Over the years there were times when I looked to hire people to work with me. Like all companies I try to get good people that would represent my company in the best positive light. A person that’s trustworthy, friendly and kind. Someone that looks like they take care of themselves seem more likely to care for my busines…
Over the years there were times when I looked to hire people to work with me. Like all companies I try to get good people that would represent my company in the best positive light. A person that’s trustworthy, friendly and kind. Someone that looks like they take care of themselves seem more likely to care for my business. Someone who could be an example to others.
Wouldn’t it make sense, if it’s important how an employee represents my company it’s much more important how I present myself especially in my life. You never really know who’s watching you. People watch how we live. Our kids, our co workers even people at the store where we shop. Our actions, how we treat people, helping others even our body language should make people feel comfortable, it should attract people to us.. If we are kind, good to people, take time for people, that’s a message we are sending out. We are called to be the light of the world. We should always pay attention to that. Our life in a way is a ministry. Every day when we interact with others we are sending a message. Some people we see are the only interaction they may have all day, we should always want to leave a positive impression of ourselves.
When somebody does something nice for us, don’t just look down and mumble ok thanks. Slow down, show them that you care, look them in the eye with a smile on your face, in a pleasant tone, say thank you I appreciate that. We can’t get so busy, so preoccupied, that we don’t take time for people. God brings all types of people across our path. We never know if they need something positive added into their life. They may be going through all kinds of difficulty you know nothing about. Yet one kind word, one heartfelt thank you one look of care and concern can help them through their day. It’s the little things we do. People don’t see God, they see us. We are vessels and should try to give out some good to somebody, give out hope give out encouragement. We may have difficulties in our own life and one of the best things we can do is take our mind off ourselves. The best thing we can do is go out and be a blessing to someone else. If you will make someone else’s day you are sure to see it come back to you. If we go out each day being a good example you’ll not only make a positive impact in other people’s lives, God will use that to impact our own life, He will cause you to climb higher. Take time out of your busy life to help someone when you can.
Robert and Jill Malone are a great case in setting a good example, this I believe is why we are all here.
Years ago I was taught to greet everyone the same and whole heartedly no matter who they were or what they looked like. It’s a way not to show favor to certain people above others, and it’s a blessing to see how it lifts people up—I know how it affects me when I’m greeted the same way.
There’s a little boy that comes in to where I work during school breaks—he’s eight years old now. He looks forward to my greetings because I genuinely enjoy seeing him. He sadly told me last week that his parents said he was crazy. Knowing how kids think and act at home, I wanted to encourage him without dishonoring his parents. I told him that since I knew him when he was six, I never thought he was crazy but normal like other kids. That simple greeting and statement made his day.
I watched the movie “The Forge” with my wife Friday. It was about how young men need mentoring by older men, to lead them toward manhood and to truly change their lives by leading them to Christ—that’s where true change takes place. As men, we need to get out of our comfort zones and mentor and love these young and little guys, who are craving attention and a life of character. If we don’t, the world will shape their character, and ultimately destroy their lives both physically and spiritually—Life is Short, but Eternity is Forever—we need to live that truth out every day. 🙂
Here's some related information from an American Thought Leaders interview with Mike Rowe, who advocates trade education and work ethic: https://substack.com/@bige47/note/c-102482335
We won't quote the entire note here, but definitely wanted include the S.W.E.A.T. Pledge, which every mikeroweWORKS Foundation scholarship applicant must take:
________________________
THE S.W.E.A.T. PLEDGE
(Skill & Work Ethic Aren't Taboo)
1. I believe that I have won the greatest lottery of all time. I am alive. I walk the Earth. I live in America. Above all things, I am grateful.
2. I believe that I am entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Nothing more. I also understand that "happiness" and the "pursuit of happiness" are not the same thing.
3. I believe there is no such thing as a "bad job." I believe that all jobs are opportunities, and it's up to me to make the best of them.
4. I do not "follow my passion." I bring it with me. I believe that any job can be done with passion and enthusiasm.
5. I deplore debt, and do all I can to avoid it. I would rather live in a tent and eat beans than borrow money to pay for a lifestyle I can't afford.
6. I believe that my safety is my responsibility. I understand that being in "compliance" does not necessarily mean I'm out of danger.
7. I believe the best way to distinguish myself at work is to show up early, stay late, and cheerfully volunteer for every crappy task there is.
8. I believe the most annoying sounds in the world are whining and complaining. I will never make them. If I am unhappy in my work, I will either find a new job or find a way to be happy.
9. I believe that my education is my responsibility and absolutely critical to my success. I am resolved to learn as much as I can from whatever source is available to me. I will never stop learning and understand that library cards are free.
10. I believe that I am a product of my choices - not my circumstances. I will never blame anyone for my shortcomings or the challenges I face. And I will never accept the credit for something I didn't do.
11. I understand the world is not fair, and I'm OK with that. I do not resent the success of others.
12. I believe that all people are created equal. I also believe that all people make choices. Some choose to be lazy. Some choose to sleep in. I choose to work my butt off.
On my honor, I herby affirm the above statements to be an accurate summation of my personal worldview. I promise to live by them.
This should be the Boy Scouts of America Pledge. . . if they still exist.
Mike Rowe is a Mensch of the first order.
EDIT: After checking I see there IS no such thing as the BOY Scouts! The entity has been changed to "SCOUTING"; all coed now. What has the world come to?
Thank You Big E for posting this pledge. I had an opportunity today to help a couple build a closet in a house they had raised their 2 children in. The husband just had spine surgery through his neck, and the wife is an OR nurse, friends with my wife since childhood. She recently had shoulder surgery. They have had some hard times being out of work and are now looking at selling their house. I worked until 7 o’clock and feel great. I thanked them when I was leaving, I told them letting me help them helps me, and I truly mean that.
I have arthritis in my hands and have had several surgeries over the last 5 years. All by the same Dr. In January I had an arthroplasty for my left thumb removing a bone and replacing it with tendon. Last march he replaced a knuckle in my right index finger. Carpel tunnel was keeping me awake at night and he did both of those about 3 years ago.
This man is an amazing surgeon and I made a point at my last followup to compliment him and tell him how thankful I am for his and my paths crossing in life for his work on me has been life changing. You have to make the effort sometimes to let people know they are doing well and don't take them for granted. I enjoy the writings of the Malone's and subscribers like you James and others here. It is such an uplifting part of my day compared to what MSM has to offer.
I’m glad the good doctor has helped you, and glad William you acknowledged it. Sometimes we miss opportunities to say thank you, sometimes we miss opportunities to help someone, I’m trying to get better at it. Thanks William!!
03/24/25: Thank you, William. It is gratifying to read that you found someone who restored your physical health (and no doubt, sanity). Best of luck, sir!
Amen! Thank you James for a heart-felt message, your words are beautiful. My Dad always taught me & my siblings to treat others with respect- treat others’ as you would like others’ to treat you. His message was, if someone doesn’t look you in the eye as you talk to one another, they may have something to hide; that was my Dad. I always look people directly in their eyes when talking, & was taught to say thank you, & you’re welcome. “Please & Thank you go a long way”, he would say. It is important as you mention, always be appreciative of others, & I offer my “thank you” to anyone that holds a door open as I enter or leave a building; I notice those that do come & go when I run errands, holding their head down as maybe they don’t want to interact, or do not want to offer a friendly “Hi”…! But, a majority of people I encounter have been friendly in my community, & it is wonderful to see a happy, smiling face, & hear “thank you”, when a door is held open for one another. Have a Blessed Sunday!
Thank you DD. When I began my subscription here I could be rigid and sharp, I still can be, but you made me think deeper and opened my mind to be a little more accepting, sometimes about things that maybe people can’t change. So you inspired me as well, thank you for that!!
You just made a very impactful statement. "People don’t see God, they see us. We are vessels and should try to give out some good to somebody, give out hope give out encouragement." I've always understood how impactful it is to be on the receiving end of a stranger's smile. It just never occurred to me that it may be God, who's behind it. My grown daughter has Down Syndrome and I've always marveled at her ability to be so outwardly happy to introduce herself and strike up cheerful chit-chat with strangers when we are in public. It all most always generates good vibes to all in earshot. I've always felt sad that it does not come naturally to me. I think it's because if I try that same behavior, people are sometimes suspect of an ulterior motivation and become even more protective of their privacy. Maybe the difference is that when she does it, they know it's given in absolute innocence? Anyway, Thank you.
Observant One, how fitting a name! I don’t know you, you sound like a wonderful father, and I believe it is God in your child being outgoing to strangers. It’s an amazing thing how we learn. Your post made connections with me. I am like you a bit introverted with strangers. My wife is opposite me and I’ve always been, I guess, envious of her outgoing affect towards strangers. Maybe it’s a signal to both of us, maybe we can both work on this. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me!!
I am just re-reading your missal and am so impressed with the depth of insight you expressed. This is truly inspired counseling, you are blessed to be the vessel, James.
Thanks DD, vessel is a term I recently read where God uses people to deliver his message. You know I don’t think I would be at this different place in my life without being here. It’s strengthened this feeling I’ve had for a long time, really years, to help people where I can. I’m not sure if getting older makes me want to learn to be more giving. For a while now I have felt I have to give the people around me more. I worked all day yesterday at a friends house where both husband and wife had operations, have been struggling, and find themselves having to sell their home. I feel as though it was an opportunity for me to help them which helps me. My wife thinks I’m going crazy working on my Sunday but I told her even as busy as I am I want to help our friends, the wife is my wife’s best friend from high school. I’ve written how I don’t want to waste my days, especially now when I am still able to do this work. My body isn’t going to be able to do this forever, I feel it. My days are numbered. I have a bad hernia now and I’m hoping I can make it through this current job so I can get it fixed and afford to take the time off. I have no choice but to finish this job. The homeowner is a magnificent surgeon who has 2 sons and herself has problems. Her husband left her and this house I’m working on is much closer to where she works. Sorry again for bending your ear at 215-315 in the morning. I hope your doing OK DD!!
A Sunday thought.
Over the years there were times when I looked to hire people to work with me. Like all companies I try to get good people that would represent my company in the best positive light. A person that’s trustworthy, friendly and kind. Someone that looks like they take care of themselves seem more likely to care for my business. Someone who could be an example to others.
Wouldn’t it make sense, if it’s important how an employee represents my company it’s much more important how I present myself especially in my life. You never really know who’s watching you. People watch how we live. Our kids, our co workers even people at the store where we shop. Our actions, how we treat people, helping others even our body language should make people feel comfortable, it should attract people to us.. If we are kind, good to people, take time for people, that’s a message we are sending out. We are called to be the light of the world. We should always pay attention to that. Our life in a way is a ministry. Every day when we interact with others we are sending a message. Some people we see are the only interaction they may have all day, we should always want to leave a positive impression of ourselves.
When somebody does something nice for us, don’t just look down and mumble ok thanks. Slow down, show them that you care, look them in the eye with a smile on your face, in a pleasant tone, say thank you I appreciate that. We can’t get so busy, so preoccupied, that we don’t take time for people. God brings all types of people across our path. We never know if they need something positive added into their life. They may be going through all kinds of difficulty you know nothing about. Yet one kind word, one heartfelt thank you one look of care and concern can help them through their day. It’s the little things we do. People don’t see God, they see us. We are vessels and should try to give out some good to somebody, give out hope give out encouragement. We may have difficulties in our own life and one of the best things we can do is take our mind off ourselves. The best thing we can do is go out and be a blessing to someone else. If you will make someone else’s day you are sure to see it come back to you. If we go out each day being a good example you’ll not only make a positive impact in other people’s lives, God will use that to impact our own life, He will cause you to climb higher. Take time out of your busy life to help someone when you can.
Robert and Jill Malone are a great case in setting a good example, this I believe is why we are all here.
Enjoy your Sunday. J.Goodrich
Happy Sunday James Goodrich!
Years ago I was taught to greet everyone the same and whole heartedly no matter who they were or what they looked like. It’s a way not to show favor to certain people above others, and it’s a blessing to see how it lifts people up—I know how it affects me when I’m greeted the same way.
There’s a little boy that comes in to where I work during school breaks—he’s eight years old now. He looks forward to my greetings because I genuinely enjoy seeing him. He sadly told me last week that his parents said he was crazy. Knowing how kids think and act at home, I wanted to encourage him without dishonoring his parents. I told him that since I knew him when he was six, I never thought he was crazy but normal like other kids. That simple greeting and statement made his day.
I watched the movie “The Forge” with my wife Friday. It was about how young men need mentoring by older men, to lead them toward manhood and to truly change their lives by leading them to Christ—that’s where true change takes place. As men, we need to get out of our comfort zones and mentor and love these young and little guys, who are craving attention and a life of character. If we don’t, the world will shape their character, and ultimately destroy their lives both physically and spiritually—Life is Short, but Eternity is Forever—we need to live that truth out every day. 🙂
Thanks for your Sunday Post!
Such a warm story!
Beautiful story CQL Happy Sunday my friend!!
Thank you for your kind words- they really do mean a great deal to us.
Thank You both, it’s the truth!!
Amen James. Thank you.
“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.”
Hebrews 13:2
So perfectly said James! The Malones set such a great example for us all! God bless them! Happy Sunday all! ✝️💟
Thank you Jennifer!!
This is amazing, James Goodrich! We shared here: https://substack.com/@bige47/note/c-102701897
Here's some related information from an American Thought Leaders interview with Mike Rowe, who advocates trade education and work ethic: https://substack.com/@bige47/note/c-102482335
We won't quote the entire note here, but definitely wanted include the S.W.E.A.T. Pledge, which every mikeroweWORKS Foundation scholarship applicant must take:
________________________
THE S.W.E.A.T. PLEDGE
(Skill & Work Ethic Aren't Taboo)
1. I believe that I have won the greatest lottery of all time. I am alive. I walk the Earth. I live in America. Above all things, I am grateful.
2. I believe that I am entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Nothing more. I also understand that "happiness" and the "pursuit of happiness" are not the same thing.
3. I believe there is no such thing as a "bad job." I believe that all jobs are opportunities, and it's up to me to make the best of them.
4. I do not "follow my passion." I bring it with me. I believe that any job can be done with passion and enthusiasm.
5. I deplore debt, and do all I can to avoid it. I would rather live in a tent and eat beans than borrow money to pay for a lifestyle I can't afford.
6. I believe that my safety is my responsibility. I understand that being in "compliance" does not necessarily mean I'm out of danger.
7. I believe the best way to distinguish myself at work is to show up early, stay late, and cheerfully volunteer for every crappy task there is.
8. I believe the most annoying sounds in the world are whining and complaining. I will never make them. If I am unhappy in my work, I will either find a new job or find a way to be happy.
9. I believe that my education is my responsibility and absolutely critical to my success. I am resolved to learn as much as I can from whatever source is available to me. I will never stop learning and understand that library cards are free.
10. I believe that I am a product of my choices - not my circumstances. I will never blame anyone for my shortcomings or the challenges I face. And I will never accept the credit for something I didn't do.
11. I understand the world is not fair, and I'm OK with that. I do not resent the success of others.
12. I believe that all people are created equal. I also believe that all people make choices. Some choose to be lazy. Some choose to sleep in. I choose to work my butt off.
On my honor, I herby affirm the above statements to be an accurate summation of my personal worldview. I promise to live by them.
This should be the Boy Scouts of America Pledge. . . if they still exist.
Mike Rowe is a Mensch of the first order.
EDIT: After checking I see there IS no such thing as the BOY Scouts! The entity has been changed to "SCOUTING"; all coed now. What has the world come to?
Thank You Big E for posting this pledge. I had an opportunity today to help a couple build a closet in a house they had raised their 2 children in. The husband just had spine surgery through his neck, and the wife is an OR nurse, friends with my wife since childhood. She recently had shoulder surgery. They have had some hard times being out of work and are now looking at selling their house. I worked until 7 o’clock and feel great. I thanked them when I was leaving, I told them letting me help them helps me, and I truly mean that.
this is great thank for sharing!!! #7 is also the best way to stay relevant and/or get promoted.
That was my cup of coffee for the morning!
I have arthritis in my hands and have had several surgeries over the last 5 years. All by the same Dr. In January I had an arthroplasty for my left thumb removing a bone and replacing it with tendon. Last march he replaced a knuckle in my right index finger. Carpel tunnel was keeping me awake at night and he did both of those about 3 years ago.
This man is an amazing surgeon and I made a point at my last followup to compliment him and tell him how thankful I am for his and my paths crossing in life for his work on me has been life changing. You have to make the effort sometimes to let people know they are doing well and don't take them for granted. I enjoy the writings of the Malone's and subscribers like you James and others here. It is such an uplifting part of my day compared to what MSM has to offer.
Thank you one and all,
Bill
I’m glad the good doctor has helped you, and glad William you acknowledged it. Sometimes we miss opportunities to say thank you, sometimes we miss opportunities to help someone, I’m trying to get better at it. Thanks William!!
We all continue on the path of learning. For me, it's a lovely one, jaw dropping at times!!
03/24/25: Thank you, William. It is gratifying to read that you found someone who restored your physical health (and no doubt, sanity). Best of luck, sir!
Thank you!
Amen! Thank you James for a heart-felt message, your words are beautiful. My Dad always taught me & my siblings to treat others with respect- treat others’ as you would like others’ to treat you. His message was, if someone doesn’t look you in the eye as you talk to one another, they may have something to hide; that was my Dad. I always look people directly in their eyes when talking, & was taught to say thank you, & you’re welcome. “Please & Thank you go a long way”, he would say. It is important as you mention, always be appreciative of others, & I offer my “thank you” to anyone that holds a door open as I enter or leave a building; I notice those that do come & go when I run errands, holding their head down as maybe they don’t want to interact, or do not want to offer a friendly “Hi”…! But, a majority of people I encounter have been friendly in my community, & it is wonderful to see a happy, smiling face, & hear “thank you”, when a door is held open for one another. Have a Blessed Sunday!
Thanks Patricia your father sounds like he is a wonderful Dad!! God bless!!
You are my "Sunday inspiration" James. I appreciate you taking the time to share your uplifting thoughts.
Thank you DD. When I began my subscription here I could be rigid and sharp, I still can be, but you made me think deeper and opened my mind to be a little more accepting, sometimes about things that maybe people can’t change. So you inspired me as well, thank you for that!!
mine too,
I will second that one DD!
That is just GREAT!, James. Thank you.
. . . my small contribution for this Sunday. . . on Integrity. Clint is Great.
https://conjuringsunlight.blogspot.com/2025/02/fiona-carrington-clint-eastwood.html
I listened to the interview great post Red, thank you!!
Yes, James! We must not get so busy we neglect to see people! We ARE people. All of us.
You just made a very impactful statement. "People don’t see God, they see us. We are vessels and should try to give out some good to somebody, give out hope give out encouragement." I've always understood how impactful it is to be on the receiving end of a stranger's smile. It just never occurred to me that it may be God, who's behind it. My grown daughter has Down Syndrome and I've always marveled at her ability to be so outwardly happy to introduce herself and strike up cheerful chit-chat with strangers when we are in public. It all most always generates good vibes to all in earshot. I've always felt sad that it does not come naturally to me. I think it's because if I try that same behavior, people are sometimes suspect of an ulterior motivation and become even more protective of their privacy. Maybe the difference is that when she does it, they know it's given in absolute innocence? Anyway, Thank you.
Observant One, how fitting a name! I don’t know you, you sound like a wonderful father, and I believe it is God in your child being outgoing to strangers. It’s an amazing thing how we learn. Your post made connections with me. I am like you a bit introverted with strangers. My wife is opposite me and I’ve always been, I guess, envious of her outgoing affect towards strangers. Maybe it’s a signal to both of us, maybe we can both work on this. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me!!
Great advice James, I love reading your wise words.
Thank You T.Paine, I know I’ve said this before, I love your name🤗!!
A bright and spendid Sunday to you, J. Goodrich. I once said you are a goof (in, I hope, an inspiring way), but you are also a jewel!
I'm busy editing this cause I forgot the magic words, James. Thank you!!
Your awesome LB, I love reading your posts!!
Great post!
Thank you for this insightful Sunday note.
I am just re-reading your missal and am so impressed with the depth of insight you expressed. This is truly inspired counseling, you are blessed to be the vessel, James.
Thanks DD, vessel is a term I recently read where God uses people to deliver his message. You know I don’t think I would be at this different place in my life without being here. It’s strengthened this feeling I’ve had for a long time, really years, to help people where I can. I’m not sure if getting older makes me want to learn to be more giving. For a while now I have felt I have to give the people around me more. I worked all day yesterday at a friends house where both husband and wife had operations, have been struggling, and find themselves having to sell their home. I feel as though it was an opportunity for me to help them which helps me. My wife thinks I’m going crazy working on my Sunday but I told her even as busy as I am I want to help our friends, the wife is my wife’s best friend from high school. I’ve written how I don’t want to waste my days, especially now when I am still able to do this work. My body isn’t going to be able to do this forever, I feel it. My days are numbered. I have a bad hernia now and I’m hoping I can make it through this current job so I can get it fixed and afford to take the time off. I have no choice but to finish this job. The homeowner is a magnificent surgeon who has 2 sons and herself has problems. Her husband left her and this house I’m working on is much closer to where she works. Sorry again for bending your ear at 215-315 in the morning. I hope your doing OK DD!!