If a quick list of possessions or accomplishments just crossed your mind, consider this. True joy is an internal sense of satisfaction that isn't created or controlled by external factors. Inventor Frederick Koenig put it this way: "We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have." What gifts are you surrounded...

"How was your day?" "Fine." "What did you do at school today?" "Nothing." Sound familiar? We expect them to share their thoughts and feelings on our schedule, but it doesn't happen that way. We have to be patient and we have to be available when they are ready to open up. You never know when it is coming. When it does, you'd better stop whatever you're doing and listen, because the opportunity may not come...

Honor them! Whether you're 5 or 50, you should honor your mother and father. How? First, pick up the phone tonight and tell them that you are thankful for the good things they did for you growing up. Second, realize that it's never too late to apologize, or forgive. Third, make it a point to enjoy their company whenever you have the opportunity. Invite them over for dinner and serve them for a change. ...

First, focus on the other person…open your posture, look them in the eyes, give them encouraging nods and acknowledging words. Second, summarize what they are saying. You might say something like, "So, what I hear you saying is such and such." Third, ask open-ended questions. Not questions that solicit just a yes or no answer. And don't use the word "why"... "why can't you…" "why didn't you…" "why aren't...

Sunday is Parent's Day…a day established by Congress for the purpose of "recognizing, uplifting, and supporting the role of parents in bringing up their children." If you've had a good relationship with your mom and dad, use this day as an opportunity to thank them for one important thing they did to impact your life in a positive way. If your relationship with them has been more difficult, use it as an...

Bethany Hamilton dreamed of being a professional surfer, but at 13, she lost her arm in a shark attack. You'd think that would be the end of her career plans, but that's not the case. The new movie, Soul Surfer, will show you three things that Bethany did to realize her dreams. You can do them, too. First, put the pain aside. Before you can do anything about your circumstances, you have to be able to move...

The egg hunts, chocolate bunnies and marshmallow Peeps are iconic symbols of most American Easter celebrations. It's a time when families gather together and feast on the bounty of spring and revel in time spent together. There's fun and frivolity for kids and adults alike. It's a great time of celebration, to be sure. But that's not what Easter's all about. Easter celebrates a priceless gift given in an act...