The Birth of Miracles

“Warefare always surrounds the birth of a miracle.”

~ Terri Savelle Foy,
Author & Speaker

Hidden Gold Somewhere in All of Us

“Often we are not aware of how close we are to that which we need but we think we do not have. In His grace, God has placed some hidden gold somewhere in all of us that meets our need at a desperate moment.”

~ Ravi Zacharias,
Christian Apologist, Author, Radio Host, Scholar &
Founder & Chairman of the Board – Ravi Zacharias International Ministries

Their Passion is His Glory

“We are on the cusp of the emergence of a company of hidden men and women who, with all faith and patience, have been enduring great struggles and dealings; being processed by the Lord and filling up what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ. These are not those who seek a reputation for themselves, their passion is His glory and giving Him the church He has longed for. May God grant us all the heart of apostolic fathering and mothering that can release His power in the earth. Zion is once again in travail to bring forth her children.”

~ Mark Chironna,
Pastor, Life Coach, Author, Founder – The Masters Touch International Church
& Founder – The Dream Builders Network

Light in The Darkness

“Way Maker
Miracle worker
Promise keeper
Light in the darkness
My God
That is who you are
You are here
Touching every heart
I worship you
I worship you
You are here
Healing every heart
I worship you
I worship you
You are here
Turning lives around
I worship you
I worship you
You are here
Mending every heart
I worship you
I worship you”

~ Osinachi “Sinach ” Joseph
Singer, Songwriter & Senior Worship Leader

~

Tomorrow’s Battle

“Stop wasting today’s strength fighting tomorrow’s battle.”

~ Steven Furtick
Pastor, Songwriter, Author, Founder & Lead Pastor – Elevation Church

~

When Life Throws Rocks

“When life throws you rocks, build an alter.”

~ Samuel Rodriguez,
Founder & President – National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference,
Evangelist, Pastor, Movie Producer, Civil Rights Activist, Television Personality & Author

Your Greatest Pains & Your Greatest Strengths

“In the end, some of your greatest pains become your greatest strengths.”

~ Drew Blyth Barrymore,
Actress, Author, Screenwriter,
Film Director, Producer, Model
and United Nations Ambassador

Caterpillar-Thoughts or A Butterfly-Life

“You can’t think caterpillar-thoughts and live a butterfly-life. “

~ Joel Osteen,
Pastor – Lakewood Church, Motivational Speaker, Author & Executive Producer

The Church Must Be One

“The Church must be one because a fragmented Church is not much help to a fragmented world.”

~ Justo L. Gonzalez
Historian, Theologian, Author, Co-Founder – Apuntes, Co-Founder – Association for Hispanic Theological Education,
Co-Founder – Hispanic Theological Initiative & Washington Theological Consortium Ecumenism Award

~

A Sense of Humor Helps

“If you don’t have a sense of humor, you probably don’t have any sense at all.
A sense of humor reduces people and problems to their proper proportions.”

~ Canon J. John
Speaker, Storyteller, Evangelist, Social Activist & Author

~

If Bad Things Happen

“You don’t stop living because bad things happen. You keep going.”

~ Gina Neely
Restaurateur, Television Personality & Author

When the Going Goes Tough

“When the going gets tough, I’m not always sure what you do.
I’m not saying that I know how to fix everything when the going gets tough, but I do know this: when the going goes tough, you don’t quit,
and you don’t fold up, and you don’t go in the other direction.”

~ John Madden
Football Coach, Sportscaster, Super Bowl XI winner, Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award (2002), Pro Football Hall of Fame (2006), Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame (1991), Yahoo Sports Top 50 All Time Network Television Sports Announcers, California Hall of Fame (2009), NSSA National Sportscaster of the Year (1984), NSSA Hall of Fame inductee (2010) & Emmy Awards (16X)

Tribulation without Stain

“God, who foresaw your tribulation, has specially armed you to go through it,
not without pain but without stain.”

~ C.S. Lewis
a.k.a. Clive Staples Lewis,
Novelist, Poet, Academic, Medievalist, Literary Critic,
Essayist, Lay Theologian, Broadcaster, Lecturer, & Christian Apologist

~ Image via NAME HERE

True Friends

“I’m ready to listen when you’re ready to talk.”

“You’re gonna be O.K.”

“The fellowship of true friends who can hear you out,
share your joys, help carry your burdens,
and correctly counsel you is priceless.”

~ Ezra Taft Benson,
Farmer, United States Secretary of Agriculture (1953-1961),
President – The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (1985-1994),
Boy Scouts of America Awards: Silver Beaver, Silver Antelope
& Silver Buffalo & International Scouting Award Bronze Wolf

 Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay & Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

Pressures & Needs

“Drinking intensifies all your pressures and your needs.”

~ Desi Arnaz,
a.k.a. Desiderio Alberto Arnaz y de Acha III,
Actor, Musician, Television Producer, Author,
Hollywood Walk of Fame Stars (2x) & Golden Globe Award (1956)

It’s Not Like the End of the World

“Sure, I suffered a lot. But it’s not like the end of the world and
it’s not who I am. I lead quite a pleasant life and
I’m able to divorce a perceived reality from my actual experience of life.
I find forgiveness to be really healthy.”

~ Ben Affleck,
a.k.a. Benjamin Géza Affleck-Boldt
Actor, Director, Producer Screenwriter, Academy Awards (2X), Golden Globe Awards (3X),
BAFTA Awards (2X), Screen Actors Guild Awards (2X), Humanitarian, Philanthropist,
Directors Guild Award, Producers Guild Award, Co-Founder – Eastern Congo Initiative , Co-Owners –Pearl Street Films

 

A Tool to Open the Heart

“I think that comedy is such a tool to open the heart, to loosen up the muscles, to loosen up the brain.
God knew how important it would be to laugh because He said it is a great medicine,
and when used properly, it is the greatest of medicines.”

~ Chonda Pierce,
Comedienne, Author, Philanthropist &
Co-Founder – Branches Recovery Center

His Silence Never Equals Slumber

“We have no idea how busy God’s hands are even when His mouth seems closed.
Where God is concerned, silence never equals slumber.”

~ Beth Moore,
Evangelist, Author, Bible Teacher
& Founder – Living Proof Ministries

That Color on Purpose

“People are valuable regardless of the color of their skin.
You can be open about it and talk about it. You don’t have to pretend that you are not different,
but you can learn about those differences God didn’t say, ‘Ooh, I made you brown on accident.’
He made them that color on purpose. And if you do not have friendships with other races,
then ask God to bring you some. He will.”

~ Nicole C. Mullen,
Singer, Songwriter & Choreographer.

Just Because One Thing Went Wrong

“The world doesn’t end just because one thing goes wrong.”

~ Shelley Duvall,
Actress, Producer, Writer, Narrator Singer,
& Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actress (1977)

Like You Have an ‘S’ on Your Chest

“People love that you’re human and that we’re frail and we face the same situations.
Honesty tends to communicate with people better than standing up there like you have an ‘S’ on your chest.”

~ TobyMac,
a.k.a. Toby McKeehan
Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, Author,
American Music Awards (2012), Billboard Music Awards (2X),
Grammy Awards (3X), GMA Dove Awards (19X)

Challenges & Lessons

“Everyone has challenges and lessons to learn – we wouldn’t be who we are without them.”

~ Sean Combs,
Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, Record Executive, Actor, Entrepreneur,
Grammy Awards (3X), MTV Video Music Awards (2X), Philanthropist,
Founder – Sean John, Founder – Daddy’s House Social Programs,
Council of Fashion Designers of America Award (2004) & NAACP Image Awards (2009),

This is When You Lose

“Really, you don’t lose until you stop trying.”

~ Laurence ‘Mr. T’ Tureaud,
Actor, Bodyguard, Television Personality & Retired Professional Wrestler

Crises: Motivation for Innovation

“Crises provides the motivation for innovation. It is a call to change the way you do life.
The most important challenge will be to change yourself as well as to reinvent yourself in the process!
Go ahead! Make the change! Your future self will thank you!”

~ Juanita Bynum,
Singer, Author & Pastor

Standing Adversity

“Adversity is sometimes hard upon a man;
but for one man who can stand prosperity,
there are a hundred that will stand adversity.”

~ Elvis Aaron Presley,
Musician, Singer & Actor

Life is a Gift

“To me, life is a gift, and it’s a blessing to just be alive.
And each person should learn what a gift it is to be alive no matter how tough things get.”

~ Tony Bennett
a.k.a Anthony Dominick Benedetto,
Singer, Artist/Painter &
Founder, Frank Sinatra School of the Arts

A Sense of Humor Can Save You

“It’s good to be able to laugh at yourself
and the problems you face in life. Sense of humor can save you.”

~ Margaret Cho,
Stand-Up Comedian, Actress, Fashion Designer, Author & Singer-Songwriter.

People Who Say It

“People who say it cannot be done
should not interrupt those who are doing it.”

~ Author Unknown,

~ Image via NAME HERE

Crying is Feeling

“I suppose I’ve always done my share of crying, especially when there’s no other way to contain my feelings.
I know that men ain’t supposed to cry, but I think that’s wrong.
Crying has always been a way for me to get things out which are buried deep, deep down.
When I sing, I often cry. Crying is feeling, and feeling is being human. Oh yes, I cry.”

~ Ray Charles,
Singer-Songwriter, Musician & Composer

Concentrate on the Solutions

“I think, at some level, if we concentrate on problems
as opposed to solutions, then you just create more problems.”

~ Suzanne de Passe,
Emmy Awards (2x), NAACP Image Awards, Golden Globe Award, Peabody Award, Syracuse University George Arents Award (2010),
Essence’s Hollywood Women of Power Visionary Award (2008), Savannah Film Festival Lifetime Achievement Award (2008),
Black Enterprise Top 50 Hollywood Power Brokers (2007),
Center for The Advancement of Women Changing the Landscape for Women Honoree (2007), Jackie Robinson Foundation Trailblazer Award (2006),
Ebony Magazine Madame C. J. Walker Award (2004), Los Angeles Urban League Whitney M. Young Award (2003),
American Women in Radio and Television Silver Satellite Award (1999),
Revlon Business Woman of the Year Award (1994), Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame (1990), Essence Award (1989),
Women in Film Crystal Award (1988), Candace Award, National Coalition of 100 Black Women (1983, 1989)

How You Wait

“Patience is not just about waiting for something…
it’s about how you wait, or your attitude while waiting.”

~ Joyce Meyer,
Author, Speaker & Philanthropist

Sneaky Sin

“Sin is SNEAKY, because sin promises to please and to satisfy,
but it only serves to enslave and to dominate.
It’s sort of like the Pandora’s Box: just get a sample and you’re hooked!”

~ Dale C. Bronner,
Founder & Pastor – Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral
Author, Co-Author, Writer, Co-Owner – Bronner Brothers Manufacturing Company
Conference Speaker & Leadership Trainer

Sometimes Life Hits You

“Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick.
Don’t lose faith.”

~ Steve Jobs,
Entrepreneur, Marketer, Inventor, &
Co-Founder, Chairman & CEO of Apple, Inc.
Founder & CEO of  NeXT, Disney Legend (2013, posthumously)
Grammy Trustees Award (2012), California Hall of Fame (2007)

A Battle with Our Name On It

“We all have a battle with our name on it, and until
we embrace the reality of the battle, we will miss the beauty of the victory.”

~ John Gray,
Comedian, Author, Speaker, Actor, Singer,
Associate Pastor – Lakewood Church, Playwright &
Senior Pastor – Redemption Church

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To Make it Through Challenges

“In life we face challenges and
oftentimes we need one another to make it through.”

~ Priscilla Marie ‘Cece’ Winans Love,
Singer, Songwriter, Actress, Talk Show Host, Speaker,
Author, Dove Awards (23X) Stellar Awards (15X) & Grammy Awards (12X)

Life: A Lot of Colors & Situations

” Life is an awful lot of colors and situations to be handled.”

~ Diahann Carroll,
Actor, Advocate, Dancer, Model, Singer, Author, Philanthropist,
Tony Award (1962), Golden Globe Award (1969) & Television Academy Hall of Fame (2011)

A Beautiful Challenge

“Life is a beautiful struggle, but life is worth living.”

~ Jaeson Ma,
Entrepreneur, Producer, Writer, Musician, Missionary,
Media Executive, Music Artist, Inspirational Speaker & Author.

A Crisis, A Miracle

“Your crisis is God’s opportunity for a miracle.”

~ Marilyn Hickey,
Founder – Marilyn Hickey Ministries International
& Today with Marilyn & Sarah

Something Beyond What You’ve Mastered

“Unless you try to do something beyond what
you have already mastered, you will never grow.”

~ Author Unknown,

Knowing You Are Loved

“If you enter this world knowing you are loved
and you leave this world knowing the same,
then everything that happens in between can be dealt with.”

~ Michael Jackson,
Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, Dancer & Actor.

An Appreciation for the Downs & the Ups

“I’ve had 60 years of ups and downs, and all of the downs that I’ve had, I’m happy that I’ve had them because it’s taught me to appreciate all the ups.”

~ Patti LaBelle,
Singer, Songwriter, & Actress

~ Image via NAME HERE

You Don’t Have to Settle for It

“… if you don’t like the situation you’re in,
you don’t have to settle for it.”

~ Macy Gray,
Singer, Songwriter, Musician, Record Producer, Actress, Black Reel Award (2011),
Brit Award (2x), Grammy Award (2001), MTV Video Music Award (2x)
& Pollstar Concert Industry Award (2001)

Thriving in the Middle of the Pain

“It was such a blessing to find myself thriving
in the middle of the pain. Unless you find a way to do that,
there’s always going to be this fake illusion that once you get there–
wherever “there” is for you–you’ll be happy.
But that’s just not life. If you can’t find happiness in the ugliness,
you’re not going to find it in beauty, either.”

~ Joanna Gaines,
Co-Owner, Co-Founder & Lead Designer – Magnolia Homes,
& Co-Star – Fixer Upper

Thinkers Reap the Greatest Rewards

“The people who think — the people who solve problems
or entertain or inform — in a creative fashion
are the ones who reap the greatest rewards.”

~ Anthony R. Michalski,
Publisher & Curator

If We Would Just Hang on Long Enough

” God has promised to every single one of us that
even in our hardest times,
if we would just hang on long enough,
the blessing will come.”

~ Beth Moore,
Evangelist, Author, Bible Teacher
& Founder – Living Proof Ministries

Solutions & Promises

“There is nothing that you will face for which
God has not already provided a solution or promise.”

~ IV Hilliard,
Senior Pastor & Founder – New Light Christian Center

One Step Closer to the Dream

“Every setback means you’re one step closer
to seeing the dream come to pass.”

~ Joel Osteen,
Pastor, Motivational Speaker & Author

Your Freedom

“It’s time for your freedom.”

~ Kenneth Copeland,
Singer, Author, Co-Founder – Kenneth Copeland Ministries
& Co-Founder – Believer’s Voice of Victory

Every Single One of Us

“I believe that every single one of us, celebrity or not,
has a responsibility to get involved in trying to make a difference in the world.
Our generation faces many challenges, some of which were passed on to us by the past generations,
but it’s up to us to find solutions today, so that we don’t keep passing our problems on.”

~ Shakira
a.k.a. Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll
Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, Dancer, Philanthropist,
Entrepreneur, Founder – Pies Descalzos Foundation,
MTV Video Music Awards (5X),Grammy Awards (2X), Latin Grammy Awards (13X),
Billboard Music Awards (7X), Billboard Latin Music Awards (33X),
Hollywood Walk of Fame Star, Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year (2011),
Chevalier De L’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (2012)

For Your Blessings, …

“Be true to yourself,
help others,
make each day your masterpiece,
make friendship a fine art,
drink deeply from good books – especially the Bible,
build a shelter against a rainy day,
give thanks for your blessings and
pray for guidance every day.”

~ John Wooden,
Basketball Player, UCLA Head Coach (1948–1975), Author,
Lecturer, The Sporting News “Greatest Coach of All Time” (2009)

Nothing in My Life That’s So UGH

“I don’t regret what I’ve been through.
I’ve had ups and downs, super highs and some really low lows.
I’ve been so blessed that I could never say, ‘I wish this didn’t happen.’
It’s part of who I am. There’s nothing in my life that’s so ugh.”

~ Jennifer Lynn Lopez
Actress, Author, Fashion Designer,
Dancer, Producer & Singer

Completely Broke (Temporarily)

“When I got out of Yale Drama School,
I was completely broke.”

~ Courtney B. Vance,
Actor, Author, Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor …,
Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play, Clarence Derwent Award,

Overcoming Tough Things

“I think everybody has tragedy in their life. Everybody has hurdles in their life.
Everybody has tough things to overcome.
My kids say to me, ‘This isn’t fair.’ I said, ‘Life isn’t fair.’
Everybody has their issues. It’s how you handle your issues that distinguishes you.”

~ Maria Owings Shriver,
Journalist, Author,
First Lady of California (November 2003-January 2011)
Peabody Award Winner, Emmy Awards Winner,
& Academy of Television Art & Sciences Award Winner

Do What We Can Do for Our Country

“My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you,
ask what you can do for your country.”

~ John F. Kennedy,
35th President of the United States (1961-1963)

That Book, It’s My Life

“Inside that book, it’s my life-all the places
where I’m hurting or I laughed
or I cried or I prayed.
And I’ve had to pray a lot!”

~ June Carter Cash,
Singer, Songwriter, Actress, Dancer, Comedian, Author,
Grammy Awards (5X) & Christian Music Hall of Fame (2009)

The Prayers of Tears

“Every now and then your tears will pray a prayer your words never could.”

~ John Gray,
Associate Pastor – Lakewood Church, Comedian, Author, Speaker,
Actor, Singer & Playwright

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Silent & Suffering

“We don’t need to suffer in silence.  Reach out.”

~ Dorothy Newton,
Speaker & Author – Silent Cry

Laughing at Obstacles

“Don’t take yourself too seriously. Know when to laugh at yourself,
and find a way to laugh at obstacles that inevitably present themselves.

~ Halle Berry,
Actress, Model & Film Producer

Control the Flames

“Walking through this life is really walking through fire.
As you get older, you realize there are fire extinguishers.
You do have an ability to control the flames.”

~ Chaka Khan,
Singer, Songwriter, Activist & Grammy Awards (10x)

Strength to Not Surrender

“Strength does not come from winning.
Your struggles develop your strengths.
When you go through hardships
and decide not to surrender,
that is strength.”

~ Arnold Schwarzenegger,
Actor, Producer, Businessman, Investor, Author,
Philanthropist, Activist, Politician,
Professional Bodybuilder & 38th Governor of California (2003-2011)

Stop Signs? No, Guidelines.

“Problems are not stop signs, they are guidelines.”

~ Dr. Robert Harold Schuller,
Pastor, Motivational Speaker, Author
& Founder of the Crystal Cathedral

Peace, Joy, Love & …

“First comes peace. Then joy. Then love. And finally understanding.”

~ Chonda Pierce,
Comedienne, Author, Philanthropist &
Co-Founder – Branches Recovery Center

Peace is Very Dear

“Peace is something very dear.
If you’ve been through
wars
and operations
and battles,
you want peace.”

~ Benjamin Netanyahu,
Author and 9th & 13th Prime Minister of Israel

Whistle in a Barely Audible Way

“If the pressure is getting to you, whistle in a barely audible way.
It’s the best way I know of to let go of tension.
Music gets your mind off the situation, and
the act of whistling melts the tension out of your body.”

~ Fuzzy Zoeller,
a.k.a. Frank Urban Zoeller, Jr.
Professional Golfer, PGA Tour (10x),
PGA Tour Champion (2x), Masters Tournament (1979),
US Open (1084) & Bob Jones Award (1985)

When We Call Him

“Oh, I have never walked on water, and I have never calmed a storm.
Sometimes I’m hiding away from the madness around me
Like a child who’s afraid of the dark, but when I call on Jesus,
All things are possible; I can mount on wings like eagles’ and soar.
When I call on Jesus, mountains are gonna fall
’cause He’ll move Heaven and Earth to come rescue me, when I call.
Weary brother, broken daughter,
Widowed, widowed lover, you’re not alone.
If you’re tired and scared of the madness around you,
If you can’t find the strength to carry on
call Him in the morning, in the afternoon time
late in the evening. He’ll be there.
When your heart is broken,
And you feel discouraged,
You can just remember that He said
He’ll be there.”

~ Nicole C. Mullen,
Singer, Songwriter & Choreographer.

Look at Life in the Best Way You Can

“I think beauty comes from within.
If you’re happy and look at life in the best way you can,
even when there are problems,
it can make you beautiful on the outside.”

~ Faith Hill,
Singer, Actress & Record Producer

A History of Victory

“I am not a victim. No matter what I have been through,
I’m still here. I have a history of victory.”

~ Steve Maraboli,
Author & Speaker

Victory: A Storm’s Heart

“At the heart of every storm is VICTORY — waiting to be claimed.”

~ Mary Southerland,
Author & Speaker

The Real Problem Is …

“Is your problem really your problem,
or is your ATTITUDE toward your problem the real problem?”

~ Joyce Meyer,
Author, Speaker & Philanthropist

A Sweet, Refreshing Gang

“When life gives you lemons, find someone that life gave sugar to.
Then, find someone who life gave water to. Then be a gang … a sweet refreshing gang.”

~ Amanda Swafford,
Model, America’s Next Top Model

The Christmases in Our Lives

“It’s true, Christmas can feel like a lot of work, particularly for mothers.
But when you look back on all the Christmases in your life,
you’ll find you’ve created family traditions and lasting memories.
Those memories, good and bad, are really what help
to keep a family together over the long haul.”

~ Caroline Kennedy,
Author, Attorney, Diplomat &
United States Ambassador to Japan

The Absence of Obstacles?

“The difference between
the Successful and the Unsuccessful
is not the Absence of Obstacles,
but the Presence of Perseverance.”

~ Chris Widener,
Author & Motivational Speaker

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Precious in the Shade & the Sunshine

“But friendship is precious, not only in the shade,
yet in the sunshine of life, and thanks to a benevolent arrangement
the greater part of life is sunshine.”

~ Thomas Jefferson,
United States Minister to France (May 1785 – September 1789,
1st United States Secretary of State (March 1790 – December 1793)
2nd Vice President of the United States (March 1797 – March 1801)
3rd President of the United States (March 1801 – March 1809)
Founder – University of Virginia

Chase Perfection. Catch Excellence!

“Perfection is not attainable,
but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.”

~ Vince Lombardi,
American Football Player,
Coach, and Executive

When You Overcome

“If you have a positive attitude and constantly strive to give your best effort,
eventually you will overcome your immediate problems and find you are ready for greater challenges.”

~ Patrick James “Pat” Riley ,
Professional Basketball Executive, Miami Heat Team President (1995- ), Motivational Speaker, Author,
Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award (2012), NBA Championships (2012 & 2013: Miami Heat)
Head Coach (1995-2003 & 2005-2008), NBA All-Star Game Head Coach (9x)
NBA Coach of the Year (1989–90: Los Angeles Lakers, 1992–93: New York Knicks & 1996–97: Miami Heat)
10 Greatest Coaches in NBA History Award (1996) & Los Angeles Lakers’ Championship Team Player (1972)

Dedicated & Passionate

“Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success
if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.”

~ Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela,
Activist, Politician, Philanthropist, Lawyer,
1st President of South Africa, Philanthropist
Nobel Peace Prize Awardee(1993) & Presidential Medal of Freedom Awardee

Reinventing the Self

“When things are bad, it’s the best time to reinvent yourself.”

~ George Lopez,
Comedian, Actor, Talk Show Host, Imagen Vision Award (2003),
Latino Spirit Award for Excellence in Television (2003),
National Hispanic Media Coalition Impact Award,
& One of “The Top 25 Hispanics in America” by Time (2005)

Never Let It Define the Future

“We embrace and respect our past,
(even if it was … up)
but we never let it define our future .”

~ Dwayne Douglas Johnson
a.k.a. The Rock,
Professional Wrestler, Actor, Author
& Founder of the Dwayne Johnson Rock Foundation

Difficult Victories, Happiest Wins

Pele’s Jump (1958) {{PD-1996})

“The more difficult the victory,
the greater the happiness in winning.”

~ Pele
a.k.a Edson Arantes do Nascimento,
Footballer, Humanitarian, FIFA Ballon d’Or Prix d’Honneur (2013),
France Football’s Football Player of the Century (1999),
Player of the Century (1999), IOC Athlete of the Century (1999),
Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (1997)
Order of Merit of the Republic of Hungary (1994), Knight of the Order of Rio Branco (1967)
Commander of the Order of Rio Branco (1969) & Brasil Postage Stamp (1969),

Falling Apart, Falling Together

“I believe that everything happens for a reason.
… and sometimes good things fall apart
so better things can fall together.”

~ Marilyn Monroe
a.k.a. Norma Jeane Mortenson,
Actress, Model, Singer and Film Producer

100% In

“I learned to put 100 percent into what you’re doing.
I learned about setting goals for yourself,
knowing where you want to be and
taking small steps toward those goals.
I learned about adversity and how to get past it.”

~ Kristi Yamaguchi
a.k.a Kristine Tsuya Yamaguchi,
Ladies’ Singles U.S. Olympic Champion (1992), World Champion (1991 & 1992),
U.S. Champion (1992), World Junior Pairs Skating Champion (1988),
National Pairs Skating Champion (1989 & 1990),
& U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame Inductee (2005),
Founder – Always Dream Foundation,
Designer – Tsu.ya Activewear, Author,
Asian Excellence Awards (2008), Sonja Henie Award (2008),
Thurman Munson Award, Women’s Sports Foundation Flo Hyman Award,
& Great Sports Legends Award

Persistent, Unshakeable Gratitude

“Opportunities, relationships, even money flowed my way when I learned
to be grateful, no matter what happened in my life..”

~ Oprah Winfrey,
Chairwoman & CEO of Harpo Productions,
Chairwoman, CEO & CCO of Oprah Winfrey Network,
Television Host, Producer, Author, Actress & Philanthropist

Happiness Can Creep Up on You!

“Even when there are times that we’re not happy,
happiness will creep in.”

~ Dyan Cannon,
a.k.a Samille Diane Friesen
Film & Television Actress, Director, Screenwriter, Editor, Producer,
National Society of Film Critics Award for Best Supporting Actress,
New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Supporting Actress,
Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress – Motion Picture,
& Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actress

Past Successes

“Successful people maintain a positive focus in life no matter what is going on around them.
They stay focused on their past successes rather than their past failures,
and on the next action steps they need to take
to get them closer to the fulfillment of their goals
rather than all the other distractions that life presents to them.”

~ Jack Canfield,
Author, Motivational Speaker, Corporate Trainer, Entrepreneur,
Founder & CEO of The Canfield Training Group, Founder of The Foundation for Self-Esteem,
& Guinness World Record – 7 New York Times Best-sellers Listed simultaneously.

A Wildfire of Kindness

“When you are kind to someone in trouble,
you hope they’ll remember
and be kind to someone else,
and it’ll become like a wildfire.”

~ Whoopi Goldberg
a.k.a. Caryn Elaine Johnson,
Actress, Comedienne & Television Host
Academy/Oscar Award, Drama Desk Award, Daytime Emmy Award (2x)
Golden Globe Award (2x), Grammy Award, BAFTA Award,
Tony Award, People’s Choice Award (3x)
American Comedy Award (2x), Mark Twain Award for American Humor,
Women in Film Crystal Award, Honorary Member of Harlem Globetrotters,
Hans Christian Anderson Award & Ride of Fame Award

Succeeding through Failing

“Perseverance is failing 19 times and succeeding the 20th.”

~ Julie Andrews a.k.a.,
Film and Stage Actress, Singer, Author, Theatre Director & Dancer
Academy Award (2X), BAFTA Awardee, David di Donatello Awards (2x),
Disney Legends Awardee, Drama Desk Awardee, Emmy Award (2x),
Golden Globe (5x), Golden Plate Awardee, Grammy Awards (3x),
Hasty Pudding Theatrical Awardee, Hollywood Walk of Fame Awardee,
Kennedy Center Honors Awardee, Laurel Awards (4x), People’s Choice Award,
Prince Ranier Award, San Sebastian International Film Festival Awardee,
Screen Actors Guild Award, Society of Singers Awardee, Theatre World Award,
UCLA George & Ira Gershwin Award and Women in Film Awardee

The Manicured, Romantic, Happy Believer

“I believe in manicures.
I believe in primping at leisure and wearing lipstick.
I believe in pink.
I believe that laughing is the best calorie burner.
I believe in kissing, kissing a lot.
I believe in being strong when everything seems to be going wrong.
I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls.
and
I believe in miracles.”

~ Audrey Hepburn,
Actress and Humanitarian

Creating Solutions

“We cannot solve our problems
with the same thinking
that we used when we created them.”

~ Albert Einstein,
Theoretical Physicist, Nobel Prize for Physics (1921),
Barnard Medal (1920), Matteucci Medal (1921), ForMemRS (1921),
Copley Medal (1925), Gold Medal – Royal Astronomical Society (1926),
Max Planck Medal (1929) & Time Person of the Century (1999)

A Kindness Destiny

“Nothing brings me more happiness than trying to help the most vulnerable people in society.
It is a goal and an essential part of my life – a kind of destiny.
Whoever is in distress can call on me. I will come running wherever they are.”

~ Diana Frances Windsor,
Princess of Wales

Miracles are Manifesting

“Out of difficulties grow miracles. ”

~ Jean de la Bruyère,
Philosopher & Moralist.

Throwing in The Towel?

“The biggest mistake that people make is
they give up too soon, and they throw in the towel.
Becoming a successful leader has a lot to do with
realizing how strong you are.
The human body, the human mind and
the human heart can take a lot.
Fight through bad times in business,
and you’ll be surprised you can
work through it usually.
But people give up too soon,
and they don’t realize how much more
they can put into it without giving up.”

~ Tilman J. Fertitta,
Owner, Chairman & CEO of Fertitta Entertainment
(Landry’s & Golden Nugget)

Launching Pads Are Made of the Lowest Points

“Your lowest points are launching pads to God’s greatest promotions.”

~ Joseph Prince,
Author, Co-Founder & Pastor of New Creation Church

The Chemistry for Miracles

“But, I think my mistakes became the chemistry for my miracles.
I think that my tests became my testimonies.”

~ T. D. Jakes, Sr.,
Bishop/Chief Pastor of The Potter’s House,
Author & Filmmaker

Mistakes: Opportunities to Overcome

“I don’t remember any mistakes, only opportunities to overcome problems.””

~ James Sorenson,,
Founder – Sorenson Companies & Philanthropist

You vs. Circumstances

“Do not let circumstances control you.
You change your circumstances.”

~ Jackie Chan,
Actor, Martial Artist, Film Director, Producer, Stuntman,
Singer, Clothier, Restaurateur, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist,
Founder – Jackie Chan Charitable Foundation &
Founder – Dragon’s Heart Foundation

Laugh Well

“The times when you feel like laughing the least
are usually the times you need to laugh the most.”

~ Chonda Pierce,
Comedienne, Author, Philanthropist &
Co-Founder – Branches Recovery Center

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Life is Like An Iceberg

“Life is like an iceberg. Ninety percent is under the water, invisible to the naked eye.
The only way to understand the supernatural world is through the Bible.
I don’t know how I existed without knowing God, or living in His love 24/7,
or experiencing His peace no matter what the circumstances, or gaining His wisdom in all of life’s choices.
I can honestly say, “I now have no fear of lack, sickness, or even death.””

~ Sid Roth,
Founder – Sid Roth’s It’s Supernatural!, Author, Talk Show Host & Telly Award (2010)

Our Lifestyle Choices: Coding Our Results

“Epigenetic research reveals that our lifestyle choices —
the foods we eat, the supplements we take, the exercise we pursue,
and even the emotional content of our daily experiences —
are all involved in orchestrating chemical reactions
that activate or deactivate parts of our genome
that will either code for outcomes that
threaten health and pave the way for disease
or create an internal environment
conducive to longevity and disease resistance.”

~ Joseph M. Mercola ,
Osteopathic Physician,
Entrepreneur & Natural Health Expert

Sticky Values

“If you don’t stick to your values when they’re being tested,
they’re not values: they’re hobbies.”

~ Jon Stewart
a.k.a Jonathan Stuart Leibowitz,
Comedian, Writer, Producer, Director, Actor, Media Critic,
& Television Host, The Daily Show (1999-2015)

Created to Endure & Flourish

“Israel was not created in order to disappear – Israel will endure and flourish.
It is the child of hope and the home of the brave.
It can neither be broken by adversity nor demoralized by success.
It carries the shield of democracy and it honors the sword of freedom.”

~ John F. Kennedy,
35th President of the United States (1961-1963)

Let It Slide, or Cook With It!

“I think the secret to happiness is having a Teflon soul.
Whatever comes your way, you either let it slide or you cook with it.”

~ Diane Lane,
Actress, National Society of Film Critics Award,
New York Film Critics Circle Award & Women in Film Crystal Award

Elements of My Universe

“Every time I start chasing my tail, and I’m trying to control all these elements of my universe, I pray,
‘I’m not in control of any of this. I can just do the best I can.
Please guide me. Please help me figure how I can move through this in the way You would have me.'”

~ Cheryl Ladd,
Actress, Singer and Author

Anyone Can

“Anyone can give up; it’s the easiest thing in the world to do.
But to hold it together, when everyone else would understand
if you fell apart, that’s true strength.”

~ Author Unknown,

~ Image via NAME HERE

Enjoy the Roses Amidst the Thorns

“We can complain because rose bushes have thorns,
or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.”

~ Abraham Lincoln,
16th President of the United States

“You and I are strong enough to
not allow the ‘thorns’ of life
to keep us from enjoying life’s ‘roses’.”

~ Michelle ‘Chaella’ Boddie,
Blogger, Visual Artist,
Christmas Decor Stylist & Website Design Editor

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To Laugh at It

“Life is tough; and if you have the ability
to laugh at it, you have the ability to enjoy it.”

~ Salma Hayek,
Actress, Director, Producer
Glamour ‘Woman of the Year Award’ recipient (2001)
Producers Guild of America Celebration of Diversity Award recipient (2003)
Time ’25 Most Influential Hispanics’ recipient (2005)

A Habitual Sense of Humor

“There is no defense against adverse fortune which is so effectual
as a habitual sense of humor.”

~ Thomas Wentworth Higginson,
Minister, Author, Abolitionist, and Soldier

Out of the Nightmare

“If I didn’t mould my reality then,
I’d still be in the ghetto,
where people like me are supposed to stay.
You have to dream your way out of the nightmare.”

~ will.i.am
a.k.a William James Adams,
Founder of i.am Angel,
Director of Creative Innovation for Intel (2011),
Founder of The Back-Eyed Peas,
Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Entrepreneur,
Actor, DJ, Record Producer, Philanthropist,
Grammy Awards (7), American Music Awards(8), Billboard Music Award,
Daytime Emmy Awards (2), Latin Grammy Award, Television Rack Awards (10),
Teen Choice Award, MTV Video Music Awards (2) and World Music Awards (3)

Being Calm

“PEACE:
It does not mean
to be in a place where there is
no noise, trouble or hard work.
It means to be in the midst of those things
and still be calm in your heart.”

~ Unknown,

Minor Troubles?

“A sense of humor is a major defense against minor troubles.”

~ Mignon McLaughlin,
Journalist, Author,
Writer (Redbook, Cosmopolitan & other magazines),
Copy Editor + Managing Editor (Glamour)

A Laugh Can Do It

“I have seen what a laugh can do.
It can transform almost unbearable tears
into something bearable, even hopeful.”

~ Leslie Townes Hope, KBE, KC*SG, KSS,
a.k.a Bob Hope

Comedian, Vaudevillian, Actor, Singer,
Dancer, Athlete, & Author
Academy Awards (1940, 1944, 1952, 1959, & 1965)
Congressional Gold Medal (1962), Presidential Medal of Freedom (1969)
Kennedy Center (1985), Television Hall of Fame (1987),
Ronald Reagan Freedom Award (1997)

About Your Attitude

“You may not be able to change a situation,
yet with humor you can
change your attitude about it.”
“Humor does not diminish the pain –
it makes the space around it get bigger.”

~ Allen Klein,
Author, Lecturer & a Gelotology Pioneer

Walk the Tightrope, Smiling

“A well-developed sense of humor
is the pole that adds balance
to your steps as you walk the tightrope of life.”

~ William Arthur Ward,
Author, Educator & Motivational Speaker

The Best Antidote!

“Good humor is a tonic for mind and body.
It is the best antidote for anxiety and depression.
It is a business asset.
It attracts and keeps friends.
It lightens human burdens.
It is the direct route to serenity and contentment.”

~ Grenville Kleiser,
Author & Public Speaking Instructor

Every Human’s Life

“Every man’s life
ends the same way.
It is only the details
of how he lived
and how he died
that distinguish one man from another.”

~ Ernest Miller Hemingway,
Author, Journalist
Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, recipient (1953)
Nobel Prize in Literature, recipient (1954)

Challenges? Victories!

“Turn your biggest challenges
into your biggest victories.”

~ Jennifer Gayle

Extreme Gratitude

“The practice of extreme gratitude can lead to
joy in the face of adversity,
unshakable inner peace
and unwavering freedom.”

~ Jodi LeBlanc,
Blogger

Do You Count Your Blessings?

“Gratitude: Counting your blessings
and seeing the beauty in this world
Before, During and Following life’s storms.”

~ Unknown

A Nobler & Stronger Soul

“Trials, temptations, disappointments — all these are helps instead of hindrances,
if one uses them rightly.
They not only test the fiber of character, yet strengthen it.
Every conquering temptation represents a new fund of moral energy.
Every trial endured and weathered in the right spirit
makes a soul nobler & stronger
than it was before.”

~ James Buckham

The Absence of Problems? Really?

““Sometimes life knocks you on your a__… get up, get up, get up!!! Happiness is not the absence of problems, it’s the ability to deal with them.” .”

~ Steve Maraboli,
Author & Speaker

Grateful, Not Hateful

“You’ve got to look for the good in the bad,
the happy in your sad,
the gain in your pain,
and what makes you grateful, not hateful.”

~ Karen Salmansohn,
Author

Advantageous Adversity?

“In every adversity there lies the seed of an equivalent advantage.
In every defeat is a lesson showing you how to win
the victory next time.”

~ Robert Collier,
Author