Anthem

I titled this blog "Anthem" because I find the rise and sustain of a lyrical melody to be empowering; I have found this same effect in the lessons I learn from people daily. I have believed in this effect for a very long time, but today I have been thinking about it more because I am reminded of the impact my brother Josh had on my life. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to know him because I would not be who I am, without him or you.

I'll start with what I learned from Josh, unconditional love; appreciation for life, music, and family and not everyone is "cut-out" to play Chess.

Jacob and Joseph have given me the ability to see life through the eyes of a child all over again, and the opportunity to pass along what I have learned.

Some of the other lessons I have learned have come from these individuals, it is not exhaustive and will continue to grow.

J.B. Empathy
R.B. Be true to yourself
C.L. Children "belong" to everyone
M.S. Loyalty
B.M. Blaming is not a solution
E.P. Acceptance
C.W. Don't take life too seriously
E.C. Integrity
A.S. Trust your intuition
L.B. Laugh as you run away from the "5-O'Clock shadow"
J.A. Accountability
Z.B. Not everyone wants to be "saved"
A.D. Strength
D.M. Question, and educate yourself
M.T. Have fun
K.C. Perseverance
R.S. Don't ever assume
P.B. If you don't believe in Santa, believe in something
A.R. Admiration
S.G. Believe in yourself
M.R. Friendship
J.B. Use your resources
L.K. The impact of music
B.H. Kindness
K.H. No one is perfect, and that's O.K.
H.B. Wisdom
E.B. Share what you have
D.A. Teach
J.M. Give second chances
C.R. Unconditional positive regard- so, I never met Carl Rogers, but if you add all these lessons together, he pretty much sums it up.

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