Robert Bike

Licensed Massage Therapy #5473
Eugene, Oregon

EFT-CC, EFT-ADV

Teaching Reiki Master

Life Coach

541-465-9486

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Member OMTA & ABMP President of the Oregon Massage Therapists Association 2008-2010 & 2012-2013

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Remarkable Stories, Volume 1 by Robert Bike Remarkable events have happened in Freeport and Stephenson County, Illinois, and remarkable people have lived there. These are stories gathered about people and events from 1835 through World War II. By no means complete, these are overviews of lives and events which shaped our country and our world. From events in the lives of Tutty Baker, Abraham Lincoln, Charles Guiteau, Leonard Colby, Jane Addams and Bob Wienand come stories that will amaze you. Welcome to Volume 1 of our living history. The author lives in Eugene, Oregon, and works as a Licensed Massage Therapist and Life Coach. An amateur historian, parts of these stories and many more appear on this website. Buy now! Only 99 cents to download in .pdf format! Want a paperback? List price $14.99, now only $11.99!

Biblical Aromatherapy by Robert Bike The Bible mentions about 232 plants by name, or closely enough to figure out what plant is meant. Of these, 24 are aromatic plants; that is, parts of the plants can be pressed or distilled to get an essential oil. Essential oils are the lifeblood of plants and have tremendous healing capabilities. The healing power of plants is the basis for modern medicines. Biblical Aromatherapy discusses how the plants were used in biblical days and how you can use the essential oils from biblical plants. Originally published in manuscript form in 1999, I completely revised the book and added illustrations. To order Biblical Aromatherapy in paperback, Click here. List price $24.99; introductory offer $19.99 To order the pdf version and download to your computer or phone, Click here. The electronic version is only $2.99!

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Robert Bike, LMT, LLC

He/She
Restaurant Reviews

I've been a vegetarian since November of 1969, and a vegan since April 15, 2010. My wife likes meat, though she is now eating as a vegan several days each week. Finding good restaurants that meet both of our specifications is sometimes hard.

I never tell anyone at a restaurant that I write about our restaurant experiences until after the meal. Here is what we have experienced.

BJs Ice Cream in Florence

Bridgewater in Florence

California Grill

Chapalas

The Landmark in Yachats

Lotus Garden

Mission Mexican Cuisine

Nature's Corner in Florence

Ocean Sky

Olive Garden

Penelope's Mediterranean Cuisine

Pearl Street Ice Cream Parlor

Ring of Fire

Sushi Domo

Taste of India

Waterfront Depot in Florence

Bridgewater
Florence

We took a couple of days off our routine and ended up in Florence again. What a beautiful coastal city. We spent some time at the beach, and walked around Old Town.

We found the Bridgewater, located in an old mercantile store built in 1901. My wife had seen it on the internet, and it had some vegan options.

Well, it turns out that at leas one of the the owners is vegan. According to the business card that our waitress, Kelsey, gave us, the owners are Leo and Christine Duwell.

I ordered the Ginger Beer to start. It is non-alcoholic. I loved it. My wife, who does not like ginger, tasted it and ordered one for herself!

I ordered the vegan pizza. It was huge, and covered with more vegetables than I've ever seen on a pizza. It was the best pizza I've ever eaten!

My wife the Ocean Food Soup. She said it was good.

Their website is bridgwaterfishhouse.com. They are closed on Tuesdays.

We were in the north part of Eugene and were looking for a quick bite late one evening, and found this place in the Santa Clara shopping center.

The food was good and the service friendly. Not much to say about this place, but we'll go back when we're in the area again.

Taste of India

This is a nice Indian restaurant on Hilyard. There are a lot of vegetarian entrees, appetizers and even soup.

Our server was Sunny, a pretty young woman with a sunny personality. She brought a decanter of water to the table, and the bus boy refilled when empty.

The food was tasty, the portions plentiful and the service excellent.

Mission Mexican Cuisine

Well, the water was good.

I didn't start writing this column to become a restaurant critic. I don't like reporting bad restaurants, but when I find one, I feel it is my duty to report what happened.

We wanted a quick meal, and decided on Mexican. We like good Mexican food. So we tried the Mission Mexican Cuisine on East Broadway.

Our waitress was Maria, who seemed overworked. She brought us chips and salsa. The salsa was quite ordinary, and the chips tasted stale, perhaps like they had been heated in a microwave.

We were patient, and ordered our meals. My wife had a cup of soup and chicken salad. I had a veggie burrito with Mexican potatoes. The burrito was tasteless. It was the most bland burrito I've ever had, and I left most of it on my plate. Even Taco Bell makes better burritos. The Mexican potatoes were good, but could have been better. All the food was heavy and filling, but not tasty.

My wife's soup was OK, though she only ate half of it. Her salad was not good, and she left most of it on her plate.

When Maria brought the bill, she charged us for a bowl of soup at $4.95, rather than the cup at $3.50. My wife pointed out the difference, and Maria, trying to prove her point, returned with the menu. My wife again pointed out the difference. Maria finally agreed and went to change the bill. When she returned, she had taken $1.00 off the bill, instead of $1.45. Perhaps Maria was just overworked that day. I don't know why she was so careless. We didn't point out her mistake; we just left a tip, paid the bill, and left.

We won't be returning to the Mission Mexican Cuisine.

Penelope's Mediterranean Cuisine

We saw this place advertised in a restaurant coupon book. They feature Penelope's Stuffed Portobello Delight. It sounded wonderful, so we made a special effort to go there on a Friday evening at 8.

We were served bread with an herbal olive oil. The bread was fresh and excellent, and the herbs in the olive oil were just right.

When I ordered the featured dish, I was informed that they had run out of portobello mushrooms. The waitress, Cybil, said that it was one of their most popular dishes. I don't understand how a restaurant can advertise a popular dish, then run out at 8 p.m. on Friday. Isn't this one of their busiest nights? Shouldn't they be prepared?

I ordered a stuffed eggplant, instead, and it was good, though I kept thinking throughout the meal about the missing portobello. My wife ordered a bowl of butternut squash soup. It was perhaps the best bowl of soup I've ever tasted. The soup made our day.

This restaurant has about a dozen tables inside, and a few more outside. When we arrived, there were patrons at perhaps five tables. Yet it took us 45 minutes to get our entrees.

The waitress suggested that when we come again that we let them know a day in advance so they have enough portobellos. I think that is ridiculous. It is the duty of the chef to be prepared. As I stated above, it wasn't as if the restaurant was full. It was a slow night, and they ran out of their featured entree.

So a mixed review on this one. Slow service, poor preparation, but excellent soup and bread.

BJs Ice Cream
Florence

BJs makes their own 14.2% butterfat ice cream, and this place is worth going to. We've been to the location in Old Town Florence down by the river, but prefer the original location on Highway 101.

Hmmm, favorite flavors? I haven't tried them all yet, but the Bing Cherry, Oregon Trail and Licorice are near the top.

Nature's Corner
Florence

My wife picked up one of those restaurant coupon books at a tax seminar in Coos Bay yesterday, so we decided to try a new restaurant on the way home.

The book listed a half dozen restaurants in Florence along with descriptions of their menu.

Nature's Corner, on the ocean side of U.S. 101 just north of the bridge, is in an odd-shaped corner of a motel. It is not just a restaurant; it is also a natural food store.

For a small restaurant, Nature's Corner has a big menu. We both easily found entrees, and the coupon paid for one of them.

Along with vegetarian and vegan entrees, they also have organic meats. We were both satisfied with our meals, and feel that we now have a good restaurant we are both happy with in Florence.

Our considerate waitress was Cindy, but the whole staff was friendly.

Sushi Domo

Hands down, the best sushi in Eugene is at Sushi Domo. Located on the west side of Delta Oaks Shopping Center, it has at least 20 vegetarian rolls.

Most people think that sushi is raw fish, and you can get raw fish sushi here, but sushi is simply a rice roll, sometimes wrapped in nori (a seaweed), with whatever ingredients you order.

I had inari, arbor maki and magic maki. Their menu includes a glossary(!) and a list of ingredients.

We sat at the sushi bar, really the only way to eat sushi, and watched the chefs prepare each order.

We highly recommend Sushi Domo.

Ocean Sky

I hadn't been to this restaurant on Chambers near 18th in nearly a decade. The last time I was there, they didn't have much for vegetarians, and since I vote with my wallet, I stayed away.

A group of us who used to work at the old HMT factory gathered there for a late lunch. I mentioned to the waitress, Annie, that I was a vegetarian, and she made sure that I had plenty of good food. She even wrote "No Meat" on my bill, and circled it.

I especially liked the Vegetarian Pot Stickers and the Veggie Spring Rolls. Needless to say, I'll be returning to Ocean Sky, and I'll be requesting Annie.

Ring of Fire

Vegetarians and vegans beware! Ring of Fire uses fish oil as a base in most of their dishes without listing it on their menu.

We went there, located on W. 11th and Chambers in Eugene, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the day we met, July 5, 1981.

I had ordered a soup with a coconut milk base. The menu lists ingredients. Most of their menu items offer a choice of tofu, chicken or beef. My soup listed all vegetarian ingredients.

The soup had an odd taste. I questioned the waiter, and he listed some of the spices, then mentioned the fish oil base. I was horrified!

How dare any restaurant do that? What about people who are allergic to fish? There was no indication anywhere on the menu that most of the dishes contain this fish oil. The waiter said that it was like a secret ingredient in most of the dishes, and that he had had previous complaints, but that Ring of Fire had not changed its menu to indicate the fish oil ingredient. I wonder if Ring of Fire's insurance company knows that they don't list ingredients?

I vote with my dollars, and Ring of Fire will not get my dollars again until they change their menu to notify vegans and vegetarians about their secret ingredient.

Pearl Street
Ice Cream Parlor

This small, friendly, family owned and operated restaurant at the corner of Pearl and 13th in Eugene has been a staple of ours for many years.

I order the garden burger and a salad with dressing on the side. My wife usually orders the chicken strips. And we often get ice cream. They serve Umpqua Ice Cream, which is one of the best tasting brands in Oregon.

On your birthday, ask for your free birthday sundae!

If you're in a hurry, remember this place, because the service is always fast and friendly.

Highly recommended!

[Unfortunately, Pearl Street is no longer in business.]

Lotus Garden

We first discovered this vegetarian Chinese restaurant about five years ago.

The Lotus Garden Vegetarian Restaurant is religion-based, so there is no doubt as to the food quality and pureness.

We have never been disappointed with the food or the service. Food is a little cheaper (and portions smaller) at lunchtime. During busy evenings, there is sometimes a wait for entrees, but it's always worth the wait.

Our favorites are the Sweet & Sour Nuggets and the Lotus Delite.

Highly recommended!

Olive Garden

Part 1

We've been to a few Olive Gardens through the years, and had gone to the one in Eugene near Valley River Center every couple of years.

We went recently, and had a waiter named Chris. I always ask for a pitcher of water (see my article on water) brought to my table. He refused! He said that he would be around frequently to fill our water glasses.

He wasn't. The entrees were delivered by another waiter, and I had no water to drink with my food. We got water once from another waiter, but spent most of the meal without water.

One of my chair massage clients at Saturday Market mentioned that she was a waitress at the Olive Garden, and promised me that if we returned there that she would make our visit special. So that night we tried the Olive Garden again, and requested Betsy as our waitress.

There was a long wait, as it was prom night, but Betsy delivered as promised. She left a pitcher of water on the table, but returned often and filled our glasses many times. Both the food and the service were outstanding!

The manager, A.J., came to our table and apologized for the previous poor service. He offered to pay for one of our entrees! When we saw the bill, we saw that he paid for the more expensive of the two entrees.

Thanks to Betsy and A.J., we will be returning to the Olive Garden.

Part 2

We have gone back to the Olive Garden in Eugene several times. Last night Stephanie was our waitress. We received excellent service and the food was great. After the meal, I told her about our previous experiences there and that I write about our restaurant experiences in my blog. She asked if we were the ones whose story was posted on their bulletin board for several months. Not only did I write here, I also went to the Olive Garden website & made a customer comment about our bad and good service. Apparently both Betsy & A.J. got commendations as a result of my comments.

Part 3

Twenty-five years ago today, on December 4, 1981, aboard the Oceania, a floating restaurant in Honolulu harbor, I asked Loretta Dang to marry me. Now married 23+ years, we celebrated with a lunch at the Olive Garden Restaurant in Eugene. I've written here before about the bad and good experiences at this restaurant. Manager A.J. always greets us now when we are in the restaurant. Our favorite waitress, Betsy, has moved on. By chance, we found Stephanie, a 21-year-old cutie who has served us on several occasions. We requested Stephanie today, and received excellent service once again. She told us that if she wasn't there, that we could request her sister Amber or another server, Brittain, and that both of them are good servers. At the end of the meal, Stephanie told us that because we were regular customers celebrating a special occasion, the meal was on her! We were stunned. This has never happened to us before. We just wanted you to know that the Olive Garden has a special family of employees, and we are delighted to be their customers.

Chapalas

Another of my chair massage clients at Saturday Market is a waitress at Chapalas, a Mexican restaurant at Oakway Center in Eugene. When I found out that she was a waitress, I told her about my water experiences at the Olive Garden, and she invited me to come to her restaurant.

Candy greeted my wife and I at the restaurant with a hug. In all my years of going to restaurants, that's the first time a waitress has hugged me. I liked that and think it should be a tradition! lol

Without asking, she brought a pitcher of water to the table. The food and service were excellent. Thanks, Candy.

The Landmark
Yachats

We went to Yachats, on the Oregon coast, for the 4th of July. One of my massage clients has a home there, and offered it to me for a few days vacation from Eugene.

Monday night we went to The Landmark, which according to their menu has been there since 1911.

The food and service were excellent, and the view looking out over the bay was spectacular. There was even a whale breaching a couple of hundred yards off shore!

OUT OF MY MIND

Miscellaneous Essays
from the Mind of
Robert Bike

(an occasional blog,
a rare restaurant review,
daily tweets)

Trust

In life we meet up with all kinds of people. In your life you've probably met people you should have trusted, but didn't for some reason. And you've probably trusted people against your better judgment.

This week a con artist entered the life of someone I care about. He called himself Abi Geburah, though he also uses other aliases, including Sean Patrick, Sean Barrett, and Turk Patrick. He had an interesting accent: part Australian, part Irish. He said he was half Turkish, half Irish. He was all bull. He claimed to be a businessman, 31, friendly, all talk. And he left town with my friend's car, phone and credit card. The police are involved, of course, but the car is gone and so is my friend's trust.

If you do an internet search for Abi Geburah, you'll find this photo and an article about his $1.5m investment in an internet company. This is more bull. He's a liar and a thief.

Abi, I gave you my business card. If you truly want to learn about life and reach your true potential, not that of a criminal, call me.

Everyone else, look for this man. See the distinctive tattoo on his hand. It's not a spiritual tattoo. It's the mark of a con man. On December 10, 2012, he was spotted in Seattle. If you spot him, contact the police. Thanks.

Note: On June 15, 2015, I received a cease-and-desist order to remove the photo that appeared above. I removed the photo. The text is all mine, and copyrighted by me.

"Love all. Trust a few. Do wrong to none."—William Shakespeare

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Discrimination

Discrimination is the power of making fine distinctions. It is the art of decision-making.

You are constantly faced with making choices. It is time to start making choices that will lead to your enlightenment. Which choices help you? Which choices hurt you?

Gurumayi Chidvilisananda once talked about how to make decisions. She said to look for the love. If you're trying to decide between chocolate and strawberry, there's no difference in love, so it doesn't really matter. But if you're trying to decide to break up with someone, or trying to decide on one job over another, or thinking whether to watch TV or read a book, there may be a love factor. Always make the most loving choice.

Be picky. Set your standards high. Don't settle for less when you can have more. These are messages that will help you to live a better life.

Be really careful about what you allow into your mind. To make this life filled with self-love, self-acceptance, and success, decide right now that you'll do everything in your power to fill your mind with good information.

No more reading emails that might have something in it somebody tells you that you need to see. No more watching violent news that leaves you feeling helpless or afraid. Forget about the celebrity news that makes you feel like everyone else is living a great life. No more gossiping or listening to gossip.

Stop listening to the latest drama story at work or school. Stop listening to the friend who's been complaining about the same thing for years. It's exhausting and it's bringing you down.

It's time to be careful - really, really careful.

Resolve to do things that fill your mind with exciting new ideas, inspirational messages that motivate you to act, or wisdom that touches your soul in the best of all ways.

Connect - Take a workshop, attend a lecture, or enroll in a course that will stretch you, inspire you, and connect you with like-minded people whose good vibes will rub off on you. You become like the people you hang around with.

Listen - Buy or rent audiobooks that fill your mind with good information, that give you a chance to think, get motivated, and change your life for the better.

Read - Take a good book to lunch rather than a friend who's made "woe is me" his or her personal motto. Keep an inspirational book by your bed. Use daily routines like washing dishes or brushing your teeth as opportunities for "feel-good" breaks.

Watch - Tune out the latest reality show and tune into public television or radio.

Your good life starts with good thoughts. Start thinking good thoughts.

Discriminate in what you allow into your mind.

“Success isn't a result of spontaneous combustion. You must set yourself on fire.”—Arnold Glasow

Saturday, January 29, 2011

Google It!

It seems like people are always asking me questions like I know everything. I don't know quite everything yet, but I do know how to get answers quickly. I work mostly at home, and do a lot of research in my home office. My computer is usually on, and I have a toolbar with a Google search box that sits on my computer screen no matter what program I'm using. So if someone asks a question that I don't know, I can usually Google the query and get an answer in seconds. Sometimes when I'm busy, I ask the caller to Google it themselves. While most people nowadays know how to use a computer, and most know how to get to Google, most people don't know how to use Google to get full use out of it.

First, either use a toolbar like I do, or point your browser to www.google.com. Type up to ten words you want to search for and hit Enter.

Here are some helpful hints to get the most from your Google experience.

1. Use the singular form of the words.
   
2. Capitalization doesn't matter.
   
3. Put the most important word first.
   
4. Google ignores little common words and all punctuation except quote marks, hyphens and apostrophes.
   
5. Enclose exact wording in quotes, "Freeport Illinois" "Abraham Lincoln".
   
6. At the bottom of each search page is a link to "Search Within Results". Use this to narrow your results.
   
7. Google assumes you want all the words you type. If you want all listings of Freeport, Illinois or Abraham Lincoln, type "Freeport Illinois" OR "Abraham Lincoln". If you want one term and any of several other terms, use parenthesis, debate ("Stephen Douglas" OR "Abraham Lincoln").
   
8. Use the minus sign to eliminate results. Let's say you are doing research on the different types of spears, and you type in spears, you'll get a few results about the weapon, but 56,000,000 results are going to be about Britney. To remove her from the results, type spears -britney.
   
9. If a common word is necessary, put a plus + in front of the term +the secret, or enclose the phrase in quotes: "the secret".
   
10. For a quick result, use the "I'm Feeling Lucky" button which takes you directly to the first result instead of the results page.
    
11. Use an asterisk * for a full-word wildcard. An asterisk won't work for a partial word. This can get you around the ten word limit because the asterisk doesn't count as a word. "Four score * seven years ago * fathers * forth * * continent * new nation"
    
12. Wrap your mind around this one: Google shows answers results, not questions results. If you ask Google a question (Where were the Lincoln-Douglas debates held?), it will show you sites where the question was asked. If you put your query into an answer using the asterisk for the answer you are seeking, Google will give you good results. ("lincoln douglas debate * * illinois")
    
13. Google lists the results from most relevant to least relevant.
    
14. I usually change the Preferences (to the right of the search box) for my needs.
    
    • Interface language is English, though Elmer Fudd is fun.
      
    • Search language is English (I can't read the French, German and Russian pages, so why include them in the results?)
      
    • Do not filter my results. The filters don't work well anyway, so why eliminate the result you may need?
      
    • Display 100 results per page. If you only look at the first ten, you may be missing the real answer to your query.
      
    • Open search results in a new window. I rarely find what I'm looking for in a single web page, so why keep going back & reopening the search page when you can leave it open?
15. At the top of a results page there are links for the Web, Images, Video, News, Maps, and More... Click on more and you get more choices, Blogs, Books, Froogle, Groups, Patents and even more>>, which leads to another page with at least 50 more links. Google is an enormously wealthy company that makes its money on advertising on the results pages with links to relevant sites. Google gives away lots of neat stuff: an on-line email service (GMail), a free photo program (Picasa) and lots, lots more. They want you to keep coming back. Wondering what Stephen Douglas looked like, look for him in Images. Wondering who Britney Spears is? Google her in Video. The same search terms work in Web, Images, Video, News. Check out the maps with their satellite feature. See what your house looks like from orbit.
    
16. Google's links at the bottom of the page are self-explanatory. For more help with how to use Google, click on Search Tips.

    Extra Google tricks:
    

17. Definitions: Type define term, and then press Enter, as in define breast cancer. The definition will appear first, followed by links to helpful pages about breast cancer. If you have safe search turned on, you will get filtered results, because someone has decided that the term breast is obscene. If you want a list of definitions and no other results, type in define followed by a colon and your terms, with no spaces on either side of the colon define:breast cancer.
    Want a definition of a foreign word? Type define:moulin and go to the bottom of the page to select All Languages. Google Definitions aren't just English-only, either. If you ask the site to define a multilingual word like "rouge" for example, and then click "all languages," you get definitions for what the word means in English, French, and German all on the same results page.
    
18. Calculator: Use the blank Google search box as a calculator. Just enter an equation, like 8+7, press Enter to get 15. Use the minus - to subtract, * to multiply and / to divide. Combine them with parenthesis, 8*(2+5). Use ^ to raise a number to a power, 2^3 (2 cubed is 8). For a square root, sqrt(81). Use the search box to perform unit conversions, like this: half a cup in tablespoons or kilometers in 10 miles. For percentages, 20% of 18.71. Go to this non-Google site googleguide.com/calculator.html to learn how to do more advanced math with Google, like logarithms and trigonometry. Google's official help site, google.com/help/calculator.html is incomplete. An alternative to Google's calculator, is Soople.
    
19. Phonebook: I never use the phone book at home anymore. Google has a better phonebook service, letting you look up a phone number and address (with map) for residential listings. Type phonebook: name city state, or phonebook: name area code, or phonebook: name ZIP code. For business listing, type the company name with city and state or Zip code.
    For a reverse listing, type an area code and phone number (business or residential) to get the name and address.
    To get a page of phonebook listings, type the word phonebook followed by a colon, then a space, and then the name and state you want to look up phonebook: bike oregon lists my wife and I with my cellphone number. The phonebook listings seem to max out at around 600 results, so if you're looking for a common name, add the city or a first name or first initial. Not getting results? Try 411.com, AnyWho.com and Switchboard.com.
    
20. Package tracking: tracking number
    
21. Patent number: patent number
    
22. Flying? airline flight number
    
23. Buying a used car? Type the VIN usually visible on the dash looking through the driver's side windshield.
    
24. Weather: weather city state
    
25. Movies: movies city state

    Non-Google
    

26. Looking for a particular website that isn't there anymore? The Wayback Machine is a searchable archive. It keeps track of Web sites forever (85,000,000,000 pages so far).
    
27. Google doesn't cluster results. Clustering is a hugely useful feature in which a search engine groups results by topic. Vivisimo used to cluster results, until they got bought out by IBM.
    
28. To find a person's email address, try Meta, a German website. Near the bottom of the page, click on UnisUSA to include US results.
    
29. To find out what an acronym stands for, go to Acronym Finder.
    
30. Still searching? Try ask.com (formerly askjeeves and Teoma), ChaCha, Yahoo search, MSN search, ResourceShelf.com, Clusty, Dogpile, or Mama. Want a search engine that doesn't track your habits? Dry duckduckgo.com.

"The answer is never the answer. What's really interesting is the mystery. If you seek the mystery instead of the answer, you'll always be seeking. I've never seen anybody really find the answer - they think they have, so they stop thinking. The need for mystery is greater than the need for an answer."—Ken Kesey

Monday, April 2, 2007 (updated website links May 1, 2013)

Publicity

Olga Carlisle, a feature writer for my hometown newspaper, the Freeport Journal-Standard, in Freeport, Illinois, wrote an article about this website. I contacted her in December, directing her to some of the features on this website, thinking that it might be interesting to some of her readers. The article generated phone calls and emails from old friends, acquaintances, and a number of people I've never met, but for whom something on this site touched an old memory.

I've been contemplating over this last weekend why I've gone so public with my life. In 1993 I had a revelation that I was to "follow the healing path" and that eventually I would teach. I've spent much of the time since then healing myself and reaching out to others.

I left Freeport in the 70s, and returned just a few times to visit relatives or attend funerals. Most people either didn't know where I went when I left or heard that I was living somewhere in Hawaii. Now, suddenly, I've popped up with a lot of publicity.

Gee, I could really feed my ego with all the praise I've gotten for putting so much interesting info on this site, but I want you to understand that that is not the reason that I've gone public with my personal life and with all the info. I did this so that I can say to you, "Wake up!" Life isn't about struggle, nor is it about our work and accomplishments, nor is it about all the things that consume most of our daily lives. Life is about taking care of each other, about building a personal relationship with God, and about healing ourselves.

I'm not going to preach to you. Choose your own religion, your own path, and live your own life. You have this wonderful machine that you reside in, your body; and you have this wonderful planet to live on; and you have been given gifts and tools to use while you're here. Appreciate them, use them, honor those who aid you, forgive those who offend you, and be thankful for all that has come to you. Work hard to improve yourself and to help others.

And enjoy the rest of this website.

"Every act of conscious learning requires the willingness to suffer an injury to one's self-esteem. That is why young children, before they are aware of their own self-importance, learn so easily."— Thomas Szasz

Monday, January 22, 2007

Taxes Simplified

A friend recently sent me one of those essays that have been floating around the internet for years, an analogy about our taxes. The various economists and professors this essay has been attributed to have all denied writing it. Here is what the friend sent, and what follows is my reply.

Taxes ! When explained like this, it is much easier to understand.

Taxing the People
Sometimes politicians, journalists and the liberal left exclaim; "It's just a tax cut for the rich!" and it is just accepted to be fact. But what does that really mean? Just in case you are not completely clear on this issue, I hope the following will help. Please read it carefully.

Let's put tax cuts in terms everyone can understand. Suppose that every day, ten men go out for dinner and the bill for all ten comes to $100. If they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would go something like this:
* The first four men (the poorest) would pay nothing.
* The fifth would pay $1
* The sixth would pay $3
* The seventh would pay $7
* The eighth would pay $12
* The ninth would pay $18
* The tenth man (the richest) would pay $59

So, that's what they decided to do. The ten men ate dinner in the restaurant every day and seemed quite happy with the arrangement, until one day, the owner threw them a curve. "Since you are all such good customers," he said, "I'm going to reduce the cost of your daily meal by $20." Dinner for the ten now cost just $80.

The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes so the first four men were unaffected. They would still eat for free. But what about the other six men - the paying customers? How could they divide the $20 windfall so that everyone would get his "fair share?"

They realized that $20 divided by six is $3.33. But if they subtracted that from everybody's share, then the fifth man and the sixth man would each end up being paid to eat their meal.

So, the restaurant owner suggested:
* The fifth man, like the first four, now paid nothing (100% savings)
* The sixth now paid $2 instead of $3 (33% savings)
* The seventh now paid $5 instead of $7 (28% savings)
* The eighth now paid $9 instead of $12 (25% savings)
* The ninth now paid $14 instead of $18 (22% savings)
* The tenth now paid $49 instead of $59 (16% savings, the least proportionate savings)

Each of the six was better off than before. And the first four continued to eat for free. But once outside the restaurant, the men began to compare their savings:

"I only got a dollar out of the $20," declared the sixth man. He pointed to the tenth man, "but he got $10!"

"Yeah, that's right," exclaimed the fifth man. "I only saved a dollar, too. It's unfair that he got ten times more than me!"

"That's true!!" shouted the seventh man. "Why should he get $10 back when I got only two? The wealthy get all the breaks!"

"Wait a minute," yelled the first four men in unison. "We didn't get anything at all. The system exploits the poor!"

The first nine men surrounded the tenth and beat him up. The next night the tenth man didn't show up for dinner, so the nine sat down and ate without him. But when it came time to pay the bill, they discovered something important. They didn't have enough money between all of them for even half of the bill!

And that, boys and girls, journalists and college professors, is how our tax system works. The people who pay the highest taxes get the most benefit from a tax reduction. Tax them too much, attack them for being wealthy, and they just may not show up anymore. In fact, they might start eating overseas where the atmosphere is somewhat friendlier.

David R. Kamerschen, Ph.D.
Professor of Economics
University of Georgia

Look closely at the demeaning language used: "boys and girls, journalists and college professors". This is typical language from writers who are trying to make a point with a meaningless analogy. The right talks about the liberal media and liberal colleges, while the media is dominated by conservative owners and conservative commentators, and most colleges have a good mixture of liberals, conservatives and libertarians.

Here is my reply to my friend:

I have to respond to this one. It's just too juicy. This is one of those things that has been roaming the internet for at least five years, and the person it's attributed to at the bottom denies he wrote it.

This is an example of bad logic. The story, while interesting, really has nothing to do with our tax system.

In 2000, before Bush's big tax cuts for the rich, IRS data shows that the richest 400 taxpayers paid 27% of their income in federal, state, and local taxes. On average, these 400 taxpayers each had taxable income of $151 million. All other taxpayers had average taxable income of only $34,600, and yet their tax burden was 40%.

Corporations get it even better. The largest corporations pay little or no taxes. Wal-Mart, with thousands of employees here in Oregon, paid a measly $600 in Oregon income tax. Little old me, with considerably less income, paid a lot more.

Concerned about paying the inheritance tax? You pay nothing if your inheritance is worth less than a million smackeroos. Wealth is concentrated in the hands of a small number of families. The wealthiest 1 percent of households owns roughly 33.4% of the nation's net worth, the top 10% of households owns over 71%, and the bottom 40% of households owns less than 1%.

And how about Social Security taxes? For 2007 the taxed rate is 6.2%. So if you make $50,000 you will pay $3100. But there is a maximum income that you pay on, and for 2007 it is $97,500. So if you make exactly $97,500 in 2007, you will be taxed $6045. Let's say you have a good year and make twice that, or $195,000. You still pay only $6045, and now your tax rate is only 3.1%. And let's say you hit it big in 2007 and make a million bucks, you still only pay $6045, and your tax rate is down to 0.6045%. Someone like Bill Gates or Oprah who makes a billion dollars in a year still pays only $6045 for a rate of 0.0006045%.

By the way, if everyone paid the same 6.2% with no top limit, there would be plenty of money in Social Security forever. In fact, the rate could be dropped significantly if the rich paid their fair share.

Still like the analogy of the dinner?

"There's always somebody who is paid too much, and taxed too little - and it's always somebody else." — Cullen Hightower

Friday, November 17, 2006

Mental Health

Recently I had the privilege of holding a workshop at the University of Oregon at a conference sponsored by the City of Eugene's Human Rights Council. The conference was titled Choice in Mental Health Care as a Human Right, A Vision of Recovery and Success. Was that ever an eye opening experience!

My workshop was on Emotional Freedom Techniques, and how I empower my clients to do their own healing. I spoke, explaining my work, what I do and don't do, then gave several powerful demonstrations on strangers who volunteered to receive my work. I am available to give talks and demonstrations to any group willing to listen. Just email me at , and we can set up a time and place.

At the conference I discovered that I was not the only person used and abused by the psychiatric system. Eugene-based organization MindFreedom International and the Mad Pride Road Show were represented. Just think about that: Mad Pride!

It got me to thinking, just what is mental health, and what is mental illness, and who gets to define it, and who gets to diagnose it. Therein lies the real problem. There are so many variables, so many shades of difference. What may be sanity in our culture is madness in another. A perfectly normal coping behavior, a result of assault or abuse, may be misdiagnosed as a serious mental illness. Misdiagnosis, over-diagnosis and under-diagnosis is common in the mental health field.

An example was given in one workshop where a young woman was first diagnosed as schizophrenic, with Dissociative Identity Disorder added later. Her next practitioner diagnosed her with Panic Disorder with Agoraphobia. One professional said she had average intelligence, the next said she was mentally retarded. The truth was that she had average to above average intelligence, and her coping behavior to severe sexual abuse and as a witness to a murder was misdiagnosed. As far as I can tell, most diagnoses are just guesses, and bad ones at that.

It is time we all begin studying our medical and psychiatric systems. The current movement is mostly made up of people who have been abused by the system. They call themselves "psychiatric survivors," though I prefer to think of myself as a "psychiatric conqueror." I not only was a victim as a child, I not only survived, but I have overcome the system and I am fighting back.

We must not let only so-called "professionals" who are the products of pharmaceutical-sponsored medical and psychology schools decide what is mental illness and who is sane. Currently, if one professional decides that you need to be institutionalized, they can go before a judge and argue that you should be hospitalized for your own good, and most likely your lawyer will agree (though your lawyer is supposed to argue your case before the law, in mental cases they usually side with the prosecution and agree that it is for your own good). You have more rights as a criminal, even as a terrorist, than you do as a suspected mental patient. And if you refuse the powerful mind-altering drugs they prescribe for you, they can keep you indefinitely.

"Insist on yourself; never imitate. Every great man is unique." — Ralph Waldo Emerson

Wednesday, October 25, 2006

Hypocrisy

And another hypocrite bites the dust. Rep. Mark Foley, a Florida Republican congressman, has resigned his seat and entered rehab after it was publicly disclosed that he sent improper electronic messages to 16-year old male pages. As of this morning, five boys have come forward.

Foley was an outspoken critic of nudists, homosexuals, sexual predators and President Clinton. Foley immediately announced through his lawyer that he is not a pedophile, but of course, he doth protest too much, and we all assume that since he lied about the rest, that he probably is a pedophile.

And now it appears that the Republican leadership in congress knew about Foley's behavior for about a year. Foley's seat in the upcoming election was considered safe. He had a huge lead over his Democratic rival and was a shoo-in for reelection. The Republican leadership hid his predatorial actions toward teen boys to protect the Republican majority. Now the entire Republican leadership in congress is in trouble because they obviously put teen boys at risk to a sexual predator to protect their slim majority in congress. That's hypocrisy at its apex.

Foley's escape to an alcohol rehab center is another act of hypocrisy. While he may be an alcoholic, that does not excuse his behavior. Many celebrities assume that by checking themselves into rehab, they are excusing themselves from responsibility. Rehab centers teach responsibility.

Foley carefully crafted his public image, though it was widely known both in Florida and in Washington, D. C. that he was homosexual. Many gay organizations wanted him to run as a gay man. And let's make a clear distinction here. There is nothing wrong with being gay and hiding it. Many gays hide their orientation because of the outright discrimination against gays. It's not the hypocrisy of being a homosexual and criticizing homosexuals that is the problem here. It is Foley's sexual proposals to young boys that is troubling.

Foley voted for President Clinton's impeachment. During President Clinton's scandal with intern Monica Lewinsky, Foley sharply criticized him for his sexual misconduct with the adult female. "It's vile," Foley said in 1998. "It's more sad than anything else — to see someone with such potential throw it all down the drain."

Foley's political career is also down the drain. While he survived rumors of being gay, there is no way anyone will ever elect him to anything after sending explicit emails to teen boys.

Foley was the co-chair of the House Missing & Exploited Children Caucus. He worked closely with America's Most Wanted host John Walsh to "protect" America's youth, while at the same time asking them in instant messages, "Do I make you a little horny?"

There's an important lesson here for all of us. Whenever someone protests loudly, look deeper. Many times those who protest the actions and behaviors of others have the same behavior hidden deep in their secrets. Most of those who strongly protest against homosexuals have had sexual feelings for those of the same sex, but have buried those feelings deeply. People who put others down should always be suspect.

"Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves."—Carl Jung

Tuesday, October 3, 2006

Community Theater

We just got home from seeing Pump Boys and Dinettes at the Actors Cabaret of Eugene. It was a fun, energetic musical. Mark Van Beever as LM and Amanda Fackrell as Rhetta Cupp were especially compelling.

This is the third local community theater play we've seen this year. The last two were Evita and 1776. We try to see several plays every year.

There is probably community theater near you. Support your local arts & go see a play!

"Simply put, music can heal people."—Harry Reid, U.S. Senator

Friday, September 15, 2006

Reunion

I recently returned home from my 40th high school reunion. High school wasn't the happiest of times for me, so I went there with a lot of apprehension. I had gone to my 10th reunion, and was quite disappointed. The same cliques that were present in high school still reigned at the 10th, and I left early, vowing to not go back until the "cliquiness" had disappeared.

So I was pleasantly surprised when I got to the 40th. Not only had the "cliquiness" disappeared, but everyone was genuinely friendly. I felt like I made a lot of new friends out of old acquaintances.

I'm not your average high school returnee. My business is healing. Not just others, but myself as well. So I used my return to heal myself and to offer my services to my classmates and their spouses.

I wasn't popular in high school. I didn't go to the proms. I didn't go out for sports. I didn't do much of anything, except that I may hold my high school record for most days skipped and still graduating with my class!

When I was asked to speak at the 40th reunion, I was somewhat surprised. I thought I would be one of several speakers, but the others made announcements, one recited a couple of original inspirations poems, one sang a couple of songs, and a couple danced. It turned out that I was the "keynote" speaker. And I think that what I said shocked my classmates.

My life is about growth and healing, and I spoke from my heart. I talked about my problems in school, from rheumatic fever and Tourette's Syndrome, to depression and suicide. I spoke about my journey from darkness into the light. And I offered my healing services to those present. About a dozen classmates and spouses took me up on it.

I've put my speech on this site.

Reunions can be traumatic, or they can be a time of healing. Use your time wisely. Live a conscious life. And have fun.

"Do not think of knocking out another person's brains because he differs in opinion from you. It would be as rational to knock yourself on the head because you differ from yourself ten years ago."—Horace Mann

Thursday, August 24, 2006

The Middle East Explained

On last Sunday's Face the Nation, Bob Schieffer told the old story about the frog and the scorpion. The scorpion wanted to travel to the opposite side of the river, but the frog didn't want to take him because he didn't want to get stung. The scorpion promised the frog that he wouldn't sting him, so the frog agreed.

About halfway across the river, the scorpion stung the frog. As the injured frog began to sink into the river, drowning both of them, the frog asked the scorpion why he stung him. The scorpion replied, "Because it's the Middle East."

The joke usually ends with the line, "Because it's my nature," but Mr. Shieffer's ending is really true.

The Middle East shakes out like this: several tribes of people have been fighting for the same real estate since before recorded time. They all probably have some claim to the land, and there's probably no way to sort it out. These tribes have formed alliances with other tribes (and now nations) to aid them in their struggle.

Basically, the Jews (a combination of several tribes) now control the country known as Israel. The Palestinians, dominated by Muslims, control most of the surrounding territory for several hundred to several thousand miles in most directions.

Israel became an independent state in 1948. Most of the surrounding peoples and countries have a stated goal that Israel be destroyed. Israel just wants to exist peacefully. There have been several outright wars, and pretty much a continuous series of terrorist attacks, missile attacks and skirmishes.

Recently, Israel agreed to withdraw troops from the Gaza Strip, which they had held for a number of years. They tore down homes of Israeli settlers in the area, and forced their own people out. The Palestinians should have rejoiced and set about building a place for their people to live. Instead they moved in missiles and used the area to attack Israel.

The Israelis also removed troops from southern Lebanon, and in a multilateral treaty, were promised that the Lebanese army would control the area. Instead, Hamas, a terrorist group, moved their troops in, and bolstered with munitions from some nearby countries, also began firing missiles into Israel.

The latest battles were triggered by a kidnapping of some Israeli soldiers. The Israelis countered with a long-planned attack on terrorists in southern Lebanon and the Gaza Strip. Lebanon is once again at war, Israel is being hit and is hitting back hard, the Gaza Strip is a dangerous place to live, and it appears that we may be approaching another full-on war in the Middle East.

We hope that diplomacy can find a temporary solution to avoid slippage into World War Three.

As Rodney King said, "Why can't we all just get along?"

"To conquer fear is the beginning of wisdom."—Bertrand Russell

Friday, July 21, 2006

Kip Kinkel

As most of you know, I work as a healer. I teach people to heal their own bodies, minds and spirits.

I give my clients anonymity and confidentiality, so I am going to tell the following story following my own guidelines.

A client came to me this past week suffering from multiple disorders. She originally came for a massage, but I quickly realized that whatever I did physically was only going to help temporarily, and I wanted to give her a longer-lasting healing.

She was in the Thurston High School cafeteria on May 21, 1998. She heard gunfire and thought it was a prank in conjunction with the student body elections. Then she heard screaming, and someone behind her told her to run. She froze. Students in front of her began diving to the floor. Kip Kinkel turned the gun in her direction, and fired. The student in front of her was struck, and fell.

Someone pushed her hard toward the door. She ran out, got a little ways, and turned back. The student who had been in front of her had also run out, but he staggered to the wall, leaned back against it, and slid to the ground. A big smear of blood remained on the wall. One part of her wanted to go back to comfort him, but someone else told her to run, so she ran.

Of course, she did the right thing. Inside the cafeteria, students were bleeding and dying. Those who escaped, lived. Some heroic students tackled Kip Kinkel and disarmed him. He had killed his parents the night before. At the school, he fired 50 rounds with a semiautomatic weapon, killing two and wounding 25. He was later sentenced to 111 years in prison with no chance of parole.

I helped my client work on issues of guilt, and the horror she witnessed that day, but that is not what I wanted to write about today.

In my healing practice, I work with people who have been hurt by other people. Kip didn't just wound 25 that day, he wounded hundreds, perhaps even thousands. My client, a peripheral witness to the shooting, was affected deeply, as was her family. All the students, teachers, support staff and all their families changed that day. The entire community was changed.

Almost daily I work with victims of rape, kidnapping, attempted murder and far too many abused children who have grown up and continue to suffer as adults.

I keep asking myself, "Why?" Why do spouses hurt each other? What drives men to abuse young girls? And older girls to abuse young boys? There appears to be no limit to the cruelty we inflict on each other.

We cause each other to suffer. Is this all part of God's plan? Every day, each of us makes choices. Just as we choose to abuse, we can choose to heal. We can choose to make healthy, loving, life-giving choices.

Each abuser, according to experts, has thought about it a lot before they have acted. They have planned it out, including the language they will use with their victims to try to keep them from telling. Be aware of your thought patterns.

Even though I don't expect you, dear reader, to be anything like Kip Kinkel or a rapist or a predator, you do make decisions every day that affect others, especially those who love you the most. Please make those decisions with utmost care. Be loving. Be generous. Be thoughtful.

"As the sun makes ice melt, kindness causes misunderstanding, mistrust, and hostility to evaporate." — Albert Schweitzer

Sunday, June 25, 2006

Go and check your oil, or have someone do it for you.

"If at first you don't succeed, keep sucking until you do succeed. Nyuk, nyuk, nyuk." — Curly of the Three Stooges

Friday, June 23, 2006

Terrorism

For rational human beings, there is never a good reason for terrorism. Or war, hatred, greed or any of the myriad things that people do to each other.

In the minds of the terrorists, however, they are being patriotic and, they wrongly believe, faithful to their religion. The revolutionary rebels of 1776 are now considered patriots, but to the British at the time, they were also considered terrorists, though I don't think that particular word was used.

Muslims consider the soil of their countries to be holy, yet the United States defiles their holy lands with military bases in Iraq, Turkey, Kuwait, Afghanistan, Bahrain and Qatar, to name a few. We are in a period of time where the U.S. has supreme military power, and we have not used that power wisely. The Romans had bases in many countries, and it was good for Rome, but not necessarily good for the occupied countries. The sun never set on the British Empire, but the British also abused their power, most notably in India.

I'm not an isolationist. I think that we are the best country on earth and have the potential to do great things for the world, but because we have misused our power and our goodwill, the oppressed are rising up against us, and we label it terrorism.

I think that the only way we can defeat our enemy and the terrorism they use to reach their goals, is to understand why they are doing what they are doing.

They didn't grow up wanting to become suicide bombers. We humans are all idealistic in our youth. We are all open to new ideas, and many of us are swayed to radical beliefs. If we can remove the reasons they hate us, we can win the war on terrorism.

Unfortunately, we appear to be involved in the middle east mainly to protect our oil interests. We protect the world's supply of oil as police on the high seas. Our bases in most of the above countries were put in places to provide support for the protection of the movement of oil. So once again, a world problem comes down to what each of us can do to reduce our need for oil. I don't think that there is an easy solution, and perhaps there is no solution as long as the middle east has oil and we need oil.

"Everything that is impossible remains to be accomplished." — Jules Verne

Friday, June 16, 2006

Saving the World

I had hoped that our generation would be the ones to stop the corruption and have sensible government. But I think it has gotten worse.

I don't think that it is hopeless, but we need strong leaders who understand that health care is a right, not a privilege; that if we educate our young, we can be leaders in the world; that those who use terrorism against us do it for (in their minds) good reasons, that we have been "Ugly Americans" with our foreign aid, with our military, and with our corporations.

Hey, make me world dictator and I'll solve the world's problems. I'll direct health care where it's needed, give equal education to all the world, feed the hungry, and teach everyone to care for each other. Barring me becoming world dictator, I think we're in for a few more centuries of war, famine, pestilence and corruption.

Yes, I have ideas on how to extricate ourselves from corruption, but it won't be easy.

Since none of us can change the world, we have to work on ourselves. Each of us can be more loving, more giving, more caring. We can direct our personal resources to those in need. We can work on our own anger, our depression, our pain, our frustration, our self-loathing, our selfishness, our pessimism, our greed. Our attitude can change us and those around us. Our love can transform those whose lives are lacking in love. Each of us is faced with choices every waking minute. Only we can change our attitudes. Only we can make loving choices. Choose to love. Choose to be positive. Choose to be an optimist. Perhaps the whole world won't change, but we can change our personal world, and be a positive influence on those around us.

"The note we end on is and must be the note of inexhaustible possibility and hope." — Evelyn Underhill

Wednesday, June 14, 2006

Honoring Caretakers

Last fall my mother-in-law was diagnosed with terminal cancer. I decided to become her primary caregiver. I shut down my business, informing my clients what was happening.

We kept her in our home, through all the trials, multiple medicines, visits from relatives, and all the other myriad things we had to do for her.

When she passed away in October, we were with her, holding her hand.

I considered it an honor to care for her. Even though, while going through it, I questioned whether I had made the right decision, I persisted. I set up a doorbell that she could ring whenever she needed help or wanted to talk to someone. I always responded immediately. What could have been a stress-filled situation, was instead a loving, caring end of life for her.

I honor those who care for their family members. While it seems difficult now, it is all worth it. I consider the time I spent caring for my mother-in-law the most memorable, most powerful period of my life. I believe that on judgment day, despite whatever else we do in our lives, we will be judged by how we treat those closest to us, our parents, our children, our siblings, and our spouses.

"There is a transcendent power in example. We reform others unconsciously when we walk uprightly." — Anne Sophie Swetchine

Tuesday, June 13, 2006

Robert's Succinct Guide to Las Vegas

My wife & I have been to Las Vegas four times, and here is what we have learned.

Two days isn't long enough. Seven days is too long. Four days is just about right.

At the airport, as soon as you arrive, pick up tourist brochures. Read through them & find coupons. Lots of 2 for 1 coupons, show coupons, restaurant coupons, gambling coupons, Grand Canyon coupons.

Rent a car. The buses are hot. Vegas is very, very hot. With a car you can go visit the dam, the lake, distant casinos, supermarkets, etc., in air-conditioned comfort.

The casinos haven't learned the lessons about smoking yet. If you must gamble, hold your breath. When you leave, all your clothes will smell like smoke.

Spend your money on shows. Cirque de Soleil has at least four shows ongoing at various casinos. Just pick one. They are all fabulous.

Dirk Arthur's magic show with big cats at the Tropicana is a great bargain. Look for 2 for 1 coupons. And look for his show about big cats on the Animal Planet channel, "Big Cat Magic".

Lance Burton's magic show at the Monte Carlo is also very good.

And Penn & Teller's magic/comedy act at the Rio is also good. Hmmm. Seems like we've been to a lot of magic shows.

Okay, there's lots and lots of free, nearly free or cheap things to do, also.

Take the elevator to the top of the ½ scale Eiffel Tower.

Ride a Gondola at the Venetian & have the gondolier sing to you in Italian.

Ride the roller coaster or another scary ride atop the Stratosphere, twice as high as the Space Needle in Seattle. No, really, there is a roller coaster on top of this very, very tall tower!

Walk through the hotels. There are so many themes. Each one is a wonder. Together, it is overwhelming and obnoxious, but individually, they are fun to walk through.

Find the world's largest chocolate fountain (over 2 tons of chocolate) at the Bellagio.

Walk through the Shark Reef at the Mandalay, and pet a shark (they are really rough).

Tour the dolphin habitat and the Secret Garden at the Mirage.

Watch the dancing fountain in front of the Bellagio.

Watch the Pirate show in front of Treasure Island.

Check out Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas. At night there is a free overhead show.

Like to play Texas No-Limit Hold 'Em? Binyon's Casino, in downtown, has a no-smoking area where you can learn. Buy-ins are only $100.

There used to be really cheap food all over Las Vegas, but they learned that they can take your money in the casinos and at restaurants. But there is still one great buffet at the Californian, in downtown Las Vegas.

Study the architecture of New York, the MGM Grand, Caesar's Palace, the Luxor, and many, many others.

Go find things that most tourists never see. Try a sushi bar. See some showgirls. Take your picture next to the 'Welcome to Las Vegas' sign. Have fun.

And let me know what you find.

"Life is not easy for any of us. But what of that? We must have perseverance and above all confidence in ourselves. We must believe that we are gifted for something, and that this thing, at whatever cost, must be attained." — Marie Curie

Saturday, June 3, 2006

TWEETS
Follow me on Twitter: @vegansuccess
Friend me: facebook.com/vegansuccess

2012 Tweets

2013 Tweets

2014 Tweets

2015 Tweets

July 31
I start my day with love. I live my day with love. I end my day with love. This is why I am happy and peaceful.

July 30
I meditate daily to keep my mind clear and my emotions calm.

July 29
I'm happy because I choose to be happy.

July 28
All life is precious. All people, all animals, our planet. Our time is short. Be kind whenever possible.

July 27
While others get angry or upset or sad, I am patient and allow the natural processes to take place.

July 26
I live an ethical life.

July 24
I am not perfect. I do make mistakes. I learn. I grow. I am.

July 23
I am open, honest and vulnerable. These are my strengths. I grow and learn.

July 20
Giving freely to others brings me grace and peace.

July 19
I actively support live music and the arts.

July 17
I'm different, odd, strange, and unique. I'm ok. I like myself just the way I am.

July 16
Even when people are argumentative or try to cause conflict, I remain calm and peaceful.

July 15
I accept everyone and everything in my life, whether I perceive it as good or bad, as one harmonious whole.

July 14
I am patient, for I know that everything and every person I need will come to me, at just the right time.

July 13
I accept others as they are, rather than judging them by my flawed standards.

July 12
My life is a result of the choices I've made. Which road should I take to reach my goals? http://t.co/swcY3d1U46

July 10
Life is a game. Play it well. http://t.co/IFviNGU6Kp

July 4
Visiting the great emancipator today. http://t.co/jsBY4cYDr5

July 1
I take good care of myself so that I can take better care of others.

June 30
I feel the love of everyone, even those not physically present.

June 28
I start every day with thoughts of love.

June 27
Love always wins.

June 26
I treat everyone equally, with love.

June 25
Forgiveness is not condoning. Forgiveness is liberation. I give up old, limited thinking for new understanding. I forgive all.

June 24
I send love to people who are bigoted, cruel, rude and spiteful. Feelings of hostility and resentment do not serve the planet or myself.

June 23
I am 100% responsible for my life. I refuse the victim role. I respond to life positively and powerfully.

June 22
I communicate lovingly with everyone.

June 21
The more I help others, the more I prosper and grow.

June 20
I choose to be happy, every moment of every day.

June 19
Miracles happen to me every day!

June 18
Affirmations remind me that I am worthy, that I can set and reach goals, and that I have few limits.

June 17
I believe in myself and my abilities.

June 16
An important component of success is knowing when to say no & when to say yes. Know yourself. Be yourself. There will be more opportunities.

June 15
I have clear, written, realistic goals that I work toward every day.

June 14
The things I believe about myself are only thoughts, and I can change my thoughts.

June 13
I love and respect myself, just as I love and respect others.

June 12
I listen to others, and respect their point of view, even when I disagree.

June 11
I live to serve.

June 10
I share my prosperity with others. The more I get, the more I give.

June 9
I am open to more love, more trust, more success, more prosperity, and more healing. I do love, trust, succeed, prosper and heal.

June 8
I am willing to change and to grow. Every moment I accept myself as I am. Every opportunity gives me a chance to learn and change and grow.

June 7
I forgive myself for the harm I've done to others, and I forgive others for the harm they've done to me.

June 6
I strive to make every day the best day of my life.

June 5
Every day I do good things for myself, my community, and our planet.

June 4
I smile at everyone I come in contact with. I speak kind words to clerks, wait staff, and all service personnel in my life.

June 3
I always do the best that I can, in every situation.

June 1
Love shapes my life. I change myself to be more loving, and to attract more loving people into my life.

May 30
Because I am patient, everything I need will come to me in time.

May 29
I am creative. I find creative solutions to problems. Answers to long-standing issues will be revealed to me. I am open to learn.

May 28
I give because I love to give, not because I expect something in return.

May 27
I am grateful for the elders in my life, for they have wisdom, patience and love.

May 26
I am grateful for the young people in my life, for they have energy, enthusiasm, spirit, and love.

May 25
I remember and honor those who came before me. They gave so much so that I can simply live.

May 24
I never fail. I never quit. I either succeed, or I learn and do it other ways until I succeed.

May 23
I pour out my love to all. Everything I need or want is within me.

May 22
I keep my thoughts positive. I think of only what I want to create in my life.

May 21
I make time to exercise, and I take time to relax. I let go of worries so that I am calm and serene. I actively work to be healthy.

May 20
I like, love, respect, accept and honor myself. I act in my own best interest, while respecting others. I am my own best friend.

May 19
I attract to me people who are kind, exciting, caring, accepting, funny, loving and generous.

May 18
I welcome everyone into my life and my home. We are all members of a loving family.

May 17
I create peace in my mind and in my life. I trust my inner wisdom.

May 16
I forgive myself for things I thought I did wrong. I am free from my past. I am creating a loving, successful, powerful life.

May 15
I center my thoughts on what I want to experience. I create my own life.

May 14
I follow my inner guide. My life is a shining example of love, light and bliss.

May 13
I am not a body with a soul. I am spirit, temporarily residing in a body. I am pure love.

May 12
I move past my limited human mind and align myself with the Divine Mind. Everything is possible. Nothing is beyond my reach.

May 11
Positive affirmations help me to grow, be calm, accept, change, and to remember who I am and why I'm here. I love myself and all of you!

May 3
Live your life to the fullest. Don't compare your life to others. Love, laugh, share!

May 2
All the conditions and experiences which affect you are products of your own patterns of thought. Change your thoughts, change your life.

May 1
Everything you perceive and experience originates in your mind.

April 30
It is amazing how different the world will appear to you when you change your outlook toward it.

April 29
Change the way you look at the world, and the world will change. Think positive thoughts. Be optimistic. Expect the best, and it will come.

April 28
Someone else's opinion of you really has nothing to do with you; it does not affect you until you let it affect you.

April 27
Try to please everybody and you will fail. It cannot be done. Work to please yourself. Do things that make you happy.

April 26
If you knew you would succeed at anything you try, what would you do? Why not start now? Your true abilities will astound you!

April 25
Be at peace with your sexuality. Accept yourself for who you are.

April 24
Take time to appreciate nature. Sit outside in the sun. Take a walk in the rain. Grow a beautiful garden.

April 23
Live your truth. Live your joy.

April 22
Save the earth by using fewer resources. Reduce, reuse, recycle. Eat more plants, fewer processed foods. Eat, drink lower on the food chain.

April 21
We are all family, children of Mother Earth. Treat our planet and each other with kindness.

April 20
Healing miracles happen every day. Be open to change your lifestyle as needed to heal your body and emotions.

April 19
We are always connected. We are One. Be happy, for you are whole and complete.

April 18
Be especially nice today. Work to curb your temper. Be kind to everyone.

April 17
You live on a beautiful planet. Take care of it and appreciate the wonder of nature. Feel the joy of living on earth.

April 16
As we age, many of us will be susceptible to Alzheimer's Disease. Here's how to cut your risk in half: http://t.co/mU5yFgzsk7

April 15
Today marks exactly five years that I've been 100% vegan. I'm 67 years old and have never been healthier.

April 14
As we age, we realize that our health is our most important asset. Eat plants. Avoid sugar & processed foods. Exercise. Sleep. Breathe. Be.

April 13
Our bodies are getting older. Treat your body with loving kindness. Eat mostly fruit and vegetables. Drink water. Sleep well. Be healthy!

April 12
Respect and protect your body. Work to stay healthy.

April 11
Make a goal that matters, that inspires you to change. Dig deeper. Really work to become a better person.

April 10
Open your consciousness to receive abundance and fulfillment from all sources.

April 8
Criticism is a learned response. Consciously rewrite your childhood experiences with unconditional love and acceptance.

April 7
Allow yourself to flow with new experiences, new directions, and new changes. Trust in the process.

April 6
Love and accept all. Everyone has something to teach us, but we must be open to learning.

April 5
Do your best, always.

April 4
Don't play the victim role. Take responsibility for your life. Others' opinions of you have nothing to do with who you are.

April 3
Communicate. Ask questions. Express yourself clearly. Don't make assumptions.

April 2
Use the power of your words for good, for truth, and for love.

April 1
Your words have power. Use them with integrity.

March 31
Maintain a positive attitude. Think thoughts that enable you to love and approve of yourself, no matter what you did or what happens to you.

March 30
Your body is a magnificent machine. Be grateful for what it has done for you, and take good care of it.

March 29
Religion & spirituality should never be serious. Laugh, love, feel joy & bliss.. God is light, laughter, love, fun. Be spiritual and light.

March 28
Work to create a world of wisdom, peace and harmony. Surround yourself with love.

March 27
Send loving energy to those in need, areas of the world in conflict, and to our home planet.

March 26
Let yourself go. Have fun. Don't worry about being judged. People will judge anyway, so be yourself. Laugh every day. It's your life!

March 25
Allow yourself to learn from children. They are naturally full of life and joy, and are eager to learn.

March 24
Speak only positive words. Be loving and constructive. Avoid gossip, criticism and sarcasm.

March 23
Allow your mind to expand more each day. The love in your heart is limitless. Express it daily. Expand your mind and your love.

March 22
Choose to be extraordinary.

March 21
When a friend is troubled, listen, give advice if asked, be there for them.

March 20
You are a divine expression of life. You deserve the very best. Cherish yourself, honor yourself, love yourself.

March 19
We were taught fears and limitations. Go beyond. Express your talents and abilities.

March 18
When you replace your negative thoughts with positive thoughts, you gradually become happier, calmer, and more loving.

March 17
Your brain is an awesome organ. Trust in your thinking power. Be innovative and clear-thinking. Express yourself thoughtfully and lovingly.

March 16
Your power comes from the use of your mind. Think empowering and courageous thoughts. You are in charge of what you think. Be positive!

March 14
When speaking with difficult people, remain calm and patient. Speak moderately and lovingly. Don't allow their moods to affect you.

March 13
You get back what you give, in equal or greater measure. So give out as much love as you can, and you will feel the love in return.

March 12
Create wonderful relationships. Communicate from your heart. Allow your love to flow into all areas of your life.

March 11
You define your character through your thoughts, your words, and your actions.

March 10
When you think well of yourself all the time, you become the embodiment of good.

March 9
Whether at work or at play, take frequent breaks to nourish your body, rest your eyes, stretch your muscles, calm your mind.

March 8
Fill your relationships with love, understanding and forgiveness.

March 7
Allow yourself to feel light and free. Put joy and laughter into all your experiences.

March 6
Commit to never-ending improvement.

March 5
Communicate with gentleness, kindness and patience. Remove sarcasm and negativity. Be positive toward all.

March 4
Ask for answers to your difficult questions to be answered as you sleep. Ask for what you want in positive ways.

March 3
Our lives are incredibly complex, yet know that everything you need to know will be revealed to you.

March 2
There is an inexhaustible supply of wisdom in the world that always makes itself available to you when you need it.

March 1
Opportunities are endless. Do what you love and never give up.

February 28
Don't gamble on your success. Plan, prepare, and take action.

February 27
You will be as successful as you set your mind to be. Doubt yourself and fail. Think positive and succeed.

February 26
Don't get stuck in the prison of limited thinking. Free yourself. See the potential good in everything.

February 25
This is an extraordinary time to be alive. Work on being centered and loving no matter what you encounter.

February 24
Work for inner peace through loving yourself, forgiving yourself and others, and releasing resentment.

February 23
Release expectations of what you think you deserve and trust in the goodness of others to fulfill you.

February 22
Life is filled with constant change. Accept change with grace, thankfulness and love.

February 21
Your job is not just a place to earn money. It is an outlet for your creativity and where you learn to solve problems.

February 20
You are a beautiful flower. Allow yourself to blossom.

February 19
You are capable, organized and efficient. You can accomplish anything you want.

February 18
You are emotionally equipped to lead a balanced and harmonious life. Allow the world to fulfill you.

February 17
You are potentially rich in money, time, energy, love, health and creativity. Allow it all to flow to you unrestricted.

February 16
You are adequate to the tasks ahead. Learn what you have to learn, and move forward with confidence.

February 15
Decide what you want; choose how you're going to get there, then do it to the best of your ability.

February 14
Work to provide for yourself for current living expenses and for your future. Don't depend on others. You have what it takes.

February 13
Mother earth provides abundance for all. Accept your share with gratitude.

February 12
Spend your money wisely. Enjoy what you buy. There is enough money in the world for you to be wealthy. Accept your birthright.

February 13
Be open to receiving. Be grateful for what you have. Give freely. What you need and want will come to you.

February 11
You have been provided with what you need and want. Pay your bills with gratitude and love.

February 10
You are worthy. You deserve a good income. You deserve wealth. Don't struggle to achieve it; allow it to come to you easily and naturally.

February 9
The source of your income is within you. Your salary or wages are only a channel. The universe provides what you need and want.

February 8
Your consciousness is the key to the flow of money through your life. Accept that money comes and goes with ease.

February 7
Give. Teach. Befriend. Then give some more.

February 6
Keep loving. Show love in every little way to everyone you meet today, even people you don't like!

February 5
Tell people you love them. It makes them feel good, and it makes you feel even better! The world needs more love. Let's all give love!

February 4
When you control your thoughts, you control your mind. When you control your mind, you control your life.

February 3
Your formed thoughts have great power & influence. When you waste your thoughts in negativity & worry, you negate your positive thoughts..

February 1
Have good understanding. Think well of yourself. Think only good thoughts.

January 31
When you change the way you think about yourself, and not in an egotistical way, you will experience greatness.

January 30
As long as you are going to think, you might as well think great thoughts about yourself and others.

January 29
Always have ideal, sublime thoughts about yourself. Always look well upon others, as well. The power of your thoughts is truly great.

January 28
Consider yourself great. Live that way. In your mind, respect yourself with great joy and great love.

January 27
You do not possess your mind. Your mind creates the sense of who you are.

January 26
Everything you analyze, define, describe, feel for or opine about is only a play of your mind. You are not separate from your mind.

January 25
Your thoughts are the screenplay of the movie of your life.

January 24
How you thing about events, people and things has a profound effect and determines how each will affect you.

January 23
Every thought you think contributes to the matrix of your life.

January 22
Don't underestimate the power of what you are thinking at any moment.

January 21
Understand the power of your mind. Your mind is not insignificant, ordinary or small.

January 20
When you think bad thoughts, you experience agony. When you think good thoughts, you have a happy life. Control your mind. Think positively!

January 19
Here are some of the reasons I don't eat eggs: http://t.co/OihMYKdFAT

January 18
The power of thought is very effective. Where your mind goes is where energy goes. Your mind is creating your play of consciousness.

Robert Bike
January 17
You are one with all, and have the power and freedom to create your life.

January 16
Never think a thought about yourself that you don't want to come true.

January 15
Since your mind creates your world, you must think positive thoughts about others, and especially about yourself.

January 14
Whatever your mind believes is real is experienced as reality. You live in a world of your own thoughts and creations, your own world.

January 13
Every moment of your life is shaped by what you are thinking. Your mind creates your life. You experience what you think.

January 12
People always ask me (and other vegans), where do you get your protein? Here's one answer: http://t.co/Ysv5W9Ksvo

January 11
Be loving toward all.

January 10
Live joyfully, with an open heart.

January 9
Honor and respect all living beings.

January 8
Take these words to heart: May you live an interesting life!

January 7
Be grateful and giving. Give until you feel good.

January 6
Release the anger and pain from your childhood. Accept love and pleasure. Move in the direction of your highest good.

January 5
Why I am a vegan. http://t.co/8LMJVHwKZT

2014 Tweets

December 30
You are as successful as you decide to be. Opportunities are endless. Decide what you want, then go for it!

December 29
World peace begins within. Make choices to be more peaceful with yourself, with others, and with animals.

December 28
Lose yourself in love.

December 27
You deserve to be loved. Act as though you love everyone, and you will receive boundless love in return.

December 26
You deserve to be fulfilled. Release expectations of perfection, and trust that goodness will flow to you.

December 25
Merry Christmas, my friends. You are all wonderful!

December 24
Close the doors on your old pain, fear and unhappiness. Open new doors to solutions and answers.

December 23
Your life changes when you see problems as opportunities for growth.

December 22
Create healthy habits.

December 21
Use your power of touch creatively. Discover, repair, probe, inspect, feel. Think thoughts that allow you to touch with love.

December 20
Meditate often. It will give you inner peace and joy.

December 19
Don't put yourself or others at unnecessary risks. Drive sober and carefully. Invest wisely. Love freely.

December 18
Be a friend to the earth. Recycle. Pick up litter. Plant a tree. Drive less. Garden. Eat more fruits, vegetables and grains.

December 17
Be at peace with your inner being. You are safe, secure and loved.

December 16
Whenever you feel unloved, remember that at your essence, you are pure love.

December 15
You are innately powerful. Feel secure in the knowledge that you can make the correct decisions for your life.

December 14
Be open & receptive to the good in this world. There is nothing beyond your grasp.

December 13
Always do the right thing.

December 12
Don't underestimate your own abilities. You are the one holding yourself back.

December 11
You are a unique, creative person. Express your talents in ways that bring you joy.

December 10
Feel safe in loving yourself.

December 9
If you expect chaos, your life will be chaotic. If you expect peace and joy, you will live a joyous and peaceful life.

December 7
Be open to joy. There are wonderful surprises and prospects in your future.

December 6
Never quit.

December 5
Love your body. Take care of it. Treat it well. Relax and feel how good it feels to be alive!

December 4
Exercise your body regularly for better health. Worked muscles are stronger. Your heart, lung and blood vessels need exercise for longevity.

December 3
Seek inner peace.

December 2
Forgive and release.

December 1
Use the opportunities that you have today to spread happiness and peace.

November 30
The healing energy of Spirit is all powerful, is always present, is always giving light, and is here for you.

November 29
Your body is a wonderful machine. Take care of it for a long, healthy life. Feel and look magnificent!

November 28
Communicate with kindness, gentleness and patience.

November 27
Give thanks, not just today, but every day, for all that you have been given. We are in this together. Love, share, be happy, be thankful.

November 26
Don't get caught up in holiday madness. Take time off, put up your feet, and enjoy the view!

November 25
Be marvelously optimistic!

November 24
Eat plants.

November 23
Love and bless the healers in your life. They have the best intentions.

November 22
Play sports for the fun of it, not for the competition or to knock someone down. Sports are for fitness, balance, coordination, and health.

November 21
Every problem has a solution. You are creative. Find a creative solution.

November 20
Release all old patterns of gossip and criticism. Practice accepting and loving all equally.

November 19
What others say doesn't matter. What matters is how you react. Love and accept yourself as you are.

November 18
Work on yourself. Accept and love everyone. Live in peace. Accept yourself and everyone as they are. We are all doing the best we can.

November 17
Send love to your childhood and teenage you. Mistakes you made were part of your learning process. Mistakes helped you become you.

November 15
Make someone happy today.

November 14
Express your thoughts and emotions freely, honestly and easily. You are loved.

November 13
When facing difficulties, do the best you can. Don't expect perfection from yourself. No one else does. Just be careful and do your best.

November 12
Surround yourself with colors that reflect your natural personal vibrations, which are joyous and peaceful.

November 11
Send love to the world leaders. Let there be peace on earth.

November 10
Be open to receive new insights and new ways of looking at your life.

November 9
We are all one family that supports each of us. Ask for help when you need it. Give help when you can.

November 8
Forgive your parents for any harm they may have inflicted on you. They were doing the best they could. Send them love.

November 7
Thank and bless the adults who raised you, for they were doing the best they could.

November 4
Dump the old patterns of thought that no longer work for you. Change the way you think. Be positive.

November 2
New doors are opening for you. Opportunity is always knocking. You have but to recognize the opportunity, feel confident, and take action.

November 1
Perfection is within you, so you don't have to strive to be perfect. Find that place deep within you that is whole.

October 31
Feel love and respect for those who have taught you. Teachers appear when you need them, and appear in many different roles.

October 30
Ask for what you want in positive ways.

October 29
Love, bless and honor others. Accept their love, their blessings, and the honor they bestow on you.

October 28
Open your consciousness to receive all good. Abundance and fulfillment come from all directions.

October 27
We are One. Do not struggle with comparisons to others, with jealousy, with envy. Love all.

October 25
Keep your living space clean and calm. Think safe and loving thoughts.

October 24
Choose to see yourself as a successful, happy person who lives a life full of wonderful experiences.

October 23
Love yourself. If you cannot think it, look into a mirror and say it to the reflection. Practice loving yourself so you can love others.

October 22
Your work should not be just where you go to earn money. Make it a fulfilling outlet for your knowledge, experience and creativity.

October 21
Look at your life without judging or criticizing yourself. See what you can change. Be open to positive changes.

October 20
Stop trying to live up to an ideal of who you think you should be and just be yourself. Happiness and contentment come from just being.

October 18
Be as eccentric as you want to be, but live with integrity.

October 17
Challenge yourself. If your goals don't scare you, maybe they're not big enough.

October 16
Every lesson learned, every task finished, leads to a higher level of fulfillment and understanding. Seek opportunities to learn and grow.

October 15
Love yourself. Freely express your emotions.Don't trouble yourself over others' reactions to you. Be yourself, love yourself.

October 14
Always be truthful, especially to yourself. Make your speech meaningful. Speak with integrity.

October 13
Positive thoughts and emotions have physical health benefits. They support the function of the immune system. You truly feel better!

October 12
Never fear. Trust the process of life to support and protect you as you change and grow.

October 11
Accept more good into your life every day. Be receptive to new people and new ideas. Be willing to change for the better.

October 10
Begin your day with joy and gratitude. Honor the body you live in.

October 9
No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, show up, and never give up.

October 8
You don't have to be lonely when you're alone. You are an amazing person. Be confident that being you is enough.

October 7
You have the ability to withstand all life's challenges. Be calm as life tests you, knowing that you can master all tests.

October 6
Give children the freedom to grow & express themselves. Allow them to develop their own sense of self. Create a happy family.

October 5
Feel the love & light within you. Let your star burn bright.

October 4
Forgive yourself for your past actions. You were doing the best you could with the knowledge you had. Send love to your past self.

October 3
Motivate, lift, encourage, and inspire others.

October 2
Set an example in the way you work. Be diligent. Fulfill your responsibilities.

October 1
Work to overcome weaknesses and shortcomings.

September 30
In all ways, be wise and mature in your conduct.

September 29
Use your powerful mind to create a happy, successful life with your thinking patterns and feelings.


September 28
Inspire others to have a spirit of love, unity, and work.

September 27
Seek opportunities for service projects in your community.

September 26
Be a free spirit. Be yourself. Be responsible for your own actions.

September 25
If you observe inappropriate behavior or speech, discuss it in a calm, constructive manner.

September 24
Be sensitive to the problems others have.

September 23
Do not criticize others. If correction is necessary, give it constructively, respectfully and privately. This includes children and spouses.

September 22
Eat well, sleep deeply, be strong in your convictions. Everything we have to go through on this journey through life is worth the effort.

September 21
Always be nice to people. Always.

September 20
Find ways to serve others. Work with everyone in a spirit of unity.

September 19
Love and respect all. Look for the good in everyone.

September 18
Time is one of your most precious resources. Use it fully and wisely.

September 17
Language is one of your most powerful tools. Be conscious of how you speak. Strive for humility,dignity, and simplicity in your speech.Replied to 0 times

September 16
Make the effort to be especially friendly today.

September 15
Resentment eats away at you and makes you unhappy. To feel peace and joy, learn to forgive all. Forgive, forgive, forgive.

September 14
Tell people that you love them. You may never get another chance to do so.

September 13
Life is a balance of ambition and patience. Strive for goals, yet let life come to you.

September 12
You must have courage to live your daily life according to your principles. Every decision you make affects who you are & what defines you.

September 11
The meaning of life is to live a life of meaning. Consciously help others. Give. Forgive. Be yourself.

September 10
Release everything from your path that no longer serves you. Have no regrets. Everything you have done has led you to this point.

September 9
Respect what others have to say, and they will respect what you have to say.

September 8
Value the people around you who are friendly, peaceful, dependable and fun, for they give you your quality of life.

September 7
Never stop learning. Never stop growing. You are here to excel and to succeed.

September 6
When you forgive, you can release the pains of your past, and live your life with love.

September 5
Whatever you do today, do it with love.

September 4
Keep your home clean and neat. Make it a warm, peaceful, beautiful haven to return to every day. Fill every room with love.

September 3
Stay calm in tense situations. You will think more clearly and make better decisions.

September 2
Be respectful to others, especially when driving. Be safe and keep others safe with your choices.

September 1
Be grateful for all you have received. Appreciate the miracles in your life.

August 31
Reflect on the magnificence of your life. Be filled with energy and optimism. Feel the bliss.

August 30
Sweep the cobwebs of guilt, regret and resentment from your life. Honor every person you meet. Live in wonder and joy.

August 29
Release your self-doubt. You are capable and creative.

August 28
Use your free time wisely. Enjoy your life as much as you can. Remember that your work is only one aspect of your life.

August 27
Spend time with the elders in your life. They are a font of wisdom, knowledge and experience. Allow them to contribute to your life.

August 26
Notice how others are beginning to awaken to their own capacity for love. Mirror that love back to them.

August 25
Look at your life in a different way. Notice what you've missed. Accept your life in a different light. See what changes you can make.

August 24
Be free. Be light. Allow laughter to flow through your daily experiences.

August 23
Rewrite your childhood experiences with unconditional love and acceptance.

August 22
Problems come from limiting thought patterns. Examine your thoughts. Be open to change. Think positive thoughts.

August 21
Create a wonderful experience for yourself today, then thank yourself for creating that wonderful experience, and have a great day!

August 20
If you cannot find it in your heart to love everyone, at least be kind. Avoid criticism, gossip, sarcasm. Just be kind.

August 19
Loving everyone is the highest teaching. Practice loving everyone.

August 18
When you love all, love flows through you naturally and spontaneously.

August 17
When you love all others, you are fulfilled & content. You will transform others through your love.

August 16
Love everyone.

August 15
The key to happiness, to peace, and to receiving love is your ability, your capacity to love others freely.

August 14
Once you are aware that the source of love is within you, your search for fulfillment from outside you is over, and you can feel peace.

August 13
Are you waiting to feel fulfilled from an outside source? Love and fulfillment is within. Be at peace.

August 12
Are you still waiting for someone to love you unconditionally? Practice loving others, and you will receive all the love you can handle.

August 11
Why search for love outside you? There is unlimited love within. Meditate and find love.

August 10
The love you feel does not come from outside you or from another. The source of love is always within.

August 9
Be the happiest person that you know. Feel the inner love, and give it away freely to everyone!

August 8
There is no spirituality without love. There is no religion without love. There are no spiritual practices without love.

August 7
The inner love is unconditional and all-inclusive.

August 6
Your inner love is real.

August 5
You create your own contentment, your own fulfillment, through your own love.

August 4
Your experience is your inner love. Your experience, your inner love, is never dependent upon what anyone else does, says, feels or sees.

August 3
Love is felt inside. Your inner love is what affects you. Your inner love is what you experience.

August 2
It doesn't matter whether someone loves you. What is relevant is whether you love them.

August 1
How anyone sees you is irrelevant to who you are.

July 31
You will relate to people sincerely and confidently when you are more concerned with how you see them than with how they see you.

July 30
Feeling resentful or dissappointed toward someone? Accept their imperfection. Love them anyway!

July 29
If someone doesn't appear to love you the way you love them, love them anyway!

July 28
Has someone abandoned you? Love them anyway!

July 27
Do you have people in your life who don't meet your expectations? Love them anyway!

July 26
Your power goes to the things you pay attention to. Watch your thoughts. Control your mind. Use your power wisely.

July 25
The people and experiences in your life are mirrors of who you are. Accept your challenges. Grow and change.

July 24
Your attitude plus your choices equals your life.

July 23
Show your love to others. Make them happy. Give true praise and compliments often.

July 22
Get more sleep. Go to bed when tired. Even if you can't sleep, lay quietly to give your body rest.

July 21
Welcome others with love.

July 20
Always do your best. No matter how small or large the project, put in the extra effort to do it right, to the best of your ability.

July 18
Stay calm in times of crisis; remain in control.. Others look to you to lead them. Be patient. Think clearly. Everything will work out.

July 17
Love unconditionally.

July 16
Practice being on time. Release the need to be late, to delay others, to control others with your lateness. Honor all.

July 15
Share your prosperity. Give freely. The more you give, the more comes back to you.

July 14
Eat well, drink water, avoid stimulants, sleep well. Help your immune system to keep you healthy.

July 13
The process of learning is never complete. Be open and receptive to new ideas, challenges and change. Learn and grow.

July 12
To avoid criticism, say nothing, do nothing, be nothing.

July 11
Eat nourishing foods, drink plenty of water, and remember to stretch and exercise. Take good care of your body and mind.

July 10
Take breaks when you work. Change positions. Get up and stretch. Alter what you see and feel. A refreshed mind and body works better.

July 9
Open your curtains and windows. Let air and sunlight into your life. Feel love and safety in your home and wherever you go.

July 8
See the potential for good in everything and everyone.

July 7
Don't dwell on mistakes you make. Forgive yourself, but don't forget. You don't want to make the same mistake twice.

July 4
No matter how many difficulties arise in your life, live with hope, dignity, and optimism.

July 2
Open yourself to allow good to flow into you, freely, generously and joyfully.

July 1
You are living in an extraordinary time. Center yourself. Give love and receive love in every situation. Be at peace.

June 30
Your health is your best asset. Respect and protect your body. Don't take unnecessary chances. Eat plants. Limit processed foods.

June 29
Maintain a positive attitude toward life. Think thoughts that enable you to love and approve of yourself and others always.

June 28
Criticism is a learned response. Be open to others with love and acceptance. Recognize when you judge, and turn that into acceptance.

June 27
Money has no meaning except what you give it. Dump your old beliefs about money, and allow it to flow to you easily and effortlessly, today.

June 26
You have a deep well of love. Any time of the day or night you can draw on that well. Everything you need or want is within you.

June 25
Whatever you think about you create for yourself. There is no limit to what your mind can create.

June 24
Free yourself from addictions to alcohol, caffeine, drugs, nicotine, salt, sugar. Life without stimulants is great!

June 23
Do you have goals? What do you want from life? Set a goal. Write it down. Make a plan with steps to get there. Then take action.

June 22
Nurture yourself. Plan vacations away, even if just day trips. Rest your mind and body. Stay within your budget, but have fun!

June 21
Make the effort to be the kindest person that you know.

June 20
You are powerful. Acknowledge your power. You gave your power away before, but now is the time to take it back to feel good about yourself.

June 19
Love yourself.

June 18
Be free. Forgive others; forgive yourself. Forgiveness is a gift to yourself that allows you to live freely in the present.

June 17
Look at each day as a new adventure. What are you going to experience today?

June 16
Be respectful to those who live with you, humans and animals. Enjoy both your time alone and with others.

June 15
Be kinder than you have to be.

June 14
Work to heal areas of your life that need work. Be patient with yourself. Allow the Universe to provide helpers, then accept that help.

June 13
Instead of seeing life's obstacles, see challenges as opportunities to grow, to learn new skills, to make positive changes in your life.

June 12
You are a colorful, kind and loving person. Let it show in your style. Be unique. Be eccentric. Be yourself.

June 11
Love your work, for it provides you income to do what you want in your life. Honor & respect those you work for.

June 10
Replace judgement with gratitude.

June 9
Are you living your fears? Or living your dreams?

June 8
Be aware of what you truly believe. Release those beliefs that no longer work for you.

June 7
Listen, with love, to your body's messages. Work to create your health. Drink more water, eat fresh veggies and fruits. Get plenty of sleep.

June 6
Accept your past. You cannot change it. Forgive yourself and move on. Experience your now fully. Enjoy your life.

June 5
Have an A+ day! Every day!

June 4
Look at your life objectively. See how and when to improve yourself. Overcome your ego. Always move forward.

June 3
Always tell the truth in your personal and professional life. People appreciate and respect honesty.

June 2
It is easy to criticize, but remember that everyone is doing the best they can, even if it isn't up to your standards.

June 1
Love and respect those close to you. Take time to have fun with them, even your pets. Everyone deserves love and respect.

May 31
Treat everyone you encounter with loving kindness. Accept the kindness from others.

May 30
If you feel strongly about something, speak up. If you see an injustice, speak up. Your voice matters.

May 28
Appreciate the gifts of nature. Give thanks every day. Be happy to be you.

May 27
Nourish your mind by reading inspiring authors; nourish your spirit through meditation; nourish your body with fresh vegetables & fruits.

May 26
Remember and honor those who passed before us. Like us, they did the best they could with what they had and what they knew.

May 25
Respect the life choices others make. Just because you don't think it's right for you, doesn't mean it's wrong for them.

May 24
Positive thoughts and emotions promote better relationships. We connect with others when our mood is lifted, when we act and feel happy.

May 23
Your thoughts create your life. Choose to think thoughts that are positive, loving, empowering. Consistently better your life.

May 22
Do the best you can at every moment. Stop all self-criticism. Love & protect yourself at all times.

May 21
Recognize your negative patterns. Make changes to yourself without feeling embarrassment, regret or guilt. Live totally in the now.

May 20
Positive thoughts & emotions reduce stress & unpleasant feelings, relax your body, & increase your resilience. Think happy, be happy!

May 19
Be flexible. Go with the flow. Celebrate your successes. Abundance is your right.

May 18
Work in your own community to help everyone experience more joy. World peace begins with you.

May 17
Be grateful for the kindnesses others bestow on you. Show your love and appreciation.

May 16
Spend your free time in productive, yet entertaining ways. Don't waste your time.

May 15
Experience life as a loving, joyous dance. Make each day more precious than the last.

May 14
Honor and respect your elders, for they have walked their own paths and have shared their experiences with you. Learn from all.

May 13
Once you face your fears, once you work through them and conquer them, amazing things begin to happen.

May 14
Honor and respect your elders, for they have walked their own paths and have shared their experiences with you. Learn from all.

May 13
Once you face your fears, once you work through them and conquer them, amazing things begin to happen.

May 12
As you learn to love and respect yourself, others will love and respect you.

May 11
My mother set an example for me on how to live with honor, grace & charity. At 92, she is still an amazing woman. Happy Mother's Day, Mom!

May 10
Dream great dreams. Then live them.

May 9
Learn from the past. Live in the moment. Plan for the future. Always be aware.

May 8
Be loving and kind. Be an example to those who are struggling. Teach those who don't know. Be the light.

May 7
Always remember: you are worthy! All the effort, all the work to change, to be successful, to reach your goals, is worth your time.

May 6
Communicate clearly and lovingly with people of all ages, backgrounds, sexes, ethnicities, and abilities. Use your power wisely.

May 5
Eat a plant-based diet for your health, for the animals, for our planet.

May 4
Respect people of all faiths, or no faith. Do not judge others for their religious or political beliefs. Accept and love everyone.

May 3
Today, strive to be a better person than you were yesterday.

May 2
Go easy on yourself. Be less critical. Celebrate your small successes.

May 1
There are no mistakes or bad decisions on the path of life. Each choce leads to the next step. Make choices that help you to grow.

30 April
Anger is a result of your ego not getting its way. Release the need for control. Banish anger from your life.

29 April
Your personal power attracts people and experiences that you need in your life.

28 April
Love all, not just those like you, or those from the same country, or those from the same religion. Accept all equally. Love all equally.

27 April
Every day, stretch your body . . . and your mind.

26 April
Enjoy your life. Take walks, go to concerts & movies, socialize with friends, research at the library. Get out of the house & do things.

25 April
Be who you want to be in this lifetime. Live without regrets. Be content with your successes, failures, and who you are.

24 April
Love is always the answer. And when things get tough, the answer is more love.

23 April
Not feeling particularly inspired? Take some time for yourself. Take a walk in a park, meditate, nap. Allow inspiration to flow to you.

22 April
Mother Earth blesses us every day. Let's take good care of her today and always.

21 April
It's Meatless Monday & the 1st day of VegWeek. Eat vegan for a week, and see how much better you feel! Recipes, etc.: http://usvegweek.com/

20 April
When faced with a difficult decision, look within. Listen to your inner guides, your intuition. You intrinsically know the answer.

19 April
For a healthy life, eat vegetables, drink water, sleep well, exercise.

18 April
For me, the health food section of the grocery store is the produce department.

17 April
Eating meat increases your risk of heart disease by 50%. Why risk your health? Eat more vegetables and fruit.

16 April
Take time to examine your life. What are you learning every day? What needs changing? How are you going to do it

15 April
Eat in moderation plenty of fresh veggies, fruits.Drink water. Keep cooking to a minimum. Grow your own organic produce. Keep your health.

14 April
It's Meatless Monday. Give peas a chance!

13 April
You are an original. Express youself creatively. Be yourself.

12 April
Put away your childish thought patterns. It is safe to be an adult. Make choices confidently.

11 April
Feel the love . . . then pass it on.

10 April
Never be afraid to ask for help. Just as you are willing to help others, others are always willing to help in the way you need.

9 April
You have an endless capacity to love. Practice giving & receiving love. Love all. Be kind to all. Be compassionate.

8 April
A heart doctor explains why he's a vegan: http://bit.ly/1qguhXy . I agree 100%.

7 April
Today is meatless Monday. Are you still eating meat and dairy? I quit them, and have never felt better.

6 April
Take care of yourself, your body, your mind, your emotions. Be calm, relaxed, and healthy.

5 April
Love, sing, dance, heal. Make your life fun. Laugh daily. Smile at everyone. Be the happiest person you know.

4 April
Every experience is an opportunity. You are continually creating your life. Look for opportunities and take action.

3 April
Sweep out every negative thought that comes to mind.

2 April
With a personal & family history of heart disease, this is why I went to a plant-based died 4 years ago this month: http://bit.ly/1ecnp6b

1 April
Feel the love and joy inherent in your body.

31 March
Want world peace? Be more peaceful. Just want people to change? Change yourself. Want more? Take action.

30 March
You were created to succeed. Be grateful for all you have accomplished. Celebrate your successes.

29 March
Learn to relax completely. Meditate, sit in prayer, do yoga. Your body needs time to repair and rejuvenate itself. Relax and get healthy.

28 March
Meditate regularly. Ask yourself what you need to know to take the next step in your life. Listen for answers.

27 March
Your friends are there for you, understand you, & love you. There are always people who will help you in times of need. Accept their help.

26 March
Regularly praise those you work with and live with. They deserve recognition for the effort they put out.

25 March
Love deeply. Live fully.

24 March
Feel compassion for those in need. Put yourself in their shoes, then take appropriate action.

23 March
Share your love with everyone. Be creative in helping others.

22 March
A plant-based diet will increase your coronary heart flow. http://bit.ly/1lcuZFu Don't we all want healthy hearts?

21 March
It is time to start eating healthier. Add more servings of fruit & vegetables. Eliminate unhealthy animal protein. It's worth the effort!

20 March
Seek balance and completion. Be energetic, yet calm; enthusiastic, yet controlled; self-loving, yet humble.

19 March
Everything you eat affects you.

18 March
Every day, use the opportunities that you have to spread happiness and joy.

17 March
No matter how many negative thoughts you have, they are not you. Your true nature is the Self, Consciousness, Purity.

16 March
When in public, picture yourself surrounded by the best, safe, law-abiding people. Surround yourself with love.

15 March
Confront your weaknesses, your bad habits. Make the changes you know you need to make. Why put it off? Live your life in joy and love.

14 March
Allow good to flow to you from all directions. Accept the good and wonderful things and people who come to you.

13 March
Time is precious. Bless each moment. Live each hour with love. Learn something new every day.

12 March
Get organized. Be productive. You can accomplish much in your life. Decide to take action, then take action.

11 March
Love your body. Approve it. Look at your body with love. Be grateful that you have a human body. Take care of it, with love.

10 March
Thanksgiving Day is every day. Celebrate every day that you are alive and that you are filled with love.

9 March
Your life is not a result of the things that have happened to you; rather, it is a result of the choices you have made.

8 March
As you learn to truly care about yourself, to really love yourself, life gets brighter and lighter.

7 March
You are not your body. You are a spiritual being living in a human body for a few years. There is so much more to you than what people see.

9 March
Release from your life people who do not support your life's goals. Wish them well as they proceed on their paths.

5 March
Listen to inspirational speakers. Let them lift your spirits. Allow their creativity to inspire you.

4 March
Design your life to incorporate your personal beliefs, your spiritual beliefs, and the way you want to live.

3 March
Make the time for the people and things you truly care about in life.

2 March
It is your birthright to be happy, to express yourself, and to share yourself in ways that fulfill you.

1 March
Take time to acknowledge the exquisite beauty of nature.

28 February
Seek love in all areas of your life. While you are practicing love toward all, you will find immense joy and infinite grace.

27 February
When you pay attention to what others say, then respond appropriately, they will respect your opinion.

26 February
Today is the future that you created yesterday. Make it the best day of your life.

25 February
Allow yourself to easily adapt to the ebb and flow of life.

24 February
Release the need to blame anyone, including yourself!

23 February
Take time every day to meditate, daydream, & quiet your mind. It will energize you.

22 February
Love your body. Take good care of it. Eat healthy foods and nourishing drinks. Exercise. Your body will respond with health.

21 February
You deserve good things in life. Be open to the gifts the universe has to offer.

20 February
Don't listen to people who put you down. You can do whatever you decide to do. You are a born winner.

19 February
Are you living your dream? Make the changes necessary in your life to start living the way you want to live.

18 February
Your mind is a powerful tool. Think loving, kind thoughts.

17 February
Be open & receptive to prosperity. Your income is never fixed. It grows as you grow.

16 February
See the world as you did as a child, with wonder, enjoying each other and each moment. Make every day a special one.

15 February
Your ability to succeed depends upon your attitude when facing failure.

14 February
Strive for control. Not over others, but of your own mind and emotions.

13 February
Tell yourself every day that you approve of yourself. When you can accept yourself with all your perceived faults, you can accept others.

12 February
Keep your home, car & workspace clean & organized. Attend to every detail. Clutter distracts. Organization leads to focus & prosperity.

11 February
You are the average of the people you associate with. Surround yourself with people who are postive, creative & loving.

10 February
Picture yourself in perfect health. Be thankful for the abundance in your life. Feel your natural joy.

9 February
Help others joyfully whenever possible. Comfort, encourage & inspire.

8 February
Remember every morning that you choose how you are going to feel and act. Choose well!

7 February
Use your words carefully. Understand their power & use them to enhance everyone's lives.

6 February
Look at all the loving people in your life. Experience love wherever you go. Express the love that you feel.

5 February
Accept that you are beautiful, kind & powerful during every phase of your life. Be proud of what you have achieved so far. Accept your age.

4 February
There is no limit to your ability. Decide what you want. Learn how. Practice. Work on expanding your perceived limits. Become proficient.

3 February
Partner with another person to grow together. Cherish your time together, but give each other space to grow.

2 February
Every day is a gift of life. Greet each morning grateful that you are taking another breath. Start your day with a smile.

1 February
Take the time to actually enjoy your life. Go for walks. See concerts, art shows and parades. Have fun!

31 January
Be open to love, to trust, to be successful, to heal. Break down old barriers. Only you can stop yourself.

30 January
The universe gives you what is in your consciousness. Keep your thoughts positive; eliminate negativity. Create joy and love in your life.

29 January
Give up old, limited ways of thinking. Forget grudges, feuds, jealousies and gossip, and find a new understanding.

28 January
Time passes. Events come and go. Life goes on. Yet love is a constant. Always love yourself and others.

23 January
Give everyone you meet a smile. Have kind words for sales clerks, attendants, wait help, landscapers, and everyone who serves you.

22 January
Love all, especially those who are rude, hateful, spiteful, bigoted and cruel. Responding with love confuses them and heals the planet.

21 January
Ask your elders about their early lives. There is much wisdom in the elderly. Learn from their mistakes. Understand their motivations.

20 January
Spend some time every day breathing deeply. Take full, deep, relaxing breaths. Let go of your stress.

19 January
Encourage others to be the best they can be. Pull for them. Don't be jealous, don't fear competition, don't mistrust. Feel the love.

18 January
Addictive habits and substances are your way of telling yourself that you're not good enough as is. Love yourself, as is.

17 January
You can change your life by changing your attitude.

16 January
Relax! Enjoy each day as it comes. Revel in the pleasures of everyday life.

15 January
Accept yourself as you are. Give yourself permission to change & grow.

14 January
Forgive yourself & others for habits of prejudice & fear. Accept everyone as unique & wonderful human beings, all equal.

13 January
Free yourself from criticism, judgment, self-doubt, old hurts. Be free to start anew. Create your new you free from your past.

12 January
Pay attention to what works in your life. If something doesn't work, what can you change?

11 January
When something good happens, don't say, "I can't believe it." Believe. You are worthy. The universe will provide. Say, "I believe."

10 January
The universe supports you in all your thoughts. It is important to always think positive thoughts.

9 January
Health and wealth are natural parts of life on earth. Accept your right to be healthy, prosperous and happy.

8 January
Everyone has an inner intuition, a Higher Self, that provides us with insight and answers to our problems. Meditate to tap into it.

7 January
Learn when to say no. Accept into your life only what is best for you.

6 January
Never gossip. Never tell negative stories about yourself or others. Share successes with everyone. Celebrate positive events.

5 January
Be at peace where ever you are. Security and peace live within you. Find that place in you that gives you peace.

4 January
Everyone makes mistakes. Forgive, but don't condone bad behavior. Forgiveness is your liberation.

3 January
You have within you vast stores of compassion, courage, intelligence, personal power and positive self-esteem. Use what you need.

2 January
Go beyond other your perceived fears and limitations. Create a fabulous life!

1 January
Start the new year right: Forgive self/others for past mistakes. Accept change. Plan future & work for it. Be happy. Love all.