About Me!

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I'm a retired US Air Force Chief Master Sergeant! I'm a wisdom seeker, an author, musician, inspirational story teller, motivational speaker, life coach, and mentor. My highest accomplishments are raising two daughters, Tesa and Elyse, two sons-in-law, Nathan and Jeremy, five granddaughters, Nieves, Rainbow, Button, Pequeña, & Jojo, one grandson, Bubby, and growing closer to my lovely bride of more than 41 wonderful and fulfilling years, Debbie. I teach at the United States Air Force Academy and at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. Next to my faith and love of my family, my purpose is to share my knowledge and, maybe, wisdom, with as many people as I can.

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

The Best Things in Life Are NOT Quite Free!


I recently saw a post on FaceBook that read, “The best things in life are free.” I understand the intent, that we shouldn’t take things for granted and that we should stop to smell the roses more often. We just don’t appreciate the blessings we have. I agree. But the truth is that we have to do the work to get whatever it is we want to enjoy in our lives. It may not take manual labor or we may not to have to expend a lot of energy, but when we do the work to achieve or enjoy something, there’s a deeper gratitude than if it’s just given to us.


I used to buy lottery tickets, and I prayed to win. I got to thinking about what I’d do with the winnings. I decided that I would set up a foundation to help people empower themselves to earn their own living. I’d create a teach-a-person-to-fish organization instead of giving-them-a-fish type organization. Now, what would really make me happy is if I, somehow, managed to build a company based on my writing and teaching and speaking where I could do that without winning the lottery. I know I’d have a better sense of accomplishment having earned the money and opportunity. I’d still accept all of the money that the lottery gives away, but I’d use it to be able to do more effective work. 


One of the blessings I hope you enjoy, but may not enough, is your family. Often, getting to the point of truly enjoying and appreciating our family takes work. We have to do what it takes to keep them together, heck, even getting them together sometimes. I’m convinced that the only way to be loved is by being loving. How do you show your family you love them? That can take some work, depending on your family’s needs. That may take leaving work and going home!


Another is appreciating those you work with and lead. I’m glad I’m not THAT GUY, but he’s often a pain in the rear. Not always happy, okay, often UNhappy for no obvious reason. But, you know, he may have a lot of wisdom to share that would make the team a lot more productive, proud, and effective. But it takes work to value him and to show him you care. Once you do, though, you’ll have a follower for life!


The most powerful blessing you’ll ever have is good health. There will be a point in your life when waking up will be a blessing. And then GETTING up?! WOW! I did it! You’ll understand. Give it about fifty years. Trust me. But you have to work for it.  


Take some time today to appreciate the blessings the Creator has bestowed upon you, but also make a commitment to show others you care. The work you expend will be worth the blessings you receive. Then be free to enjoy the best life you’ve created!



Until next time, Be GREAT! You ARE!


¡HEIRPOWER!


bob vásquez!


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