The topic arises from a post one of my great friends and fellow jewelry retailer in Oklahoma City posted on his personal blog, i thought it was really appropriate for what i had in mind as we spring into a new decade and a new year moving forward.

before i look forward to 2010 it is important that i show gratitude with all humbleness to some of the key events of 2009 and the wonderful opportunities that i have been blessed with. Kansas City Centurions has been one of the greatest and most rewarding experiences that i could have imagined, despite constant efforts to make a difference in the world i was pushed forward and exposed to some facts that made me far more humble and appreciative of what life has given me through out these wonderful 27 years. I would also claim that everyone reading this is probably more fortunate than the individuals that we helped serve food on a snowy day in Kansas City, KS. Through this august organization i had the very opportunities to learn , serve and lead and expand the mind to new horizon think without wasting time i should spend time in writing down the 2009 and 2010 in perspective to Truth and Dare.

The Truth: What I’ve Learned ( which totally concur with my friends view from OK)

All of my life experiences are one of two things: A Lesson or a Blessing.
If I fail that means I’m trying, and that’s a success.
I always know there is hope even when there seems to be no way out.
My most powerful growth has come from my most powerless moments.
There is no replacement for human touch.
We all have the right to change our minds anytime.
Fear is the most common decision making emotion.
Patience is one of the greatest gifts a human being can have.
Life is a path or a journey, not a choose your own adventure book.
Character is what I do when I think no one is looking.
I use money, I do not make money.
Letting go leads to gaining control.
There is a huge difference between self confidence and false pride.
I cannot hear you when I am the one talking.
I will never get to be perfectly humble no matter how much I practice humility.
I can’t make everyone happy and I shouldn’t try to either.
Results are all that matter.
Nice guys often do finish first.
Always know when to pick the right battles to win the war.
What I do is not who I am, who I am is what I do.

The Dare: My Goals

Its between you and God, so do what appeases him, he is the one to judge you and no one else.
My BIGGEST INVESTMENT is in people, not in wealth or material possessions but in my family and friends.
be a better son, brother, uncle, grandson, nephew, friend and citizen
spending more time in self improvement for everyone around me
Take real time to re-energize and rejuvenate.
Take more time for reading.
Unplug a bit more. (who am I kidding)
Exercise and eat healthier, get back into running.
Meet new people that will help me become a better individual, i am who i am because who you are
Grow existing relationships with people I like.
read books that will give new meaning to life, spirit and soul
do more with Centurions.
Dedicate my self to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation as a 2010 charity
Mend broken relationships
Be a better listener.
Be there for friends and loved ones
Be where I’m at when I’m there.
Take time to stop and enjoy the fruits of the labor.
Pray More.
Try to focus more on one thing at a time.
Keep a much more open mind.
Get more rest.

With all these focuses i look forward to a year filled with joy, love, happiness and everything peaceful. i also look forward to telling my family how GRATEFUL i am for the morals and values that they have given me, i will miss my grandparents that rest in heaven more and follow on there foot steps to be a better individual.

Also, If you’re taking the time to read this I’d really like to say Thank You. One of the many things that I never take for granted is, what one of the many things we all seem to run out of, Time. I appreciate everyone and as always, respect and encourage your thoughts on this post down below. Hope you had a Great 2009. Happy New Year to You and Yours, and “Here’s to Hopefully an Even Better 2010.”

Respectfully,

AA