Thursday, November 23, 2006

A THANKFUL Thanksgiving...

A Thanksgiving message from one of my teachers, Jim Rohn:
"If your home is like most, your Thanksgiving Day will be very busy...it can be very hectic and emotionally trying, which doesn't lend itself to preparing your heart to be reflective and thankful. In fact, Thanksgiving weekend is the most traveled weekend in America. Airports are full, and not always providing much room for contemplation of your good fortune. This means all the more that if we want to be the kind of people who are characterized by THANKFULNESS, then we must make sure that we FOCUS on it, and not just on this day, but throughout the year.

Of course we should do what we can to make the most of this day we call THANKSGIVING, but wouldn't it be a shame if the only time we relected on our blessings was this one Thursday in November?...Of course! So let's do our best to be awared of the many great gifts that we have each and every day of the year...as we regularly remember and remain thankful for our good fortune."

Well said Mr. Rohn. Happy Thanksgiving!

posted by Michael York at 10:53 AM 0 comments  

Friday, November 17, 2006

Captains of Enterprise and 1000 boats

Sittin' on the dock of the bay...no tide rolling in or out, just the gentle rocking of boats in the southern california sun.

Steadfast...Ocean Friend...Magic Moments...in The Mist...Sea Eagle. Just a few of what must be a thousand boats and yachts floating outside my hotel room in San Diego Harbor. A few sailboats escape out to sea...what a day! I'm taking a "slowing" break after speaking to a group of business leaders this morning at the Hall of Champions.
I'm reminded sitting here of one of my favorite lines from Shakespeare, "When the sea was calm, all ships alike showed mastery in FLOATING." We don't say it like that in Tennessee, but it basically means (I think) "when it's easy, anyone can look like a ship's captain." But with the wind and the waves when the skill of a true captain is needed, it doesn't take long to find out who's for real.
Much like the "Captains of Enterprise" in this morning's audience who make free enterprise great in this NOW economy.

I love San Diego...especially on days like this one.

posted by Michael York at 4:02 PM 0 comments  

Monday, November 06, 2006

The Voice of Independence

Patriots...guilty of treason!
That was the band of colonists who dared oppose the British crown and declare their independence in 1776. I watched a classic movie "1776" tonight and it was intriguing to think about how that declaration came to be. Debate, devotion, divided opinions, and ordinary men displayed extraordinary courage battling the status quo. That courage will provide again tomorrow the opportunity to exercise your voice in the freedom that declaration provides...to VOTE! Most won't. I will, and I hope we never forget all the sacrifices that brought us to this point in history, and the many that still lie ahead.

Tomorrow, I hope you'll be the voice of independence...and vote.

posted by Michael York at 10:44 PM 0 comments  

Wednesday, November 01, 2006

"And Now The Starting Line-ups..."

A New Season...
Are you ready for a NEW SEASON?
That was the question in our pre-game huddle in the locker room...it's OPENING NIGHT for the NBA here in Charlotte! This isn't the first time I've been asked to speak with a group of players before a game, but it takes on a whole new air of excitement when it's the first night of a new season. There's lights everywhere, music, crowds, and a buzz that's pure energy.
It is, most definitely "The Show!"

How are you preparing for your NEW SEASON?
Will it be just like last year? Or is it just season after season running together?
How do you view your coming year? With a special excitment? What BIG GOALS do you have?
Take some time to reflect on where you've been and where you want to go...the NEW SEASON is upon us! See you in the game.

posted by Michael York at 10:54 PM 2 comments