Scribblings of Lynda Smith

Finding reflective time in a fast paced world

2012-02-06T08:12:00.000+02:00

I have no doubt that most can identify with the feelings of exhaustion experienced at the end of 2011. I personally felt like a spinning top that needed to come to a halt to find myself. It took the first 10 days of my holiday, sleeping, relaxing and doing very little before I started to feel human again.

The fast pace of life with technology beckoning daily 24/7/365 is taking its toll on our sense of being, relationships and health. These tiny objects allow us to do more, talk to many and stretch our reach right across the globe. In all advancement, there is good and bad. The challenge is how to get back the balance and enjoy the tools while retaining your soul.

I read a short piece this morning by Bill Hybels called"Speed versus Soul" These are his words: "Somewhere along the way, I realized that although my speed line was content to run fast and hard year after year, my soul line just couldn't keep up"

He shares this example: I finished speaking at a conference in Germany one time and my translator offered to give me a ride back to the airport. For the first part of the car ride, we talked quietly about the most impactful moments of the conference. We were making our way through a residential part of town and our conversation matched the relaxed easy pace. But then we turned onto the autobahn. I began to notice that the faster my friend drove, the less frequently we talked. When we reached top speed, our dialogue died down altogether. Instead of continuing the soulish interaction we'd been enjoying, we found ourselves focused solely on dodging the other cars and avoiding a crash.

We need to make time to slow down. How do we do this in such a fast paced world? This is not easy to do and may take choices and humility.Alter your job description, meeting schedule, and make time to be quiet and spend time with God. Stephen Covey talks about "First things First"Do what is important and then other things will fall into place.

These few verses from Matthew 16 : 26 to 28 in The Message version of the bible give us guidance. "Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You're not in the driver's seat, I am. Don't run from suffering, embrace it. Follow me and I will show you how.Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self. What kind of deal is it to get everything you want but lose yourself? What could you ever trade your soul for?"

Choose Life

2011-12-19T06:36:00.000+02:00

The one gift we have all been given in life is choice. This gift impacts us more significantly that we realize. It not only impacts us but all those around us and generations to come.

Let me give you a few examples. You choose to drink excessively and your family are affected. They learn behavior to cope with family life around them and retain the memories as part of who they are.

You choose to have an affair and the consequences change the lives of both your spouse, your children and generations to come. There may be added value with an unwanted pregnancy or HIV and AIDS.

You have an argument and pride, ego and self righteousness become more important than fixing the relationship. Your family suffer the consequences often for generations as a result of your decision.

You choose patience, time and love to parent your children even when you would rather be doing other things yourself.

You choose to sacrifice many things you would like to buy to ensure that your child is able to go and study.

These simple examples are complex in many ways and I am not denying that. My question to you this festive season is to look closely at your life and examine if there is any choice you may have made that is impacting others negatively? Can you change that? Can you stop doing what your doing? Can you hold out a hand of forgiveness? Can you repair a relationship through love and time? Yes all of these things are possible and may be the best gift you can give this year.It may just reverse a trend in your family for generations to come.

None of us are able to make change in our life without love and the gift that was given to us through the birth of Jesus Christ more than 2000 years ago.

Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live!" Deuteronomy 30: 19

May your choices change the lives of your children and their children forever. What a wonderful gift that would be.

Solid Ground

2011-11-20T16:58:00.002+02:00

This thought came to me a few days back as I was driving and I reflected on some of the people who have influenced my life.

The first thought was that I now stand on SOLID GROUND. The journey to discover what really matters in life takes time, commitment and truth. I am a believer in CHRIST who gives me strength and direction for the walk through life. There are many along my journey that have helped to get me to to this point. I am grateful for each person who planted seed, prayed for me and encouraged me along the way.

When we stand back and reflect on the journey of life so far and what lies ahead, it is always important to try and see who has been with you on the journey and who has helped to develop your character and skills.

There may be specific people who have led a company or church you have been part of? It may be a special teacher on your journey through school. Your parents partner and children can play an amazing role in shaping who you become.Friends are there to support, love and guide us through a season and sometimes even a stranger has an impact on our thinking.

As we grow beyond the halftime journey, we should start to reflect more on this road and ask ourselves questions about life and those we may or can impact. We can start by making a list of those that have impacted our own journey. Then looking to the future, mentoring, encouraging and walking a distance with a young person, a friend or colleague should be part of what can make the difference in life.

Stand on solid ground be grateful, hold out your hand and start to help others.

This video clip says it all: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8welVgKX8Qo&feature=fvsr

9/11 ten years on- how has it changed the way you live your life?

2011-09-11T16:12:00.003+02:00

Today is the 10 year anniversary of 9/11.
Where were you that day? It is one of those events that we all remember so clearly no matter where we live on planet earth.

I was busy doing a launch for Smile Education in the Hilton Hotel in Durban. I left the conference room when I had a number of missed calls from my children. When I called they told me the news. I immediately went to the bar area where there was a TV and could not believe what my eyes were seeing.I called my sister in the USA to see if they were all OK. The devastation and loss of life for so many will never be forgotten.

Today is the international day of prayer for Church of the Nations. This is the church group I belong to. As we prayed for children, family, communities, churches, nations, marketplace, missions and governments I wonder if the world is better or worse than it was 10 years ago? Did it really affect us so that we engage and care for others? Have international connections improved or deteriorated? Do these kinds of events change us for ever or not?

Many live with more fear, greed, destruction and anger. Others are more vulnerable. The stats about children, HIV, child pregnancies and the youth break ones heart. What will it take for us to really change and care?

Ten years ago my children were 19 and 21. Still at home. Now 10 years later they are both married and living as global citizens. I thank God that we choose to all follow the love of Jesus to equip us to live with love for family and our fellow man. That is the only way. I choose not to live with fear or loss but to live each day touching and encouraging those around me to take hands and make this place we call HOME a better place for all.

Enjoy some of my own memories of my visit to the USA in 2007.

Living Stones

2011-09-04T21:03:00.000+02:00

Today at church we were challenged by a story about precious stones. This reminded me of my own message about stones. Beautiful precious stones set in a ring given to me about 4 years ago by a work colleague. At the time I was overwhelmed by the gift but more challenged about the message that accompanied the gift.

At the time I had left the parent/child industry and had no plans to return. The Prophetic message that I was given was one about being an influence in the country for women and children.

The beautiful ring had three semi precious stones. The colours were explained to me as follows;
Green/Blue stone - A reminder to remain in the stream of living water
Purple: A reminder of God's anointing
The last stone reflects 2 colours.
Pink- The Bride of Christ- That I would never be alone
Gold- The blessing of God.

I spent many hours praying about this message. I searched the Bible and asked friends to pray for me. It was in this season that I cried out to God to only do work that would honor this journey. The season was filled with pain, character building, releasing relationships and renewing my mind.

Today 4 years later I do find myself back in the parent/child industry. There is never a day that goes by that I do not first ask God to lead me, open the right doors and close those that need closing.

We serve a mighty God who knows us in our uniqueness. He knew us before we were born. There is such peace to find this very special place.

There are two pieces of scripture that helped me to understand this journey and promise.

Isaiah 54 vs. 11-15

Jerusalem, you are sad and discouraged, tossed around in a storm.
But I the Lord will rebuild your city with precious stones.
For your foundation I will use blue sapphires,
your fortress will be built with rubies,
your gates of jewels and your walls of gems.
I will teach your children and make them successful.

1 Peter 2 vs 4-6

Come to Jesus Christ. He is the living stone that people have rejected but which God has chosen and highly honored. And now you are living stones that are being used to build a spiritual home. You are also a group of holy priests and with the help of Jesus Christ you will offer sacrifices that please God. It is just as God says in scriptures.

Look I am placing in Zion a choice and precious cornerstone.
No one who has faith in that one will be disappointed.

Each of us are precious stones in the eyes of our Lord. He gives us the gift of choice and would love to add you to His House.
Me and my family, we will serve the Lord.

One million in my box

2011-08-07T15:49:00.001+02:00

I have just finished reading a book called STUCK IN HALFTIME by BOB BUFORD. Bob has written a number of books relating to the shifts that happen about halfway through the journey of life. This particular book he wrote because he experienced many people being stuck and not being able to move from success to significance.

The journey of turning the page to a new chapter of life is not as easy as it seems. We struggle because of fear, risk and certain worldly traits that keep us captive. In an earlier book, Bob used an example of asking the following question: What symbol is in your box? In this process, he asks us to define the one symbol that defines most of our decisions. There can be many things in that box. Some of these symbols can be money, power, status, family or your faith. A few years back I did this excercise and placed the CROSS in my box. My faith defines who I am and I try to make as many of my decisions based on biblical principles.

In this new book, he expands this thinking for Christians and asks you to define what you believe your calling is? For what cause do you believe you were uniquely made? This had me back to thinking about my symbol of the cross? I was able to easily define what mine needs to change to. I had never thought about it before but I have two projects very close to my heart that get me up every day. They both share a central number: ONE MILLION

1. Refirement Network has it documented that I get up daily to help influence baby boomers to discover what they love doing and to encourage them to start a Refirement career and to help bring about social change in South Africa. I have a written goal of influencing 100 000 South Africans to have a 10 year Refirement career. This equates to 1 MILLION years of change for South Africa.

2. In my role as CEO of BrainBoosters which forms part of my own Refirement journey, we have a goal to have ONE MILLION parents involved with their 0-6 children by 2015. Parents are the primary educator of their children and can make a major difference to their children's long term success in life by engaging in play and learning with their children.

This has not been an easy journey. It takes time, prayer and learning to discover the path and the symbol in the box.

I hope these thoughts will help you to think about your own journey and think about the symbol in your box that defines who you are. The symbol can change but will take time and a choice on your part.

Enjoy the journey.

Holiday club 2011- Last week of June

2011-06-12T17:39:00.000+02:00

We have two weeks to go to Holiday Club. This year we are doing something different.
For the past 13 years we have hosted the Holiday Club at the church with about 80 youth leaders and 600 to 800 children everyday. The numbers and costs to transport all these kids from around the Mogale City area is becoming onerous and expensive.This year we are managing 7 venues close and within walking distance of the children.We think this will bring more children and also brings opportunity for more involvement from people in the community.

Communities include:
Swartkops
Kromdraai
Muldersdrift
Dobsonville
Krugersdorp
Video Centre

If you have money, clothes, food, art equipment or can help in any way we would appreciate your help.

Our Nation is in trouble. The children need guidance and direction. Many are fatherless or managing with very little support. We have the team of leaders, we know the children will come, all we ask is if you can help in any way this will be appreciated.

You are welcome to connect with me to find out more.

Every child desrves a place in History......

Going on a play date

2011-06-11T17:19:00.000+02:00

I have been working too much lately and not spending enough time on rest, reflection and creativity. I spend time writing and when one is tired it is difficult to call up the creative side of who we are. Last week I thought that I needed to join a creative writing class..

A few years back I read The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron. She has a sequel called "Walking in this world".Part of the secret of creativity is to take yourself on a weekly "play date". This can be a walk, visiting a place that you have never seen, a concert.... just doing something that may stir up the right side of the brain.

I never thought that this would be the case this morning as I went on an outing about how the Hartbeespoort Dam was built.Fresh cool air, interesting conversations, nature at its best, mixed with water, sluice gates and rivers.
As I walked along the bridge I realsied that this was a gift. Time to think differently and just enjoy the glory of life around me.

Do we always need to take another class or just give oursleves permission to slow down and do something different?

I have pulled the books out again and will start to build back some of the reminders of the simplicity and beauty of our world.

"Come forth into the light of things, let nature be your teacher" William Wordsworth

Me,Myself and I

2011-05-07T20:01:00.002+02:00

Social media like Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn are moving from early adopter to main stream stage around the world. I am interested in your thinking around how you use social media?
Is your facebook only for friends?
Why do you use twitter?
Do you use skype only for family?
Have you tried blogging?

Once you have thought about these questions I would like to know if you have thought of an integrated social media strategy for your life?

Why would you avoid sharing information on facebook?

Maybe social media is forcing us to compartmentalise our lives more?If you are comfortable with who you are and the same person for friends, family, work colleagues and your church group you should have one place where all these people get to see you in totality.

Authentic living is when you are the same no matter who you are with.

Does your social media strategy reflect this?

Parenting Business Opportunity- Make a difference

2011-04-26T07:07:00.000+02:00

Being a parent is one of the most important parts of our lives. It does not come with classes and a manual. Many of us are not aware of how important the first 6 years of life are and that parents are the primary educator. 80% of the brain develops during this phase and there are windows of opportunity that allow for maximum potential later in life if stimulated during this phase. Learning happens mainly through play with love and nurturing being the most important ingredients.

I have been asked to lead a new organisation in South Africa called Brain Boosters.We are in the pilot phase now and will role out to the rest of South Africa later in the year.The idea is new, innovative and cutting edge. The product is real value for money and well thought out.

It is a monthly club rather than a purchase of a product. Each month from birth to the end of your child's 5th year you receive three items.
1. An hour of play, fun and learning for the parents
2. An educational toy
3. A Story Box filled with books,activities and ideas.

At the moment I am looking for MOMS and DADS who may be interested in this as a business opportunity in your area. The idea is that you manage workshops for groups of parents according to age in your own home, with friends and family or at a local community hub.

Training wil be provided and there is a great team behind the whole operation.Once a parent joins, you have the possibility of a monthly customer for the next 5 years. You will be helping other parents to understand their children and make a difference in society.

The second opportunity is to set up a business unit servicing parents in the workplace. This is a seperate opportunity and involves managing a team of trainers, relationship building and selling in the workplace.

I will be holding an information session on the HOME model on Saturday the 28th May from 09h30 till 12h30 in Johannesburg.Please pass this on to anyone you feel may be interested.There will be a booking fee of R100 to cover costs and to ensure committment.Please email me at lgsmith@mweb.co.za of you are intereested and to confirm venue and payment.

MAKE THE NATION COUNT - You can now help to make this happen.

Walking in my own Refirement career

2011-04-06T07:46:00.000+02:00

Refirement is about discovering and knowing your skills, talent and passion and turning this into purpose and change in your later years. The line on my website Refirement Network ( www.refirementnetwork.com) is DON'T RETIRE- REFIRE.

My first 25 years of work life was spent mostly in the parenting industry and early childhood. Smile Education helped to educate parents on how important the first 6 years of life are and that parents are the primary educator. 80% of the brain is developed in this time and unless the "windows of opportunity" are engaged, part of our brain is pruned.

Tomorrow I help launch the pilot project of a new Early Childhood Foundation called Eureka.We will be spearheading a message across South Africa about how important this is and that employers could be the missing piece of the puzzle in helping to unlock improved future Grade 12 results through early parenting and family engagement.

You may be a company interested in the wellness of your employees, a parent wanting to know more or a mom or Refired person looking for a business opportunity where you can make a difference in our nation and at the same time build a business for yourself.
I work daily with BABY BOOMERS. This new role fits so well as I am bridging the gap bewteen BABIES and BOOMERS in my own career and across my mission. Watch this space as I walk the talk of Refirement in action and simultaneously encourage others to do the same. We can all make a difference if we discover who we are, what we love and then step into action.

Family Affair- Common Wealth Games

2010-10-03T16:11:00.004+02:00

Just over 5 years ago we had a family get together at a place called Warthogs near Magliesberg.It was to celebrate my mother's 73 rd birthday. The venue had clay pigeon shooting and the boys decided to try their luck on the Saturday afternoon.

I have triplet niece and nephews who at the time were 12. The owner who had been a SA champion mentioned to my brother that both boys seemed to have a natural talent and that maybe they should pursue this as a hobby.

Well that hobby became a passion and over the last 5 years they have climbed all the way to the top of their league. Both boys have SA colours both as juniors and seniors and were part of the SA team that won the World Cup as juniors earlier this year.
Last Sunday they jetted out to India to represent South Africa. My brother was chosen as their manager so the DAVIS CLAN have three representatives at the games.

It has been such a privilege to watch them grow, stay focused and still achieve in everything else they do.

I proudly sit now and watch as the SA team enter the stadium with three family members who have walked a long journey to reach this point.

Let the games begin.

The story of life

2010-09-27T20:44:00.002+02:00

I have stumbled across a great blog site called: http://www.charlenamiller.com/about-charlena-miller. In some ways I feel as if I know Charlena, even though we have never met. That is one of the great gifts of the Internet. Every now and then one stumbles across someone who seems to reflect your life, inspires one to go to the next level or just to sit back and learn from their story.

Three years ago I took the brave step to live a more authentic life. I wanted to walk in my calling with God. This meant, not taking the first job offer that came my way but rather waiting, praying, and being quiet so that I could gather my thoughts, reflect on where I felt I needed to go and then wait for direction.This was much tougher than I imagined on some days and other days I experienced more peace than I had felt for a decade.

One of the mad things that I did was move out of the city. Many thought I had lost my marbles and why would I move far away from the business world. I know I needed to go where I could heal and re-find myself.

This move to find my destiny also meant that I needed to use my current savings and investments while I waited. Not a clever decision in the text book of financial planning but I know that many entrepreneurs will identify that it is better to chase your passion and dream than to be employed in work that you do not enjoy.

To date I have learnt many lessons on this journey. I have seen the small miracles that I may not have seen had I been working and chasing the corporate world. I have discovered that many friends have stood in the gap for me and this has been a humbling experience. One cannot see these actions or miracles when you rely only on the money you earn. I have always lived an independent life and not needed to rely on others. This has been one of my greatest lessons and I am grateful for each of people in my life who has been there supporting me with my dreams.

This year some doors have opened. Some have closed. Some I have closed. The only way I know to move forward is to make time and space to be quiet. The verse in the bible that comes to mind is..... "Be still and know that I am God".

I do not know what tomorrow brings, but I do know that space, reflection,Prayer truth and honesty are the stepping stones to my future. If I wait, the LIGHT will come.......

Happy Birthday Madiba- 67minutes- "46"-6-"64"

2010-07-18T14:36:00.002+02:00

There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.
Nelson Mandela

Today Nelson Mandela celebrates his 92nd birthday. It is also the first global day of donating 67 minutes of your time in honor of this great man. The “67″ represents the number of years he served the Nation of South Africa. This morning on the news I heard that the success of the Soccer World Cup is the gift he hoped for. South Africa showcased our country to the world over the month of the cup and the unity that occurred in the nation is a gift that we all shared.

As the CEO of The Refirement Network ( www.refirementnetwork.com) my main role is to research and understand what the baby boomers of South Africa will experience as they head towards retirement. We will live longer, feel that we can continue to work and many want to volunteer or find an “Encore” career in the social sector.There is so much need for skill and wisdom in this sector and volunteering today as part of your journey would be great idea.

The vision I have is that baby boomers both from South Africa and elsewhere in the world can bring their knowledge, time and skill to help bring about change in the education, health, environmental or job creation arenas. The time may be 67 minutes, 67 hours, 67 days or just a change of heart and attitude that enables you to build bridges and lend a helping hand .

Last year while doing a certificate in sociel entrepreneurship around this topic an interesting number jumped out at me. It is a good day to share this. Baby Boomers are born 1946 to 1964. Nelson Mandela’s prison number is 46-6-64.

Doing 67 minutes last year I realised that I would love to combine these two especially for baby boomers. The “6″ in the middle did not fall into place until I saw the movie Invictus. On the day South Africa won the 1995 Rugby World Cup in South Africa, Nelson Mandela wore Francois Pienaar’s NO 6 jersey. The 6 for me refelcts the deep understanding of humble leadership shown by this influential leader.

I challenge you to not only put on your number 6 jersey whereever you are but to have a change of heart and build a mindset of a volunteer and make a difference.

Contact me should you wish to volunteer in the nation of South Africa. ( lgsmith@mweb.co.za)

Gini coefficient

2010-06-25T20:42:00.004+02:00

The Gini coeffecient is a complex calculation.In simple terms it is a measure of the difference between the rich and the poor within a country. The bigger the difference the worse the gap. Sadly this is a South African statistic that we should never be proud of. At the moment we hold the award of having the greatest difference of any nation in the world.

Developing nations will always have this as a challenge. The rich have so much and the poor have so little. This past week I saw a few examples in practice of how simple it is to try and bring some balance.

Our holiday club at our church needed about R135 000 to fund a week long holiday club for the children around Muldersdrift. All avenues of money for this project seemed to be dry but we decided to go ahead and step out in faith and give the kids the best week ever.

A farmer donated 3000 eggs, another organisation offerred to feed the children, someone paid for the T shirts for the leaders, the name tags were donated. The children all went home with clothes and sweets donated by churches and schools from the area. A collaborative team effort by the community made this event possible.
It reminded me of the gini coefficient. Many of us have surplus of so much in our lives and yet there are so many that have none. What will it take for you to give away the few extra balls in your house to a community that has none. Yesterday I heard a sad story of a community close to Rustenburg where the world cup is not evident. There is not even a ball for the children to kick. How sad is that?

I challenge each of you that has more than you need to examine how you can make a difference by just giving away what you will never miss. The attitude of changing this ratio starts in our hearts and minds not in the statistic tables.

Be the GINI in your home and teach your children some real life lessons.

Attached is a link to the photos from holiday club.
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#!/album.php?aid=174500&id=795729191

The Mystery

2010-03-27T07:00:00.003+02:00

This extract is taken from some verses in Colossians 1 and 2 in the Message Bible translation.
Chapter 1:
The mystery in a nutshell is just this. Christ is in you, therfore you can look forward to sharing in God's glory. Its that simple. That is the substance of the message.
Chapter 2:
I want you woven into a tapestry of love- in touch with everything there is to know of God. then you will have minds confident and at rest, focused on CHRIST, God's great mystery.

Thank you Lord for your Mystery on the CROSS.

Some words from Philip Yancy ( Where is God when it hurts page 227-228)

Jesus's death is the cornerstone of the Christian faith.
On the cross, God absorbed the awful pain of the world.
Love was compressed for all.
History in that lonely figure on the cross.

The world of WORK

2010-03-20T17:50:00.001+02:00

Every day I get up to work. Sometimes I work for money and sometimes I work for free. At times the work I do for free adds more value to my life than the work I do for money. The worldview is that work = money. Do you agree?
In South Africa we do not have a volunteering mindset. Maybe it is part of our history? The question is how do we change this?
The world of work is changing. We now have more of a portfolio approach where work for money will be one of the components of the whole. Work for many is already not the 8 to 5 world that many of us grew up with. Technology allows work to happen anywhere and anytime 24/7/365. We can work in an office, face to face, at home, locally and globally day or night.
If all of the above are facts that already exist, maybe the question we should be asking is what defines my life and how do I add value.

Just a few thoughts for a Saturday afternoon?????

Education is a priority for society to embrace

2010-03-11T21:00:00.002+02:00

I attended the call to action for retired teachers and principals in Gauteng today. The meeting was called by MEC for Education, Barbara Creasey. The attendance overwhelmed me as I entered the room. I am not sure of the number but it was in the thousands. A room full of people with wisdom, time on their side and wanting to play a positive role in our nation.

The vision is to ensure that every learner does well at school and leaves our institutions with the values, knowledge, skills and qualifications that will give them the best chance of success in life.

At the moment this statement is not been seen as an outcome with the poor Matric results of 2009. Many of the problems are systemic and need intervention much earlier in the system.
After 3 years of formal education the statistics show that only
30% are literate and 40% have a numeracy level that is acceptable.
There will be four targeted interventions.

1. Foundation phase
2. Senior primary
3. Transition from primary to secondary schooling
4. Senior secondary intervention.

There are 276 high schools and 790 primary schools in Gauteng that are under performing.

The pillars of intervention proposed:

Improve teaching and in particular subject knowledge.
Improve resources
Improve learner achievement
Improve curriculum and school management
Standadise testing for grades 3, 6 and 9.
Educate parents and caregivers to assist with homework
Build community partnerships to mobilise resources.

Possible places where retired teachers can help

Teacher substitutes
Saturday schools
Coaching foundation literacy and numeracy programs
Assist in homework network

This is being proposed as a volunteer program with a travel and subsistence allowance.

The process to follow if you are interested:

Register with Gauteng Education Department
These will be screened.
Volunteer placement will be made.

The talk ended with a call for the spirit of volunteerism to become a beacon of hope in the education of our children.

More than one million abortions in South Africa- Where do you stand?

2010-02-28T17:57:00.003+02:00

Life is cheap. Mistakes happen. Our world is a mess. So how can we help?

When you see or hear this statement, it is easy to think that one cannot do anything to change this law or situation. The media is currently showing us that we are walking on shaky moral ground in South Africa. How do we as citizens start to stand up and take a different stand?

I am a member of a community church where we want to stand and be counted. What is happening to children is not OK. Abortions, abuse and a lack of education is not acceptable. As a church we have taken a stand in the community.

We launched a Pregnancy Support centre to help any young girl/woman who may find herself in this situation. Rather than condemn or reject, we want to help them understand that there are alternatives. The next step in the process is that we have Bethany House, a home for babies that may be abandoned or where adoption is the alternative for this mom. The third option is Play with a Purpose. A place where the young mom can study to become an early childhood teacher and find work and support her baby. We work with all the schools in the area, offering emotional and life skill support for the teachers and learners. We also have a new group that has started this year for matriculants who cannot get into tertiary study. We are walking alongside this group to empower them with life skills to enter the next phase of life.

In the Dinokeng Scenarios (www.dinokengscenarios.co.za ) the WALK TOGETHER scenario is an engaged civil society together with an efficient government. On the one hand we need to DO and on the other we need to vote and voice our stand. Today I feel like our community has made a HUGE step in the right direction.

The pictures on this note:
1. Baby Ester, the first baby born since the project was launched.
2. Planting baby crosses ( to represent the million babies) at the entrance of the community church property to ensure that the community understands that we are there to help and love whoever may need hands and heart.

If you would like to help any of these projects with finances, please be in contact with me. lgsmith@mweb.co.za

Your children are my children

2010-02-16T08:50:00.004+02:00

There are about 30 000 schools in South Africa. Only about 6000 of these schools are working with any sense of excellence and giving the children an education that may prepare them for a 21st century world. Education is a basic human right and currently the state of our nation is a disgrace when we measure ourselves against this part of the agenda.
We are all citizens of this nation. Daily we hear and read about this challenge. It seems hopeless and one may feel helpless. The easy route is to comment and continue to be a spectator in this debate. The challenge is to engage and become an active member of society. Through the Dinokeng Scenarios we are called to become active citizens if we want a WALK TOGETHER scenario for this nation. (www.dinokengscenarios.co.za) Will you continue to be a consumer who takes from society or will you become a citizen who gives?
Each of us has something that we can offer. One does not need to be a teacher to take hands in this journey. Refirement Network is engaging with projects across our nation to help find solutions. We are building a database of volunteers in each part of the country, sourcing projects where you can volunteer and together building the nation, ONE CHILD AT A TIME.
Here are some of the ideas that come to mind. Most ideas are simple and just need hands and feet to make them work.
• Start a Scrabble/Chess/Music/Art Club
• Read at your local School
• Use your business and leadership skills.
• Offer your help to coach soccer/any sport
• Computer literacy
• Support teachers and principals through life skill training
• Become a mentor
• Spend time at a home for children without parents
• Work with an organization that manages the orphaned and vulnerable children in our nation.
The list is never ending. The challenge is to change our attitude from consumer to citizen. We need to engage, become involved and help to EDUCATE THE NATION. Every child deserves to be educated, loved and cared for. Will you become an active member of this community and help us mobilize this dream.
On the Refirement Network website you can add your details and skills for national projects. There is also space to subscribe to the free monthly newsletter that will connect you with projects on the radar to build the nation. Currently busy with a pilot called. “School at the centre of Community” Please, be in touch if you would like to be involved in any way? Go to www.refirementnetwork.com to register.

There are 24 000 schools. We need at least 24000 business owners to step up to help adopt a school close to their community. Secondly we need 24 000 business mentors to work with the principal. This will involve 8 days of volunteering in one year. This may look like a mammoth task. All it will take is a change of attitude and the realization that these children are your children.

Walking through history and enabling the future

2010-01-29T20:33:00.004+02:00

Yesterday I had a walk back into part of my own history and met someone who was on my list of people I would love to chat to.
I had the privilege to meet the Queen mother of the Bafokeng Tribe. Memogolo (our affectionate and respectful name for the Queen Mother) Semane Molotlegi is an active member of the Bafokeng Women's Society, and has played a major role in the Nation's health and social development.

I have more than 100 years of history in Rustenburg and my Dad had patented a pulley used in the platinum mines. He died when I was young but my roots and history belong there.

I spent some time at the new hotel ( where the English team will stay during the World Cup) with Semane and a few entrepeneurs discussing how we can accelrate skills development in the arts and crafts industry.

She is gentle, humble and cares about her people. Thee is a spirit of excellence in all that is being done in this area. A real signpost of hope for this nation.

The parable of the dinosaur and the chameleon

2010-01-18T19:41:00.002+02:00

In the late 1940’s and 50’s after the Second World War a whole bunch of babies were born. These babies formed part of a large species called “baby boomers”. They caused a lot of upheaval in the world. Their parents were happy and excited about life after the war. Business was booming and the Americans even put a man on the moon. These children were growing up with a positive attitude and even believed that they could change the world. Schools and universities were built to accommodate this growing group. Radio was the main medium as they grew up. They would lie in bed at night and listen to programs like “squad cars” Television became part of life for some of these children but computers were not part of their vocabulary.
These babies morphed into workers that believed they could change the world. Work became an obsession and for many this meant working long hours, putting work first on their priority list and mortgaging their families. During this stage of life, computers the size of houses started to appear and very quickly started to change the way people communicated and worked. The pace of this change has been fine for some but for most of these boomers it has been difficult to keep up and understand exactly how this is changing their world.
Otto von Bismarck brought in a great concept that many boomers have been looking forward to. After 40 years of working they can relax, play golf and enjoy all the money that has been invested for them over the years. They were all very sad in 2008 when these investments seemed to have disappeared down a deep black hole. They are not sure what to do now? Should they keep working and let go of the dreams?
They are not so happy at work because they have X and Y young snots who seem to be able to work from a small mobile piece of technology and seem to not have any respect for the way work used to be. Why is change happening so fast? Why can’t things just stay the way they were? These young snots also seem to be happy to work for a few hours and then want to go home. There is a lot of tension in the office and they call us part of a “dinosaur” species. Are we becoming obsolete and bound for extinction?
There are some boomers who seem to be still doing ok. I am not sure why they have managed when most of us are so unhappy. They seem agile, move fast, have a tongue that flicks and catches a sense of all the wonderful things that the younger generation are experiencing. They are learning about some strange new media called Facebook and Twitter and engaging with these young snots. They seem to see the future as a place full of opportunity. They talk about working much longer than they had planned because they love what they do, feel healthy and want to make a difference. Some of them are even going back to learn new skills and are talking about a new career. They seem to be just like chameleons that have changed colour and adapted to this new world.

In time history will look back and we will be able to record which species survived.

In a few hundred years, when the history of our time will be written from a long term perspective, it is likely that the most important event historians will see is not technology, not the internet, not e-commerce. It is an unprecedented change in the human condition. For the first time substantial and rapidly growing numbers of people have choices. For the first time, they will have to manage themselves. And society is totally unprepared for it…
Throughout history, practically nobody had choices… Now suddenly a large number of people have choices. What is more, they will have more than one career, because the working life span of people is now close to 60 years – three times what it was in 1900
Peter Drucker.

In loving memory of Krishna Khetia

2010-01-10T17:17:00.002+02:00

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.
Aim at the sun and you may not reach it, but your arrow will fly higher than if you aimed at an object on a level with yourself. Author: Unknown

My story with Krishna started at the beginning of 2009. Craig Rowe asked me to help with the mentoring of the Monash SIFE team. (Global Community Engagement for Universities) Krishna was the leader of this team and I worked with her and the team during the year. Krishna was friendly, open and dedicated to making a difference. She led her team with a gentle spirit, always smiling and determined to make a difference in the community.To meet a humble young student who cares about others was a real blessing to me. Being in her presence, it was her quiet determined drive that reflects the characteristcs of a servant leader way beyond her years that most stood out for me.

The week before she went home to Kenya in December I was at a lunch with her and some of her close friends. She shared with me the joy of completing her degree, the excitement of going to Cape Town next year and sharing a flat with her sister and also continuing her studies. She had been awarded the Nelson Mandela Rhodes Scholarship. She was truly a global humanitarian well on her way to helping change the world.

On the morning of the 2nd of January, she died in a tragic accident in Mombassa. What a targic loss for her parents and her sister. Her friends around the globe are devastated and share their pain on a tribute site for her. http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/pages/In-Loving-memory-of-Krishna-Khetia/231290048223

I have reflected for many hours on this devastating loss. For any parent this is always our worst fear. My children also live far away from me on different continents. When our journey of parenting needs us to release our children we are told that parenting is about Roots and Wings. This is one of the toughest parenting journeys. Krishna's parents sent her down to South Africa to continue her education. We are called as parents to release our children and allow them to become all they are meant to be. You can certainly be proud of who Krishna was. In her short time of entering into adulthood she achieved more than most adults do in a lifetime.

Thank you for the time I had to spend with her. For the lessons I learnt and the memories that will always remain with me. The one lesson I have learnt as a mentor is that often the person we are mentoring teaches us more and blesses us more than we can ever imagine.

May her memory and her work continue to inspire all that knew her.

Live life aiming at the sun. Make a difference each day, even if it is just a smile and some kindness.

Thank you Krishna. May you rest in peace.

There are no ordinary children

2009-12-06T16:00:00.003+02:00

" Every child has a name, a passion, a story, and a place in history. There are no ordinary children." Dr Elizabeth Youmans- Principia international

I am involved with a number of projects relating to children.

On Christmas day we are holding a Christmas Party for the children from Bethany House in Krugersdorp. There will be 60 children at the party ranging in age from new born babies to 18 years olds. These are no ordinary children. Each one was born as a special gift from God, but through life circumstances their path has been derailed.The Bethany House Trust initiates, implements, co-ordinates and manages projects critical to the children and youth of South Africa.

The second project is collecting stationery packs for the vulnerable children in the rural farm schools around Muldersdrift. Each year in July we host more than 800 children at a week long holiday club and we like to bless these children with a stationery pack for 2010.

Should you want to be involved in a project related to children this year end please feel free to connect with me. (lgsmith@mweb.co.za)
It may be in your personal capacity or where your company is looking for a worthwhile place to investment in a worthwhile project.

Thank you for helping to change the lives of these vulnerable children and giving them the chance to have their own story.

Wise words for leaders on how to finish well

2009-12-05T08:30:00.002+02:00

I read the following in my John Maxwell Leadership Bible this morning.
It is taken from an explanation on Ecclesiastes 12: 1-14

Chapter 12 concludes Solomon's meditation with some wise words that should direct every leader. They sound like the lecture of an experienced mentor attempting to counsel an emerging leader; trying to keep him or her from making some of the same mistakes he made. Consider Solomn's wisdom :

1. Don't lose sight of the big picture, especially when you are young.

2. Do what is right before it is too late to correct yourself.

3. Use your words like tools to shepherd and add value to others.

4. Don't try to master everything in life, just what is important.

5. Trust and obey God, because He is the ultimate judge.

These can form a great outline for a mentor or as part of your own reflection and planning for your journey.

Reflections and Gratitude 2009

2009-12-03T21:57:00.003+02:00

As I reflect back on 2009 I have so much to be grateful for. I feel like this has been a sabbatical year. A gift that has been given to me to help me discover where I am going and what it is that I should be doing. There is a saying : "that one does not determine your purpose, you discover it." That is the sense I have had this year.

There have been many highlights.

A large family get together to celebrate my American sister's 50th, my Mom's 77th and Daniel's 1st birthday.
Two weeks with Bronwyn, Noiy and Daniel in South Africa.
The birth of my precious granddaughter Naomi.
A visit to London and two wonderful weeks with Justin and Sarah
A long overdue visit to see my friends Anna Marie and Chris in Lugano, Switzerland.
Two special weeks in Thailand waiting for Naomi and spending time getting to know Daniel.
Visits to KZN and navitaging all the lighthouses from north to south (8)
A week long leadership with humanity experience that has changed my thinking forever.
A year long Social Entrepreneurship Certificate at GIBS
Two visits to Limpopo Province and a walk down memory lane in Northern Cape.
Three visits to the beautiful Cape.

In between all this travel and learning there has been much time to plan, stratgise and build Refirement Network.

My friends are an important part of my life and I am grateful for each one.

My journey with my Saviour is the centre of my life. Without this at the centre of my life nothing else makes sense.

In Jeremiah 29 :11 it says " For I know the thoughts that I think towards you says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope"

I am on an adventure with The Lord. He will make a way where I see no way.
I look forward to continuing this journey into 2010.

I am also grateful that I do this 20kg lighter than I started the year.

Build memories with loved ones over the Christmas period and communicate peace and love to all you encounter.

Blessings

Lynda

Call to Africa

2009-11-09T01:41:00.001+02:00

You may live here in Africa or if elsewhere on the planet a piece of your heart still belongs to Africa.
You are a Baby Boomer heading towards retirement and not sure what you will do with your time.
Have you ever considered a travel trip with a difference?
If these statements have you nodding your head you may want to consider being part of helping me make my dream a reality.
I run a company in South Africa called Refirement Network. The focus is on helping the Baby Boomer Generation ( those born between 1946 and 1964) to REFIRE not RETIRE. We are still healthy, have skills and energy and want to still impact the world. There are many options open to this generation. One close to my heart is called Travel with a Purpose.
Would you like to consider a trip to South Africa that includes a game trip, as well as other interesting pursuits like the wine farms and our beautiful beaches? Would you like to combine this with some time impacting a social area close to your heart?
• Working with orphans
• Helping look after Aids babies
• Using your medical skills
• Using your Education skills
• Your business skills
There are so many needs in our beautiful country. We lack skills and enough people to make a difference. Volunteering time and skill will add value to your life and theirs.
If this story has touched you and you want to pursue a conversation.
Please connect with me at lgsmith@mweb.co.za and register at www.refirementnetwork.com to stay in touch with developments around this topic.

Living in Three worlds and ruined for life.

2009-11-06T21:18:00.001+02:00

I am reading a book written by Kay Warren called Dangerous Surrender. Kay is Rick Warren’s wife. Rick is the author of a Purpose Driven Life. I have read this book before but decided I need to reread it.

A section in the book where she talks about her THREE worlds helps me understand the challenges I face daily and also helps us to align our worldview if we are a Christian.

The three are:

My world

The suffering world

The spiritual world

The first one is where I make my living and raise my family. It is a world of supermarkets, malls, affluence and plenty. It is a world where I interact daily with family, neighbors, coworkers and fellow church members. It is a place where I need to make my faith real not just theoretical.

The second world is where many people around the planet live, the struggling world. They live in deprivation, struggle for survival and experience great need. Spiritual emptiness, corrupt leadership, extreme poverty, pandemic diseases and crippling illiteracy dominate this world. Many children are left without parents in this world. You and I have the opportunity to be the hands and feet to these children.

The third world is the unseen spiritual world. The most real world of all. This is the place where I am united with God through a person, serve a meal at a homeless shelter, travel outside of your own neighborhood, hold an HIV positive baby, and go on a short term mission trip, anything that puts you in direct contact with hurting people. As long as suffering people are a mere statistic to you, you will never become ruined for life. When suffering becomes personal, with faces and names and when you hear their stories you will never be able to stay disconnected.

Will you rise to the challenge and allow God to ruin you?

You will be forever altered in how you relate to others in your life and the world.

Waiting for Naomi

2009-09-06T12:01:00.010+02:00

My daughter, Bronwyn is a missionary in Thailand. She and her Thai husband, Noiy run a YWAM ( Youth with a Mission) base in Ratchaburi. This is a medium size town about 90 minutes out of Bangkok. I arrived here a week ago to await the birth of their second child. Daniel, their first born is 17 months old.

It is so tough to have your grandchildren on another continent and not get special time with them on a regular basis. I know that many South African grandparents face this same heartache. I was not able to be at the birth for Daniel, so was excited about being here for the birth of the second baby.

Bronwyn and Noiy decided that my role would be to stay with her at the hospital and Noiy would stay at home with Daniel. In government hospitals in Thailand, all moms sign that they will have someone with them to help as the hospital does none of the care of patient or baby for the duration of the stay. Bronwyn was having a caesarean and we needed to book in the night before to make sure we had one of the 16 private rooms. The alternative was to be in the general ward with 50 other moms, babies ,their helpers and visitors. In the afternoon before going to the hospital Bronwyn and I decided to treat ourselves to a trip to the hairdresser. At R15.00 for a wash and blow dry it is a treat as the head massage is great and of course the price is a steal.

Once Daniel was asleep Bronwyn and I drove to the hospital. We went prepared with masks, food and all the normal baby equipment and clothing. We walk through the out patients section to get to the ward. This is like South African hospitals. Over crowded and full of all kinds of disease including swine flu. Local Thais pay R8.00 for any hospital treatment including a hospital stay. As Bronwyn is not Thai she pays private rates. This equated to R3000.00 for the private room, all medication and the caesarean. The Doctor charges R 750 for the entire confinement including the caesarean.

It was intimidating to be in a hospital where no-one speaks English and to be left on my own once Bronwyn had been wheeled into the theatre. I was lucky that the head delivery nurse who had gone off duty decided to stay and wait for the birth. She was even kind enough to take pictures for Bronwyn and have them printed and brought them to the room the next day. She was an answer to prayer for me as she came and communicated in very broken English throughout the time in the theatre. She brought Naomi out of the theatre and allowed me to see her before she went to be checked in the recovery room. She was all wrapped up in green. Naomi means beautiful and gentle.

Two hours later Bronwyn and Naomi were back in the room and the fun started. It takes one back to the time when my own children were born. The hours go past and all one seems to do is feed, burp and change these little creatures. Bronwyn had a bed that could be adjusted for feeds and I seemed to find myself winding beds half asleep, all night long. Every now and then the nurse would barge in, put the lights on (just as we had managed to get to sleep ) and come to take blood pressure and temperatures.

Food arrived for Bronwyn three times a day. As she could not eat for the first 48 hours, I had the joy of being offered this food… except I am not good with rice porridge and soup with funny things floating in it for breakfast. We had Thai TV, an air conditioner (thank goodness) and a kettle and fridge in the room.

Each morning at nine the babies get wheeled to the bathing area. The babies’ line up in a production line with three nurses each doing a piece of the action. The baby comes wheeled out the other side all beautifully wrapped in a towel and ready for the rest of the day at leisure in their little manger.

Visitors are allowed in at anytime. As Bronwyn looks different to most of the other moms in the hospital we would often find strangers peering through the door at her in the bed. In fact the one day some of the visitors from the next room decided to come and sit in her room. Very strange! Noiy and Daniel arrived to visit about 3 hours after the birth together with Naomi’s Thai granny and aunt. Every day there were visitors bearing gifts of milk, juice and some goodies for the baby? It is customary to bring liquid to help the mom get going with the breast feeding.

It was such a privilege to spend these four days with my daughter and new grandchild. We had lots of time to chat, I had time to bond with Naomi and get to know her better than most Grandmothers do at this early stage. I will be here for ten days after the hospital visit to help as well with the home adjustments. Daniel is proving to go from loving brother to wanting to get his 5 day old sister to play with him. It is a joy to watch this bonding process and I have no doubt that very soon the two little ones will be great friends. He will be there to look after his little sister, just like my son looked after Bronwyn.

Once I leave with a mixture of joy and sadness, I will take many happy memories with me. I am grateful for technology and webcams and will continue to watch the process via technology, facebook and skype calls. I encourage any grandparent that has children outside of South Africa to use technology and creativity to keep the family bond and branding alive.

Leading with Humanity

2009-06-02T14:03:00.001+02:00

Life is a series of crossroads where we have the opportunity to grow, learn and make decisions.

At each crossroad, life takes us further depending on the decisions and lessons we have learnt.

This past week has been one of those defining moments in my journey of life.

This journey also has many valley and mountain experiences.

Mine has had a fair share of both.

I have celebrated the mountains and mourned in the valleys.

I have also learnt some of my greatest lessons from the valley moments and I know today I am made up of the sum total of all these moments.

I want to thank each of you for the contribution you made to my life this past week.

My syndicate group for good laughs, honest moments and encouraging me to finish on the last afternoon.

To the team that put this course together, a deep appreciation for the years of wisdom and your own humble walks.

The support team for all fitting as cogs in the wheels that took us on this exciting adventure.

We will all now go our separate ways, but I know that we each carry a piece of this week forever in our minds and souls.

I hope that our paths will cross many times over the years ahead.

I look forward to being there to help, encourage and celebrate as each of you live life filled to overflowing and making a difference in this wonderful country we all call home.

May you be blessed and continue to become all that you were destined to be.

Boomer memories from my childhood

2008-12-21T19:33:00.001+02:00

We all have our own Valiant memories- long drives to seaside holidays, nights at the drive-in, four people on the back seat.

But people from large families will tell you all sorts of stories about the politics on a Valiant's back seat!!!

These are words I have just read in a book I have just finished.
It is called: On the back roads
Encounters with people and places.
by Dana Snyman

This is a great book about random places and people around this country.
There is a great mixture of interesting stories, people and history.
A fascinating book and a great book for anyone who likes to navigate this wonderful country.

So what were the politics in your car?
I remember so clearly what they were in our family and hence this blog.
We were 4 children and holidays were at least a 10 to 12 hour drive from home to the sea.
We had the following rules:
One in the front with mom and dad.
One lying on the back seat.
One lying on the floor at the back.
One lying on the top shelf in the back.

Every hour or 100 miles we all moved.

This never stopped the old age question:

Are we almost there Dad.
5 c for the first one who could see the sea.

Would love to hear if anyone else has this random type of memory.

This is a comment from the book that I enjoyed:

By travelling - we discover not only this beautiful, awe inspiring earth, we also discover our humanity and that of others.

Church

2008-11-02T19:27:00.002+02:00

Do you go to church or are you the church?

This is a simple question but does not have a simple answer.

To get up each day and follow your heart or the what is right and biblical.
To interact with people and help those daily who see you as the only Jesus they will ever encounter.
To stay dependent on God and not take over and manage my entire life.
To be quiet and make time for God to connect with me.
To develop the fruits of the spirit is not an easy journey.
To not rely on my own strength and wealth but to rather stay humble and focussed on what God wants me to do with my life.
To let go and let God.
To read the bible, pray and focus on what I should be doing.
To be challenged by community and to change when it is necessary and biblical.

My walk with God is not a set of instructions but a relationship.
I keep to the rules because I love HIM and do not want to disappoint HIM.
I want to do what He has destined me to do rather than just earn a living.
I love my church community because they love me unconditionally.

I go to church because I enjoy the celebration.
I hope I am becoming the church to those that never enter a building called church.

Connected Wisdom of Mobile Community for Social change

2008-10-15T09:19:00.003+02:00

I have been privileged this past week to attend Mobileactive08 in Johannesburg. This has been a global conference with 370 delegates from 40 countries. Go to www.mobileactive08.org for more details about the conference.

Here are some random thoughts from the conference. My worldview has changed after this week.

Mobiles can be used to pay lobola when you are not in the same country as the parents of the bride.

Mobiles have huge impact and bring about a change at the bottom of the pyramid for rural people.

Only 1% of Burma have cellphones and the government continues to control communication

There is a great product in South Africa called Wizzit that is bringing banking to the unbanked.
11 million in SA with no bank accounts
600 million out of 900 million in Africa have no access to bank accounts
There are 30 million cellphones in South Africa

A whole business has been started in South Africa through the Missed Call or Please call me message.... there are 30 million of these calls EVERYDAY in SA

Adding a message on the bottom of these calls has added change to both commercial and social causes.

Mixit is being used to help children with maths

Mindset and Nokia are working on a program to improve maths and science for girl students through cellphones.

There was a launch of the new portal for SANGOnet last night. go to www.ngopluse.org to join

The challenge after this event is to collaborate and help to bring about change that can make a real difference.

Thank you to all the international and local funders that brought this event to South Africa.

Future-Proof your Child

2008-10-07T09:38:00.002+02:00

ISBN 978-0-143-02580-1

I finished reading this book last night. Thank you Nikki and Graeme for following through and completing this great work. I certainly believe that it will help all parents to understand the context of the world their children will live in and has a great framework and hundreds of ideas of how to implement and build a great family model.

Families are a cornerstone of any society. This book helps us build a solid foundation for the future of our children.

Go and buy this book. Give it to new parents, those with teenagers and even grandparents will find it interesting.

Nikki and Graeme- May you both be blessed by sharing your heart and helping to tell the story of a subject so dear to many of us.

Smile- The end of an era

2008-09-24T15:36:00.003+02:00

On the 1st October 1992, Smile Direct Selling was born. On the 30 September2008, exactly 16 years later this business unit will close.

This 16 year journey holds so many memories. I want to record my part of that journey here and thank each and everyone of you who played a part in the history of this great company.

To Tom and Doreen for the courage to bring about the change in 1992
For Doreen's great creative mind and Tom's wonderful leadership style.
To Eleanor for all the lessons in leadership and leading us through those great years.
To David, Les and Andrew who made up the rest of the Directorship team that made this a TOP 20 non listed company in 1998 and 1999. We certainly made some great memories.
To Nina for the role you played in school business and the 1999 tender.
To each and every person in the factory from the packers , printers and machine operators- Thank you for being part of a winning Godly team.
To the internal staff like Roberta, Fiona, Kate, Berenjean, C, Desmond, Kathy, Doreen, Vernon, and many more that I have not mentioned..... we will forever be grateful for your dedication and work late at night behind the scenes.
To the Regionals who have loyally led the sales force for all these years. You are to be saluted for the many lives you have touched both in the sales team and in education in this nation.
To the Business Leaders , you have been the solid base that have held the many sales people together.
To all the thousands of sales consultants who have been touched by Smile over the years, thank you for the role you have played.
To Nikki Bush, the editor of Smile Family Club News, I thank you for the role you played in helping to take us to a new level with the Smile Family Club.
To the children who were our special shining stars. Educating the Nation was our goal and I do believe we have touched many children in this nation over this period.

On a personal note, I am grateful for all the lessons I have learnt. The wonderful realtionships that I have made and treasure in my life. For the opportunity to work in an environment where we could make a difference and really understand what it is like to work with passion and purpose. For the wonderful travel opportunities and conferences. There are still times that I hear a song and it takes me right back into the room where that event happened.

Each of us are now in a new season. We have learnt many skills and still have much to do. Take what you have, help others, make a difference and be the best you that you can be.

May you all be blessed in this next season and may the God we serve go with you always.

Hansie- The Movie

2008-09-24T15:20:00.002+02:00

I went to see the movie about the life of Hansie Cronje today. It brought back so many memories, discussions and lessons about life in our home.

Justin was and still is a cricket addict. He loves the game and Hansie was his hero as a teenager.
We watched the return of South Africa into international cricket through the night, he and his friends played cricket outside our house for more years than I can remember and Justin and his Gran share a very special bond after watching many cricket matches together in our home.

The lesson and discussion we had at the time was:

Never cross the line. NOT EVER. You need to live with yourself and it does not matter if no-one knows, it still is not ok.

The lesson Hansie learnt was that The Truth would set him free and that he had a Father in heaven and on earth who loved and forgave him.

Thank you to the Cronje family for sharing the Truth with all South Africans.

We salute and honour the memory of your son and thank you for the leadership lessons he taught my son.

Gideon's Dream- Nation Building

2008-09-17T21:10:00.002+02:00

Well known media personality, John Perlman has just launched his DreamFields website.

This site helps bring dreams to life for many young soccer fans. Please take a look at this site. The system in use here makes it very easy for anyone to help support a great nation building project. With Soccer 2010 on our doorstep this site opens many opportunities for ordinary people around the world to support a project by adding their credit card details online and watching the dream funds mount.

Gideon is a great young man in our church who is helping to bring many of the young people off the streets and onto our grounds at the church. Here they play soccer, do homework and help to bring about the change we need. Our church works in all the schools in the area and I would love to see this dream growing till we have built a new soccer pitch for these kids at our church.

Thanks for looking at this site.

Here is the link: http://www.dreamfieldsproject.org/dream.aspx?dreamid=8

Please feel free to send this on to friends and family around the world that may want to add to this cause.

Devastation on our borders

2008-09-17T19:06:00.002+02:00

At church this past Sunday, I listened to two people sharing about their experiences this past week.

Mozambique- Our church was part of a team that went to central Mozambique last week on a project called Farming God's Way. They shared about the destruction of the forests due to the lack of fuel and also the animals that used to share this beautiful land that have been hunted due to the lack of food. The people now hunt rats as these are all that are left. The soil is arid and the people are in desperate situations.

Zimbabwe- next a pastor from Zim shared about the current food crisis in his city. He shared that he had been into two supermarkets and found only light bulbs in the one and in Checkers Shoprite only oranges. No other products or produce.... the shelves are empty. These people are also in a desperate situation.

I have also just finished reading a life changing book called Dangerous Surrender by Kay Warren. Kay is Rick Warren's wife. In this book she talks about 21 st century Christians who "CHANGE THE CHANNAL" when we see or expereince a situation that we don't want to deal with or become involved with.

I have been convicted in both these situations right here close to our border?
What can we do to help change our world?........... or will we switch to another channal.

Choices and Changes- Where to live?

2008-09-11T20:01:00.001+02:00

As I celebrated my 50th birthday, I realised that I was entering a new season of my life and that there were some important decisions I needed to make. The most important was, where do I want to live? I realised that I had opportunities available to me, that I did not have before.

My children have both married and are living outside of South Africa.
I manage my own business and spend the bulk of my time working from home in Johannesburg.
I was starting to feel fearful about taking early morning and afternoon walks.
and the traffic (as we all know) can be a nightmare.

I started to consider what choices I could make and a full year ago, I took the opportunity of moving to Hartebeespoort Dam. I have loved the changes that this decision has brought about in my life. I would like to share some of the research and choices that may be on your radar screen as you make these decisions. You may be surprised at the options open to you.

The Third Age

If you are close to 50 or there about, you are in what is known as the THIRD AGE. This is the season between 50 and 75 where you will in most cases be free of children, working in a flexible manner or virtually and have more disposable income and if you are lucky, even debt free. You are in good health and still wanting to experience adventure and travel and at the same time enjoy quality time with friends and family. You are certainly not ready to look for a development with frail care but there are certain criteria that will be important in a property that you may be interested in.

Space, Security, Community and Beauty

You want to wake up daily in a secure environment that offers you space, community, security, and some beauty that feeds the soul. Everyday when I look at the Magliesberg Mountains, I feel a sense of peace and gratitude for the beauty around me. This soul food can be the mountains, sea, bushveld or even a farming environment. Nature is key. A good hospital needs to be close enough for peace of mind and good sporting facilities and a golf estate will also be on the radar of many choosing this option. If the area has a good climate all year round this is an added bonus.

Urban Proximity

The city will still be important for many reasons. I come into Johannesburg at least once a week for business meetings, some shopping and connecting with my city friends. Many may even find a solution for a city/country option, this could mean keeping two homes going until you are ready to move completely. Another option is buying a small flat in the city or even to find a comfortable bed and breakfast that you use on a regular basis, a reasonable option as you have no upkeep of a city apartment and only pay when you are in town. I have many friends in the city with empty bedrooms on suite (due to empty nest syndrome) and they are happy to have me stay over. I love the fact that my home is “lock and go” and easy for me to just drive through the gate and know that the garden will be attended to and that the rest of the security and upkeep is in the hands of the estate.

Technology: a gateway to the world

Technology has changed our world. I talk on a regular basis to my children via skype and webcams. I am constantly working on my computer and grateful for the fact that technology has helped to change my world. Without this development I would not have had the opportunity to change my lifestyle. Developments need to consider the world of the future and ensure that they are helping to connect their clients to the world of the future.

Investing for the future

Investing early in this changing lifestyle could be a great decision in terms of value and your investment portfolio. The Baby Boomer generation is large and there are not enough great developments to accommodate us all. As the need increases prices will escalate and finding a property at a price you can afford will become more difficult. South Africa is also been identified as a Retirement destination for the many USA, UK and European wealthy boomers who would like to spend some of their year in a warmer climate. Having your own international retirement home elsewhere on the planet is also an option for those lucky enough to have accumulated great wealth over the past 30 years.

The future is here. The world is changing rapidly. Will you wait until you are ready for frail care to make changes or will you take the plunge now and live another good 25 years in a wonderful environment? I am glad I made the change. Come and join me in this new world.

The Cross

2008-08-17T16:17:00.001+02:00

Today at church we planted a new metal cross on the hill in the rocks. This we did as a symbol of re-dedication of our lives, the community and the valley to God. It was a very emotional time and I was reminded of the simple lessons I have learned from the cross.

The cross has 2 directions. The vertical relationship reminds me of my relationship with God and the horizontal the relationship with people. These are both important in our lives.

At times in my life when I need to make decisions and these are tough, I look to the cross- roads for answers and peace in all that I do.

At other times when I carry burdens with no answers, I lay them at the foot of the cross and wait for God to help me through these times.

Thank you for the cross, Lord.

Building Bridges

2008-07-05T05:28:00.002+02:00

I have a dream

To build bridges in South Africa

For all South Africans

This is a dream bigger than any one of us, yet I know that it is a dream I share with many. How do we ensure that these dreams become reality? How do we build a people and a nation that we can all feel proud of? Is this even possible?

I live my life with the glass half full, so I will do whatever I can to hold onto the view that this dream IS indeed possible.

As a fifty-something South African woman, I am constantly asking myself what it is that I do to help bring a small piece of this vision to pass. In the work I do at Refirement Network, helping the next generation to understand the road they are heading towards as they approach formal retirement, I often come across two very conflicting situations. On the one hand, the businesses all over South Africa are experiencing a skills shortage that is hindering our ability to make things happen. Yet on the other hand, I speak to many people who have skills but are unable to find anyone who wants to employ them. The solution seems only too clear – to build bridges!

As Marc Freedman states in his enlightening book entitled, Encore - Finding work that matters in the second half of life:

“Now a new combination of forces is impelling change. The necessity today is to encourage people to continue to work in ways that truly use their talents to support the economy as well as themselves. It is essential that those who have a strong need and desire to work in this new way have every chance to realize that objective and every opportunity to use their accumulated human and social capital in areas where it matters most.

In this context, a nascent but growing collection of innovative organizations, individual entrepreneurs and other leading-edge groups is stepping forward to change the landscape, demonstrating the potential of the Encore career.”

So how can we build these bridges?

Individual

Understand your value and worth
Learn to love all South Africans
Discover your skills
Have places where you can use these skills
Help sustain your home and community by your actions

Companies

Value your human capital
Do a wisdom and skills audit
Build capacity so that your older workers see a future beyond formal work
Use your CSI funding to help build models for change
Ask yourself what skills and capacity your organisation can offer the country

Churches/Non Profit Sector

Work together
Remember that we all have the same vision but we need to find one wide, strong road to change
Value the skills in your team
Be innovative
Embrace change and technology

Academia

Work towards a collective vision
Share research
Integrate and assist models of change
Open the doors of learning for renewing skills for older students
Network and challenge government and business for change

Government

Build bridges to allow for skills to be used
Help people move beyond the past
Build one united nation
Change policies that hinder development
Protect our children, elderly and the poor
Eliminate crime
Help individuals and organisations to focus on education, health and business sectors

Global

Build a united nation that can stand proud in the world of the 21^st century
Invite and assist those that have finance and skills to help us
Become a nation that cares about our children, elderly and poverty stricken
Build bridges to help the rest of Africa.

This is a big vision, and it will take many people, organisations and finance to bring about this kind of change. I hope to be part of the tipping point that will help to bring this about.

I will continue to knock on doors and voice my opinion until the tide turns.

I value any comments, interaction and help.

This is a dream for a future for my grandchildren and yours.

Join me on the road to this future.

A code to live by

2008-05-31T17:41:00.003+02:00

I'M PART OF THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE UNASHAMED
I HAVE THE HOLY SPIRIT POWER
THE DIE HAS BEEN CAST.
I HAVE STEPPED OVER THE LINE
THE DECISION HAS BEEN MADE- I'M A DISCIPLE OF HIS.
I WON'T LOOK BACK, LET UP,SLOW DOWN, BACK AWAY OR BE STILL
MY PAST IS REDEEMED, MY PRESENT MAKES SENSE, MY FUTURE IS SECURE.
I'M FINISHED AND DONE WITH LOW LIVING, SIGHT WALKING, SMOOTH KNEES, COLOURLESS DREAMS, TAMED VISIONS, WORLDLY TALKING, CHEAP GIVING AND DWARFED GOALS.
I NO LONGER NEED PRE-EMINENCE, PROSPERITY, PROMOTIONS, PLAUDITS OR POPULARITY.
I DON'T HAVE TO BE RIGHT, FIRST, TOPS, RECOGNISED, PRAISED, REGARDED OR REWARDED.
I NOW LIVE BY FAITH, LEAN IN HIS PRESENCE, WALK BY PATIENCE, AM UPLIFTED BY PRAYER AND I LABOUR WITH POWER.
AUTHOR UNKNOW

Man does not live by bread alone....

2008-02-09T18:45:00.001+02:00

It was the start of lent this week. I thought about what I should fast from for this period of 40 days before Easter.
My first thoughts were that I should give up bread and then secondly wine. At the time I saw no link......
In reflection time daily as you reach for or long for what you have decided to give up, one spends time focusing on God and how we need to be strengthened by the Holy Spirit so that we can grow in Godly character.
I then realised that I had given up the elements used in Holy Communiun.
This afternoon I went for a walk on the beach and asked God what the relevance was of this?
The saying" Man dos not live by bread alone" came to mind.
We need more than bread and wine to survive. We need the inner working of HIS power in our lives.
In life when I reach for "bread" it is because it is the easy option. I am single and live alone. So often it is just easier to eat toast or make a sandwich.
On the wine front, I do not drink much. A glass or two when I am out with friends or celebrating an occasion.
How often though do we get to the point that we can turn to wine or other substances to mask pain, stress and things in life that we do not want to face.
When these are removed and we have to face the reality of life we need to have grown in Godly character along our road to ensure that we are equipped to become the best " me " that God created.

2008-01-06T18:39:00.000+02:00

Quote by Thomas Merton

The beginning of love is to let those we love be perfectly themselves, and not to twist them to fit our own image. Otherwise we love only the reflection of ourselves we find in them.

Hartebeespoort Dam

2008-01-05T14:36:00.000+02:00

I am privileged to now live in these beautiful surroundings. I am a 5th generation person living in the Magliesberg mountains. My family arrived in the Rustenburg area at the turn of the 20th century and it is a honour for me to live again in these beautiful surroundings.
My mom has given me a book written about The Magliesberg by Vincent Carruthers.
This is a statement I picked up in the forward of the book.

" It is an interesting facet of human behaviour that it was to the mountains we used to flee when there was enough trouble and, today, it is to the mountains we retreat from the tensions we have created in the valleys"

Wise words from Mother Teresa

2007-06-28T11:23:00.000+02:00

People are often unreasonable, illogical and self centered. Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies. Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you. Be honest and frank anyway.
What you spend years building, someone may destroy overnight, Build anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness people may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow. Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough. But give the world the best you have anyway.
You see, in the final analysis, it is all between you and God: it was never between you and them anyway.

Spiritual Capital -Wealth we can live by

2007-06-28T11:09:00.000+02:00

I have just finished reading a book called Spiritual Capital by Dahah Zohar and Ian Marshall.A great book for any leader wanting to understand top level leadership for the 21st century. Here is an extract from the book.

I believe that global business has the money and the power to make a significant difference in today's troubled world and that by making the difference it can help itself as well as others. I envision business raising its sights above the bottom line.I envision business becoming a vocation, like the higher professions. To make this possible I believe that business must add a moral dimension, becoming more service and value orientated and largely eliminating the assumed natural distinction between private enterprise and public institutions. I envisage business taking responsibility for the world in which it operates and from which it creates its wealth. And I envisage myself becoming one of those business leaders who are "servant leaders" - leaders who serve not just shareholders, colleagues, employees, products and customers but leaders who also serve the community, the planet, humanity, the future and life itself.

Refirement Network

2007-06-20T21:08:00.001+02:00

Today I have launched my new business called Refirement Network.
Go to www.refirementnetwork.com for more details.

Calling all Boomers in South Africa. Sign up for the monthly online newsletter to keep up to date with new opportunities, workshops and information.

Disaster Management Strategy

2007-06-08T00:12:00.000+02:00

This past week I visited Ground Zero where the greatest man made disaster of all time occurred.
I also visited Patong Beach, Phuket 3 months after the Tsunami. The greatest naturel disaster to hit the world this century.
I am amazed at the human power that emerges after such an event. What would our world be like if we cared enough to change lives every day rather than wait for a disaster?

Triple Bottom Line.. or Quadruple bottom line

2007-05-31T17:25:00.000+02:00

Most public companies in South Africa are now governed by Triple Bottom Line Reporting. This means that they need to not only be accountable to shareholders for the financial health of the company but also be responsible from a social and enviromental angle. The concept of a fourth factor is also worth considering. Spiritual Bottom Line. Spirtual is the focus on meaning and long term value to the people in the community surrounding an organisation. Worth considering?

Have Children, Will Travel

2007-05-26T11:27:00.000+02:00

Both my children live internationally. One in London and the other in Thailand. This week I have come to visit the English Children. I flew on a daytime flight on Nationwide. This gives people time to chat on board as one has many hours to occupy your time and you can't step out !!!. I am always interested in marketing and watching change around me. On the flight I chatted to about 5 people around me. All 5 were going to visit their children living in London. Nationwide have definitely caught this market by offering an affordable option for these parents. At the other end my children had observed ( well trained by me) that there were many children, like them waiting for parents to arrive. I wonder if this target group is on the radar of airlines?

Take a rest and reflect

2007-05-19T20:57:00.001+02:00

The world is so busy and full of people, things that need doing, all sorts of technology calling your name that we very seldom take time out just to reflect and catch up on who we really are.
I was lucky enough today to have such a day. Repairing a run down life before it falls apart is better than waiting for the complete collapse.
When did you last give yourself this gift?

Love makes the world go round

2007-05-17T17:02:00.000+02:00

As we move into a connection/relationship economy understanding people will become more critical. The simple lesson of a smile and an open attitude to others will certainly help any situation. The greatest commandment is to love others.

Halftime by Bob Buford

2007-05-13T18:05:00.000+02:00

I have just finished reading a book called Halftime by Bob Buford. This is his own personal journey of how he moved from success to significance.This book is an excellent guide on how to address this process.

There are 2 points that stand out for me in this book.

1. If you do not start to address the issue of change before you are 50 you may find it more difficult to do the older you get.

2. Some men will move from success to significance later in life by choice.
Many women move from significance to success as a result of the empty nest syndrome.

This is not to say that older women cannot address the significance process again.

Tipping Point

2007-05-08T20:04:00.000+02:00

A group of companies and some passionate South Africans pooled their talent, resources and time this past weekend to make a significant difference to a school in Pretoria.
Paul Netto, MD from Panache Paint has a vision to help change the face of under-resourced schools in this country. He was joined by Atterbury Construction and together with some other sponsors gave Pretoria Secondary School a complete facelift. A new coat of paint inside and out, landscaping of the property, paving, a structure to serve as a hall plus many new appliances are just some of the changes that I noticed over the weekend.
This concept is one that many companies can adopt to bring about change. We do not need to do it alone but can work in partnership with others to change the face of our nation.

Social Entrepreneurship

2007-05-06T19:47:00.000+02:00

At the heart of many of the world’s most innovative approaches to addressing poverty, illiteracy, hunger and thirst are visionary social entrepreneurs, devoting themselves to the bottom lines of empowerment, economic opportunity, sustainability and change. They may not yet be quoted on the Nasdaq, S&P and FTSE, but social entrepreneurs are beacons of hope in addressing the looming social crisis that could derail globalisation. This quote is taken from a great blog site-http://www.seeingthepossibilities.com/ This is the blog of Robert Davies, CEO of the International Business Leaders Forum.

About 2 years ago I went on a course at GIBS called " Built to Last" where the term Social Entrepreneur was defined as a follows: A person who is passionate about bringing about social change and money is not their driving object.

We need many of this type of person in South Africa to help bring about the change needed to make this a great nation.

Looking for stories- Baby Boomers 50+

2007-04-29T19:12:00.000+02:00

I am working on some research on the Baby Boomer generation heading for retirement. The trend for the future predicts that Boomers will not retire in the same pattern as their parents. I am looking for true stories of 50+ South Africans who have decided to change direction or start a new career late in life. Have you left formal employment and become an entrepreneur or doing volunteer work. Do you work in cycles of work and sabbatical type activities. Would love for you to share your stories with me.
I can be contacted on lgsmith@mweb.co.za

To enter one needs to first exit

2007-04-24T16:32:00.000+02:00

This principle is true to many areas of our lives. If we are talking about a close romantic relationship with another person or making a decision to move from one business to another the same principle applies.

It is impossible to appreciate true change and growth until we are able to let go of the past. We learn many lessons before we exit but the ongoing lack of closure causes the entry into new relationships not to be able to grow and florish until we make that decision.

One can never truly grow until you let go and risk the space in between. There may be many great expereinces, relationships and skills to be gained.

Are you brave enough to exit?

Opening the door of opportunity

2007-04-21T19:31:00.000+02:00

For the second time in my life I find myself with time to look for new opportunities.Someone once described LUCK as the crossroads of timing and an open mind. I do believe this is true.
I see opportunities wherever I go and I also hear others complain that there is no work. What is the difference.?Is it part of the profile of the person, attitude, self confidence, skills or many other options. Are some people risk takers and others not?

I do believe some of the barriers are self imposed and can be removed. We need to work on understanding these aspects to improve our chances of success.

I find the journey and search an adventure. It is also a time where one can reflect, take time to look at the world from a different angle and make choices that suit your own personal journey.

A clear path for leaders when you are deep in the forest

2007-04-15T18:30:00.000+02:00

One of the real challenges leaders face in business is seeing with helicopter vision. This is often very difficult when you are busy and involved with many projects and challenges at an operational depth within a business. A leader needs to find the time and space to remove themselves, understand the landscape and have enough time to think through the right possibilities for the business. We may often need to have a coach or outside strategist who questions our thinking and helps us to see clearly. I have experienced many leaders who never make the time to get out of the forest and lead all their followers into darkness.

Hired hands or Hired Hearts?

2007-04-05T19:13:00.000+02:00

In a company where the leader has an autocratic style of leadership there is not enough concern for the growth of the humans working within that organisation. The main purpose is the bottom line . I believe that in this kind of structure one mainly will have Hired Hands. They come to work, collect their pay cheque but very seldom do you get true buy in.
With a servant leadership style the main purpose is the growth of the people working within the organisation. What amazes me is that in this kind of model the people never question extra time and effort because they know the leader cares for them and they are willing to add the extra value when necessary. These people are Hired Hearts.
What kind of people do you have in your organisation?

Authentic Lives

2007-03-02T22:31:00.000+02:00

"Professional and personal convergence - Just as the world of technology has bridged all elements of our lives, so is the case in our careers. When our personal and professional lives become more aligned, this creates what I call a sweet spot." This comment made after listening to Bill Gates discuss Web 2.0 this week.
This is the way we should all strive to live to remain authentic in a constantly challenging world.

Success vs Fruitfulness

2007-02-12T21:35:00.000+02:00

http://innerresourcesforleaders.blogspot.com/
This is my favourite blog site. Corne Bekker was my favourite teacher at bible school and is now resident at Regent University in the USA. This is an extract from his blog.

Success vs. Fruitfulness

This morning's meditation from the e-list of the Henri Nouwen Society highlights once of the most important issues of consideration in our quest for the re-discovery of authentic Christian Leadership: the issue of success. What is success? How do we measure effectiveness in leadership? Is there a difference between success and effectiveness?

Nouwen in his usual erudite manner points us to the promise of vulnerability and voluntary weakness. He writes: "There is a great difference between successfulness and fruitfulness. Success comes from strength, control, and respectability. A successful person has the energy to create something, to keep control over its development, and to make it available in large quantities. Success brings many rewards and often fame. Fruits, however, come from weakness and vulnerability. And fruits are unique. A child is the fruit conceived in vulnerability, community is the fruit born through shared brokenness, and intimacy is the fruit that grows through touching one another's wounds. Let's remind one another that what brings us true joy is not successfulness but fruitfulness."

May we learn the wisdom of becoming wounded healers that find security in living dangerously and in voluntary vulnerability in the safe and strong hands of God.

2007 - A NEW YEAR- A JOURNEY OF DESIRE

2007-01-09T15:08:00.000+02:00

Greetings to all my friends who read this blog. We enter a new year, well rested and ready for new possibilities. I turn 50 next week and this is also a milestone where one examines one's life and tries to make some decisions about the future. I have decided that this year is going to be one long celebration with all the people I hold close to my heart and the beginning of new adventures in my life.
Purpose, passion ,hope for the future, writing, helping others and making a difference is high on my agenda. Having fun, meeting new people, going to new places and trying some new things will also be in the diary.
Be blessed and thank you for the difference you make in my life.

Have you lost the picture for your puzzle

2006-11-05T20:09:00.000+02:00

We all have a sense of destiny and have all been created for a specific purpose. This is one of the most difficult concepts for people to grasp. I have found a wonderful analogy that I hope will help.
Imagine your life as a 5000 piece jigsaw puzzle but you have lost the picture. What do you do and how do you start to build? The best place to start is with the frame and first find the corners. These represent the cornerstones of your life. What is critical and valuable? Then it becomes easier once these are defined to build the rest of the frame.We also need to sort out the pieces into different categories. No success without balance. These areas are social, emotional, physical, intellectual, spiritual and financial.Once you have balance it becomes easier to build the pictures around each area of your life. The process will also take determination, discipline and diligence .... and time. The journey to complete the picture will take a lifetime but I can assure you once completed you will have a Masterpiece.

Focus and Direction

2006-10-29T21:37:00.000+02:00

The new convergence of technology is causing an avalanche of information to arrive on our doorstep everyday. The skill of knowing how to deal with important or urgent will become even more critical in the life of every human being.Do I read my emails? Do I answer calls? Do I write blog entries? Do I read my google alerts? My magazines and newspapers call daily. How much information can we take in and what is important to retain?..... and then there is still the human interaction. It will take real discipline and clear understanding of what road one is on to ensure that we do not all become basket cases with much information but of no use to any human being or organisation!!!!!!

The Vulnerable Children of the World

2006-10-10T20:42:00.000+02:00

Bronwyn is on a three month leadership school in Bangkok and is being exposed to some wonderful global material that she has been sharing with me.

She sent through this wonderful quote today:
" Every child has a name, a passion, a story, and a place in history. There are no ordinary children." Dr Elizabeth Youmans- Principia international

She also shared with me a wonderful networking site for christian groups working with children. www.viva.org
According to this site there are more than one billion vulnerable children in the world. It blows the mind. How do we make a difference when the number is so large.I know the answer is one at a time but I do believe that technology and connections can go along way to make a difference as well.
I certainly commit to thinking through how I can make a dent in this number and allow more children to complete their story and have a positive place in history.

Our Family Blog

2006-10-07T19:10:00.000+02:00

I have discovered that the wonderful tool of blogging has helped me to stay connected to my family. I have 2 brothers and a sister and between us we have 9 children. My two are married so the total number of people in the family is 20. The age range is from 12 to 74 ( my mom) We are living on 4 different continents and even those of us left in South Africa do not live in the same city. I would say that we are typical of many families all over the world dealing with globalisation and the challenges this brings to staying connected.
What a joy to wake up and log on to the blog and communicate or read about some activity or exciting adventure. The comments for me form such an important part of the conversation as the humour, comments and interaction fly across my screen. The other morning my 13 year niece discovered that her sugar glider is pregnant and going tp produce babies. Within an hour there was comment from London , then Thailand and back home to White River then from my sister in the USA and my mom here in Johannesburg. We have all learnt about the gestation period and pictures have been posted to keep us all in the loop.I believe that this tool is helping us to keep up with the GLUE type conversations that normally happen when one lives in the same house. In fact I think we know more about one another than some families that do live within close proximty but never seem to have the time to chat and connect.
In a world that is so fast and spread out I have found this tool to be invaluable in keeping me connected to the most important people in my life. Family values are critical for society. Thak goodness technology is there to help us stay connected. ….. one last comment on the subject, I have noticed that the female members of my family connect more and make more of an effort…. that is another story for another day and the lessons we need to learn about the Connection Economy.

GOLDEN HANDCUFFS

2006-09-27T14:07:00.000+02:00

I am involved through TomorrowToday in setting up a division called TomorrowWisdom.
Go there: www.tomorrowwisdom.biz We have two main directions with this business unit. Namely the retiring boomer generation ( the first group turn 60 this year) and secondly addressing how the loss of knowledge and skill of this group could affect organisations. I have completed a course called Retirement Options. The profile test here helps an individual to plot across 15 success factors where they may fall short in the future.Studying aging populations has proven that leisure activities alone will not bring meaning to life and that this group could live in retirement for as long as they were in the work place. For many this is a terrifying thought. I hope to help these individuals understand who they are, what skills they have and link them to groups and organisations where these skills will be needed.At the other end of the spectrum, organisations are losing valuable skills and often do not have the process in place to manage knowledge continuity. Many South African companies are already feeling the impact of middle management being in a state of chaos.
For individuals heading towards this stage of life I ask three questions?
Do you know who you are without your organisation?
Are you scared to leave the workplace that you love,you would rather die on the job?
Are you feeling pressurised to cope and survive in a work environment that you hate?

If any of these questions ring true it would be wise to start addressing the possible problems that could arise and start to find solutions. The problems will not go away, they will only loom more and more. The future could be one of the greatest times of your life. Will you be handcuffed or free? Your Choice ?

The Sought after picture

2006-09-03T16:56:00.000+02:00

Most people around the world would love to have a photograph of themselves with Mandela. Well this is about as close as I think I will ever get. I am so grateful for the opportunity to have been in the presence of this great leader.

In Search of meaning

2006-09-03T16:19:00.000+02:00

I am sure that part of the empty nest syndrome is asking the question? What now? For many women being a mother is one of the greatest gifts that God gives us. It brings meaning and direction to one's life for a long period of time. When the children leave and go far away like both of mine have, one reaches this line in the sand with a brick wall feeling. I have been searching for the NOW WHAT GOD? path in my life for the past few months. I am busy reading a book called Pathway to Purpose for Women by Katie Brazelton.The author states that we need to track the path we have walked as God will use these milestones to help develop our future. I have been doing this for the past few weeks and am starting to see light on the path.

I am involved in a new business unit for the TomorrowToday Group called TomorrowWisdom. Have a look at the site www.tomorrowwisdom.biz
I now have the awesome privilege to help others discover meaning to life as they reach the retirement phase. As much as we all want some leisure time as we grow older we need a reason to get up daily.At the same time my church has asked me to help on a project called Believe in Tomorrow. This project has identified 50 young leaders in high schools in the area who need guidance and life skills so that they will be ready to face the world when they finish school. What a privilege to give back and teach others some of the skills I have been privileged to learn over the past 30 years in the workplace.

Fear of heights or Control Freak ?

2006-08-25T12:02:00.000+02:00

As you can see from the pictures I walked across the Oribi Gorge last week. I have always said I have a fear of heights and don't do these kind of things. With lots of encouragement I did walk across. The thoughts that I now have are: Is it really fear or more a sense of control. If I am in control I have a good sense of the end picture. Maybe we sometimes need to move beyond control and enjoy things we may never have experienced. Growth like this!!!! Great but not every day !!!!!!

Conversation in a virtual world

2006-08-04T18:27:00.000+02:00

Now that I have set up my blog my creative side has many ideas of how this technology can be used. fear blocks creativty !!!! I have now set up a Family blog for our family. My mom had 4 children who have since had 9 children. We are 20 people in the family on 4 different continents. Having a family blog is a wonderful way for us to share family "culture" We have our own sense of humour that others don't really care about but this BLOG platform helps us to connect and feel like we are all in the same room. I am hoping that as blood is thicker than water I am going to convince the " non teckies" to step out of their comfort zone.

The World is Flat by Thomas Friedman

2006-07-30T16:10:00.000+02:00

I have just finished reading this book. It is a very interesting account of technology and how the world is changing as a result of this change. I recommend it to any person who wants to understand how things are changing. Here is his final few lines of the book"I cannot tell any other society or culture what to say to its own children, but I can tell you what I say to my own : The world is being flattened. I didn't start it and you can't stop it, except at a great cost to human development and your own future. But we can manage it, for better or for worse. If it is to be for better, not for worse, then you and your generation must not live in fear of either the terrorists or of tomorrow, of either al-Qaeda or of Infosys. You can flourish in this flat world, but is does take the right imagination and the right motivation. While your lives have been powerfully shaped by 9/11, the world needs you to be forever the generation of 11/9 ( falling of Berlin Wall) - the generation of strategic optimists, the generation with more dreams than memories, the generation that wakes up each morning and not only imagines that things can be better but also acts on that imagination every day.

This book reminded me of the simple challenge that every generation have had to deal with. The battle between good and evil. There is so much good that can come out of change but not everyone is always focussed on that. Just as much there are evil people in the world who use the very same tools for evil. Good needs to overcome evil !!! We need to teach our children solid values by living them ourselves and encouraging each and every person we encounter that we all hold change and choice in our hands daily.

Imagine a Creative Society

2006-07-28T21:25:00.000+02:00

Tom Peters writes the following in his book Reimagine - a must read- " I imagine a truly creative society: each person moves from project to project, from gig to gig. Global Voluntary Communities of Interest, rather than corporations, provide the bedrock upon which we stand. Learning never ceases. Self-reliance is the norm. The society safety net is not a condesending "corporate benefits package", it attaches to the individual and promotes flexibility throughout a New Global Economy. each career consists of numerous "mini careers" with time-outs along the way. The cubicle slave is dead: long live the Free Agent"
I understand and identify with this quote. I hope that this is the kind of life I am creating around me. I love the fact that I can work virtually and connect and work on a few projects all at the same time. I can also take time out to do other things that do not generate income but are an integral part of who I am.I want to continue learning and stay relevant. Creativity is critical in this kind of world and we all need to find ways to unlock this potential inside of us.

2006-07-28T16:05:00.000+02:00

Today I wrote to many of my friends challenging them not to stay in their comfort zone. The only way we grow is when we do things we have never done before. Well here we are. I have opened a BLOG account and will now learn how to manage this space. I hope that not only will I have a new place to share my thoughts but that others will rise to the challenge and do the same.