Good morning! I fell in love with this quote the first time I saw it many years ago. It resonated with me, because it matches my core beliefs-even though these core beliefs often require walking up to the precipice of life and taking uncalculated risks. Yet I know I must live by these principles in order to experience all that life has to offer. I never want to miss a chance, even when that requires falling down and getting many-a-bruises.

Last night, I was reflecting on what a full life means to me. I believe one key is to "greet each moment with a sense of appreciation instead of expectation." I believe we pass another milestone when our fears become an inspiration instead of deterrent in achieving our full potential. Learning to take risks, and enjoying that sense of adventure-no matter what the end result, is another key. When we can appreciate our own courage, despite the result, we take the opportunities life so often presents.

When I was fourteen years old I purchased a notecard that I still keep on my desk. The outside of the card features a small sailboat on an ocean night. Below the photo is this simple text: "'One cannot discover new lands without losing sight of the shore."

To me, this quote speaks volumes about change. So many of us want to realize change, but we are unwilling to "cast away" the lines that tie us to our old habits. We try to reach the "other side of the ocean" while leaving those ties around us. That is an impossible journey. We must be willing to throw off the ties and set sail toward our dreams.

 Your Turn: Review today's quote and think about what it means to you. How can you practice excellence in your life? And what about change? Are you trying to change while still holding onto the past? If so, make a concerted effort to cast away the lines and see where the wonderful journey of life will take you.

Today's Affirmation: Each day, I sail toward and realize the great gifts of this life.

Summer Special

August 4 - 31

Register for any online class and receive a voucher to use for another course-- free!Register for 2 courses, receive 2 vouchers.
Register for 3 courses, receive 3 vouchers, etc.

Register for any of the seven online classes below and for each class you register for you will receive a voucher for another course of your choice free. Vouchers are good for 2 years.
 

Here are the seven classes remaining in 2009:

Starts August 26: Searching for Something: How to discover and live your values, passions and purpose
Starts August 10: Paper Piles & Files: How to build a manageable file and reference system for archival paper
Starts September 7: High Energy Living: 5 Weeks to Optimal Energy and Rejuvenate Mind, Body & Soul
Starts September 14: Extreme Home Makeover: 10 Weeks to the Home You Want

Starts October 10: The 10 Weeks of Christmas: Your Journey to a Stress-Free and Celebratory Holiday

Starts October 26: Everyday Paper Piles: How to Manage Every Day Paper and Stay On Top of It (Instead of Beneath!)
Starts November 9: Self-Discovery Workshop

To learn more about any of these course please visit:http://www.maketodaymatter.net/classes.htm