:02.207-07:00Remembering 9119/11 ceremony was emotional on so many levels. I particularly liked Rudy Giuliani reciting Ecclesiastes, 3:1, A Time For Everything. Solid and true words to reflect on. Worthy of printing and keeping on the wall at home...<br />
<h4>Ecclesiastes 3</h4><h5 class="passage-header">A Time for Everything</h5><sup class="versenum" id="en-NIV-17361"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">1</span></strong></sup> There is a time for everything, <br />
and a season for every activity under the heavens: <br />
<sup class="versenum" id="en-NIV-17362"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">2</span></strong></sup> a time to be born and a time to die, <br />
a time to plant and a time to uproot, <br />
<sup class="versenum" id="en-NIV-17363"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">3</span></strong></sup> a time to kill and a time to heal, <br />
a time to tear down and a time to build, <br />
<sup class="versenum" id="en-NIV-17364"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">4</span></strong></sup> a time to weep and a time to laugh, <br />
a time to mourn and a time to dance, <br />
<sup class="versenum" id="en-NIV-17365"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">5</span></strong></sup> a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, <br />
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, <br />
<sup class="versenum" id="en-NIV-17366"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">6</span></strong></sup> a time to search and a time to give up, <br />
a time to keep and a time to throw away, <br />
<sup class="versenum" id="en-NIV-17367"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">7</span></strong></sup> a time to tear and a time to mend, <br />
a time to be silent and a time to speak, <br />
<sup class="versenum" id="en-NIV-17368"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">8</span></strong></sup> a time to love and a time to hate, <br />
a time for war and a time for peace. <br />
<br />
I just watched Boatlift, An Untold Tale of 9/11 Resilience on CNN narrated by Tom Hanks. You must see this, it's inspiring. 500,000 people rescued by boat from Manhattan in less than 9 hours! This represents who we are, and what we will and can do for each other!<br />
<br />
Pray for peace, live in peace, live a life of love, but stay vigilent!<br />
<br />
Blessings,<br />
Dr. Rick Barrett<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/MDOrzF7B2Kg?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-63912026825697184222011-08-28T17:37:00.000-07:002011-08-28T17:37:30.082-07:00This year's destination...Peru!<br />
<br />
Our Austin based multidisciplinary team will be serving the impoverished people in Callao, Peru. We will be there from September 26 to October 6th.<br />
<br />
Though I've participated in roughly thirty medical missions, I'm just as excited about this one as I was my first.<br />
<br />
I look forward to catching up with my Peruvian friend, Ruth, who lives in Lima and works as a translator. She is going to join us and bless us with her translation skills.<br />
<br />
We may also have help from the sister of Winston. (I told you he is going to walk 5,000 miles across South East Asia. Check out <a href="http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=6GwPJ&m=IhKGC_QHne_6Pn&b=aRcGK5vnlVcvx7rBRWVb_w" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title=""><span style="color: #234786;">http://smiletrek.org</span></a>) She is currently attending school in Lima. It's miraculous how people's lives cross and connect when giving and serving others in need.<br />
<br />
While in Peru, I hope to keep you updated with photos and...if I can figure it out...a video posted to YouTube.<br />
<br />
I know many people like to donate clothing, and medical supplies like crutches and wheelchairs. Unfortunately, it's difficult to travel that far with those types of supplies.<br />
<br />
You can send me monetary donations if you like or donate at <a href="http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=6GwPJ&m=IhKGC_QHne_6Pn&b=Stg62eefYJkFgXQtXdKCgg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title=""><span style="color: #234786;">http://www.austincatholicmedicalmission.org</span></a>. Any other donations, I can give to my other team traveling to Eagle Pass on the Mexican border in November.<br />
<br />
As always, any donations are appreciated but please keep our entire team and our work in your prayers. I'll communicate more later.<br />
<br />
Thanks and Dios Le Bendiga! (God Bless You!)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-37842206091376902942011-08-27T17:59:00.000-07:002011-08-28T16:21:14.985-07:00Navajo SerenadeMonument Valley, Utah is a place of haunting other worldly landscapes. It's staggering lithic monuments rise above the desert floor to kiss the sky. I fell in love with this magical place some twenty-five years ago, though I'd seen it many times before in movies. Of course, it's very recognizable. It's been the backdrop for many John Wayne movies. <br />
<br />
This trip Mary and I were fortunate to get a special tour from a Navajo brother and sister team, Jessica and Quanah. They showed us places I had never been before. Places where they played as children and are very special to the Navajo. They shared stories of their culture and about the land the ancient ones, the Anasazi, once called home.<br />
<br />
Touring us through the beautiful desert amongst majestic rock formations, our young guides showed us pictographs and petroglyphs and then took us to a rock formation they say represents a Hogan.<br />
<br />
There Jessica instructed us to rest and lie down on the cool, smooth sloped rock base of a formation that made up a natural amphitheater. I wasn't quite prepared for what came next.<br />
<br />
Quanah began to play a Navajo flute whose sound was amplified and enriched by the rock formations. I wasn't, as I said, prepared. I hurriedly took out my video camera to capture part of that unique moment. Then Jessica serenaded us with a touching Navajo song. It was a beautiful gift, befitting the surroundings and adding to the treasured experience in this magnificent Valley of Monuments.<br />
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I'd like to share a piece of what we experienced. I encourage everyone to visit this Natural Wonder of the World that the Navajo people graciously allow us to be a part of. If you go, look up Quanah and Jessica. They work for their parents at Majestic Monument Valley Touring Company. Check them out<a href="http://www.majesticmonumentvalleytours.com/"></a>...you'll be glad you did! They will tell you "ya'at'eeh" (hello), welcome to Monument Valley, Tse'Bii'Ndzisgaii, (Valley of the Rocks)!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/xd7KBb30WdA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-70916791487476950182011-07-31T11:42:00.000-07:002011-07-31T11:42:15.450-07:00Would You Walk 5,000 Miles......for people you don't know...<br />
<br />
In foreign lands...<br />
<br />
To give them hope...<br />
<br />
Improve their self worth...<br />
<br />
And correct disfiguring physical deformities?<br />
<br />
I know someone who is about to do just that!<br />
<br />
Please watch this very important video!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/FnTG5RaaJzI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-52557818653394354032011-04-03T14:16:00.000-07:002011-04-03T14:16:03.831-07:00In Search of the Virgin Mary; The Medjugorje Chronicles<span style="color: #20124d;"><strong>St. Blaise, Dubrovnick and Father Roy Oggero</strong></span><br />
<br />
Immersing oneself in the pilgrimage experience means abandoning one’s normal life and embracing in totality all that the Blessed Virgin Mary…that God, wishes for that person. Once one says, “Yes” and commits to the journey, they must push themselves…their ego, out of their own way. Hence exposing themselves to the entire richness of the trip from the grand and obvious, to nuances and subtleties that weave together a powerfully fulfilling, rewarding and enduring spiritual experience.<br />
<br />
Part of this means continual prayer. Silently…openly…individually…or in groups. Sometimes, casually and other times more formal.<br />
<br />
For Catholics, “mass” is the ultimate formal gathering of the body of the church, to praise, worship, confess, speak utter gratitude and receive Christ in their lives. During the journey, we participated in daily masses in various churches and hotels.<br />
<br />
Understandably, for many, this can be an overload. But after all, this is what we went for…to find the Blessed Virgin Mary, get closer to God and have a spiritual…a divine encounter.<br />
<br />
A significant blessing for our group was having Father Roy Oggero, a Basilian priest, as our spiritual leader. Father Roy, as most people call him, has a beautiful, loving soul coupled with a lively and humorous personality. It’s easy to feel love, warmth and the presence of God when he is in your company.<br />
<br />
Masses were celebrated by Father Roy, with the exception of a few, in which he was a con-celebrant with many priests such as in Medjugorje. I’ll share more of that with you later.<br />
<br />
The Church of St. Blaise is a magnificent 18th century Baroque church dedicated to the patron Saint and protector of Dubrovnick, the beautiful ancient port city on the Adriatic Sea.<br />
<br />
George Bernard Shaw, the famous playwright, described Dubrovnick as, “the pearl of the Adriatic”. Unfortunately, “the pearl” wasn’t glowing the day we visited. It was a rather gloomy day, punctuated with rain storms and yet, it was still magical and beautiful.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYqzKhQlJ9lj5B-0mdcTGGIzAaHlWVO9CSpKixm15L2TQCVg68JEXSnkx2iVJ_2Bl_w_1qfCPANufz5hbu7Kcwxn5dRf7l1drQfPA7STLNDWOIZDk18hEBH-8hGsPf9X82FN_xzvfz8Nz/s1600/387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYqzKhQlJ9lj5B-0mdcTGGIzAaHlWVO9CSpKixm15L2TQCVg68JEXSnkx2iVJ_2Bl_w_1qfCPANufz5hbu7Kcwxn5dRf7l1drQfPA7STLNDWOIZDk18hEBH-8hGsPf9X82FN_xzvfz8Nz/s320/387.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Blaise holding the city of Dubrovnik<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivNq7UmVhs7ChdmNC9y76hjLPNtkx7ubratIhkNXtg-2GPN9iNoriCr5KJod-3480DZlPUTejCFpPOMuhPif0w5f4TMzO1MVIDZx5PctPTTcoYMTViXBC_sN4RXFpxmOAySXnT-PhIGoLf/s1600/386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivNq7UmVhs7ChdmNC9y76hjLPNtkx7ubratIhkNXtg-2GPN9iNoriCr5KJod-3480DZlPUTejCFpPOMuhPif0w5f4TMzO1MVIDZx5PctPTTcoYMTViXBC_sN4RXFpxmOAySXnT-PhIGoLf/s320/386.JPG" width="320" /></a></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Ancient religious treasures abound inside St. Blaise Church. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazGookGmH8TAtGMcibroi2kvHOaihjk8vHBXlDtcJ02Rtid2vMWwZ2g0dz3TpCW_XG4TFApKFlmsPZ94GkkF6tde_oMu5eBPkzbdH_gmMcKa0ZD9FE-ysQ9AC3C3yaRjLh3ctM3k25sLV/s1600/396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazGookGmH8TAtGMcibroi2kvHOaihjk8vHBXlDtcJ02Rtid2vMWwZ2g0dz3TpCW_XG4TFApKFlmsPZ94GkkF6tde_oMu5eBPkzbdH_gmMcKa0ZD9FE-ysQ9AC3C3yaRjLh3ctM3k25sLV/s320/396.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>This day we brought our own treasure…Father Roy! (Knowing Father Roy as I do, he’ll probably think I’m calling him ancient when he reads this…) <br />
<br />
Having video camera in hand, I was able to capture much of our adventure including many of the masses. Father Roy and our group were gracious enough to indulge me as I attempted to record forever our experiences during the Medjugorje pilgrimage.<br />
<br />
I invite you to participate in the mass at St. Blaise celebrated by Father Roy Oggero and listen to his insightful sermon. I believe you’ll be captivated by his powerful message delivered in his usual gentle, loving but “cut to the chase” fashion, as he discusses the reason for our lives. <br />
<br />
The video is an edited version which does not cover the mass in its entirety (so don’t panic…it’s not an hour long…only about five minutes). <br />
<br />
You don’t have to be Catholic to glean some pearls of wisdom from this. I believe it can serve all. If nothing else, you’ll get a glimpse into the Catholic mass, and enjoy the beauty of the Church of St. Blaise.<br />
<br />
My continued purpose with the Medjugorje Chronicles and accompanying videos is to expose and enlighten. To help all of us tap into our spiritual being and connect with God. <br />
<br />
Embrace the love!<br />
<br />
Continue the journey!<br />
<br />
Blessings,<br />
Dr. Rick Barrett<br />
<br />
P.S. More videos and stories to come…<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object width="320" height="266" class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://1.gvt0.com/vi/tP1GLHN_VjE/0.jpg"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/tP1GLHN_VjE&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/tP1GLHN_VjE&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-86729820309045858672011-03-24T19:34:00.000-07:002011-03-24T19:34:21.241-07:00The Four Way TestIt’s nice to have a reminder of who we are, how we should conduct<br />
ourselves in a civilized society or of what we believe in.<br />
<br />
Some of the items may be religious in nature and others not.<br />
<br />
They could be cards we keep in our wallets, rings or other pieces<br />
of jewelry that symbolize truths we hold dear.<br />
<br />
Of course, if love, spirituality, morals, ethics, integrity, or<br />
compassion aren’t in our hearts, no symbol will be the magic<br />
talisman that transfigures us into a better human being.<br />
<br />
A gangster attending church simply going through the motions<br />
doesn’t redeem himself or wash away his criminal behavior.<br />
<br />
Rotarians have something we hold dear called the four way test of<br />
the things we think, say or do.<br />
<br />
I carry one in the form of a token in my pocket. And I have<br />
another I keep on my desk. The obverse contains three <br />
simple words:<br />
<br />
SERVICE… ABOVE… SELF…<br />
<br />
The reverse holds the words of the four way test of the things we<br />
think, say, or do.<br />
<br />
1) Is it the truth?<br />
2) Is it fair to all concerned?<br />
3) Will it build goodwill and better friendships?<br />
4) Will it be beneficial to all concerned?<br />
<br />
I find this four way test to be a great reminder of how to conduct<br />
ourselves throughout our daily lives…<br />
<br />
…a standard by which to operate that transcends any potential<br />
social, ethnic, or religious barrier.<br />
<br />
I hope you benefit by those words and the obvious meaning behind<br />
them as much as I do.<br />
<br />
When I wrote Give to Live; The Real Secret to Manifesting Life’s<br />
Rewards with Joe Vitale, it was with the intent of promoting the<br />
idea of service above self and the magnificent rewards that we<br />
automatically attract in doing so.<br />
<br />
One way for me to serve others is by making this book available as<br />
a free digital book. It can be read or downloaded free at<br />
<a href="http://www.givetolivebook.com ">www.givetolivebook.com <br />
</a> <br />
While on a very special trip to Peru, we decided to take the giving<br />
and serving message to a new level giving more people the ability<br />
to open their subconscious minds to giving. We created the Give to<br />
Live Subliminal Manifestation DVD…you can check it out at<br />
<a href="http://www.givetolivedvd.com">www.givetolivedvd.com<br />
</a> <br />
I wrote several prayers and an affirmation of service that I’ve<br />
given away to people around the world for many years. The loving<br />
response has always humbled me. Inspired by this, I was guided to<br />
convert the prayers into songs. You can read the prayers and hear<br />
a sampling of the music in a free special report I wrote where I<br />
share ideas on how to get closer to God. It’s all on the website<br />
at <a href="http://www.attractmoregod.com">www.attractmoregod.com<br />
</a> <br />
As always, my products partially fund our medical missions, the<br />
Nahuathl Indigenous stove project and more.<br />
I think you’ll agree they meet the four way test.<br />
<br />
Even if you are not a Rotarian, I know you’ll find a use for the<br />
four way test in your life. Likely you’re already intuitively<br />
using it.<br />
<br />
Please continue to be the change in you wish to see in the<br />
world…share this with others!<br />
<br />
Blessings,<br />
Dr. Rick Barrett<br />
<br />
P.S. Want to become a Rotarian? Check out <a href="http://www.rotary.org">www.rotary.org</a> or contact me personally about the Rotary I belong toAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-84322107832374141222011-03-20T16:04:00.000-07:002011-03-20T17:23:18.538-07:00Ricky's Pico RicoRemember my blog about Mexico, Mariachis and Mom? <br />
<br />
Well, here's another story out of Mexico from Mom's birthday trip. <br />
<br />
If you've ever had pico de gallo at a Mexican restaurant, you know how awesome it can be...or not, depending on the restaurant. Regardless of where I've ever had it, I've never had it made fresh at my table. That is until we ate at Los Zarapes in Mazatlan, Mexico. <br />
<br />
Our host, Johnny, made us the best pico de gallo I've ever had in my life! (Remember, I live in Texas where there's a lot of Mexican restaurants!) But what's even better, Johnny taught me how to make it and I have it on video. I'm going to share the video with Johnny's special recipe. Believe me, it will be well worth your while to watch this short video. <br />
<br />
Once you make your own pico de gallo, you'll be hooked. And no more buying that garbage so called pico de gallo in the grocery store. I guarantee it. Fresh vegetables always win...and they're healthier too. But you knew that. <br />
<br />
Once you make the pico, it's up to you to decide what to do with it. Straight up on a corn chip is great, or mixed into a chili con queso...fantastico! Couple that with a smooooth margarita (frozen or unfrozen, salt or no salt) made with good tequila and even kick it up a notch by adding Presidente brandy. Now it's muy sabroso! <br />
<br />
Enjoy the video and bon appétit...whoops, that's French...in Español...bueno apetito! <br />
<br />
Adios y via con dios!<br />
Dr. Rick Barrett<br />
<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="480" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/mPt79yy6DM8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-40772135077159478072011-02-27T15:04:00.000-08:002011-02-27T15:04:56.791-08:00How's Rudy and the Nahuathl Stove Project?Some of you have asked about Rudy. Lately, I've had numerous inquiries about Rudy and the Nahuathl Indigenous stoves he builds. Rudy is in good health, but as many of you have heard, Mexico is a hot bed of controversy because of the drug cartels and the associated killings. <br />
<br />
We have many friends that live in Mexico and many more who live in the United States, but still have family throughout Mexico. Some areas are affected more than others certainly. Caution and awareness are two words that spring to mind. There are dangerous places throughout the world. Many of the United State's large cities like Houston, Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York, (to name a few) have areas that would be best avoided. I think the same is true in Mexico.<br />
<br />
The good people, the uneducated, the helpless, the poor, and the average person trying the best they can to carve out a decent life for themselves are always damaged by the effects of the uncaring, the criminals, the evil people (if you allow me to use that term). <br />
<br />
So the news from Rudy is that he and the people in the region have been greatly impacted in a negative way.<br />
<br />
The following is from Rudy's latest e-mail:<br />
<br />
"We've had some very hot and windy weather. The Nahuathl natives feel that we are in for a very dry season. The old natives say that this hot and dry wind is bad and they are right about it. All the creeks and streams are nearly totally dried. Not much water is left in water springs. Even our three rivers are way down in their normal level."<br />
<br />
Rudy then went on to say in one of the towns where we do our medical missions; the local police station was under attack. Grenades were even thrown, but didn't explode! It's a very sad and troubling state of affairs in this once peaceful and beautiful region of Mexico. <br />
<br />
Rudy goes on to say, "I am still doing what little I can to keep my work with the Nahuathl people. Stay well and healthy. May God bless you always."<br />
<br />
Regardless of the hardships, Rudy always ends his correspondence with a blessing to everyone. <br />
<br />
I'll be sending Rudy more donations this week to continue his work. I'm always happy to be the conduit to get funds to Rudy and to aid the Nahuathl people.<br />
<br />
If you would like to donate please visit our Missions of Hope website at:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.missionsofhope.com/donate.html">http://www.missionsofhope.com/donate.html<br />
</a><br />
Please continue to send good intentions, beautiful, peaceful energy and prayers for the good people in Mexico and throughout all the troubled regions of the world.<br />
<br />
Thanks for all your help!<br />
<br />
Blessings,<br />
Dr. Rick Barrett<br />
<br />
P.S. "There is a wonderful mythical law of nature that the three things we crave most in life -- happiness, freedom and peace of mind. They are always attained by giving them to someone else." Peyton Conway March.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-71810154637230943132011-02-27T11:05:00.000-08:002011-02-27T11:05:39.276-08:00Back In The Saddle...Uh..Cockpit Again!I flew a plane!! Dare I say it? It's really hard to believe, but here we go...<br />
<br />
It's been 30 years since I piloted a small plane! Flying the small craft is not what is so amazing; it's that 30 years have gone by since I sat behind the controls.<br />
<br />
Let me bring you up to speed. Like most guys, I've always loved anything that goes fast, sounds powerful, is powerful, is bright and shiny (especially red) and smells like gasoline and oil. <br />
<br />
In the water, <br />
<br />
on the ground <br />
<br />
or in the air. <br />
<br />
It's all good!<br />
<br />
Sound familiar? Probably you know someone like this. Maybe it's you!<br />
<br />
Mechanical things are wonderful. I've tinkered with just about everything, even rebuilding engines. I've driven just about anything with an engine from lawn mowers to bulldozers and road graders, to Ferraris and Lamborghinis and a whole lot in between.<br />
<br />
I like speed. Especially if there is an engine involved. Planes fascinate me. As a kid, I always loved going to air shows(I still do). So when I was about 19 years old, I pursued flying.<br />
<br />
I thought and dreamed that I might like to be an airline pilot one day. But eventually the idea of being stuck in a small room(cockpit) with a couple of other guys hour after hour, day after day, month after month...for years slowly began to play in my head like a bad Rod Serling episode of The Twilight Zone.<br />
<br />
So, I joined the Navy (besides I couldn't fly in the Air force with bad vision). Okay, so maybe that wasn't so smart. (There were some good times in there.) I was a SEABEE and got to tinker on some really cool heavy equipment...diesel engines (though they didn't go really fast).<br />
<br />
Where was I...oh yeah...<br />
<br />
So, I interrupted my flying lessons, I was thisss close (You can't see it, but I'm holding my fingers really close together, like the size of a hair.) to getting my private pilot's license! Actually just a mere night flight and one cross country trip from completion.<br />
<br />
I've always regretted not finishing and for all these years, I've longed to go back to it. Every time I see a plane in the sky. Perhaps now I will.<br />
<br />
Well, why did I stop? You know how it is. Priorities--girls, cars,money, time, girls, cars, money, time...uh, oh, starting to sound like a Twilight Zone episode again.<br />
<br />
Anyway, fast forward a few years. How I got back in the air was at the invitation of a patient, fellow Rotarian, and friend, Dana, who owns a flight school in Sugar Land, Texas. http://www.ansonair.com He graciously asked Mary and me to "go up" in one of his planes. I think he said, "Would you be interested in taking a plane up on Saturday?"<br />
<br />
Of course, I intelligently replied, "No, I don't think so...duh!" He got my drift.<br />
<br />
So, some how we picked one of the hottest Saturdays in a record heat month(August) in Texas to fly a small plane with no air conditioning!! (That's worth two exclamation points.) I believe it was 100+ with a heat index of 110. Did I say it was hot? Now I know what a crawfish feels like in the boil.<br />
<br />
We finally got some cold air at 3500 feet...87 degrees! <br />
<br />
As we were cruising over some beautiful countryside, Dana asked me if I wanted to take over the controls...another, "Oh, duh!" moment. I took the yoke and proceeded to do some hard banking, loop dloops, and barrel rolls...it was all coming back. (Well, that was running through my head anyway.)<br />
<br />
No, I kept her steady and on course. He let me have her for a while, not too short, not too long...just enough to give me the bug again. I suspect Dana wants me to take lessons again.<br />
<br />
All in all it was a great time. We all survived. My wife had it the worst though, she was in the back seat with less room than a Volkswagen full of circus clowns. And did I mention it was hot? I think Dana picked the smallest plane in his fleet. Back on the ground, Mary kissed the ground, hugged Dana and told me, "Next time you sit in the back!" We had a blast though. Well worthwhile and Dana runs a top notch operation. I think everyone should learn to fly. <a href="http://www.ansonair.com">http://www.ansonair.com <br />
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Then there will be more room for me on the ground. Did I tell you I love driving cars? There are a few lessons in this story (not just flying lessons). <br />
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<a href="http://secure.smilebox.com/ecom/openTheBox?sendevent=4d546b774d6a51774d54413d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link"></a> <br />
Live life to the fullest!<br />
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Pursue your dreams and passions...even just once!<br />
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Don't put off 'til tomorrow what you can do today! (I think someone said that before me.)<br />
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Don't spend all your time watching movies about other people living.<br />
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Live your bucket list now! (While you can ambulate reasonably well.)<br />
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Live more, love more, and give more... for tomorrow may never come.<br />
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Live in the present, live in the now, live in the moment!<br />
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Don't wait 30 years!<br />
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Dr. Rick Barrett<br />
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Author of Give to Live; The Real Secret to Manifesting Life's Rewards <a href="http://www.givetolivebook.com">www.givetolivebook.com<br />
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P.S. The only thing missing (besides air conditioning) was a killer sound system playing Pink Floyd's song, Learning to Fly!<br />
<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/xb-Nacm-pKc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-28342442748994461212010-06-06T17:31:00.000-07:002010-06-06T17:32:28.643-07:00It's Now Illegal!As of Tuesday, June 1, a new law banning texting on cell phones <br />while driving in Missouri City, Texas went into effect. Even while<br />stopped at a traffic light or stop sign. I, for one, think this is<br />a great law and will prevent injuries and save lives.<br /> <br />Far too many of us have become so relaxed while driving that it's <br />like sitting comfortably in our homes with food, drinks, DVD's,<br />phones and cruise control.<br /> <br />I was appalled the other day when I observed a woman driving <br />on the freeway with an iPhone in her right hand using her thumb <br />to operate it and a flip phone in her left while holding the<br />steering wheel! This was definitely over the top!<br /> <br />I blew the horn at her and she looked up at me with the most <br />indignant look on her face. Like I was rude and interrupted her! <br /> <br />I'm sure some people think I shouldn't blow the horn, but I don't <br />want anyone looking down at their phone drifting over and hitting <br />me! And I'm going to continue to honk the horn. <br /> <br />The risks of texting or even talking while driving are huge. The <br />number one distraction while driving is cell phone use. The <br />National Safety Council says that texting is six times more likely<br />to cause an accident than driving while intoxicated! <br /> <br />Imagine if a person is drunk, or high, texting, listening to the<br />radio with dogs, kids or other people in the vehicle trying to<br />juggle the hot Starbucks or soft drink and eat the burger and<br />fries!! Oh, yes and play a clarinet at the same time. Okay, I'm<br />exaggerating just a little...maybe. But I have seen a guy driving<br />a truck with two hands on a clarinet resting it on the center of<br />the steering wheel!<br /> <br />Bottom line, driving is a serious business and I think we'veall <br />become a little too relaxed about it. Especially as it relates<br />with food and phones. It's becoming a significant life altering<br />problem.<br /> <br />I've been noticing a very alarming trend in my chiropractic<br />wellness practice. I am treating an ever increasing amount of<br />patients from trauma due to motor vehicle collisions. Most are my<br />existing patients, some past patients and others referred by<br />patients or medical doctors. Some have had devastating collisions.<br /> <br />I am and always have been, willing to help my patients or those <br />they care about in any way I can. Returning someone back to <br />optimum health after a trauma is important work and requires <br />clinical competence. Healing takes time and musculoskeletal and <br />neurologic degeneration needs to be thwarted.<br /> <br />Just the other day, I accepted a patient for care who was referred <br />by another current patient. He was amazed by all the ways with <br />which we treat including adjusting the spine and nutritional <br />intervention. I was amazed because he had told me about a previous <br />terrible experience he had being treated at an "accident clinic"<br />that an attorney had sent him to. The chiropractor never even <br />adjusted his spine. <br /> <br />This man wasn't treated properly, had a bad experience with the<br />attorney and the doctor. He only agreed to see me at the urging of<br />a family member. He overcame his previous negative experience, now<br />he's doing great and very happy.<br /> <br />The point is there are lots of "accident clinics" with dubious<br />attorney connections. I can't tell you how many times we refuse to<br />accept an accident patient that doesn't know us; referred by an<br />attorney we don't know where the circumstances are questionable. <br />It happens a lot. Believe me, there is a lot of corruption out<br />there.<br /> <br />Accident cases aren't our primary source of business, as you well <br />know, we are a wellness clinic. But we will treat people who have <br />sustained a legitimate injury. They need help and have the right<br />to receive exceptional care.<br /> <br />I know it seems trite and easy to say, but prevention is the best <br />medicine always, in all ways! So think safety first. The best <br />accident is the one you don't have. Be alert...stay off the phone.<br /> <br />I don't want you or someone you love to be injured or, worse,<br />killed.<br /> <br />God forbid you become injured, but if you do, I'll be happy to help <br />anyway I can.<br /> <br />I don't give legal or insurance advice, but there are two things<br />I've learned over the years. First, there are better ways to pick<br />an attorney than from a commercial or the yellow pages. I'm not <br />saying you need or don't need an attorney, but if you're thinking <br />about retaining one, ask me about it.<br /> <br />Secondly, please speak with your insurance agent and get <br />personal injury protection (PIP) added to your policy if you don't<br />have it. It's very inexpensive and pays for medical expenses and<br />lost wages. There are a lot of uninsured drivers out there. You<br />need to protect yourself because medical bills can add up quickly<br />after a trauma. I've seen too many patients suffer a financial<br />loss by not having personal injury protection on their policy. <br />Check it out with your agent.<br /> <br />One last statistic to think about--teenage drivers are four times<br />more likely to get in an accident while texting and driving than<br />adults. We all know they think they are invincible, just as we<br />once did. <br /> <br />Let's all stay safe and healthy!<br /> <br />Dr. Rick Barrett<br /> <br />P.S. I have a free motor vehicle collision report with information <br />most insurance companies don't want you to know. If you're <br />interested, let me knowAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-58087563051732170562010-04-24T16:58:00.000-07:002010-04-24T17:16:34.153-07:00The Patient That Made Me Cry<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg29G5hyh9SiHZRoWNkwJEcI28yK-Y6unFZM6j0hNHEWUJ_DCjDBW9fJ0XQYF5ZUPwW1WO_V3BBHx8tbL-0F_STeTWSRq3qBvkK0v047CuiVBs-X-wGrHUn-EDKJ8SJzrIxDo57-i1-a7TQ/s1600/Chad+Collins.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 167px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg29G5hyh9SiHZRoWNkwJEcI28yK-Y6unFZM6j0hNHEWUJ_DCjDBW9fJ0XQYF5ZUPwW1WO_V3BBHx8tbL-0F_STeTWSRq3qBvkK0v047CuiVBs-X-wGrHUn-EDKJ8SJzrIxDo57-i1-a7TQ/s320/Chad+Collins.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5463859076126861698" /></a><br />Yes, I admit it. Tears welled up in my eyes and I had to clear my throat after Chad handed me a framed photo of himself. It was just another routine visit to the chiropractor for Chad, his wife and family. But this day, he surprised me with a note encased in a frame with a photo of him finishing the Houston Marathon. His first! I was thrilled to see his picture. Arms victoriously held high with a huge smile of accomplishment on his face. Then I read the heartfelt note below it. I was very touched. Chad, of course, did all the hard work. He was dedicated to his goal and achieved it. This is what Chad wrote…<br /><br /><em>I completed my first marathon, 26.2 miles, in five hours and sixteen minutes. It was one of the most painful, yet rewarding experiences in my life. I was considered a hero because I ran for the charity, Bo’s Place.<br />Dr. Barrett, you were a key part in this process. Along the way, you provided continual encouragement. Your energy around giving and helping others has flowed through me and to Bo’s Place, as well as all those around me. My family is truly blessed.<br /><br />I consider you a friend and a God given gift to my family. Before I began training, the strength test you performed and supplements you provided pointed me in the right direction. During training, your chiropractic care kept me in alignment and I am positive—kept me stronger. After I completed the marathon, your loving words, “I am proud of you” continue to resonate in my soul.<br /><br />From my ankles to my knees and from my hips to my lower back, every joint, muscle and tissue thanks you, Dr. Barrett, for your love and friendship. I also thank God for your talents that you continue to share and give so freely. You, Dr. Barrett, are the hero! <br /> <br /> ~Chad Collins and Family</em><br /><br />I don’t consider myself a hero. I am humbled that Chad does. I’m just satisfied to have been a positive influence on his health and to be a part of his marathon success. It was fantastic to witness Chad’s growth through this process. I must say, I have one of the most gratifying careers in the world…participating in helping people with a myriad of health complaints overcome sickness, regain health, and improve the quality of their lives. Whether they run a marathon like Chad or are simply able to lift and hold their child without pain. I get to witness some amazing outcomes as the innate processes of the body restore function and health to the human body. I am truly blessed to be a part of so many lives!<br /><br />It’s hard to put a price on Chad’s words or others like him who share their successes with me. I asked Chad if I could share this story and he happily gave me permission. Some may think I wrote this simply to feed my own ego, but not so. In my career as a wellness practitioner, I all too often encounter patients who seek my help after they’ve failed to overcome disease, pain or achieve the results they long for, are capable of and deserve. Other chiropractors experience the same. Such was the case of a young boy who suffered needlessly with a misdiagnosed childhood disease which created constant pain and episodic periods of immobilization for years. That is until a chiropractor, Dr. Terry Smedstad, gave this patient, (now a man), the answer to his lingering questions and a solution to his pain. In addition, wonderful side effects of increased vitality, improved health and a new vocation in life…to become a chiropractor and help others as he was helped. That boy was me! I continually give Dr. Smedstad full credit for changing my life. I’ve written the full story in my book, “Dare to Break Through the Pain; A Guide to Healing Naturally Without Drugs and Surgery” and “Healed by Morning”. <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/barrettchiroc-20">http://astore.amazon.com/barrettchiroc-20</a><br /> <br />I can never thank him enough. He changed me forever and has given me the opportunity to change others. If I am a hero to Chad and his family, I understand and am grateful because Dr. Smedstad is a hero to me. Chad's story stands as a testament to what each of us is capable of. I am hopeful that it will inspire and encourage others. <br /><br />I am confident that the people who need to hear this message…will, and lives will be changed forever.<br /><br />To Chad…all I can say is, <em>Thanks for being dedicated…not to me, but to yourself. And not just in this magnificent achievement, but daily. Also, for giving your family the gift of chiropractic care. You are all blessings to everyone you encounter and great examples for others to follow!</em><br /><br />To all who suffer with pain or other health complaints, I say continue to seek help. There are solutions to your problems. It may take some effort but the rewards are great! The list of natural solutions are many…acupuncture, herbal remedies, nutritional supplements, chiropractic, meditation and prayer to name a few.<br /><br />Think more natural; be involved in the daily task of staying healthy and being well!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-8325649996049593462010-04-10T18:42:00.000-07:002010-04-10T18:43:17.687-07:00Beyond Borders, Politics and ReligionBeyond borders, politics and religion...<br />stands an organization that tirelessly serves. They are Rotary International. I am happy to report that I am affiliated with this wonderful organization and proud to be distinguished as a charter member of the newly formed Southwest 59 Sunrise Rotary Club. For those who aren't familiar with Rotary International, they are "the World's first service club organization with more than 1.2 million members in 33,000 clubs Worldwide. Rotary Club members are volunteers who work locally, regionally and internationally to combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, provide education and job training, promote peace and eradicate polio under the motto, 'Service Above Self'." <br /><br />Their ideals have long aligned with my thinking. Every Rotarian I've ever known has been ethical, honest and an outstanding World class citizen.<br /><br />They exemplify the attitudes, ideals and actions I speak of in my book, Give to Live; The Real Secret to Manifesting Life's Rewards. <br /><br />It is a privilege to be associated with all Rotarians throughout the World and especially the charter members of our newest club in the greater Houston area.<br /><br />I invite you to investigate Rotary International to see for yourself. Check out <a href="http://www.rotary5890.org ">www.rotary5890.org </a>or YouTube at <a href="http://www.youtube.com/rotaryinternational">www.youtube.com/rotaryinternational</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-30385184152473127842010-04-04T14:22:00.001-07:002010-04-04T14:22:35.124-07:00The Ultimate GiverToday is Easter Sunday. A day when all Christians celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ...the Son of God. Those of you who are non-Christians please stay with me for a moment. My intent here is not to proselytize, but simply to use Jesus, the man, as an example of the ultimate servant...the ultimate giver.<br /><br />The life of Jesus, short as it was revolved around honoring and loving God the Creator. He preached peace, love, caring for the poor, leading a life of goodness, honoring life and loving others as one would love themselves.<br /><br />Jesus was a model giver and servant. He stood for something greater than himself and willingly died for the salvation of all humanity.<br /><br />Is their a greater gift than giving one's life for another?<br /><br />Naturally, I can't feel what a Buddhist, a Muslim, a Jew, non-Christian or anyone else, for that mattter, feel on this day. But I am hopeful that we can all use Jesus as an example of how to BE.<br /><br />This Easter weekend gives me yet another opportunity to reflect on my life. To evaluate the direction I'm headed and make any course corrections needed.<br /><br />I get to ask, who am I and what do I stand for? How much am I willing to sacrifice for others...daily...or in a grand way? Could I have the compassion, the strength and courage of Jesus...even one tenth the courage? <br /><br />Life, as you know, is made up of a series of opportunities, decisions, and choices. At the end of the day, at the end of a life, perhaps all we can hope for is that the good decisions out weigh the bad ones. That we've done more good than harm, and showed more love than hate. <br /><br />My wife has decided that in her death, she wishes to go on helping others. While she and I have spoken about this before, it has just become official. It just became more real to me. She showed me her newly arrived donor card. When Mary's spirit leaves this world, her body will continue to give life to others. It will be her last gift of love.<br /><br />On this day and every day, I pray each of us has the courage to be a better person, to break through the shackles that bind us to any belief that is harmful to another.<br /><br />Give more! Love more! Be more!<br /><br />Dr. Rick Barrett<br /><br />P.S. Mary signed up with www.DonateLifeTexas.orgAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-15609428787028698392010-03-16T10:54:00.001-07:002010-03-16T10:56:06.504-07:00The Secret ProjectMachu Picchu Peru, where an ancient Incan city once existed is a breathtaking, magical place. If you can't feel God there, you may have a serious problem. Nature connects us with God and this place turbo charges that connection, almost instantaneously. Perhaps the ruins of an ancient civilization and the spirit of the people accentuate the feelings, the connection, and the experience.<br /><br />But whatever it is, it's hard to describe. Fate has brought me there twice and yet I yearn to return. Awe, peace, tranquility, creativity, and inspiration all collide there. It is an essential travel destination everyone should experience. One for the bucket list for sure!<br /><br />This past trip I was blessed to stay at what felt like the top of the world...The Sanctuary Lodge. It's positioned beautifully in the mountains at the foot of the ancient Incan city. Just the name should give you a sense of what my two traveling companions, Joe Vitale, Mark Ryan, and I felt and experienced.<br /><br />Even Joe being a master wordsmith still can't fully express the emotions, the almost out of body experience that Machu Picchu evokes from a person. It is a mystical place.<br /><br />While there, conversations and emotions took us in many directions. We were inspired to discuss blessings and gratitude, how beliefs create our realities and the topic of giving and receiving. We discussed how and why people have self imposed limitations about giving and serving and that others don't recognize giving and the ability to receive as an essential component to their ability to grow and prosper. We also discussed how people can clear their blocks to receiving...very simply.<br /><br />It was then and there we decided to work on a secret life changing project...to create a solution for people who are "stuck" in their lives.<br /><a href="http://www.givetolivedvd.com">www.givetolivedvd.com</a><br /><br />Thankfully, Mark had his professional video camera with him and filmed Joe and I discussing giving. But he also captured the magnificence of Machu Picchu in such a way that you believe you are actually walking the paths of the ruins. You feel you are there. What was created from that experience is absolutely life changing. It's a must have video.<br /><br />Even for those that believe they don't need it. Well...especially for those that believe they don't need it.<br /><br />Mark masterfully created a truly spectacular subliminal DVD. Anyone interested in personal growth and societal change will immediately love and benefit from this DVD. Marks expertise in hypnosis, NLP (neurolinguistic programming) and subliminal video skills are used in this DVD to encourage our brains reticular activating system, to begin opening and seeing the abundance and wealth in our possession, in so many areas of our lives. As you watch and use this video you begin to see your world through new eyes...eyes that begin to believe and see that you are always getting all that you desire and deserve...by learning how to properly receive.<br /><a href="http://www.givetolivedvd.com">http://www.givetolivedvd.com</a><br /><br />The reticular activating system locks in and only lets you see what your belief system accepts as reality. If you don't believe it, you can't see it!<br /><br />This means that you can already have what you've tried to manifest in your life...right in front of you. But because this part of your brain doesn't believe in it, this system will lock you out of experiencing what you don't believe you deserve!<br /><br />This special subliminal manifestation DVD teaches your unconscious mind to shift making the RA's open up, to train it to work with the natural flow of giving and receiving. Being a person who is in a continual serving/giving mode and being part of this project doesn't exclude me from needing help too. Just like you, I am on a journey, a road of growth and discovery. You and I can't judge ourselves by the measurements or criteria of others, only by our own. This subliminal DVD is just one more tool that can be used to foster growth, change...¦improvement. It's not a tool that I think only you need. I believe everyone needs it, including Joe, Mark and me. <br /><a href="http://www.givetolivedvd.com">http://www.givetolivedvd.com</a><br /><br />My goal is to continually strive towards becoming a better person...the best version of me. I am open to using any tool that doesn't create harm and moves me in the right direction. I have watched this special subliminal DVD multiple times and plan to use it on a regular basis. Each time I watch it, I feel better, lighter, happier, more attractive...more connected. I notice something is different, but I can't quite express what it is. But it's similar to the sensation of finally drinking water after being extremely thirsty for a long time. All systems start to work better, energy is restored, life comes back, and the power is on!<br /><br />Machu Picchu was a life changing, inspiring experience for us that birthed a subliminal manifestation DVD that we are confident will change lives forever- including the people who we have pledged to serve on a humanitarian level. Part of the proceeds will fund Rudy and the Nahuatl Indigenous Stove Project, the medical missions, Operation YES (helping the homeless) and any other humanitarian need that crosses our paths entering our hearts, such as Haiti or Chili and others that are bound to follow.<br /><br />We have been very pleased to receive some wonderful e-mails like this from Lisa D.: "My husband and I just got done watching your Give to Live, Clearing Blocks to Receiving DVD. We love the informal setting, and the beautiful views of Macchu Picchu. Very peaceful and calming. We felt this was a perfect match to your book, Give to Live. This DVD gives a reader of the book, Give to Live, a more personal connection and understanding of the two of you. It also helps the reader to better understand what is really important in ones life. The gift of giving can be so rewarding and beneficial. Thank you for a GREAT book and a WONDERFUL DVD, we will watch it often."<br /><br />Cynthia said, "Your DVD is thoughtful, innovative and just plain cool! I must thank you for bringing Give to Live into my life and the lives of so many who have benefited from its content. From my first look at the DVD, I was immediately taken with the concept of conscious choices and the impact of purposeful choices in achieving the results we desire in our lives. That and the model for successful receiving and opening up to allow our blessings to flow." <br /><br />One woman told me that she was buying the DVD for her friend who was in great need of hearing the message of "Clearing Blocks to Receiving" through giving. Sometimes<br />we may sense there are friends or family who may need the message just a little more than we do. If you think of someone, give them a gift too. I promise, the act of giving to them will return great dividends to you both. But you already knew that!<br /><br />Listen to your intuition, your heart...God. If this feels right to you, check it out, watch the video excerpt at <br /><a href="http://www.givetolivedvd.com">http://www.givetolivedvd.com </a><br /><br />Then get one for yourself!<br /><br />Wishing you great success, health and happiness,<br />Dr. Rick Barrett<br /><br />P.S. The DVD includes:<br /><br />A 4 minute introduction<br />A 25 minute interview between Joe Vitale and me and...<br />A 20 minute Master Subliminal "Clearing Blocks to Receiving" <br />video<br /><br />Mark, Joe and I know you will enjoy the DVD! Please let us know what you experience!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-83816864807094590192010-02-27T09:10:00.000-08:002010-02-27T11:05:49.678-08:00Making Beautiful Music Together<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4RxISSOkplZ6pqHCbctWGw-QSGaXG5ZrLZqF8QLBj5h1jxBdsI9xlO9D7BnhlK-mQimbkGfR18SQt5FbamekAscF2k-oJqutQS1nMyZrv7sAOHlCmFAHFGOtQv_rvmyQH1GgLZA3wjvF/s1600-h/IMG_4488.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 186px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4RxISSOkplZ6pqHCbctWGw-QSGaXG5ZrLZqF8QLBj5h1jxBdsI9xlO9D7BnhlK-mQimbkGfR18SQt5FbamekAscF2k-oJqutQS1nMyZrv7sAOHlCmFAHFGOtQv_rvmyQH1GgLZA3wjvF/s320/IMG_4488.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442972084219965090" /></a><br />You may recall, I was inspired to write a couple of prayers. One is in my book, <a href="http://www.healedbymorning.com/index.html">Healed by Morning</a>, the other hasn't been published in a body of work yet. <br /><br />Recently, I was also inspired to turn these prayers into songs and to record my <a href="http://www.lulu.com/content/shared-file/acts-of-service-journal/5526047">Affirmation of Service </a>from the book, <a href="http://www.givetolivebook.com">Give to Live</a>.<br /><br />With the help of my good friend and talented musician/producer, <a href="http://sagetone.com/">Todd Silva </a>and two awesome singers...my friend, <a href="http://www.myspace.com/GailBest">Gail Best</a> and my sister, Kathleen Woods,we are making some beautiful music together. I know you will love it!<br /><br />I'm very excited about this project and can't wait to share the final product with you. You will be blown away!<br /><br />More to come soon...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-34079745215930752662010-02-22T09:18:00.000-08:002010-02-22T09:22:48.509-08:00We Received An Inspiring Phone Call--You'll Love To Hear About!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiebbFhV6LeQvrkOxufVverLoTQbZ20JTzxRQ4rmCdKvBIFeDkTqJhQo2BjlUImsi8BlRz2ua22_Jl4k8JBZck8Uu5P1LKMux3izcBK6_wXNurdzS_o4_5TdEib0brqBuIULDVyJjIehhQW/s1600-h/243.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 288px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiebbFhV6LeQvrkOxufVverLoTQbZ20JTzxRQ4rmCdKvBIFeDkTqJhQo2BjlUImsi8BlRz2ua22_Jl4k8JBZck8Uu5P1LKMux3izcBK6_wXNurdzS_o4_5TdEib0brqBuIULDVyJjIehhQW/s320/243.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441118949292798450" /></a><br />During a very busy day with patients, Mary took a phone call from a woman in Florida. That in itself is not particularly unusual, of course. We routinely receive calls from people in other states to purchase books or nutritional products. But what she wanted was to ship us something. The something?...A wheelchair!<br /><br />She started by telling Mary this story. She had taken a friend to a doctor’s appointment at the hospital and naturally had to wait for her. Unfortunately, she had forgotten to bring a book to occupy her time. Looking for a magazine to read, she felt drawn to The Daily Word magazine that lay amongst a large variety of other magazines. She picked it up and read an article by Laura Harvey called, “A Passion for Giving”. It tells about how I became a medical missionary, why I continue to do it and why everyone needs to find an outlet to give. There’s a great photo of me pushing a young man in a wheelchair with his cousin and father in the background. Actually, I had him leaning back in the chair as I “popped a wheelie” with him. It was great fun, especially because it gave him new freedom. He rarely got out of the house unless someone carried him out. The article mentions him and the wheelchair we donated. We didn’t know who would benefit from the chair but we were guided to him. It was a perfect match. It even had a seatbelt…which he needed. <br /><br />Well, the woman from Florida was so moved by the article, that she told her husband about it when she returned home. He became inspired and reminded his wife that they possessed a new wheelchair that had been her mother’s. At that moment they decided to contact our office and ship the wheelchair to me. Their intention is for me to bring it on my next medical mission and donate it to just the right person.<br /><br />Isn’t it wonderful how a short article like that can move people to such great action? That wheelchair will soon find a new home and be of use and comfort to other people far from its original home. Countless lives may benefit from it over a lifetime. And what of that couple in Florida? What else will they do? I doubt it’s over for them. <br /><br />I’m confident if they aren’t already in service to others, they will be now. I wonder who else may have read the article and been inspired to take action in their own way? The ripple effect may be endless.<br /><br />To some, the donation of a wheelchair may seem somewhat insignificant in the scope of world problems. But to the people whose lives are enhanced by it…it’s priceless. <br /><br />What kind of change could we see in our lifetime if everyone was “tuned in” the way those folks were. They listened to inspiration, their inner voice, intuition, the nudge from God. Whatever it was, they not only listened, but took the next critical step that so many ignore—they took action. It’s a lesson we can all learn from. Listen and act. I invite you to read the Daily Word article, the magazine is wonderful and I know you’ll love it! To view the article visit the Daily Word website at <br /><a href="http://www.dailyword.com/articles/2009/november/passion-giving ">http://www.dailyword.com/articles/2009/november/passion-giving </a><br />Yours In Service, <br />Dr. Rick BarrettAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-42302733735410486632010-02-19T13:25:00.000-08:002010-02-19T13:29:16.041-08:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVwykdlCfQ47hqIEHslpGy1_Ep_nie2i9Qt5aGR94RrjXwfeOaqV3PFp-2eMJOIRDdWBA7spGII15ZsazsAkIP_hcC5ZBtWxkZbuT41lIMqtguc-0uhWuu2MrnTYtH920Qm-1NEeQ9x7vj/s1600-h/IMG_4442%5B1%5D.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 179px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVwykdlCfQ47hqIEHslpGy1_Ep_nie2i9Qt5aGR94RrjXwfeOaqV3PFp-2eMJOIRDdWBA7spGII15ZsazsAkIP_hcC5ZBtWxkZbuT41lIMqtguc-0uhWuu2MrnTYtH920Qm-1NEeQ9x7vj/s320/IMG_4442%5B1%5D.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440069740025902050" /></a><br />Mary and I were privileged to become Godparents to our nephew, Matthew! We had a beautiful ceremony in which he was welcomed by the entire church.<br /><br />It’s wonderful to see the joy and feel the energy that a baby can bring to people. In today’s world we need more of that joy and energy.<br /><br />Matthew is nine months old and a hefty little guy. At one point during the ceremony, the priest asked for the Godparents to hold him for a blessing. Some how I was elected. As I stood holding Matthew, in the blink of an eye he thrust his right hand out towards a large lit candle that stood next to us. There with his little fingers, he scooped up some of the soft warm wax and proceeded to put it in his mouth! I was looking the other way and didn’t even see it happen. He apparently has no fear of fire and it didn’t trouble him at all. In fact, he liked it!<br /> <br />As we scooped little bits of wax out of his mouth, I thought, “Oh, well, this is it. I’ve only been a Godparent for five minutes and their going to revoke my privileges, cancel my contract and solicit a new Godfather.” But they gave me a pass on this one…whew!<br /><br />What each parent wants, what each parishioner hopes for is that this child will survive, thrive and have opportunities in life that perhaps they didn’t have. That he will become a valuable member of our world community. That he will live his life with honor and integrity and treat others with love, kindness and generosity. That this child will live without hate and prejudice, and compassion fills his heart. That this child will do the good and honorable things that perhaps we were not able to do. That this child and every new child becomes a second chance…an opportunity for us to redeem ourselves…to be the hope for a peaceful world.<br /><br />Blessings,<br />Dr. Rick Barrett<br /><br />P.S. I ask that you place a blessing on Matthew in your own way and on all the newborns of the world…thank you.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-26149778227054693402010-02-06T15:03:00.000-08:002010-02-06T15:11:40.724-08:00Would You Walk A Mile In My Shoes?I can hear that question reverberating in the minds of the poor.<br /> <br />Well…can we?<br /><br />Will we?<br /><br />Each person must answer those questions for themselves. One man though says yes to show his commitment! To changing the lives of the poor, Bob Hentzen will walk 8,000 miles from San Lucas Toleman Guatemala to Valparaiso, Chile! This is an arduous journey for anyone let alone Bob. He is 73 years old!<br /><br />This is also his second walk to show solidarity with the impoverished. His first walk, three years ago, was a mere 4,000 miles.<br /><br />Why walk?<br /><br />Bob feels that “those living in poverty can feel forgotten by the rest of the world.”<br />He simply wants to say to the poor, “You are not alone...” and “I love you”.<br />Bob started walking December 29th, 2009 and anticipates a sixteen month journey taking him some 8,000 plus miles through twelve countries.<br /><br />Hentzen is the president and co-founder of the Christian Foundation for Children and Aging.<br /><br />They serve more than 182,000 children, youth and the aging in the twelve countries Bob will walk through, and more than 310,000 worldwide!<br /><br />Their commitment to changing lives over many years is to be applauded and marveled at. Hentzen displays extraordinary courage and dedication as he embarks on this 8,000 mile journey to walk in the shoes of the poor.<br /><br />He has given me pause to reflect on my own journey and willingness to serve and to review my commitment towards the betterment of humanity.<br />Bob is an inspiration to me. A new year affords us another opportunity to reevaluate the direction of our lives.<br /> <br />As we set goals for 2010 and beyond in all areas of our lives, we should remember to set goals for giving. Perhaps it’s time to ask ourselves harder, deeper questions. What more can I do? What can I be a part of that creates change in the world-- in one town, in one family, in one life.<br /><br />What can I create?—maybe an organization, a fund, or something else. Who can I partner with? Who else shares my beliefs or has the same concerns? What gifts, talents, and resources do I have to offer?<br /> <br />As you look into the mirror of your soul evaluate what you see. Are you happy with it? Is there more to be done? Where do you see yourself?<br /> <br />Listen to inspiration that may be whispering softly or even shouting loudly to you. The nudge in your soul may be divine inspiration from the creator that will also guide you create a plan. Take action, enjoy the journey, experience the emotion, and reap the rewards.<br /><br />Your journey may take you on a walk like Bob Hentzen or on countless other paths. The possibilities are limitless. We can create all that we wish to create for ourselves and others in an abundant world.<br /><br />You can follow Bob Hentzen on his amazing, inspirational journey, by going to <a href="http://www.walk2gether.org">www.walk2gether.org</a><br /><br />If you’d like to learn more about the Christian Foundation for Children and Aging go to <a href="http://www.cfcausa.org">www.cfcausa.org</a><br /><br />A useful tool for your own journey is the Acts of Service Journal in Give to Live. Both are free! Simply go to <a href="http://www.givetolivebook.com">www.givetolivebook.com</a><br /><br /><strong><em>Whose feet are those before you?<br />They have walked a thousand miles<br />Through hardship, pain, and suffering<br />They have weathered worldly trials<br /><br />Searching for their destination<br />These way-weary feet<br />Travel ever onward<br />Ignoring sand, sun, and heat<br /><br />The way is rarely easy<br />The path not always clear<br />Still they keep on searching<br />Hoping home is somewhere near<br /><br />A place of final resting<br />Of beauty, love, and peace<br />Where the bonds of earthly torment<br />Will finally gain release<br /><br />Someone waits to wash those feet<br />To soothe the pain away<br />Cleansing the sins of human life<br />Along with dirt and clay<br /><br />Whose feet are those before you?<br />They seek a heavenly goal<br />Perhaps the feet of Jesus<br />Perhaps those of your soul.</strong></em> ~M.F.K.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDE2otW9KGlivQ4nVlIaFCBmyn_ZpRyRMd7GgVd5mftiIe9LzK6AfQcDZcQ32w6SzSMejW9v8blaWSNwzcm016FRRrcRS-S3Deq2uvE1cwTE6Sfx0CI2mFFAoVL5FmYSLjHuSkNFo6Zrjw/s1600-h/La+Gloria+031+-+Copy.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 273px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDE2otW9KGlivQ4nVlIaFCBmyn_ZpRyRMd7GgVd5mftiIe9LzK6AfQcDZcQ32w6SzSMejW9v8blaWSNwzcm016FRRrcRS-S3Deq2uvE1cwTE6Sfx0CI2mFFAoVL5FmYSLjHuSkNFo6Zrjw/s320/La+Gloria+031+-+Copy.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435271944925801762" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-37840365878037983562010-02-03T18:17:00.000-08:002010-02-03T18:31:16.304-08:00The Secret to Receiving MoreLike me, you've probably been studying<br />manifestation and the Law of Attraction<br />for a long time, or maybe it's something<br />new to you.<br /><br />Perhaps you've seen the movie, The<br />Secret and were energized by it, but you<br />felt something was missing.<br /><br />Likely you've had some success with the law<br />of attraction, manifesting certain experiences, <br />material possessions, a little money, or <br />relationships into your life<br /><br />Even if you weren't quite sure how it works.<br /><br />But even if you fully understand the Law of<br />Attraction...you may still have abundance<br />that eludes you somehow.<br /><br />There's still something more that you want.<br /><br />You may know all the secrets to wealth and<br />getting what you want, but if you don't know<br />how to give and receive... all the secrets in<br />the world won't help you.<br /><br />Let me explain...<br /><br />Our brains have something called a reticular<br />activating system (RAS). This system tends to<br />lock in and only let you see what your belief<br />system accepts as reality. If you don't believe<br />it, you cannot see it.<br /><br />This means that you may already have what you've<br />tried to manifest into your life -- right in front<br />of you. But because this part of your brain<br />doesn't believe it, this system will lock you<br />out of experiencing what you don't believe<br />you deserve.<br /><br />Your manifestation system may be working just<br />fine. But your belief system may be blocking you<br />from accepting, experiencing, and receiving all<br />that the universe has in store for you.<br /><br />What can you do about this?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.mrfire.com/">Dr. Joe Vitale</a>, <a href="http://www.markjryan.com/">Mark Ryan</a>, and I traveled to<br />Macchu Picchu, Peru last year. There, we were<br />inspired to create a special edition Subliminal<br />Manifestation DVD on just this issue. You can<br />read about it -- and see a video excerpt -- here:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.givetollivedvd.com">http://www.givetolivedvd.com </a><br /><br />This special subliminal DVD teaches your<br />unconscious mind to shift that around, to<br />make your reticular activating system open<br />up and train it to work with the natural flow<br />of giving and receiving.<br /><br />This DVD works with both your conscious and<br />unconscious mind to open you up to giving and<br />receiving all that the abundance the universe has<br />in store for you.<br /><br />The DVD starts with a 25-minute interview with<br /><a href="http://www.mrfire.com/">Dr. Joe Vitale </a>and myself about how to open<br />these processes inside yourself. Both Dr. Vitale<br />and myself were in a heightened state of bliss<br />during this interview, as it was conducted on top<br />of sacred Macchu Picchu in Peru.<br /><br />Watch as our positive energy flows out, inspiring<br />you consciously to understand this critical flow<br />of giving and receiving.<br /><br />The next segment is a spectacular, moving<br />20-minute piece filmed in Macchu Picchu.<br /><br />Watching this video of nature's beautiful,<br />sacred abundance, coupled with a<br />special musical piece composed specifically<br />for this video, opens you up to levels of ancient<br />understanding deep within you. You can actually<br />*feel* this when you watch the video.<br /><br />You might see little flickers on the subliminal<br />portion of the video, as you relax and watch.<br /><br />They are just a little faster than your conscious<br />mind can grasp, but not too fast for your<br />unconscious. In this way, we bypass the<br />conscious mind's objections and blocks,<br />and you will gently stir the deeper understanding<br />of the cycle of giving and receiving within you.<br /><br />Hypnotist <a href="http://www.markjryan.com/">Mark J. Ryan's </a>smooth hypnotic voice<br />guides you through this special 20-minute video.<br />Mark's expertise in hypnosis, NLP (neurolinguistic<br />programming), and subliminal video skills <br />encourage your RAS to begin opening<br />and seeing the abundance and wealth you <br />already have in so many areas of your life.<br /><br />As you watch and use this video, you will begin to<br />see your world through new eyes... eyes that begin<br />to believe and see that you are always getting all<br />that you deserve and desire... by learning how to<br />properly receive -- and how to properly give to<br />yourself.<br /><br />And how to allow more -- to begin to finally <br />attract what has been eluding you.<br /><br />Imagine *that*.<br /><br />Here's the bonus to this learning: as you start to<br />receive more, it amplifies your manifesting. As<br />you open and receive more, it adds to your own<br />experience, thus changing your experience,<br />which also solidifies your new belief systems.<br /><br />I am sure you have heard the saying, "The rich get<br />richer and the poor get poorer." Well that is the<br />result of a receiving feedback loop. In one loop,<br />you are open and receive more... in the latter,<br />you don't believe you should receive more and<br />so you receive less.<br /><br />Are you beginning to see how powerful this is?<br /><br />When you receive plenty and more than sufficient<br />supply, you then are more open to giving because<br />you have more to give, and the desire to give<br />increases as well.<br /><br />So now you have a system that both pushes and<br />pulls in the same direction. How much faster do<br />you expect things to improve in your life when you<br />have one engine pushing and another pulling in the<br />same direction? When you've been living with<br />two engines pulling in opposite directions,<br />the improvement will feel dramatic.<br /><br />If you have that much energy working for you,<br />why not have it work in the same direction?<br /><br />Why not finally get in alignment to attract<br />all that you long for?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.givetolivedvd.com">http://www.givetolivedvd.com </a><br /><br />The Subliminal Manifestation Special Edition<br />Give to Live: Clearing Blocks to Receiving will<br />be selling for $69.99 but for a limited time we<br />are offering it for an introductory rate of only<br />$59.99.<br /><br />The DVD includes:<br /><br />* a 4 minute introduction<br />* 25 minute interview between Dr. Vitale and me<br />* 20 minute Master Subliminal "Clearing Blocks<br />to Receiving" video<br /><br />As a bonus, I am giving away the<br />digital version of my highly acclaimed and<br />"Give to Live" book, on which this special DVD is<br />based. It also includes <a href="http://www.mrfire.com/">Dr. Joe Vitale's </a>wonderful<br />and powerful "Greatest Money Making Secret in <br />History" book.<br /><br />Get yours now and start seeing all that is yours<br />that is right in front of you -- and more.<br /><br />Just go to --<br /><br /><a href="http://www.givetolivedvd.com">http://www.givetolivedvd.com </a><br /><br />"It is one of the most beautiful<br />compensations of this life that no man can<br />sincerely try to help another without<br />helping himself." ~Ralph Waldo Emerson<br /><br />Wishing you great success, health, happiness...<br />and more!<br />Dr. Rick Barrett<br /><br />PS -- Honoring the Divine flow of giving and<br />receiving, partial proceeds will be donated to<br />our charities.<a href="http://www.givetolivedvd.com">http://www.givetolivedvd.com </a><br /><br />Just go here now --<a href="http://www.givetolivedvd.com">http://www.givetolivedvd.com</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-49892384368230575922010-01-28T08:05:00.000-08:002010-01-28T08:10:31.440-08:00Haiti; Hope For HumanityIn the chaos, devastation and suffering that has arisen from a massively destructive earthquake...Haiti offers every community,every nation and each individual an opportunity to stand for something greater than themselves. <br /><br />People and countries will either tap into the goodness within and rise to their greatness or succumb to their limited, petty beliefs falling to their weakness!<br /><br />The decision to offer assistance or not, the reasons why you would do either are irrelevant. What is relevant is that human life has been destroyed, suffering, hardship and pain still remains,and is everyone 's responsibility!<br /><br />This is one of those defining moments when we get to ask ourselves individually and collectively...who are we? What are we made of?<br /><br />Can the poor country of Haiti be a catalyst for unity, peace and oneness?<br /><br />Can Haiti teach us finally what is important?<br /><br />Can we transcend politics, cultures, boundaries, religions, languages,prejudices and fears to care for one another?<br /><br />Can we look beyond all the possible reasons not to act, not to donate money, not to volunteer, and focus on the one reason to do those things?<br /><br />Simply for the love of another human being!<br /><br />The jury is still out. Haiti will be a long process, but I am hopeful.<br /><br />A few days after the earthquake destroyed Port Au Prince an estimated 150,000 were dead. I asked a patient how her morning had been. She responded it's just an ordinary day, thankfully. I agreed. I said sometimes an uneventful day <strong>IS</strong> a great day.<br /><br />She said, "Yes, I have nothing to complain about. Look at those poor people in Haiti. I can't sleep. They're on my mind constantly." She said, "Just can't send enough money to them. I wish I could do more."<br /><br />This event touched her soul--the connection between her and other spiritual/human beings.<br /><br />I would say you would have to have a very hard heart, be a sick or a destructive person not to be touched by this tragedy.<br /><br />Most of us feel compelled to lend assistance in whatever way we can. You could almost hear the collective gasps as we all learned the news. Something ripped at our hearts, our guts and we felt a tear in our connection to human life on this<br />planet.<br /><br />We can imagine, all too easily, ourselves, friends or loved ones in that same situation. Devastated, hungry, homeless, filthy and perhaps buried under rubble gasping for air, desperately struggling for life. <br /><br />For those that survive, the struggle for ordinary will be a long process.<br /><br />I would not want to be in their shoes, but if I were, I would hope and pray that my brothers and sisters throughout the world would come to my aid.<br /><br />This earthquake in Haiti is just another reminder that we are all susceptible to disaster and potentially in need of assistance from others.<br /><br />Hardship Plays No Favorites is the title of chapter two in our book, <em><strong>Give to Live; The Real Secret to Manifesting Life's Rewards</strong></em>. (Available at <a href="http://www.givetolivebook.com">www.givetolivebook.com</a>)<br />In it, I wrote the following...<br /><br />"Homelessness, economic disaster, war torn countries, terrorism,class systems, slavery,genocide, prejudice, hate, water and food supply shortages, poverty, droughts, famine,disease, a world in turmoil; symptoms of a world, in many ways precariously close to extreme devastation."<br /><br />"Many of us, including you and me, are teetering on the brink of personal disaster and yet walk through our days unaware. A life, a career, a business can be dramatically changed in the time it takes for a tsunami to roll onto shore, a government to topple, a war to erupt, a tornado to come through your town, a fire to ravage your home or a senseless act of terrorism to invade your life."<br /><br />Haiti is giving us all an opportunity to show not only others, but ourselves, what we are made of. To remind us...it could just as easily be you or I.<br /><br />An opportunity to reach within ourselves and share all the love,goodness and light we are endowed with. An opportunity to grow in our humanity and our spirituality.<br /><br />Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "It is one of the most beautiful compensations of this life that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself."<br /><br />My personal Affirmation of Service is as follows:<br /><br />I<em><strong> choose to carry out my day as if it is my last.<br />I will give freely and unconditionally that<br />which I can. I will provide service to one or<br />more persons with or without their knowledge.<br />Thought coupled with action equals change, <br />therefore, as I think and act I can and will<br />create the positive changes in my<br />community and world. I am grateful for the<br />opportunity to serve humanity today.</strong></em><br />Perhaps this resonates with you. If so...use it.<br /><br />When opportunity presents itself to help another, it is also an opportunity for us to grow and be the recipient of great reward.<br /><br />Do what you can, when you can, however your conscious dictates.<br /><br />Serving You,<br />Dr. Rick BarrettAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-77120963291521329612009-11-24T18:13:00.000-08:002009-11-24T18:15:48.700-08:00Remembering to Give...Thanks and More!This Thursday as Americans, we celebrate and hold dear a special day that provides us an opportunity to give thanks; a day to unite with friends and family… a day of peace.<br /><br />Thanksgiving is uniquely American but the ideals that it embodies are something that all countries and all peoples can embrace.<br /><br />Our Thanksgiving started humbly in the early 1600’s by English settlers who endured many hardships, having fled from religious persecution.<br />Not the least of which was an extremely harsh New England winter that killed nearly half the colonists.<br /><br />The survivors gave thanks to God for their new home, freedom, bountiful harvests and their new Indian friends that embraced them and aided their survival.<br />Though many Thanksgiving days were celebrated over the years, it wasn’t nationalized until President Abraham Lincoln made it so.<br /><br />This glorious tradition continues to be held the last Thursday of November. <br />For many the history has been forgotten. For others it is simply a day to rest from hard work. For others it is an opportunity to see family that they otherwise may not see due to distance or time constraints. For others it is a day of true spiritual connectedness and gratitude to a loving God. And to others it is a day of peace and tranquility as all pause for a moment in time. Still others use it as a day to serve and give to those less fortunate and in need of help.<br /><br />Those of us who “have” … can share… can give… can serve and… can pray for those who have not.<br /><br />My sincerest wish is for all of the inhabitants of this planet to experience an abundance of love, health and wealth.<br /><br />While this day is uniquely American, I hope that its message can be adopted and embraced by the world. A planetary day of Thanksgiving!<br /><br />And yes, I know there are countless people who would find it extremely hard to be thankful or grateful even for one day.<br /><br />I pray that even the poorest of people can locate one thing to be thankful for. To be able to say…thank God, I have this shelter, or my family, or my body, my eyesight, my hand or whatever it may be. To acknowledge this to their friends, family, God or just to their inner self is powerful.<br /><br />Without even one thing to be thankful for, there is no hope. But if there is just one thing to be thankful for, a person’s spirit can be elevated!<br /><br />A new attitude is adopted energy creates more energy and then self worth and inspiration dispel despair. Suddenly, magically, the doors are flung open for goodness of all kinds to enter into their life.<br /><br />As their attraction increases, life becomes more fulfilling.<br /><br />While I firmly believe thanksgiving and gratitude should be practiced daily, especially remember it this Thursday.<br /><br />This Thanksgiving holiday see who you can give to. Challenge yourself to do a little extra even if you think you’ve done enough. You will find that you open yourself to receive more by being and doing more for others. The giver is always blessed with reward.<br /><br />For the last fifteen years at my office we have collected food for the needy families in East Fort Bend County. It’s been a huge success thanks to the generosity of my patients and it’s been a blessing to my patients, community and myself. We love every minute of it. This is just one example. Do your own thing. Be inspired! Inspire others!<br /><br />Count your blessings. I’m definitely counting mine!<br /><br />Every one of you helps me to grow and challenges me to be better. I am thankful for each and every person in my life.<br /> <br />With sincerest gratitude—thank you!<br />Dr. Rick Barrett<br /><br />P.S. Joe Vitale and I are still giving away Give to Live e-books for free at <a href="http://www.givetolivebook.com">www.givetolivebook.com</a>. For those who purchase books, we are also giving away partial proceeds to our charities like Rudy and the stoves <a href="http://www.missionsofhope.com">www.missionsofhope.com </a>and Joe’s homeless project—Operation YES <a href="http://www.operationyes.com">www.operationyes.com</a><br /><br />I love when people call, e-mail or write to me that Give to Live has changed their life and that they are buying books for family and friends.<br /> <br />One of my patients humbled me the other day by buying books for his seven children. But not only that, he has committed himself to do more for our community and the world. Soon, he will be going on a medical mission with me as part of his commitment. This is from a man who is already very giving. I am grateful to him and others who do their little piece to benefit mankind. It helps us all.<br />Thanks again to all of you!<br /><br />P.P.S. For a fun and simple way of opening your life up for more abundance and prosperity to flow Give Away A Dollar A Day! It's just like it sounds - you give away one dollar, every day. The best way to do this is anonymously, and in a public place. But what really makes this practice so genuine and empowering is that you decide where and how to give away your dollar to whomever and however you want. Check out Todd Silva’s website at <a href="http://giveawayadollaraday.com">http://giveawayadollaraday.com </a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7091886079060872800.post-59571808101091380612009-08-29T09:03:00.001-07:002009-08-29T09:04:34.806-07:00Honored by Toastmasters!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYmC24yV2TjHNwTLtzzU8694BrplxMOjURQiUDFo-aNPOdxIP_WbnCvSBaHOBEpR8OjoH3_pJOJqDy13SGHOEDYbesjEeqgL13ctj2rmV27UgzrtMWF3ot1PFJY7xVtYl5Jk-7QJPMO2TE/s1600-h/untitled.bmp"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYmC24yV2TjHNwTLtzzU8694BrplxMOjURQiUDFo-aNPOdxIP_WbnCvSBaHOBEpR8OjoH3_pJOJqDy13SGHOEDYbesjEeqgL13ctj2rmV27UgzrtMWF3ot1PFJY7xVtYl5Jk-7QJPMO2TE/s320/untitled.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375417135141643282" /></a><br />Last week, I spent a delightful evening with a group of people from the Sharpstown Toastmasters Club.<br />I was privileged to receive an invitation to deliver a talk about the book, Give to Live; The Real Secret to Manifesting Life's Rewards. Of course, I was happy to accept.<br /><br />Toastmasters Clubs are international with a diverse membership. I fully support any group of people who are dedicated to self-improvement--and they are!<br /><br />Sharpstown Toastmasters Club mission statement is very powerful! It states that they "provide a mutually supportive and positive learning environment in which every member has the opportunity to develop communication and leadership skills, which in turn foster self-confidence and personal growth".<br /><br />I was genuinely impressed by the caliber of people in attendance and the quality of their meeting. Loving to talk about a few of my passions made my speech easy to deliver.<br /><br />I explained how Give to Live was born into existence and the messages revealed within. Remember, Give to Live reveals that an open heart and a willingness to serve not only changes you, but also the planet.<br /><br />It teaches perhaps newly for some and reinforces for others, the importance of giving their time, money and resources to a power higher than themselves. Readers also learn that once they start giving unconditionally, they'll manifest and receive personal rewards they couldn't fathom prior to giving.<br /><br />Another passion and one of the themes in Give to Live is the idea that serving is the highest form of giving one can express. I use my involvement in medical mission work to illustrate this in the book and spoke of it at Toastmasters. As well as speaking about my friend, Rudy, who builds special ecological healthy stoves for the Nahuatl indigenous of Mexico.<br /><br />Rudy taught me to speak a few Nahuatl words. One phrase I shared with the group was Amu Xi Maj Mahue--don't be afraid!<br /><br />While we've all likely felt the joy and experienced the rewards of helping another human being, I'm also sure there were plenty of other times when we've all stopped ourselves from giving.<br /><br />Giving money, sharing a talent, or personally serving someone. Because of finances, prejudices, lack of time or just plain fear. <br /><br />We create a belief that we feel serves us. A glass ceiling, a threshold of giving that we are unwilling to pass through.<br /><br />In doing so, our own growth is stiffened.<br /><br />So we must find a way to break through this in order to receive abundance in life.<br /><br />Amu Xi Mah Mahue. Do not be afraid.<br /><br />Push through--find ways to give, to serve and create change in this world.<br /><br />It was great fun for me to deliver those messages to the Toastmasters club.<br /><br />I was quite surprised when at the end of the evening, they honored me with the "best speaker of the night" award.<br /><br />It was an exciting night!<br /><br />See every life fulfilled!<br /><br />Dr. Rick Barrett<br /><br />P.S. Please continue to send the Give to Live message. Tell everyone you know to get their free e-book at www.givetolivebook.com or books can be purchased at amazon.com with 20% of the proceeds going to charity.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17887446422173662670noreply@blogger.com0