In France where I grew up, we sought fulfilling ways to enjoy our lives by venturing into new places, doing new things, and meeting new people.  It was a passionate way of being!

Today, however, I see many people experiencing life’s frontiers through electronic devices rather than reaching out, personally.  Relationships, included.

When you go to sleep tonight ask God to give you the desire to explore more, settle less, and live free from depression.  When you do, you’ll be surprised how much more deeply interested you will be in living a long and prosperous life.  (It’s God’s plan!)

The town I grew up in wasn’t going to let me get away with a thing.  Not a thing.  As a child I hated it, but deep inside I was okay with it because I felt watched over and protected - most especially from myself!

I have no doubt that had I grown up in a large city somewhere the outcome of my life would have been very different, because I was always giving myself permission to push my luck.

Lead your kids by showing them that the watchful eye of your friends and family includes neighbors, because a close family almost always starts with a close community. 

Many people face a wall wondering how to get over it, around it, or even under it, knowing only that the wall obstructs their vision of what’s ahead.

In so many ways we’ve all wondered what it is that we didn’t do enough of, or did too much of, toward the construction of that wall.  But in fact, we want a challenge in life to be there so it shakes us up and wakes us up.

From here I see good people succeeding or failing all the time depending in large part on their relationship with God. While they may have strong religious ties, their own hearts may or may not have a personal relationship with God.

For those who seek and sense God’s help is always there and always abundant, they seize opportunities more readily because they know God Himself walked them into that moment of opportunity.

Watch what unfolds quickly when you carry more and more of your conversations with God.  Talk.  Share.  Wonder.  Wish.  And when it’s time to listen, your eyes (that are awakening to His light) will unveil so much more than you ever thought possible.

Before 2012 carries you too far forward, initiate yourself with God first, last and always.  That’s the most important obstacle you have that needs addressing.  Make 2012 your golden year!