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Author: Les Patterson

Sunday Reflections: She’s My Sister!

Sunday Reflections: She’s My Sister!

#SUNDAYREFLECTIONS: SHE’S MY SISTER! At the Patterson family reunion on Saturday, Aunt Darlene shared several times with energetic enthusiasm, speaking of her sisters Shirley and Lea. “I’ve known her for a long time! She’s my sister!” And on Facetime calls with our grandsons, 4-year-old Corbin is excited for his baby brother Boston to do more things with him. “I need to teach him!” From Aunt Darlene, who at 88 is on the spectrum of life where memory is becoming challenging,…

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Monday Morning Boost: Say No To Say Yes

Monday Morning Boost: Say No To Say Yes

In a world filled with endless choices and opportunities, it’s easy to fall into the trap of saying yes to everything that comes our way. We often fear missing out or disappointing others, leading us to spread ourselves thin and losing sight of what truly matters. As we explore the concept of “Say No to Say Yes”, we will focus our conversation on these Power of Three core points that resonate deeply with the human experience. EMBRACING DISCIPLINE FOR TRUE…

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Monday Morning Boost: Creating a Pioneer Legacy for Future Generations

Monday Morning Boost: Creating a Pioneer Legacy for Future Generations

Imagine a young 16-year-old girl, setting off alone to a new and unknown land due to financial constraints that prevented her family from joining her. Undeterred by the challenges ahead, that’s exactly what my second great-grandmother did in 1863 when she joined a group of strangers, and together they crossed the vast plains in a wagon pulled by oxen. Her faith in her beliefs and the promise of a better future fueled her determination. Kristine Marie Jensen was born in…

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Monday Morning Boost: Influential Hallway Conversations

Monday Morning Boost: Influential Hallway Conversations

In the vibrant and bustling halls of Influence, the annual conference for the National Speakers Association in sunny Orlando, I found myself immersed in a whirlwind of influential conversations. While the main stage presentations left me inspired and empowered, it was the intimate hallway conversations that truly ignited my passion and sparked new ideas. Between sessions, I had the pleasure of engaging in enlightening discussions with fellow attendees, and two individuals stood out in particular. Dino Watt, a dynamic speaker…

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Monday Morning Boost: Stress Test

Monday Morning Boost: Stress Test

Over the past three months, I’ve been dealing with some extra tiredness and occasional shortness of breath. It was concerning, especially with the journey of my heart over the last 18, I decided to undergo a heart stress test last week just to be sure everything was okay. The test went really smoothly. It was a nuclear stress test combined with a treadmill EKG. First, they injected me with a nuclear isotope to get a baseline scan of my heart…

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Monday Morning Boost: Standing For The Flag of Freedom

Monday Morning Boost: Standing For The Flag of Freedom

The Fourth of July, Independence Day, holds a special place in my heart. It’s a day when we celebrate the birth of our nation, the ideals it stands for, and the countless sacrifices made to uphold those principles. For me, this day is more than just a holiday; it’s a reminder of the deep-rooted meaning behind that cherished symbol we call the Flag. When I see the Stars and Stripes waving in the breeze, it evokes a powerful sense of…

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Sunday Reflections: America The Beautiful Magnified Through Jesus Christ

Sunday Reflections: America The Beautiful Magnified Through Jesus Christ

The timeless words of “America the Beautiful” resonate deeply within our souls, recalling many years of freedom, freedom fought for by courageous patriots who sacrificed for the cause. Their sacred service to our country calls us to honor their legacy by living true to their ideals. In the tapestry of our nation, the field of blue symbolizes unity amidst our diversity. It is a unity that transcends divisions, strengthening us as we stand together. The stripes bear the hope forged…

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Monday Morning Boost: Juneteenth – Embracing Diversity as a Strength

Monday Morning Boost: Juneteenth – Embracing Diversity as a Strength

Growing up and living in a predominantly white community comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to celebrating and understanding the significance of Juneteenth. As I have reflected upon this historical day that symbolizes freedom and emancipation, I better realize it is essential I continually consider the steps I can take to recognize and foster diversity and inclusivity. My pondering on Juneteenth has been inspired by a thought-provoking presentation by Cree Taylor, Special Assistant to the Dean…

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Monday Morning Boost: Rise Up Dad, Rise Up and Stand Tall

Monday Morning Boost: Rise Up Dad, Rise Up and Stand Tall

Fatherhood is a remarkable journey filled with its share of challenges and triumphs. As we celebrate Father’s Day, I can’t help but reflect on my own path as a father and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. It is a journey that has often made me feel broken and defeated, but through the inspiration of my own father and the love of my beautiful family, I have discovered the strength to rise above my doubts and fears. Today, I…

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Sunday Reflections: The Beautiful Journey of Fatherhood

Sunday Reflections: The Beautiful Journey of Fatherhood

As Elisa plays “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” repeatedly, preparing for today’s Sunday Reflections, I find myself reflecting on the journey of fatherhood. The gentle melody reminds me of the profound love a father holds for his child. It’s a love that transcends boundaries and expectations, nurturing and guiding us. This one phrase especially resonates deeply with me… “He gave me my life, my mind, my heart; I thank him reverently” Being a father means embracing the responsibility of shaping…

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