I just had dinner with my crazy friend, Bobby, and this is one of his ideas to spice up your life and get you out of some work. These are his suggestions for attending a Pot Luck, especially if you are in a time crunch, broke, or do not like to cook:

For those of you unfamiliar with the term, a “Pot Luck” is when everyone brings some kind of food dish to share with everyone else. All the dishes are put out on a long table, and people bring their plates and help themselves to whatever looks good to them. Some of you may think of it as a common man’s smorgasbord. Churches, offices, and associations have them to socialize, save money, and most of all, to share the work.

Anyway, Bobby says that when he is invited to a pot luck, he brings in his dish, ALWAYS covered, and conspicuously sets it on the table that way. There is usually lots of activity around the table, so no one really notices who brings what, just that you came in with a bowl.

Most people bring their “specialty” and take great pride in sharing their cooking skills with others. Bobby, on the other hand, brings a completely EMPTY dish! His reasoning is that there is always too much food, he is way too busy to make anything, and this way he never even has to wash the dish afterwards. He says that everyone going through the line sees the empty dish and thinks, “Wow! Whatever that was must have been really good because it is already gone!” Because he was seen coming in with a bowl, everyone thinks he has made a contribution, and so he is free to eat to his heart’s content.

At the end of the night, he proudly picks up his”popular” bowl and cover, leaving with a full tummy and a completely clean dish. What could be better than that????

(When he told me this, I laughed for ten minutes….not a bad idea, eh? 😉

My friend, Goofy Bobby!

To learn more about Barbara’s life and work, go to www.barbaraglanz.com.

I am writing a new book on ideas of things we can give to one another that cost little or no money. Here are some of the easy, no-cost gifts you can give to others every day. Always remember that the most valuable gifts do not cost money, but come from the heart:

The gift of listening
—One of the greatest things we can do for another person is to just listen without interrupting, daydreaming or thinking about our next leap into the conversation.

The gift of a compliment
—A simple and sincere,”You look wonderful in blue,” “That was such a beautiful note,” “What a fantastic meal!” or “You always brighten my day whenever I see your smile” can make someone’s day.

The gift of showing affection
—Demonstrate how much you care for others with hugs, kisses, a gentle squeeze of the hand, a pat on the back, smiles.

The gift of laughter
—Everyone loves to laugh. Try to see the humor in day-to-day living and share it with others. Also develop the ability to laugh at oneself.

The gift of cheerfulness
—This means no complaining, no feeling sorry for ourselves, no nasty comments, no screaming. Our gift of cheerfulness will
be precious for everyone including ourselves.

The gift of doing a favor
—Help with the dishes, type a letter, run an errand. Every day go out of your way to do something kind for someone.

The gift of contact
—Write notes as simple as “thinking of you today”. Make phone calls, reach out with support.

The Gift of solitude
—There are times when we want nothing more than to be left alone. Be sensitive to those times and give the gift of solitude to others.

The gift of acceptance
—Accept with fortitude the things we can’t change. This gift makes a difference in the lives of your friends and family.

The gift of prayer
—The hidden gift. Let your friends and loved ones know you pray for them—and then do it!

Sometimes we give out of necessity, social custom, or habit. But at other times our giving is out of pure generosity and love, and the feeling that comes from this kind of giving fills the heart and soul with the utmost joy. May you all find special ways YOU can give to others this week.

Blessings,
Barbara

To learn more about Barbara’s books, go to www.barbaraglanz.com/products/books/

Someone just sent me this, and it especially touched me in this beginning of a new year. Please take some time on your own to answer the last set of questions, and even better, call or write and let those people know you thought of them today. You will be giving them a priceless gift!

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schulz, the creator of the ‘Peanuts’ comic strip. You don’t have to actually answer these questions. Just ponder on them:

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America pageant.
4 Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
6. Name the last decade’s worth of World Series Winners.

How did you do? The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies…. Awards tarnish…. Achievements are forgotten…Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here’s another quiz. See how you do on this one:

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special.
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Jeff and Re on their boat.

Easier?

The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials..the most money…or the most awards. They simply are the ones who care the most. How very blessed we are to have people in our lives who care for us! Now, think about those people for whom you care. Are you impacting their lives in meaningful ways? Start now by appreciating them.

Blessings,

To learn more about Barbara’s work and life, go to www.barbaraglanz.com

I absolutely LOVE this time of the year when we slow down for a few days and spend time pondering the last year — the successes, the failures, the disappointments and struggles, the joys experienced, precious new people who have crossed our paths, old friends who have walked beside us for years, important lessons learned, and most of all, thankfulness for the GIFT of each day of life.

Every year I choose a theme for my year. Several years ago a friend shared this beautiful New Year’s prayer with me, and it became my theme for that year, “Surprise me again, Lord!” Every day when I would wake up, I would pray this short phrase. I must admit that some of the “surprises” were not ones I would have chosen; however, because of this focus, my eyes were opened to small blessings that I might have simply passed by in the busyness of our lives. Since then, I have tried to make these words an ongoing part of my life, and I keep a “Blessings Journal” filled with the people and experiences that have touched my life in such precious ways.

My grandchildren are my greatest blessing!

Whatever your belief may be, I hope you enjoy this prayer, and that your New Year will be overflowing with delightful surprises! There is a wonderful thought from William Winter, “As much of Heaven is visible as we have eyes to see.” May we all live 2011 with our heavenly eyes wide open!

Blessings,
Barbara

A NEW YEAR’S PRAYER

RESPONSE: “God, surprise us again.”

When we miss the beauty and joy of earth’s goodness…….(response)

When the goodness of others gets lost in the rush…….

When our frailty outruns our strength……

When the hope in our heart fades away……

When it seems the darkness will never give way to the light……

When even You seem far away……

RESPONSE: “Walk closely with us, God.”

As we strive to live our lives well…….(response)

As we journey into the unknown territory of a new year…….

As we learn to accept our weaknesses and our strengths……

As we stay faithful to our relationship with You……

As we open our hearts to the messengers You send to us……

As we accept Your constant love for us……

(Together)

God of this New Year, we are walking into mystery. We face the future, not knowing what the days and months will bring to us or how we will respond. Be Love in us as we journey. May we welcome all who come our way. Deepen our faith to see all of life through Your eyes. Fill us with hope and an abiding trust that you dwell in us amidst our joys and sorrows. Thank You for the treasure of our faith life. Thank You for the gift of being able to rise each day with the assurance of Your walking through the day with us. God of this New Year, we praise You.

Amen

What can I do to quickly raise morale in my workplace? (Barbara Glanz)

My friend, Michelle Dolieslager, shared this beautiful family tradition with me today:

My sister, Kelly, loves to make cards with all the “Stamping Up” materials she has collected over the years. Growing up Navy Brats and having spouses, family members, and friends who have served in all branches of the Military, my family has always been very supportive of and grateful for the men and women serving our Country. Several years ago, we decided to combine my sister’s passion for card making – and my family’s support of the Troops – into a Dolieslager/Kiem family tradition.

Each year, we make over 100 Holiday cards with Kelly’s never ending supply of stamps, ink, ribbons, glitter, cardstock, and our “artistic” talents. You can definitely see they are homemade J. Then on Thanksgiving Day, the Dolieslager/Kiem family (including my awesome 12 nieces and nephews ranging in age from 5 – 23 years) get together at my brother, Bryan’s, house and write special notes of thanks and support in the cards.

Jackson and Erin making the cards

My Dad served 26 years in the Navy – so my Mom, brothers – Steve and Bryan – and sister Kelly remember how hard it was to be separated from him for months at a time when we were growing up. Kelly’s husband, Bob, was in the Air Force and served during Desert Storm. My sisters in law, Marieska and Lori have family members who have served. This year, we were blessed to have Lori’s uncle Chris and his family join us for Thanksgiving. Chris is currently in the Army and has served in Iraq. He and Bob gave us first-hand insight into what it is like to receive support from others when so far away from home and loved ones.

Some of the cards the family made

It makes us proud to know that our small gesture of thanks is appreciated by those who receive the cards. So, once again, the signed cards will be included with a box of goodies – cookies, candy, toiletries – and mailed to a friend currently serving in Iraq. He will share our cards and treats with those serving by his side. It’s a simple Dolieslager/Kiem family tradition, but one I will always cherish!

All the nieces and nephews who worked on the cards

It is not too late to do something like this as a family this holiday season. Not only will it deeply touch the people in our armed forces and be a fun family sharing time, but it will also remind everyone of the many ways that we can chooose to make a difference for someone else . Isn’t that the whole theme of the holidays?

To experience more ideas of caring things you can do for one another, go to www. barbaraglanz.com/ideas.

I just read a fascinating article from “Heart,” the newsletter from St. Luke’s Cardiovascular Consultants in Kansas City. James O’Keefe, M.D. is the Editor-in-Chief. He says, The rate of aging of living creatures is to a large degree controlled at a cellular level by your telomeres which are the segments of DNA that cap the ends of chromosomes and provide stability. Think of the telomere like a fuse, and when it burns away, the cell auto-destructs.

Long telomeres are linked with longevity while short telomeres are associated with age-related issues such as heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s, osteoporosis, and death. One of the keys to keeping your genes in pristine condition is to maintain those telomeres that prevent your DNA from unraveling. The rate of aging and your ultimate lifespan are to a very real degree dependent on how fast you burn through that telomere fuse on the ends of your chromosomes.

Here are some ways you can prevent age-related diseases by slowing telomere shortening:

1. EXERCISE DAILY, especially if you are feeling stressed. Shoot for 40 – 60 minutes per day. Try to make some of it vigorous physical activity, especially outdoors.

2. TAKE A PURIFIED FISH OIL SUPPLEMENT, at least one gram (1000 mg.) of DHA + EPA daily.

3. TAKE A VITAMIN D SUPPLEMENT DAILY. Have your doctor check your level to determine what dose you need, or just take 2000 IU of vitamin D-3 per day.

4. AVOID JUNK FOOD. Eat two colored vegetables or fruits, and one serving of protein with each meal.

5. KEEP YOUR WAIST SIZE TO LESS THAN HALF YOUR HEIGHT.

6. GET 7 – 8 HOURS OF SLEEP EACH NIGHT.

7. TRY TO KEEP STRESS UNDER CONTROL. Invest a sizable portion of your time, energy, and money into enjoyable and enriching experiences. Nurture other life; get a dog or cat, tend a garden.

8. MINIMIZE EXPOSURE TO SMOG, SMOKE, TOXIC CHEMICALS, AND RADIATION.

9. DRINK 4 CUPS OF GREEN TEA DAILY.

I have printed out this list and posted it in several places in my home. These are NOT difficult things to do, but they could add years to all of our lives. I wish you all the blessing of good health, wonderful relationships, and long life.

GrannaBarbara, Simon, and Owen

Blessings,
Barbara

To learn more about Barbara’s life and work, go to www.barbaraglanz.com

Since this is Thanksgiving week, I want to share a precious story with you, especially because in the busyness of our lives we sometimes forget how little things we do can make a difference. Every day I get about 200-300 email messages, and about 100 of those need some kind of response, so many days I feel completely overwhelmed, simply trying to keep up.

Several years ago, during a crazy busy time for me, I got one of those many email requests from a young woman working on her thesis on “Motivating and Retaining Employees.” She had found me on the internet and since this was my area of expertise, was requesting an interview. Now, honestly, in the tyranny of the urgent, the last thing I wanted to do that week was to spend time talking with someone who was “exploring” ideas and was not critical to my business; in fact, my first, ungenerous thought was to suggest to her to buy my books! So, I flagged the email and went on with my mountain of work.

Later that week my conscience was bothering me, so I finally called this young woman, even then with an attitude of “get through this quickly and get back to the piles on my desk.” Of course, she was delightful, and we had a lovely talk. I sent her several of my books and gave her access to a lot of research and material on my website that I normally do not share. She thanked me, and we both hung up feeling good.

As Paul Harvey would say, “Now for the rest of the story:” Last month I got a call from a young woman who said, “I am sure you do not remember me, but several years ago you helped me with information for my dissertation, and I have never forgotten your kindness. My paper was published and received high praise, thanks in part to your contributions.” She then went on to say that she was now the Executive Director of a large association on the East Coast and was wondering about my availability to be their opening keynote speaker for their annual conference in the spring of 2011. I was blown away that she even remembered me, and now she was offering me an opportunity to speak to her large clients from all over the state!

Oh, my, that call was another one of those “whacks on the side of the head” that caused me to stop and remember that we reap what we sow. How often do we all get buried by the business part of our work and forget those human level interactions that add such fulfillment and joy to our lives? I recently found a quote that touched me deeply: “Beware the barrenness of a busy life,” from Socrates!

In this time of giving thanks, I am so very grateful for the awesome opportunities we have every day to enhance the lives of others. May we all keep making a difference–and remember, good deeds DO pay off! Happy Thanksgiving!

Blessings,
Barbara

This past week I got a “Google Alert” that someone had written a blog about me and the “Johnny the Bagger®” movie. It is always wonderful to know that others are talking about your work, but this time I was horrified! This person wrote a sarcastic, scathing blog post about me and the story of “Johnny the Bagger®,” using four letter words and vitriolic accusations. He even called me “a soulless CSP giving her bullshit talk” and felt the whole story was one of using people, calling Johnny the bagger, “a poor exploited Down syndrome teenager whose entire identity the video kindly subsumes into his job description.”

His summary paragraph: “At this point my mind spins, trying to deal with seventeen kinds of horror all at once. First, this guy, in addition to working for the company when he’s off the clock, has doubled or tripled his workload while he’s on the clock. Second, he’s unintentionally done the same for whatever innocent bystander is working the register on his line. Third, how starved for genuine human interaction must we be in our society if something as chintzy as a printed out quote on a scrap of paper can make us come back, over and over, obsessively, for more?”

My first reaction was to want to talk with him to share my sincerity and belief in my message that one person CAN make a difference. Then I realized that with this kind of negativity, I would only be opening myself up to more pain. So, my next reaction was to write to many of my closest friends and supporters and ask them to write a response to him to defend me and Johnny. Fortunately, several of them wrote back immediately and suggested that even though they would be thrilled to speak up for me, it would only add more fuel to his fire, more traffic to his blog, and really accomplish nothing.

Finally, my precious assistant, Laura, sent me a quote that really touched my heart: “Forgive Your Enemies…..it messes with their heads.” And then this morning when I was posting a quote on FB and LI, here are two that jumped right out at me:

* “The practice of forgiveness is our most important contribution to the healing of the world.” ~Marianne Williamson
* “Forgive those who have hurt you, not for them but as a gift to yourself.”
* “Anger makes you smaller, while forgiveness forces you to grow beyond what you were.” ~Dr. Chérie Carter-Scott

How very sad it is that someone can take a story that has inspired millions of people to feel that they are important and can make a difference and has turned it into something negative. Today I am keeping this person in my thoughts and prayers with forgiveness and caring and the prayer that he will be able to find some joy in his life. And in the meantime, I will JOYFULLY continue to spread the message of hope that Johnny so preciously represents.

“Go out into the world today and love the people you meet. Let your presence light new light in the hearts of people.”—Mother Teresa

To view this movie yourself, go to www.barbaraglanz.com/johnny.

Barbara and the actor who played Johnny the Bagger