What a Difference Seven Years Makes

Seven years ago today was a hard day for me. I wrote about the 10 Things I Learned When I was Knocked From My White Horse 18 months ago in an article published by the Success Blog. This story was shared more than 25,000 times on Facebook and from this, I infer I’m not alone in jousting with life’s adversities.

Since writing the story, my life has continued to evolve. I am humbled by how the words I wrote, at a time when I was simply trying to keep myself positive and be of service to others, ring true for me today.

The word, “service,” is wonderful. It’s bandied about often and hard to deliver consistently. For me, it’s what I’ve learned to do when I’m tired, feeling down, or just out-of-sorts. Be of service and things get better.

Simple. Simple is good for me, too.

Success is an ethereal pursuit for me these days. By what metric do I measure success? Are the benchmarks I’ve used in the past still valid for me and those whom I serve? How do I answer these questions and why do I think about them?

Occasionally, it’s at night. At 3 am…..

Turning 50 this year gave me a bit of a pause and I am grateful for the opportunity to start a new half-century. All things considered, the first 50 years were nothing short of amazing. Here are some resolutions I made.

How my life is today fills me with gratitude and thankfulness for all of the blessings the Lord has chosen to bestow upon me and those whom I love. My wish is the same for you and yours.

Peace.

4 Comments

  1. Peter on April 13, 2016 at 9:28 pm

    Thanks for sharing my friend, I’ve always been impressed by your well chosen words and authentic being.

    Nothing fake about you Joel, you keep it real and you keep it honest.

    Cheers to another 50!

    Peter.

    • Joel on April 14, 2016 at 7:50 am

      Thanks for your kind words, Peter. You’re a good friend and for that I am grateful.

  2. Dave Hawkins on April 14, 2016 at 12:29 am

    Joel,

    Thanks for sharing your thoughts and insights. You have touched our lives by sharing your story. Through your life, you provide inspiration.

    • Joel on April 14, 2016 at 7:52 am

      Thanks for the kind words, Dave. Your commitment to our Catholic faith, Shelley, your kids, those in need and your work always amaze me. Thanks for being such a good friend.

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