This is an interesting comparison

We all understand when physical courage is required.

It is surprising, however, when we may be confronted with a moral challenge.

A simple example of a moral challenge is to lie or tell the truth.

Many times, it is easier to lie!

Telling the truth brings more pressure and sometimes unwanted repercussions.

Another example is speaking out against injustice.

It’s always easier to remain silent.

In the end, you must be able to live with yourself.

If not today, when?

This is a tough time of transition for all of us.

It is particularly impactful in the lives of teens trying to grow into adulthood.

Because of the immediacy of news stories, we are all inundated with more news than we can possibly assimilate.

These changes include shifts in attitudes, norms and behaviors within our society.

They are often driven by technological advancements or economic changes.

These factors can create significant alterations in how people live and interact.

I recently wrote a blog entitled, “What happened to neighborhoods?”

Oh, our houses are still close together, but we don’t know our neighbors.

It is often hard to find people who share our beliefs and our values.

We find that our morals are often under attack.

“Misinformation” often lurks in our lives which deliberately tries to lead us in the wrong direction.

It is a constant challenge to hold our own and stand firm in our belief system.

Of course, the following thoughts don’t apply in every situation.

One thought is to compare the defeat with the blessings in your life.

When we think about our blessings, the comparison puts the defeat in perspective.

Another thought is not to try to forget the defeat, but to accept that it happened.

Once you accept that it happened, ask yourself what went wrong and what you’d do differently?

This second thought is very effective if you must confront the same situation again.

Such as in sports!

(Photo is NOT me!)

It was my decision!

It was one of the most difficult in my 83 years of life!

I really enjoy driving and I just got a new car two months ago.

I didn’t have any near misses that compelled my quitting.

But, I did have a few episodes that told me, “It’s time.”

Many older people have to be persuaded to stop driving.

Or, they get into an accident in which it was their fault.

And then, they finally relent.

If it’s time for you stop, STOP before you hurt someone!

If not today, when?

Yes, there is an article in today’s New York Times about sit-down restaurants filing for bankruptcy.

I guess this consolidation has been underway for many years.

Prices aren’t only rising in restaurants.

Many types of businesses are charging more.

So, our reaction must include one direction or another.

Either we cut costs and/or we increase income.

I am still seeing “help wanted” signs in store windows.

In today’s “work at home” world, you may be able to work and not need daycare.

Cutting costs should begin with discretionary expenses you can do without.

Hopefully, you don’t have to cut services you need.

I hope this blog gives you some thought starters!

If not today, when?

I’m sitting here at my desk trying to think about a topic for today’s blog.

The window next to my desk looks onto the front yard.

And a robin decides to make a visit.

They are regular visitors now that Spring has arrived.

They go about their business looking for food.

But, they couldn’t care less about the issues people think about!

As long as they can find food, they’re good.

You can always spot a robin with that big ORANGE breast.

For some reason, robins emote in me a sense of “all is well!”

How about you?

If not today, when?

You and I know it’s the key to longevity.

But, more importantly, regular walking is the best path to a healthy body.

And that’s what motivates me!

For the past two years, I’ve walked up and and down my driveway 20 times each morning.

This daily routine gives me a strong heart and lungs.

I know if you are an older person like myself, you don’t want to exercise regularly.

I understand, but you won’t find an easier exercise than walking.

And on a bad weather day, you can walk inside at a local mall.

Start out with short walks and build up the distance over time.

What do you say? Will you give it a try?

If not today, when?

The Reverend Jesse Jackson had a saying, “Keep Hope Alive!”

That saying is so much needed in the lives of milliions!

It’s up to us to “Keep hope alive” for our brothers and sisters who are hopeless.

And their children.

It’s hard to have hope when your children are hungry and your family is homeless.

Charitable organizations have seen a big decline in recent contributions mainly because so many people are concerned about their own families and their future.

We have to take a hard look at our own situation and decide if there is some way to help either with clothing, food, household items or with a monetary donation.

Do your best. If we all make a small effort, it will end up being a big success..

If not today, when?

Don’t be paralyzed by fear of the future!

Accomplish something positive today!

I’m suggesting that you make each day count.

Yes, it is possible to build great tomorrows by making each today better.

Does that mean you shouldn’t plan for the future?

No, of course you should, but you will build a better future by making today a building block.

If not today, when?

New York CNN — 

Restaurant industry icons where Americans went out for decades for wings, dinner, and celebrations are facing a crisis.

Hooters filed for bankruptcy this week, the latest casual dining chain to go belly up.

Red Lobster, TGI Fridays and Buca di Beppo also filed for bankruptcy in the last year.

Meanwhile, sales at Denny’s, Applebee’s, Outback Steakhouse, Bonefish Grill, Red Robin and Cracker Barrel’s are dropping, and they are shuttering hundreds of restaurants.

Casual dining chains typically cater to lower and middle-income families looking for a sit-down meal, but diners are abandoning these companies as their disposable income shrinks.

Wow! We have enjoyed those restaurants.

They will be missed!