Dr. Rick Barrett

The Lady and the Scarf

2012-01-15T16:16:00.000-08:00

When do you stop caring enough to stop giving?

For one woman, the answer is never. And I think that’s a pretty good answer.

After all, giving is simply the end result of love.

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.

Leena is 96 years old and knits and crochets blankets, hats and scarves. She shares these wonderful gifts with people she loves and cares about. My wife and I are the proud recipients of a few pieces of her loving handy work.

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. Leena has never met my nephew and his wife, nor was she asked to make these items for them. She did it because her heart told her to.

Leena is also an inspiration because she makes these hats, scarves and blankets for total strangers too.

Every day, she works on another hat, blanket or scarf that will bring warmth and comfort to someone. 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. These handcrafts not only provide physical warmth, but emotional warmth as well.

Naturally she is not a high output machine that can churn out thousands or even hundreds of items a day. However, small the quantities may be, they will certainly make a difference in the lives of those that receive them.

When should we stop giving? According to Leena’s example…never.

Doesn’t this make you stop, reflect and ask… if Leena can do it then why can’t I?

If Leena has something to contribute then what do I have to contribute?

If Leena is doing this at 96 years of age then what’s holding me back at my age?

It certainly causes me to check myself, take a second look and ask…

…what else can I do? Who else can I provide shelter, warmth, food, money, or…to? Who else can I spread love to?

Leena humbles me.

Leena makes me think.

Leena makes me proud.

Leena is inspiring!

The Master Craftswoman herself...Leena!

It seems that if one has a desire…a passion…is inspired and their heart is big enough…

They can turn their time, talents and treasures into something that will benefit everyone—regardless of their age.

I think there will always be people who need, from time to time, help from others.

I hope there will be an endless supply of Leenas in the world who will rise to the occasion. Thank God for Leena and others like her.

If Leena’s story inspired you, I’d love to hear from you. Or if you know someone who has a unique way of giving, please share it with me. Just go to my givetolivebook.com website and send me an e-mail.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Could A Simple Music CD Save Your Life?

2012-01-15T14:21:00.000-08:00

Having been invited to a friend's beach house in Alabama for New Years meant...

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.

So, no sleep for basically 24 hours.

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.

My two precious cargo passengers (my wife and my mom sleeping most of the time.

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!

Luckily, I had been given a pre-released copy of some great new music created and performed by my friend, Joe Vitale.

You've read about Joe before and you may remember that he wrote the bonus book included in my book, Give to Live; The Real Secret to Manifesting Life's Rewards. (Available free as an e-book at www.givetolivebook.com)

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 Strut.

Strut! by Joe Vitale

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.

While I can't prove that Strut saved my life, it is certainly possible. Besides the driving benefit the music

is designed to inspire and motivate...to improve your life on a daily basis...potentially also saving your life.

Joe told me he now has CD's available for everyone. Yes, they have officially been released and are available at the website: http://getupandstrut.com

Check it out...I know you'll enjoy it. It's a great way to start the New Year!

Footprints in the sand

A glorious sunset!

Honoring America's Heroes

2011-11-11T08:37:00.000-08:00

Last 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.

You can support them at www.operationamericanheroes.org. The audience was full of people who believe service above self. We even had a man who fought at Iwo Jima.

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.

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
with continuing to fight and defend our great country.

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
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".

I look forward to reading it.

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.

Wishing you a blessed day!
Dr. Rick Barrett

Remembering 911

2011-09-11T10:36:00.000-07:00

9/11 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...

Ecclesiastes 3

A Time for Everything

¹ There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:
² a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
³ a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
⁴ a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
⁵ a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
⁶ a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
⁷ a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
⁸ a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.

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!

Pray for peace, live in peace, live a life of love, but stay vigilent!

Blessings,
Dr. Rick Barrett

2011-08-28T17:37:00.000-07:00

This year's destination...Peru!

Our Austin based multidisciplinary team will be serving the impoverished people in Callao, Peru. We will be there from September 26 to October 6th.

Though I've participated in roughly thirty medical missions, I'm just as excited about this one as I was my first.

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.

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 http://smiletrek.org) She is currently attending school in Lima. It's miraculous how people's lives cross and connect when giving and serving others in need.

While in Peru, I hope to keep you updated with photos and...if I can figure it out...a video posted to YouTube.

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.

You can send me monetary donations if you like or donate at http://www.austincatholicmedicalmission.org. Any other donations, I can give to my other team traveling to Eagle Pass on the Mexican border in November.

As always, any donations are appreciated but please keep our entire team and our work in your prayers. I'll communicate more later.

Thanks and Dios Le Bendiga! (God Bless You!)

Navajo Serenade

2011-08-27T17:59:00.000-07:00

Monument 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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...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)!

Would You Walk 5,000 Miles...

2011-07-31T11:42:00.000-07:00

...for people you don't know...

In foreign lands...

To give them hope...

Improve their self worth...

And correct disfiguring physical deformities?

I know someone who is about to do just that!

Please watch this very important video!

In Search of the Virgin Mary; The Medjugorje Chronicles

2011-04-03T14:16:00.000-07:00

St. Blaise, Dubrovnick and Father Roy Oggero

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.

Part of this means continual prayer. Silently…openly…individually…or in groups. Sometimes, casually and other times more formal.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

St. Blaise holding the city of Dubrovnik

Ancient religious treasures abound inside St. Blaise Church.

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…)

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

Embrace the love!

Continue the journey!

Blessings,
Dr. Rick Barrett

P.S. More videos and stories to come…

The Four Way Test

2011-03-24T19:34:00.000-07:00

It’s nice to have a reminder of who we are, how we should conduct
ourselves in a civilized society or of what we believe in.

Some of the items may be religious in nature and others not.

They could be cards we keep in our wallets, rings or other pieces
of jewelry that symbolize truths we hold dear.

Of course, if love, spirituality, morals, ethics, integrity, or
compassion aren’t in our hearts, no symbol will be the magic
talisman that transfigures us into a better human being.

A gangster attending church simply going through the motions
doesn’t redeem himself or wash away his criminal behavior.

Rotarians have something we hold dear called the four way test of
the things we think, say or do.

I carry one in the form of a token in my pocket. And I have
another I keep on my desk. The obverse contains three
simple words:

SERVICE… ABOVE… SELF…

The reverse holds the words of the four way test of the things we
think, say, or do.

1) Is it the truth?
2) Is it fair to all concerned?
3) Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
4) Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

I find this four way test to be a great reminder of how to conduct
ourselves throughout our daily lives…

…a standard by which to operate that transcends any potential
social, ethnic, or religious barrier.

I hope you benefit by those words and the obvious meaning behind
them as much as I do.

When I wrote Give to Live; The Real Secret to Manifesting Life’s
Rewards with Joe Vitale, it was with the intent of promoting the
idea of service above self and the magnificent rewards that we
automatically attract in doing so.

One way for me to serve others is by making this book available as
a free digital book. It can be read or downloaded free at
www.givetolivebook.com

While on a very special trip to Peru, we decided to take the giving
and serving message to a new level giving more people the ability
to open their subconscious minds to giving. We created the Give to
Live Subliminal Manifestation DVD…you can check it out at
www.givetolivedvd.com

I wrote several prayers and an affirmation of service that I’ve
given away to people around the world for many years. The loving
response has always humbled me. Inspired by this, I was guided to
convert the prayers into songs. You can read the prayers and hear
a sampling of the music in a free special report I wrote where I
share ideas on how to get closer to God. It’s all on the website
at www.attractmoregod.com

As always, my products partially fund our medical missions, the
Nahuathl Indigenous stove project and more.
I think you’ll agree they meet the four way test.

Even if you are not a Rotarian, I know you’ll find a use for the
four way test in your life. Likely you’re already intuitively
using it.

Please continue to be the change in you wish to see in the
world…share this with others!

Blessings,
Dr. Rick Barrett

P.S. Want to become a Rotarian? Check out www.rotary.org or contact me personally about the Rotary I belong to

Ricky's Pico Rico

2011-03-20T16:04:00.000-07:00

Remember my blog about Mexico, Mariachis and Mom?

Well, here's another story out of Mexico from Mom's birthday trip.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Enjoy the video and bon appétit...whoops, that's French...in Español...bueno apetito!

Adios y via con dios!
Dr. Rick Barrett

How's Rudy and the Nahuathl Stove Project?

2011-02-27T15:04:00.000-08:00

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.

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.

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).

So the news from Rudy is that he and the people in the region have been greatly impacted in a negative way.

The following is from Rudy's latest e-mail:

"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."

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.

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."

Regardless of the hardships, Rudy always ends his correspondence with a blessing to everyone.

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.

If you would like to donate please visit our Missions of Hope website at:

http://www.missionsofhope.com/donate.html

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.

Thanks for all your help!

Blessings,
Dr. Rick Barrett

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.

Back In The Saddle...Uh..Cockpit Again!

2011-02-27T11:05:00.000-08:00

I flew a plane!! Dare I say it? It's really hard to believe, but here we go...

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.

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.

In the water,

on the ground

or in the air.

It's all good!

Sound familiar? Probably you know someone like this. Maybe it's you!

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.

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.

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.

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).

Where was I...oh yeah...

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.

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.

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.

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?"

Of course, I intelligently replied, "No, I don't think so...duh!" He got my drift.

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.

We finally got some cold air at 3500 feet...87 degrees!

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.)

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.

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. http://www.ansonair.com

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).

Live life to the fullest!

Pursue your dreams and passions...even just once!

Don't put off 'til tomorrow what you can do today! (I think someone said that before me.)

Don't spend all your time watching movies about other people living.

Live your bucket list now! (While you can ambulate reasonably well.)

Live more, love more, and give more... for tomorrow may never come.

Live in the present, live in the now, live in the moment!

Don't wait 30 years!

Dr. Rick Barrett

Author of Give to Live; The Real Secret to Manifesting Life's Rewards www.givetolivebook.com

P.S. The only thing missing (besides air conditioning) was a killer sound system playing Pink Floyd's song, Learning to Fly!

It's Now Illegal!

2010-06-06T17:31:00.000-07:00

As of Tuesday, June 1, a new law banning texting on cell phones
while driving in Missouri City, Texas went into effect. Even while
stopped at a traffic light or stop sign. I, for one, think this is
a great law and will prevent injuries and save lives.

Far too many of us have become so relaxed while driving that it's
like sitting comfortably in our homes with food, drinks, DVD's,
phones and cruise control.

I was appalled the other day when I observed a woman driving
on the freeway with an iPhone in her right hand using her thumb
to operate it and a flip phone in her left while holding the
steering wheel! This was definitely over the top!

I blew the horn at her and she looked up at me with the most
indignant look on her face. Like I was rude and interrupted her!

I'm sure some people think I shouldn't blow the horn, but I don't
want anyone looking down at their phone drifting over and hitting
me! And I'm going to continue to honk the horn.

The risks of texting or even talking while driving are huge. The
number one distraction while driving is cell phone use. The
National Safety Council says that texting is six times more likely
to cause an accident than driving while intoxicated!

Imagine if a person is drunk, or high, texting, listening to the
radio with dogs, kids or other people in the vehicle trying to
juggle the hot Starbucks or soft drink and eat the burger and
fries!! Oh, yes and play a clarinet at the same time. Okay, I'm
exaggerating just a little...maybe. But I have seen a guy driving
a truck with two hands on a clarinet resting it on the center of
the steering wheel!

Bottom line, driving is a serious business and I think we'veall
become a little too relaxed about it. Especially as it relates
with food and phones. It's becoming a significant life altering
problem.

I've been noticing a very alarming trend in my chiropractic
wellness practice. I am treating an ever increasing amount of
patients from trauma due to motor vehicle collisions. Most are my
existing patients, some past patients and others referred by
patients or medical doctors. Some have had devastating collisions.

I am and always have been, willing to help my patients or those
they care about in any way I can. Returning someone back to
optimum health after a trauma is important work and requires
clinical competence. Healing takes time and musculoskeletal and
neurologic degeneration needs to be thwarted.

Just the other day, I accepted a patient for care who was referred
by another current patient. He was amazed by all the ways with
which we treat including adjusting the spine and nutritional
intervention. I was amazed because he had told me about a previous
terrible experience he had being treated at an "accident clinic"
that an attorney had sent him to. The chiropractor never even
adjusted his spine.

This man wasn't treated properly, had a bad experience with the
attorney and the doctor. He only agreed to see me at the urging of
a family member. He overcame his previous negative experience, now
he's doing great and very happy.

The point is there are lots of "accident clinics" with dubious
attorney connections. I can't tell you how many times we refuse to
accept an accident patient that doesn't know us; referred by an
attorney we don't know where the circumstances are questionable.
It happens a lot. Believe me, there is a lot of corruption out
there.

Accident cases aren't our primary source of business, as you well
know, we are a wellness clinic. But we will treat people who have
sustained a legitimate injury. They need help and have the right
to receive exceptional care.

I know it seems trite and easy to say, but prevention is the best
medicine always, in all ways! So think safety first. The best
accident is the one you don't have. Be alert...stay off the phone.

I don't want you or someone you love to be injured or, worse,
killed.

God forbid you become injured, but if you do, I'll be happy to help
anyway I can.

I don't give legal or insurance advice, but there are two things
I've learned over the years. First, there are better ways to pick
an attorney than from a commercial or the yellow pages. I'm not
saying you need or don't need an attorney, but if you're thinking
about retaining one, ask me about it.

Secondly, please speak with your insurance agent and get
personal injury protection (PIP) added to your policy if you don't
have it. It's very inexpensive and pays for medical expenses and
lost wages. There are a lot of uninsured drivers out there. You
need to protect yourself because medical bills can add up quickly
after a trauma. I've seen too many patients suffer a financial
loss by not having personal injury protection on their policy.
Check it out with your agent.

One last statistic to think about--teenage drivers are four times
more likely to get in an accident while texting and driving than
adults. We all know they think they are invincible, just as we
once did.

Let's all stay safe and healthy!

Dr. Rick Barrett

P.S. I have a free motor vehicle collision report with information
most insurance companies don't want you to know. If you're
interested, let me know

The Patient That Made Me Cry

2010-04-24T16:58:00.000-07:00

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…

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.
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.

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.

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!

~Chad Collins and Family

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!

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”. http://astore.amazon.com/barrettchiroc-20

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.

I am confident that the people who need to hear this message…will, and lives will be changed forever.

To Chad…all I can say is, 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!

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.

Think more natural; be involved in the daily task of staying healthy and being well!

Beyond Borders, Politics and Religion

2010-04-10T18:42:00.000-07:00

Beyond borders, politics and religion...
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'."

Their ideals have long aligned with my thinking. Every Rotarian I've ever known has been ethical, honest and an outstanding World class citizen.

They exemplify the attitudes, ideals and actions I speak of in my book, Give to Live; The Real Secret to Manifesting Life's Rewards.

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.

I invite you to investigate Rotary International to see for yourself. Check out www.rotary5890.org or YouTube at www.youtube.com/rotaryinternational.

The Ultimate Giver

2010-04-04T14:22:00.001-07:00

Today 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.

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.

Jesus was a model giver and servant. He stood for something greater than himself and willingly died for the salvation of all humanity.

Is their a greater gift than giving one's life for another?

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

Give more! Love more! Be more!

Dr. Rick Barrett

P.S. Mary signed up with www.DonateLifeTexas.org

The Secret Project

2010-03-16T10:54:00.001-07:00

Machu 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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.
www.givetolivedvd.com

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.

Even for those that believe they don't need it. Well...especially for those that believe they don't need it.

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.
http://www.givetolivedvd.com

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!

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!

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.
http://www.givetolivedvd.com

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!

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.

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."

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."

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
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!

Listen to your intuition, your heart...God. If this feels right to you, check it out, watch the video excerpt at
http://www.givetolivedvd.com

Then get one for yourself!

Wishing you great success, health and happiness,
Dr. Rick Barrett

P.S. The DVD includes:

A 4 minute introduction
A 25 minute interview between Joe Vitale and me and...
A 20 minute Master Subliminal "Clearing Blocks to Receiving"
video

Mark, Joe and I know you will enjoy the DVD! Please let us know what you experience!

Making Beautiful Music Together

2010-02-27T09:10:00.000-08:00

You may recall, I was inspired to write a couple of prayers. One is in my book, Healed by Morning, the other hasn't been published in a body of work yet.

Recently, I was also inspired to turn these prayers into songs and to record my Affirmation of Service from the book, Give to Live.

With the help of my good friend and talented musician/producer, Todd Silva and two awesome singers...my friend, Gail Best and my sister, Kathleen Woods,we are making some beautiful music together. I know you will love it!

I'm very excited about this project and can't wait to share the final product with you. You will be blown away!

More to come soon...

We Received An Inspiring Phone Call--You'll Love To Hear About!

2010-02-22T09:18:00.000-08:00

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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
http://www.dailyword.com/articles/2009/november/passion-giving
Yours In Service,
Dr. Rick Barrett

2010-02-19T13:25:00.000-08:00

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

Blessings,
Dr. Rick Barrett

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.

Would You Walk A Mile In My Shoes?

2010-02-06T15:03:00.000-08:00

I can hear that question reverberating in the minds of the poor.

Well…can we?

Will we?

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!

This is also his second walk to show solidarity with the impoverished. His first walk, three years ago, was a mere 4,000 miles.

Why walk?

Bob feels that “those living in poverty can feel forgotten by the rest of the world.”
He simply wants to say to the poor, “You are not alone...” and “I love you”.
Bob started walking December 29th, 2009 and anticipates a sixteen month journey taking him some 8,000 plus miles through twelve countries.

Hentzen is the president and co-founder of the Christian Foundation for Children and Aging.

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!

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.

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.
Bob is an inspiration to me. A new year affords us another opportunity to reevaluate the direction of our lives.

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.

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?

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?

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.

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.

You can follow Bob Hentzen on his amazing, inspirational journey, by going to www.walk2gether.org

If you’d like to learn more about the Christian Foundation for Children and Aging go to www.cfcausa.org

A useful tool for your own journey is the Acts of Service Journal in Give to Live. Both are free! Simply go to www.givetolivebook.com

Whose feet are those before you?
They have walked a thousand miles
Through hardship, pain, and suffering
They have weathered worldly trials

Searching for their destination
These way-weary feet
Travel ever onward
Ignoring sand, sun, and heat

The way is rarely easy
The path not always clear
Still they keep on searching
Hoping home is somewhere near

A place of final resting
Of beauty, love, and peace
Where the bonds of earthly torment
Will finally gain release

Someone waits to wash those feet
To soothe the pain away
Cleansing the sins of human life
Along with dirt and clay

Whose feet are those before you?
They seek a heavenly goal
Perhaps the feet of Jesus
Perhaps those of your soul. ~M.F.K.

The Secret to Receiving More

2010-02-03T18:17:00.000-08:00

Like me, you've probably been studying
manifestation and the Law of Attraction
for a long time, or maybe it's something
new to you.

Perhaps you've seen the movie, The
Secret and were energized by it, but you
felt something was missing.

Likely you've had some success with the law
of attraction, manifesting certain experiences,
material possessions, a little money, or
relationships into your life

Even if you weren't quite sure how it works.

But even if you fully understand the Law of
Attraction...you may still have abundance
that eludes you somehow.

There's still something more that you want.

You may know all the secrets to wealth and
getting what you want, but if you don't know
how to give and receive... all the secrets in
the world won't help you.

Let me explain...

Our brains have something called a reticular
activating system (RAS). This system tends to
lock in and only let you see what your belief
system accepts as reality. If you don't believe
it, you cannot see it.

This means that you may already have what you've
tried to manifest into your life -- right in front
of you. But because this part of your brain
doesn't believe it, this system will lock you
out of experiencing what you don't believe
you deserve.

Your manifestation system may be working just
fine. But your belief system may be blocking you
from accepting, experiencing, and receiving all
that the universe has in store for you.

What can you do about this?

Dr. Joe Vitale, Mark Ryan, and I traveled to
Macchu Picchu, Peru last year. There, we were
inspired to create a special edition Subliminal
Manifestation DVD on just this issue. You can
read about it -- and see a video excerpt -- here:

http://www.givetolivedvd.com

This special subliminal DVD teaches your
unconscious mind to shift that around, to
make your reticular activating system open
up and train it to work with the natural flow
of giving and receiving.

This DVD works with both your conscious and
unconscious mind to open you up to giving and
receiving all that the abundance the universe has
in store for you.

The DVD starts with a 25-minute interview with
Dr. Joe Vitale and myself about how to open
these processes inside yourself. Both Dr. Vitale
and myself were in a heightened state of bliss
during this interview, as it was conducted on top
of sacred Macchu Picchu in Peru.

Watch as our positive energy flows out, inspiring
you consciously to understand this critical flow
of giving and receiving.

The next segment is a spectacular, moving
20-minute piece filmed in Macchu Picchu.

Watching this video of nature's beautiful,
sacred abundance, coupled with a
special musical piece composed specifically
for this video, opens you up to levels of ancient
understanding deep within you. You can actually
*feel* this when you watch the video.

You might see little flickers on the subliminal
portion of the video, as you relax and watch.

They are just a little faster than your conscious
mind can grasp, but not too fast for your
unconscious. In this way, we bypass the
conscious mind's objections and blocks,
and you will gently stir the deeper understanding
of the cycle of giving and receiving within you.

Hypnotist Mark J. Ryan's smooth hypnotic voice
guides you through this special 20-minute video.
Mark's expertise in hypnosis, NLP (neurolinguistic
programming), and subliminal video skills
encourage your RAS to begin opening
and seeing the abundance and wealth you
already have in so many areas of your life.

As you watch and use this video, you will begin to
see your world through new eyes... eyes that begin
to believe and see that you are always getting all
that you deserve and desire... by learning how to
properly receive -- and how to properly give to
yourself.

And how to allow more -- to begin to finally
attract what has been eluding you.

Imagine *that*.

Here's the bonus to this learning: as you start to
receive more, it amplifies your manifesting. As
you open and receive more, it adds to your own
experience, thus changing your experience,
which also solidifies your new belief systems.

I am sure you have heard the saying, "The rich get
richer and the poor get poorer." Well that is the
result of a receiving feedback loop. In one loop,
you are open and receive more... in the latter,
you don't believe you should receive more and
so you receive less.

Are you beginning to see how powerful this is?

When you receive plenty and more than sufficient
supply, you then are more open to giving because
you have more to give, and the desire to give
increases as well.

So now you have a system that both pushes and
pulls in the same direction. How much faster do
you expect things to improve in your life when you
have one engine pushing and another pulling in the
same direction? When you've been living with
two engines pulling in opposite directions,
the improvement will feel dramatic.

If you have that much energy working for you,
why not have it work in the same direction?

Why not finally get in alignment to attract
all that you long for?

http://www.givetolivedvd.com

The Subliminal Manifestation Special Edition
Give to Live: Clearing Blocks to Receiving will
be selling for $69.99 but for a limited time we
are offering it for an introductory rate of only
$59.99.

The DVD includes:

* a 4 minute introduction
* 25 minute interview between Dr. Vitale and me
* 20 minute Master Subliminal "Clearing Blocks
to Receiving" video

As a bonus, I am giving away the
digital version of my highly acclaimed and
"Give to Live" book, on which this special DVD is
based. It also includes Dr. Joe Vitale's wonderful
and powerful "Greatest Money Making Secret in
History" book.

Get yours now and start seeing all that is yours
that is right in front of you -- and more.

Just go to --

http://www.givetolivedvd.com

"It is one of the most beautiful
compensations of this life that no man can
sincerely try to help another without
helping himself." ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Wishing you great success, health, happiness...
and more!
Dr. Rick Barrett

PS -- Honoring the Divine flow of giving and
receiving, partial proceeds will be donated to
our charities.http://www.givetolivedvd.com

Just go here now --http://www.givetolivedvd.com

Haiti; Hope For Humanity

2010-01-28T08:05:00.000-08:00

In 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.

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!

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!

This is one of those defining moments when we get to ask ourselves individually and collectively...who are we? What are we made of?

Can the poor country of Haiti be a catalyst for unity, peace and oneness?

Can Haiti teach us finally what is important?

Can we transcend politics, cultures, boundaries, religions, languages,prejudices and fears to care for one another?

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?

Simply for the love of another human being!

The jury is still out. Haiti will be a long process, but I am hopeful.

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 IS a great day.

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."

This event touched her soul--the connection between her and other spiritual/human beings.

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.

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
planet.

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.

For those that survive, the struggle for ordinary will be a long process.

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.

This earthquake in Haiti is just another reminder that we are all susceptible to disaster and potentially in need of assistance from others.

Hardship Plays No Favorites is the title of chapter two in our book, Give to Live; The Real Secret to Manifesting Life's Rewards. (Available at www.givetolivebook.com)
In it, I wrote the following...

"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."

"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."

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.

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.

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."

My personal Affirmation of Service is as follows:

I choose to carry out my day as if it is my last.
I will give freely and unconditionally that
which I can. I will provide service to one or
more persons with or without their knowledge.
Thought coupled with action equals change,
therefore, as I think and act I can and will
create the positive changes in my
community and world. I am grateful for the
opportunity to serve humanity today.
Perhaps this resonates with you. If so...use it.

When opportunity presents itself to help another, it is also an opportunity for us to grow and be the recipient of great reward.

Do what you can, when you can, however your conscious dictates.

Serving You,
Dr. Rick Barrett

Remembering to Give...Thanks and More!

2009-11-24T18:13:00.000-08:00

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.

Thanksgiving is uniquely American but the ideals that it embodies are something that all countries and all peoples can embrace.

Our Thanksgiving started humbly in the early 1600’s by English settlers who endured many hardships, having fled from religious persecution.
Not the least of which was an extremely harsh New England winter that killed nearly half the colonists.

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.
Though many Thanksgiving days were celebrated over the years, it wasn’t nationalized until President Abraham Lincoln made it so.

This glorious tradition continues to be held the last Thursday of November.
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.

Those of us who “have” … can share… can give… can serve and… can pray for those who have not.

My sincerest wish is for all of the inhabitants of this planet to experience an abundance of love, health and wealth.

While this day is uniquely American, I hope that its message can be adopted and embraced by the world. A planetary day of Thanksgiving!

And yes, I know there are countless people who would find it extremely hard to be thankful or grateful even for one day.

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.

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!

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.

As their attraction increases, life becomes more fulfilling.

While I firmly believe thanksgiving and gratitude should be practiced daily, especially remember it this Thursday.

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.

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!

Count your blessings. I’m definitely counting mine!

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.

With sincerest gratitude—thank you!
Dr. Rick Barrett

P.S. Joe Vitale and I are still giving away Give to Live e-books for free at www.givetolivebook.com. For those who purchase books, we are also giving away partial proceeds to our charities like Rudy and the stoves www.missionsofhope.com and Joe’s homeless project—Operation YES www.operationyes.com

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.

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.
Thanks again to all of you!

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 http://giveawayadollaraday.com

Honored by Toastmasters!

2009-08-29T09:03:00.001-07:00

Last week, I spent a delightful evening with a group of people from the Sharpstown Toastmasters Club.
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.

Toastmasters Clubs are international with a diverse membership. I fully support any group of people who are dedicated to self-improvement--and they are!

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".

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

Giving money, sharing a talent, or personally serving someone. Because of finances, prejudices, lack of time or just plain fear.

We create a belief that we feel serves us. A glass ceiling, a threshold of giving that we are unwilling to pass through.

In doing so, our own growth is stiffened.

So we must find a way to break through this in order to receive abundance in life.

Amu Xi Mah Mahue. Do not be afraid.

Push through--find ways to give, to serve and create change in this world.

It was great fun for me to deliver those messages to the Toastmasters club.

I was quite surprised when at the end of the evening, they honored me with the "best speaker of the night" award.

It was an exciting night!

See every life fulfilled!

Dr. Rick Barrett

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.

Swine Flu in Peru by Dr. Rick Barrett

2009-07-22T19:20:00.000-07:00

Recently I travelled to Peru where surprisingly I was confronted with the absurdity of swine flu overreaction, useless false protection and propaganda once again. I thought that the media and governmental hype to the swine flu pandemic had subsided. Not so. I guess like a bad urban legend, it continues to course through communities throughout the World. I’m not sure if the fallacies will ever totally die or the truthful realities ever rise to the top.

So why was I upset about swine flu in Peru? Because they are perpetuating misinformation and fear in people.

While in route to Lima, the flight attendants handed out the usual entry documents to be filled out along with an extra one. This was a mini health history regarding the swine flu. Did I have it? Was I being treated? Do I have symptoms? Where do I live? Have I been in contact with anyone who has it?

I was shocked! Then after landing, they restricted us from leaving the plane until we listened to a message from the Department of Health regarding swine flu. I can’t understand what is said when they speak over the intercom in English let alone Spanish! So it wasn’t helpful.

I was also given this little guide. What are your thoughts about it? Is it helpful? Does it give enough information to prevent or fight the flu? Was it really worth the manpower, energy and dollars they spent to produce it? Personally, I think it’s worthless.

I was shocked going through the airport to see how many people were wearing masks. Not just travelers, but airport employees. Guess what else? Some wore latex gloves! Were they required to do so? Or was it their own idea? I wondered.

The next day, I went to a supermarket near the hotel to purchase water and explore a Peruvian grocery store. Once again, I was shocked to see store employees wearing masks! By the way, wearing a mask does not provide protection. Perhaps those who wear a mask already are contagious and graciously trying to protect the rest of us from—whatever they might have. But I don’t think so.

What will our future look like…I wonder? Will people be working in full blown HAZ. MAT. suits with portable decontamination equipment and isolation tents? Maybe they’ll have syringes in holsters like cowboys ready to inoculate anyone at the first hint of a cough, sneeze or other symptoms.

A few days later, we flew to Cuzco. There, I saw no one wearing masks. Perhaps Cuzco citizens are immune? Back in Lima, I inquired to some of the Lima airport personnel regarding how long they needed to wear the masks. Answer: everyday, all day for an indefinite period of time. I really wonder when this will die down and logic will prevail.

Since the swine flu problem surfaced, I’ve been trying to quell fears in patients, friends and family. The death and doom mongers really have done a great job creating a worldwide fear that I’m not certain will ever disappear. Is this flu really that devastating? Should we be on a heightened alert? Can our immune systems fight it? Is it a creation of drug companies to sell more medications and vaccines? These and other questions can be answered most satisfactorily. I’ll get to that in a moment.

As with most things, there is always going to be lots of opinions, some facts, and lots of fiction. Deciphering these can often times be difficult. Whether you analyze this swine flu situation, or the next flu, cold or public health risk is…remember some basic truths…You are an amazing, incredible being with power to overcome, heal and be well! Health comes from inside you. While it’s true, we do need outside help from time to time, the quality and kind of intervention is extremely critical. Most of the time, the answer is not in the drug of the day that the pharmaceutical companies are trying to push.

I was never concerned about the swine flu for myself, friends or family. Nor am I concerned with seasonal flues, bird flues or the like… and I don’t get flu shots! I travel to Mexico frequently and so do friends. In fact, I have friends that live there and I’m still not concerned as long as their immune systems are strong. Some of my patients were truly panicked about the swine flu and some are still very
concerned, but what people still don’t understand is that it’s the strength of the individual’s immune system to fight off and kill invaders of the body—daily—twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week for the rest of our lives! If our nervous and immune systems are compromised, weak, failing, susceptible…you pick the word…then we are in trouble.

Why haven’t I ever received a flu vaccine and never will? Because it is useless! There are too many strains of the influenza virus. I care for my nervous and immune systems naturally, to keep them as healthy as possible. When my body has been exposed, then I again, work at allowing my body to fight it naturally. How? With immune system builders like vitamins, herbs, acupuncture, massage, body
detoxification and chiropractic spinal adjustments to name a few.

Why does one person get sick and another not when exposed to the same foreign invader?--simply, the strength or health of that individual. There are many ways to safely fortify our selves daily and mount ineffective counter attack to foreign invaders safely without turning towards risky medications that are unproven and have deadly consequence. Or at the very least, cause the same symptoms that the flu
virus causes begin with.

During the 1918 flu pandemic that ravaged the world and killed upwards of twenty million people, several of our family was counted amongst the dead. Though I wasn’t alive then, my father was. We discussed what happened many times. The swine flu is nothing like that pandemic.

Returning from Peru, I received a call from my cousin. His daughter spent a week at the hospital in ICU due to swine flu. While this hits close to home, I realize we must be vigilant in creating health and strong immunity in our bodies. Swine flu is not what the media and government has purported it to be. I am less concerned about it than the other seasonal flu strains that kill thirty to forty thousand people
every year!

Building health, maintaining wellness, allowing our bodies to experience life with all its dirt, grime, colds, flu, etc. creates immunity, strength and builds our natural defenses.

At my office, regular chiropractic adjustments for proper nervous system function are vital. A good multivitamin especially with B vitamins is crucial for the nervous system and whole body health. Anti-aging, preventative measures impact and targeted nutritionals for those times when we are exposed, and weak.

Some products I use and recommend to patients are: Nutriwest and Douglas Labs
Immuplex
Total VirX
Total Flu-Cld Nasal Spray
Ultra Preventitive X
Youth Juice

These are just a few. Contact me if you need help or go to our website to learn more about what I use to stay healthy.

Don’t think I’m indifferent to realistic concerns and fears or naïve about the swine flu or any other. I’m not—but let’s not panic. Do your research, use common sense, listen and react to legitimate sources of information. One of the best resources for straight and truthful swine flu information comes from our friend, Dr. Mercola. Please read his article then pass this information on to others so we can stop needless panic and learn the truth. Not just for the swine flu, but for the next ______demic.

Go to: http://search.mercola.com/Results.aspx?q=swine%20flu&k=swine%20flu

Serving You,
Dr. Rick Barrett

Phantom Encounter...

2009-07-11T21:10:00.000-07:00

The other night, I connected with the other side!

Encountering and interacting with a spirit-- a Phantom.

It was a moving experiencing. Three others experienced it too. But I believe I had the best vantage point.

In fact, I was the one commanding the Phantom to do my bidding. Directing her to follow my lead. With a mere gesture of my hands she went where I wanted her to go.

What did she look like you might wonder? She was blacker than the darkest night. Black on black. She was sleek, sweet, with beautiful lines and whispered as she glided from one place to the next. She was a marvel to behold as she enveloped us and allowed us to play with her.

This may not exactly be the mystical experience you're imagining. Though my experience with the Phantom was quite magical even heavenly.

The Phantom wasn't some disembodied etherial entity that couldn't be touched. No, she was solid in form, the Phantom was a Rolls Royce.

This perfectly crafted automobile is the other side of everything you've ever experienced in a vehicle. The other side of mundane, the ordinary or normal.

I had the extreme pleasure and fortune to be her driver and become one with her. For a little while at least.

A very special Mastermind took place in this Phantom Rolls Royce with my friend, Joe Vitale. Two other special guests had the privilege of being chauffered in the car and delivered to and from an exquisite, sumptous dinner at a fabulous restaurant.

For five hours, we brainstormed business ideas, product development, book writing, inventions, achieving ones full potential, breaking from lack and limiting beliefs, experiencing gratitude and much, much more.

Joe is an author, entrepreneur, writer and a Phantom rider. He enjoys riding in his beautiful Rolls. Oh, Joe likes to drive too. But I really love to drive. I am a driver. I've been a car guy since childhood. Loving them ( I know you can't love something inanimate, but I do), rebuilding them, appreciating them, racing them. Cars are beauty, power, passion, art. They are exotic, classy, exhilerating and so much more.

The Phantom Rolls Royce is all of these.Joe created a unique opportunity for a select few. A Mastermind to take place in his Rolls Royce. He has successfully helped people break through to new levels.Anything from improved personal lives to improved businesses.

When I was invited to be Joe's special guest and drive the Phantom, I was thrilled! Not merely to drive the car, but to contribute to the Mastermind.

I enjoyed interacting with two very special, intelligent, spiritual and lovely people.

The Rolls Royce Mastermind is hard to explain. It's one of those things that until experienced, you don't realize to what magnitude it impacts your life.

I've driven the Phantom before and loved it.But this was different in some way. The energy was different--better.

I've been in Masterminds before, but this went beyond the usual. Certainly it was unique.

I've also known Joe for over fourteen years. We talk, discuss life and brainstorm frequently. But there was something magical that occured by putting all these different elements together; the handpicked people, the car, the private dining room and an intention to create something extraordinary from this night. It was a focused high energy. Something like mixing chemicals in a lab and watching an extreme reaction occur.

I know every one of us grew from the experience.

One truly has to live it to comprehend the benefit realized from the experience. I highly recommend this Mastermind to everyone.

I know Joe can be persuaded to bring the Phantom experience back to Houston. However, his schedule is unbelievably busy and booking up rapidly. He's booked to go to Russia, Poland, Ecuador, and do a book signing with me in Wimberley, Texas on August 1st, and more...I can't even keep track. But there may be a few spots still open.

The Phantom rider Mastermind is limited to only two people. If you desire to be a future candidate to experience this Phantom Mastermind phenomenon in Houston, Texas, let me know. I'll speak to Joe and see what can be arranged.

P.S. Hope to see you at the book signing for Give to Live; The Real Secret to Manifesting Life's Rewards. It will be held at Rancho Deluxe in Wimberley, Texas on Saturday, August 1st from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Happy Independence Day!!

2009-07-04T19:04:00.000-07:00

My prayers are that you and your families enjoy the 4th of July. As we celebrate in our own ways, please remember and remind those who have long forgotten--we celebrate our freedom. The small ones and the big ones. Freedom from oppression and tyranny. Freedom to worship and practice our religious beliefs. Freedom to voice our opinions, even against our own government. Not many countries experience this blessing, this gift, that doesn't come easy. It is worked for daily. And fought hard for with much sacrifice.

We must continue to stay strong, stay ever vigilant to protect our freedoms and while we are not perfect, I don't believe there is another land where so many, with such diversity of color, ethnicity, ideas, and religious beliefs enjoy so much.

May we stay independent, free and continue to work towards freeing others from the bondage of poverty, oppression and tyranny.

May God continue to bless us as we continue to praise and honor God.

Love and Blessings,
Dr. Rick Barrett

What's a Four Letter Word for Magnificent?

2009-06-30T12:59:00.000-07:00

What’s a four letter word for magnificent? Peru!

How about for genuine? Peru!

And what about gracious? Peru!

Where in the World can you eat a fabulous meal at a world class restaurant under the stars literally at the edge of an Incan archeologically site? Peru! Of course!

You’re probably noticing a theme here. All the answers seem to be…Peru! That’s because I recently returned from an incredible journey to Peru with friends, Joe Vitale and Mark Ryan. Joe was the main reason we were in Peru.

He along with Bob Proctor was in the movie and book, The Secret and invited to speak in Lima.

The event in Spanish was billed as El Secreto.
Mark was along as a friend and videographer to capture Joe on video 24/7--kind of an “all about Joe” reality show.

Mark did a first rate job and was able to get some awesome high definition video. I can’t wait to see the finished product. I know you’ll love it too. I was along as a friend, chiropractor, partial tour guide, (I’ve been to Peru before), and to have fun.

Also, I was able to promote our book…Give to Live, The Real Secret To Manifesting Life’s Rewards.

It was an incredible journey on so many levels. Gastronomically, intellectually, inspirationally, spiritually and emotionally to name but a few “ly” words. But what touched me the most was the love and spirit with which the Peruvians embraced us.

From those that knew who Joe and his companions were to those who didn’t; people at a top notch hotel and restaurant, to those in a small market, to train, and airline personnel, to tour guides and translators…as well as service people of all kinds. Everyone with very few exceptions seemed to genuinely care about how we were treated and displayed personal pride in how they acted and spoke! I was overwhelmingly surprised and pleased by the level of service and love in the service. This is something that we used to have in the United States but has long since vanished, or at least is rare. But Peru was a breath of fresh air. It is what I remember we used to be like, and can be again. Genuine caring is transparent. For example, I experienced it with a woman who sat next to me on a bus and recommended a typical Peruvian restaurant to me. And the guide to German tourists who showed me the best place to sit on the train for an excellent view and great photo opportunities.

So to Peru, its people, go my compliments. It is a land of diversity and wonder. This was my second time to travel to Peru and yet I still haven’t experienced enough of it. There is so much more to see and do. I would surely travel there again—just invite me.

Though the journey seemed long in some respects, it was lightning fast in others. Each day was brimming over with activities.

Joe was met by promoters, groupies, news people, reporters and fans with great anticipation. It started the moment we landed and didn’t stop until we boarded the plane for home.

We were in Lima for several days then flew to the city of Cuzco—the navel of the World. Of course, airport personnel spotted Joe and asked for autographs—it was amazing and fun. Everyone seemed to have a bootleg copy of The Secret for Joe to sign.

They obviously didn’t know who I was. The author of four books, wellness practitioner, public speaker, award winning chiropractor, humanitarian, medical missionary, and co-author of Give to Live with Joe Vitale. And depending on whom you talk to, a double for Joel Osteen or Richard Gere. (In Mexico especially, everyone thinks I’m Richard Gere.) In fact, a whole restaurant thought I was Richard Gere, but that’s another story.

Restaurant where I was mistaken for Richard Gere!

Anyway, getting back to Peru…so here I am schlepping bags and taking pictures with no one asking for my autograph—only Joe’s. Oh, the pain of it all! But, I got over it quickly…or maybe not if I’m still writing about it.
Photos were taken and then on to Sacred Valley.

Cusco’s elevation is 11,000 feet so we suffered from some massive headaches and difficulty breathing for a while. After all we live at sea level so it was quite an adjustment. We combated this by drinking coca tea and chewing coca leaves. Did it help? I’m still not sure. Probably yes.

From there we traveled by train (Peru Rail) for several hours to the town of Aguas Caliente at the base of Machu Picchu.

A short bus ride on switch back roads put us just a few hundred feet from the entrance to the ancient Incan city and the beautiful hotel, The Sanctuary Lodge. It has just two suites and twenty-nine rooms and is the only hotel there. Having been to Machu Picchu before, I was familiar with the lodge and knew that this would be the ideal spot to stay and, of course, afford the best views and continued access to the ancient city.

Here most people go for day hikes around the ruins or on the Incan trail. Maybe even ascend Machu Picchu and Wana Picchu. It was well worth it. They treated us like royalty. Amazed again! Several hotel staff recognized Joe from The Secret. We all posed for photos. Joe signed more autographs and yet again, no one recognized me. The pain deepens. Though I did, however, give out several of my affirmation and prayer cards. Joe and I also told everyone about our Give to Live book.

On this trip, we all seemed to be experiencing strange coincidences reminding us yet again of how small the World is. Besides Joe being recognized at this tiny hotel, over 3,000 miles from home, we also ran into a woman and her husband who has attended one of Joe’s seminars in Austin, Texas!

While hiking through the ruins of Machu Picchu, I met a young man and his wife from New Jersey. They live a few miles from where I was born. He is Peruvian but moved to New Jersey when he was ten.

Mark met two people working at different hotels who were from New York State where he had previously lived.

I also met some wonderful translators and their friends. One of which has a boyfriend who lives in a small New Jersey town close to where I lived and my great grandfather was a miner! This was getting strange.

Machu Picchu was spectacular! It is one of those trips everyone should try to do in their lifetime. I was amazed again by the feelings one experiences there—by the ingenuity of the Incans, the improbability a stone city on this mountain never found by the Spaniards, the feeling, a greatness, of smallness, of oneness, and of unity.

I was amazed that two thousand to three thousand people visit this ancient Incan city per day. It is a confluence of humanity, different races, religions, ideologies, and languages. I met people from all over the United States, France, Poland, Germany, Asia and Argentina.

Machu Picchu invites peace, harmony, and unity. It seems to be a place that connects us all. I say go, visit, enjoy…and go again!

From there, we retraced our steps back to Cuzco, on to Lima and home—the United States. It was a truly exceptional trip!

I hope you enjoy the photos and create your own journey and memories.

Be open…

Live life now!

Dr. Rick Barrett

P.S. A big “thank you” goes to Jay Islam in coordinating this exceptional trip. Visit his website at http://www.grandtravelcruise.com/.