mckinleysthoughts

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Disgusting vs. Repulsive

Recently, I heard the word repulse during the homily given by my Priest.

The Priest told us a story of a Priest visiting Rome who had a routine of eating Eggs and Sausage for breakfast.  The Priest in this story at first could not get past having bread, cheese, and fruit for breakfast and found it repulsive to him.

He then asked the question to the parishioners listening, “Why do we repulse something good for us, such as the bread, cheese, and fruit, instead of the eggs and greasy sausage that the Priest was used to eating?”

Because of my value of emotional intelligence, I thought this would be a great topic to write about, as emotions are tied to both the words repulse and disgust.

Knowing that there is a difference between the words disgust and repulsed, I will leave it up to you how you interpret disgust and repulsed.

Many times, it’s the situation that will determine which word we use.

REPULSE Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster

Today, I’m aware that our faces or our bodies can also tell a story if we are repulsed by something.

We eat something we don’t like, or the fact that when we were growing up, we would pinch our noses.

Babies will do it all at the time when you attempt to feed them something good for them.

I’m sure this has happened to you when we walk into an area that still lingers with the smell of someone passing gas who has walked away, leaving the crime scene, leaving you as the culprit.

What stories is your face telling these days?

I recently had the experience of someone being repulsed or disgusted.

It just so happened that I was able to watch and listen to a lady speak her mind as she exited the pews after no longer being able to tolerate a crying baby two pews behind her.

She was either disgusted or repulsed because she couldn’t focus on the homily and a crying baby in the background.

In that situation of the crying baby and their parents at church, I’m reminded of the quote “When we know better, we do better.”

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better.”  ― Maya Angelou

Disgust Can Be Morally Valuable | Scientific American

“The disgust that we feel at the sight of blood or the taste of spoiled milk is familiar. And while this disgust is unpleasant to experience, it’s generally thought to be beneficial—an emotional response that helps protect us against the pathogens that may lurk in what we’re repulsed by.”

Knowing that there is a difference between the words disgust and repulsed may not be common knowledge to everyone.

Disgusting vs. Repulsive – What’s the Difference? | This vs. That

10 Signs Someone is Repulsed by You  YouTube  Dr. Todd Grande

I found this YouTube clip interesting as Dr. Todd Grande identifies the repulsion signs.

Bing Videos

Today our minds are full of different variations of various disgusting principles.

We live in a society where people all around can influence our thoughts.

I’m almost positive that each of us has experienced “The wisdom of repugnance” or appeal to disgust, also known informally as the yuck factor.

Wisdom of repugnance – Wikipedia

Why are people repulsed by one another?

We can be repulsed by the thought, idea, the behaviors, or even our actions.

In reading the article by Psychology Today, all too often, I wonder why people do what they do in public. “Nose blowing at the dinner table. Loud talking in public spaces.”

Are You Unknowingly Repelling People? | Psychology Today

Today, I challenge you to think about the words “Disgusting vs. Repulsive” and how others around you are using these words and how your emotional intelligence affects your thoughts, ideas, behaviors, or even your actions.

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/disgusting-vs-repulsive/

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Recently, I heard the word repulse during the homily given by my Priest

The Priest told us a story of a Priest visiting Rome who had a routine of eating Eggs and Sausage for breakfast. The Priest in this story at first could not get past having bread, cheese, and fruit for breakfast and found it repulsive to him. He then asked the question to the parishioners listening, “Why do we repulse something good for us, such as the bread, cheese, and fruit, instead of the eggs and greasy sausage that the Priest was used to eating?”

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Spring Forward

This past weekend many of us had the opportunity to advance our clocks forward as we prepared for the arrival of spring. Although there is plenty of controversy over the time changes, some just deal with it. While others complain, however, life still happens for each one of us. For me, it has become an exercise of futility by counting the number of clocks in my home to ensure they are all at the same time and changing any batteries for those requiring them.

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Spring Forward

This past weekend many of us had the opportunity to advance our clocks forward as we prepared for the arrival of spring.

  Although there is plenty of controversy over the time changes, some just deal with it. While others complain, however, life still happens for each one of us.

  For me, it has become an exercise of futility by counting the number of clocks in my home to ensure they are all at the same time and changing any batteries for those requiring them.

  In my subconsciousness, I received a signal that spring was coming last week when I walked outside at about 05:30 in the morning and could see the ground without a flashlight.

  I remember in my early years living in Germany where around 4:30 AM it would begin to get light.

  I often think about those who live in Alaska that have daylight in the evening.

  Alaska Daylight Hours Calculator | ALASKA.ORG

  Today, our bodies are still reacting to the one hour lost to our sleep patterns, knowing it’s only temporary as we return to our normal selves.

  I know there is something about our “Circadian Rhythm” and how we deal with the various functions that happen automatically within us.

  What Is Circadian Rhythm & How Does It Work? | Nectar Sleep

  I also know firsthand watching my father years ago before he died as he dealt with “Sundowners” and how Daylight Saving Time affects health in body and soul.

  Sundown Syndrome: Causes, Treatment & Symptoms

  Today, my heart goes out to the elders or aging population who are suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia and are at risk of depression.

  Hawaii and Arizona — with the exception of the Navajo Nation — are the only two states in the nation that do not participate in daylight saving time, according to the DOT.

  Daylight Saving Time | US Department of Transportation

  In the United States, daylight saving time begins annually on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November.

  In writing this blog I also had an epiphany of all the opportunities that advanced me forward in my career (Spring Forward).

  Some of those opportunities I thank God for not giving to me because I wasn’t ready or it wasn’t what God wanted for me.

  Maybe you too had what we call those “Sling Shot Moments” where you were catapulted into success.

  I’ve learned that sometimes we must spring forward into action.

  Because many of us don’t want to have any regrets about those “shoulda, woulda, coulda’s” moments in our lives.

  Saturday was also International Women’s Day as many Spring Forward or #AccelerateAction.  What a great way to #AccelerateAction for Women’s History Month that is happening for the month of March.

  International Women’s Day 2025

  I accidentally stumbled on this website below that it is full of shoulda woulda coulda moments in our lives.

  “Life is full of missed opportunities and regrets. We often find ourselves thinking about what we should have done, could have done, or would have done differently. These thoughts can consume us, preventing us from moving forward and fully embracing the present.”

  Best Shoulda Coulda Woulda Quotes To Inspire And Reflect

  Today, I challenge you to take some time this week to reflect and think about how you are going to spring forward and use this time to accomplish those goals you have put off.

  On the other hand, if you are one of those persons who has accomplished everything that you wanted, then take a few moments to reflect on those things you are grateful you didn’t get an opportunity to accomplish because it wasn’t what God wanted for you.

  Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/spring-forward/

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Humbled

Today, and for the rest of February, it’s a time to celebrate Black History Month in America.

  Although we have State Bills, Laws, and Executive Orders in place regardless of the people who try to stifle my victories, I’m still aware of who I am.

  Every day when I wake up, it’s a victory of how far we have come as a nation and people of color who have helped make it possible.

  I’m reminded of a long list of trailblazers that is too long to print for many to understand the depth of their contributions who have made it possible for me to succeed in life.

  The list of 30 is only a reminder of those you may not even have thought about.

  30 Black Americans To Celebrate During Black History Month and Beyond

  As I thought about one of them not on the list it was John Lewis.  Maybe because I’m aware of the Nashville Counter Sit-ins where John Lewis saw the wrong to correct it.  I’m humbled and grateful for his actions.

  In reading chapter three (The Sit-ins) from the book “John Lewis A Life written by David Greenberg.” I’m humbled also to know the tenacity others had to endure and everything they encountered to make it possible for me.

  For the history buffs, on Feb. 27, 1960, nearly 100 young African Americans, along with a few white supporters, were arrested and jailed.

  Growing up in the South, Woolworth was a place I knew very well where I shopped based on my limited income. Woolworth was known as a five-and-dime store.  It would be years later after learning to read various books and experience or comprehend things on my own that I would appreciate what John Lewis did for me.

  Woolworth: A Five and Dime Story | The Saturday Evening Post

  The Nashville Sit-Ins | John Lewis: Get in the Way | PBS LearningMedia

  US Rep. John Lewis’ first sit-in arrest was 60 years ago in Nashville

  My roots date as far back as I was able to see how the civil rights movement benefitted me and others of my race.

  Today, as part of the Baby Boomer era, I’m humbled to have a greater appreciation of what Black History Month represents; regardless of those who continue to put it down.

  Over the years, I’ve participated in various Black History Month Programs and will do the same this year.

  I won’t throw any stones; however, unless you have walked in my shoes, you have no idea what I went through to get here.

  This is why I am passionate about Black History Month and the education that I have gained over the years.

  As one might say when you know, you know.

    This is why I say I’m humbled regardless of the people who try to stifle my victories, I’m still aware of who I am.

  I’m always reminded not only in February but every day and month that passes.  I have a daily reminder that hangs on the wall in my home if I decide to forget.  “Don’t forget where you came from but never lose sight of where you are going.”

  It’s those fifteen words that continue to inspire me each day when I see injustice or wrongdoings that plague America and the countries around me.

  Today when I observe our youth, I often wonder do they appreciate the deeds of others who took on the humility and lessons we hear about today.

  I remember my days when I had a newspaper route as Fulton J. Sheen’s quote is so true.  “The proud man counts his newspaper clippings, the humble man his blessings.”

  Better yet as C.S. Lewis might say “Humility is not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less.”

  You and I have all encountered different situations in life with people who have tried to put us down. However, through being a lifelong learner, and having a proper education these things have helped me overcome barriers.

  When you know your history, you can talk about it.

  When you know of those who went before you, there is a greater appreciation for them.

  And when you know who you are, no one can take your dignity away from you regardless of the State Bills, Laws, and Executive Orders in place.

  As one of my good friends, also a Pastor Rick Piña says, “When you know your purpose you live with uncommon clarity.”

  As you decide whether you will honor or celebrate Black History Month, the choice is yours.

  Today, I’m inspired by two quotes.  The first quote is from Camille Pissarro a Danish-French Impressionist and Neo-Impressionist painter born on the island of St Thomas (now in the US Virgin Islands, but then in the Danish West Indies).

  “Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places where other people see nothing.”  What are you seeing in humble places?

  The other is from Norman Vincent Peale.  “Believe in yourself! Have faith in your abilities! Without a humble but reasonable confidence in your own powers you cannot be successful or happy.”

  I desire that the word humble will provide you with something to think about this month and the months that will follow.

  “Be kind, work hard, stay humble, smile often, stay loyal, be honest, travel, when possible, never stop learning, love always.” – Unknown.

  Today, I challenge you to not only see beautiful things in humble places where other people see nothing but also believe in yourself. Remember, the quote from Rick Piña, “When you know your purpose you live with uncommon clarity.”

  As Confucius says, “What is most needed for learning is a humble mind.”

  Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/humbled/

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Don’t Keep Records of Bad Things

Today my thoughts are entitled “Don’t Keep Records of Bad Things” after I had an epiphany about not keeping records of bad things when I reached for my pen to write a response that was given to me.

  Immediately, I found myself reflecting on those words, knowing that yesterday ended last night.

  Since 1993 I’ve learned and put into practice that after 24 hours I must try and let it go.

  General Colin Powell, the first Black US secretary of state, had 13 rules for life and work, with one of them being “Get made and get over it.”

  If it was good enough for him, it was good enough for me.

  Black American trailblazer Colin Powell’s 13 rules for life and work

  We’re all human and for the most part, I’ve been successful employing various hacks tied to emotional intelligence regarding self-regulation and self-awareness.

  If you have not read any emotional intelligence books, I challenge you to invest some time reading and working on creating a high emotional intelligence (EQ).

  Over the last five years, I have somewhat redefined what it means to let things go and better understand the triggers that bring them from an unconscious to a conscious state of being.

  “When dealing with people, let us remember we are not dealing with creatures of logic. We are dealing with creatures of emotion.”  ~ Dale  Carnegie, How to Win Friends and Influence People

  Regardless of the situation, I know if I let my humanity get in front of my divinity, I will end up taking on something I don’t need in my life, particularly negative thoughts.

  Jim Kwik calls them ANTS, (Automatic Negative Thoughts).

  Stop the ANTs in Your Head with These Three Exercises — Jim Kwik

  What about you?  Do you have a mechanism in place that automatically takes you back into your unconscious mind and tells you to stop?

  Therefore, if you are going to stop keeping records of bad things, I recommend that you first think about ways to prevent it.

  Maybe it’s staying distracted, praying, taking time to meditate, working on various time-consuming tasks, going for a walk, or just solid mental acuity.

  I mentioned earlier that yesterday ended last night for a reason because for me that’s part of my thought process for letting things go.

  Many of you also understand my mantra from the Dali Lama “Don’t let the behaviors of other people destroy your inner peace.”

  How many people do you know who like to keep records of bad things?

  There’s probably a reason that they keep records of bad things.

  As I listen to people recount the hurts they carry with them, many ask me, “Is it sinful to keep a record of how others have hurt me?” They are thinking about 1 Corinthians 13:5, which says, “[Love] keeps no record of wrongs.” I find this question central for abuse victims.

  Is It Sinful to Keep a Record of Wrongs? | CCEF Blog

  Besides, there is a danger of keeping score when people do bad things.

  The Danger of Keeping Score

  Years ago, I remember hearing when we hold grudges and allow various thoughts to enter our minds or are not willing to let things go, we are drinking the other person’s poison.

  Maybe you have heard those words or experienced them as well.

  I learned about joy robbers over twelve years ago.

  I also served as an Army Civilian Master Resilience Trainer (MRT) who, in turn, taught the skills of being resilient to my subordinates, and other Army civilians. Every day we should try to Hunt for the Good Stuff (HTGS).

  Resiliency: Hunt the Good Stuff > Charleston District > Charleston District News Stories

  DPRR: Create Positive Emotions

  Joy robbers are everywhere and ironically this past weekend at Mass, Joy was part of the message from the letter of Paul to the Philippians.

  Dealing with Joy Robbers – Pathway to Victory

  I’m forever grateful that having faith is an important part of my life for not keeping records of bad things.

  Ironically, also this week the third candle was lit for Advent symbolic of Joy.

  There is a difference between joy and happiness.

  The definition of joy is “a feeling that is evoked by wellbeing or good fortune,” whereas happiness is defined as a “state of wellbeing.” This implies that joy occurs for a brief, defined period of time, whereas happiness is a state of being that is, for the most part, ongoing.

  Joy Vs. Happiness: What’s The Difference? | BetterHelp

  Today, take some time and ask yourself what records of bad things you are keeping and what purpose are they serving you.

  Maybe it’s a specific ego you are dealing with that could get you in trouble. This is another example of letting your humanity get in front of your divinity.

  A person with a fragile ego has weak and inconsistent self-esteem. Their sense of self-worth is volatile and subject to the whims of life circumstances and others’ judgments.

  7 Signs of a fragile ego & how to fix it

  As I close with the knowledge that I may be speaking to the choir on this topic, therefore, if something resonates, I would love to hear about your various hacks or mechanisms in place.

  On the other hand, if I’m speaking to you try and find a way to better understand why this is important in the long run.

  I don’t want you to merely just to survive, I want you to thrive in all aspects of life.

  On this Monday morning, “I still have joy” as Joe Pace sings the lyrics which are part of the hacks I have in place.

  Each of us needs encouragement along the way and I challenge you to find yours and accept it in any way you can.

  Bing Videos

  “Love keeps no record of wrongs, but bitterness keeps detailed accounts.”  ~Craig Groeschel

  https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/bible-study/what-is-the-significance-of-the-phrase-love-keeps-no-record-of-wrongs.html

  Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/dont-keep-records-of-bad-things/

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What Actions Define Your Character?

Have you ever thought about what defines your character and what others see in you as you that defines your character without any words spoken?

  For me to do justice for this topic, today’s blog is intentionally a bit longer.

  I could give you various quotes instead I’m giving you various insights to ponder.  Something inside of me always goes back to the character of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr as it relates to my character and leadership.

  Why might you ask?  Because I wanted you to understand the word character while honoring our 39th President of the United States.

“The ultimate measure of leaders is not where they stand in moments of comfort and convenience, but where they stand in times of challenge and controversy.” ~ Martin Luther King Jr.

  Martin Luther King Jr | The Ultimate Measure Of A Man Quote | Successful Spirit

  I’m always interested in how others see me.  Not that it matters that I’m going to change; however, to better understand my character because within my faith I want them to see Christ in me just like many use us saw Christ in Jimmy Carter.

Also, I believe it is worth mentioning the character of Jimmy Carter who died peacefully in his home, on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100 is one that some didn’t fully understand until he died.

  Not long ago I came upon the YouTube video below of Vusi Thembekwayo, which helps my blog this week.

  “You are ahead of where you are and will die before the world gets to where the world gets to know.” ~ Vusi Thembekwayo

  That quote alone speaks volumes about Jimmy Carter.

  Experience Vusi Thembekwayo’s Inspiring Leadership Talk in India!

  When you think about our 39th President of the United States being awarded the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for his work in finding peaceful solutions to international conflicts, advancing democracy and human rights, and promoting economic and social development; this alone is a milestone achievement.

  I’m also sure his family and friends have truly appreciated the life lessons learned from his lifetime as well as I.

  Jimmy Carter was ahead of his time which we learned about this past week.

  What an honor as I watched this past Thursday (January 9, 2025) along with the rest of the world the State Funeral of former President Jimmy Carter being televised from Washington National Cathedral.

  The Washington National Cathedral is beautiful and is the second-largest cathedral capable of seating 4000 people.

  Washington National Cathedral | History & Facts | Britannica

  It was also a National Day of Mourning that I took advantage of in listening intently to what was being said about Jimmy Carter.

  President Jimmy Carter’s character was on full display.

  In addition, having the Reverend Andrew Young speak at this historical event was an added touch.  I thought about the character of Rev. Andrew Young as he spoke about his time with Dr. Martin Luther King and being able to give his eulogy comments for President Jimmy Carter.  Both men Reverend Andrew Young spoke about embracing the civil rights movement.  Although the Reverend Andrew Young was unable to stand at his age, what a remarkable presence he made.

  Joshua Carter, the grandson of Jimmy Carter spoke about his grandfather’s Sunday School Classes and Bible lessons taught each Sunday.

  Joshua Carter, grandson of Jimmy Carter, reads at state funeral | Watch

  Joshua also told us what he learned about the “growing chasm between the richest and the poorest people on earth.”  We can infer from listening to Joshua Carter that there was so much humility being displayed each Sunday as his grandfather helped those in need.

  Joshua read a scripture from the Apostle Paul’s Letter to the Romans: (Chapter 8: 1-18 38, 39)

  Romans 8:1-18,Romans 8:38-39 NIV – Life Through the Spirit – Therefore, – Bible Gateway

  Romans 8 NIV – Life Through the Spirit – Therefore, – Bible Gateway

  Jimmy Carter honored for humility and service at funeral | AP News

  In addition, I learned there were some notable quotes associated with Jimmy Carter’s character.

  Jimmy Carter’s funeral had many notable quotes | AP News

  In case you missed it I have provided several links to review.

  From Carter’s funeral, an American snapshot: A singular image, 5 presidents, 379 years of history | Britannica

  I also took note of the character being displayed of all the five living Presidents in attendance and how they interacted with each other.

  Being part of the President’s Club is another aspect of the character that is something to consider.

  Interestingly enough, I watched the dynamics of each member of the President’s Club and their character, particularly as George Bush walked in and how the various people already seated greeted and acknowledged each other.

  Until you understand the premise of “ingroups and out-groups”, then you won’t understand what I am saying.

  What are ingroups and outgroups, you may ask?

  Ingroups and Outgroups: How Social Identity Influences People – Effectiviology

  I challenge you to re-watch the recording for yourselves, it’s over three and a half hours long.  However, it is worth every minute of watching the characters involved in this historic event.

  ‘A life of service’: President Jimmy Carter’s state funeral, Georgia memorials replay

  Jimmy Carter funeral: All 5 living presidents attend ceremony

  Initially, I thought about the song by the Shirelles- “Mama Said. “Mama told me there would be days like this when people look at you differently.

  Jimmy Carter’s funeral captures the American story at a fraught political moment | CNN Politics

  The other aspects of character particularly were those chosen for specific duties during his funeral.  The character of the men and women who brave the cold and whipping winds was amazing.

  Band plays “Hail to The Chief” as Carter’s casket is transferred to horse-drawn Caisson

  Bing Videos

  Being a military person of 30 years, I know what it takes to be chosen for those in the special honor guard.

  What it takes to be a presidential pallbearer

  Having the honor to attend President Obama’s Inauguration (2009), in Washington D.C. it was one of the coldest days I had experienced in a long time. It’s a moment in time I will never forget.

  I can envision it was no different for President Carter’s Funeral in 2025.

  Inauguration Spectators Brave Frigid Temps : NPR

  Jimmy Carter funeral: Frigid temperatures expected as nation honors late president | FOX 5 DC

  If you watch the video the wind whipped the person holding the Presidential Flag.  That person had to have plenty of character. He needed all his weight to control the flag.

  Also, watching the family waiting for several minutes in the cold for the casket and color guard to appear was another example of character as they played “Hail to the Chief.”

  In case you’re wondering about the importance of “Hail to the Chief” you can better understand it here below because it is an honor to receive it.

  Why Do We Play ‘Hail to the Chief’ for the President? | Smithsonian

  I’ll close, by saying thank you for allowing me today to honor a man with great character and by allowing others to see his light shine.

  “Your actions define your character, your words define your wisdom, but your treatment of others defines REAL you.”~ Mayur Ramgir

  Today, I challenge you to let your light shine brightly by allowing others to have the proper perspective about you.  The question is what do they see that words cannot express who you are with your character on display for all the world to see?

  Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/what-actions-define-your-character/

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Don’t Keep Records of Bad Things

Today my thoughts are entitled “Don’t Keep Records of Bad Things” after I had an epiphany about not keeping records of bad things when I reached for my pen to write a response that was given to me. Immediately, I found myself reflecting on those words, knowing that yesterday ended last night. Since 1993 I’ve learned and put into practice that after 24 hours I must try and let it go. General Colin Powell, the first Black US secretary of state, had 13 rules for life and work, with one of them being “Get made and get over it.”

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To everything, there is a Season

“To everything, there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1

  Let me pose a question to you today.  Do you believe everything happens for a reason?

  Today, I can’t stop thinking about the words from the book of Ecclesiastes 3:1

  My purpose for asking this question is many times at least for me I try to follow or understand what the Holy Spirit is speaking to me about.

  This is not meant to be a sermon or intended to give you any prophecies.  It is however for me to share my faith and understanding God’s grace on my specific calling or purpose in life.

  It’s also about following your intuition in life and being the best version of yourself.

  This past weekend I attended my 50th Class Reunion in Williamsburg, VA and it was spectacular.

  Ironically, a few months prior I was thinking about when my 50th Class Reunion was when one of my friends was telling me about attending her class reunion.

  About 30 days later, I received a letter in the mail from the committee chairperson notifying me of my 50th class reunion.  The letter provided what steps to take on Facebook and the email addresses to contact them if I was going to attend.

  Without hesitation I began to make plans to attend this historic event, knowing 50 years is a milestone that many have yet to experience.

  When I arrived at the Hotel this past Thursday night, one of my classmates, which I didn’t recognize, politely asked me if I was there for the Denbigh High School 50th Class Reunion.

  It was through that conversation that lasted an hour when I found out the last and only class reunion (our tenth year) happened in 1984.

  I also attended our tenth-year class reunion.

  Knowing that information made this past weekend even more special hearing her speak about those she hung out with and that she was responsible for finding the venue for the dinner on Saturday night.

  It was heartbreaking to also hear of those who were deceased and how God has allowed me the opportunity to be in the presence of all those attending this past weekend.

  In addition, during the tour of our high school, we went into the cafeteria, and I asked if it was okay to speak to the Varsity Football Team.  They were assembled there with the coach before they played our rival on Friday night.

  I was given the green light to speak as many of my classmates who listened to me also attended the game and tried to reenergize our losing team to excel.  It was an experience that you just had to be there to experience.

  Although we may have lost the football game, in spirit, we won by being present for our team.

  Embracing “Everything happens for a reason,” and what took place this weekend was the fellowship and seeing each other while everyone caught up on each other’s lives and events.

  Knowing that family is important, anytime I’m close or in the vicinity of where I grew up, I also spent some time with two of my siblings, which made it special.  I was also able to pay my respects by visiting my mother’s gravesite with one of my sisters who lives in the area.

  This weekend although fast-paced pace reminded me of Seals & Crofts – We May Never Pass This Way Again.

Bing Videos

  Today, I realize how blessed I am knowing fifty years ago to have graduated from High School, gone straight into the Army, attained the rank of Command Sergeant Major, and retired twice (Military and Civilian).

  It’s a humbling experience when you find out those who are not here today, and you are by the grace of God.

  I am so glad that I listened to the Holy Spirit in deciding to attend my 50th class reunion.  Had I not I would not have connected with who our family affectionately calls “Mom’s Angel!”  (Karen).  My mother worked for Dr. Karen as her Dental Assistant.

  After Dr. Karen retired, she and my mother forged a bond well beyond anything we could imagine.  Karen would drive from Williamsburg to Hampton, which on a good day is a 30-minute drive when traffic is flowing well.  Karen would take my mother to hospital appointments; help clean her house while living in an Assisted Living Community and pick up her medications for her.

  This is why we call her Mom’s Angel.

  I was Dr. Karen’s last weekend in Williamsburg, VA before moving to Colorado to assist her daughter.

  Karen made a special trip to visit me and my wife on Friday, which was ironically All Saint’s Day.

  On Saturday, I visited my Mother’s Gravesite which was All Souls Day.

  I could not have planned what happened this weekend any better.

  The entire weekend was humbling and rewarding. A tour of our school, Pizza at a local (nostalgic establishment) that celebrated 50 years of existence, a Football Game, and a Banquet.

  When I read the names of my classmates who were deceased and looked at all the pictures displayed many died before they turned 50 years old.

  I may not know of the specific circumstances behind their deaths; however, I do know that each of them is my classmates and it’s by God’s grace that I’m here today.

  Today, I challenge everyone to take a moment and reflect on the words “Everything there is a season, and everything happens at just the right time.”

  Each of us is blessed to be alive and in sound mind.

  “You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” ~ Mae West

  Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/to-everything-there-is-a-season/

[mckinleysthoughts]

What’s Your Code?

As many prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday, I’m asking you what’s your code. What is it that unlocks within you that makes you the person you are today? I recently visited one of my favorite chicken restaurants and they were playing Christmas music. Christmas music is one of my favorite times of the year because it only happens for a short time. Sure, we can listen to Christmas music all year if we want; however, it is a time when it sets or unlocks for me one of my codes.

[mckinleysthoughts]

To everything, there is a Season

“To everything, there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1 Let me pose a question to you today. Do you believe everything happens for a reason? Today, I can’t stop thinking about the words from the book of Ecclesiastes 3:1 My purpose for asking this question is many times at least for me I try to follow or understand what the Holy Spirit is speaking to me about. This is not meant to be a sermon or intended to give you any prophecies. It is however for me to share my faith and understanding God’s grace on my specific calling or purpose in life.

[mckinleysthoughts]

Grief and Bereavement

Today, let’s talk about “Grief and Bereavement” which is something that is overlooked in many ways.

The Best Teacher in Life is Experience. ~ Lebron James Those words may not mean anything to you or sound hollow unless you have had the experience of going through what is called grief or bereavement.

Grief and bereavement are related to loss, but they are not the same thing.

[mckinleysthoughts]

You Don’t Know Me!

Recently, I had to stop and think about the words that came out of a parishioner’s mouth when she said, “You’re a brave person by going to back-to-back Masses.”

Now and then I attend both the Saturday Vigil Mass at 5:PM and depending on the event or organization, I must also attend the Sunday morning 11:15 AM Mass.

However, after those words were said to me, I said to myself you don’t know me very well.

At first, I thought about the character of this person and then I thought about how long I’ve known them.

Then I thought about my character being challenged if had I said anything back to the person.

[mckinleysthoughts]

Curtis Leadership and Training

Curtis Leadership and Training is founded on continuously adding value to others. Service to others is a crucial component and the guiding principle by which Curtis Leadership and Training exist. It’s always committed to providing the best possible services while consistently exceeding customer expectations.

Know more: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/courses/