Buying a ticket, Going on Stage, & Picking up the cups...

1. Preparation & Planning
2. Performing & Following Through
3. Cleaning up & Taking Notes

     Unless you have possessed a backstage pass, sat on the sidelines, or arrived several hours early to a family gathering you will at first have no idea where I am coming from with this. But, I mean, come on, have we not all at some point realized "Wow, a lot more went into this than I thought?"
     I remember after my first daughter's birthday party having a new respect for all host of any party I had ever attended. I remember thinking, WOW, some people came, ate, left, and I am still here picking up the paper and washing dishes...Well, Rachel was washing dishes. I was probably taking a nap. But, in all reality, I do remember thinking of a newfound respect for all hosts of any party I had ever attended.
     I remember the first really large event we directed at church. The first large party we hosted. The first time we thought inviting all our friends over for the holidays would be. Well, I remember my first large sales event at the busiest season. Most of all, I remember saying, " I WILL NEVER, NEVER, EVER, do "THAT" again." Only to arrive later at a place of again, following step 1.
     True learned fact. Everybody, I mean, Everybody, wants to do well and succeed. The problem is some people never go beyond purchasing a ticket. And I guess that is ok. Not everyone can be on the sidelines, backstage, or, in your "inner circle".
     Some will never attempt to the trouble of going backstage. Some have no desire. And most all will never be willing to stay late and pick up cups. But, my dear friends and family. It takes all three.
     I love to cook. When I have time. Let me give you this thought. The meal is not truly finished until the dishes are washed and put away. And, in a family of six, it is not long before you are planning your next meal adventure.
     I attend church. However, there are many different factors involved to pull off a really good worship service. And until the lights are off and the buildin secure, it is not over. And, one of my favorite qoutes of this year, Sunday Morning comes around with great regularity.
     I have to simplify things. This three part component of 1,2,3 will be utilized and taught to our "circle" this year. Call me crazy, but even a vacation can be better enjoyed if these steps are taken, and you will remember if on a double decker bus in the middle of Mexico to duck due to low power lines if, and only if, you took good notes. And remember, until your luggage is emptied and put away, and you know where you are going next time, your vacation is not truly "Finished"
"I have fought a GOOD fight, I have KEPT the FAITH," Paul