The power of words

It’s been a while – maybe because my work & life have become extra busy, maybe it’s because I cannot find the inspiration, however that will end, dear reader, I promise.

This post I am writing because of, and as a tribute to my daughter, who at nearly 16 has become, in the eyes of her (biased) father a source of both wonderment & joy in how she is maturing as a person.

So to the story . . . .

Madi's latest

Madi likes to get her hair coloured, and the latest variation was done last Friday. I support her in this as I feel this is part of the exploration that we do as we all mature, however it seems that there are some folks at her school who consider this as a means by which they can tease her and put her down. Words can be very hurtful.

Madi dealt with this as she also dealt with the shaving her head for worlds greatest shave by wearing “Canteen” bandanna.

Some of the same people who teased her on Monday asked her on Tuesday why she was covering up her hair as it was “mad” (which I presume means it looks great). Words can also be confusing.

On the way to school Madi asked me “Do you think music can be empowering ?”, I asked what she means by that question to which she added, “I am listening to music on my iPod at the moment that says to me that everyone can be treated bad, and that you will get through it.”

My response, “yes I think music can be very empowering.”

Words can be good.

Madi does gets stirred up by what others say to her about herself. She has said to me that she could respond the same way in which some others treat her, however she also believes that she does want to be the one responsable for others feeling bad about themselves. The implication on her feelings is obvious.

Words can be powerful.

Thanks for reading

It’s all about Opportunity

This blog is in tribute to the entrepreneurial poor in the Philippines and how you to can assist

I firmly believe that to “get ahead” or succeed are only 3 things needed

Talent – you need to have a talent for what you are wanting to do – I would never make lots of money as a musician because no matter how hard I tired I was never a good musician.

Enthusiasm – you must want what you want to have, or to put it a way I head last year, in far more direct language

“You get what you want or you get what you deserve”

Commit yourself to your goals and they are more likely to be reached, do not make the commitment and you are setting yourself for disappointment.

Opportunity – you need to have & recognise the opportunities that are present to you get closer to your goal.

It is only this last of the 3 that I can influence for someone else.

This is why I have already supported the Philippines micro finance project, from , the most aptly name “Opportunity International” & colleague Wonderwebby

No matter how small a contribution it all helps increase the number of opportunities for people to change their circumstances.