Mr. President, you can stop attempting to "create jobs". (First off government shouldn't be creating jobs anyways, but only a climate for individuals to create them in but that's a whole 'nother issue.)
I decided today that there isn't much reason for me to work, according to your guide-book.To be honest, it's not worth my energy or time. So I don't think I'm really going to look that hard for a job. I have you to rely on, Mr. President.
If I'm already unemployed, why start? And if I'm working hard right now, regardless of societal-economical status, why continue? And if I'm retired and living off my savings thanks to big government's demands, why go back to work. Really? I'll just live off the government!
According to your worldview, and other leaders like you (Republican or Democrat etc), we need government to survive, we need government to thrive, and in order to best help mankind, we need to trust government with every penny we make.
So, if in your theory, the poor should keep receiving from the government without putting into the coffers the middle class has to rely on the government to make their other jobs fruitful to pay the bills and the rich should keep giving to the government and cut into their savings, then why work at all?????
It's a waste of time! You have it all figured out! I'm entitled to pure happiness and ease of labor!
But Sir, do you not realize that the more you tax - the poor or wealthy - the faster the money runs out?
What happens when the wealthy have nothing left? Where do you get the resources then to provide for those who do not work? Somehow I have to wonder if your mom ever taught you about sowing and reaping: if you want to have cookies, you have to do the work to make them. You can't have your cake and eat it too.
Let me know when you figure out this system of yours doesn't quite pan out like you'd envisioned. We're Americans and we know that to whom much is given, much is required. And we really don't mind working, growing industry and taking home a check that shows fruit of our labor. But if the system you propose is playing by the set of rules you're peddling than we're not going to succeed anyways. So we'll take a clue and sit out for this turn but just let us know when you're ready for us to show you how a successful country is run. We'll be waiting...
Generations matter. We each carry a vital part of the story. We must understand one another and communicate more effectively. Millennials, you have been commissioned for this hour. Those that have gone before us have great wisdom for us to glean. Together we are giving the next generation of Americans hope. Together, members of all generations, can ensure that America's greatest days are still ahead. .
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Listen to our Music!
Music is an expression of the heart. If you want to know more about the Millennial Generation, listen to the music playing in the mall, in the restuarants, on your grandchilds radio.
If you shudder - you should. We should too. Only it's become our normalacy and reality. So change your perspective. Instead of plugging your ears, listen for a moment. Only a moment or two will give you insight into the heart of this generation. Good or bad. If it's what we're listening to, there's a reason. Either we're listening to it because it's cool according to our peers or it's possible that the tune, talent and beat draws us but it's also possible we identify with the message.
Please note the following. There is a difference between succombing to our level to set up residency in our way of thinking so we have a friend in you - versus visiting our world for a moment so you understand our culture so you know better how to reach us. But after you visit by listening to the popular pop sounds, please return to your strong standards. We need your strong moral principles as pillars of examples of who we can become. Don't stay in our slum just so you can become our friend. Go back and with your new experiential knowledge, beckon us to you.
Let the music of this generation be a tool of research for you. The faster you understand our mindset the faster you can reach us with the truth.
Suggestion for Action: While you're driving, scan through the radio stations and occasionally stop for a few moments, turn up the music and listen to the words. Do this periodically on an irregular basis. This brief exercise will give you perspective that might change your outlook on who we are and what we need. And in those speechless moments, remember to pray. God is doing good things in our midst. And He's excited to use you in it...
If you shudder - you should. We should too. Only it's become our normalacy and reality. So change your perspective. Instead of plugging your ears, listen for a moment. Only a moment or two will give you insight into the heart of this generation. Good or bad. If it's what we're listening to, there's a reason. Either we're listening to it because it's cool according to our peers or it's possible that the tune, talent and beat draws us but it's also possible we identify with the message.
Please note the following. There is a difference between succombing to our level to set up residency in our way of thinking so we have a friend in you - versus visiting our world for a moment so you understand our culture so you know better how to reach us. But after you visit by listening to the popular pop sounds, please return to your strong standards. We need your strong moral principles as pillars of examples of who we can become. Don't stay in our slum just so you can become our friend. Go back and with your new experiential knowledge, beckon us to you.
Let the music of this generation be a tool of research for you. The faster you understand our mindset the faster you can reach us with the truth.
Suggestion for Action: While you're driving, scan through the radio stations and occasionally stop for a few moments, turn up the music and listen to the words. Do this periodically on an irregular basis. This brief exercise will give you perspective that might change your outlook on who we are and what we need. And in those speechless moments, remember to pray. God is doing good things in our midst. And He's excited to use you in it...
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Tell? Or Ask?
Do today's leaders understand the difference between telling someone to do something versus asking someone to do that same thing?
On my drive in to the office, I heard on the radio that the Michigan state school Superintendent Mike Flanagan is telling Michigan citizens that we need to pay for Detroit's educational deficit.
Why is cleaning up their mess our responsibility? And what does that form of "assistance" look like in his mind?
Those of us who do not live in Detroit did not create the mess, so why should we have our taxes increased (assuming this is the way Mr. Flanagan sees to resolve this situation)? This is similar to a little sibling making a mess and the older sibling getting blamed and then told to clean up after the little one who did the mis-behaving in the first place.
What if Mr. Flanagan asked Michigan citizens to help? Now that could be a totally different story! Citizens from all other 82 counties are aware that Wayne County and Detroit are hurting. Goodness, the whole country knows! And whether people acknowledge it, those of us living in the other 82 counties care. Some of us more than others. If the leadership were to ask us in tangible ways to help the Detroit schools, help Detroit leadership, help the Detroit students ... that is something we might want to participate with!
This is America! We want to see each other succeed. We don't mind following in the footsteps of our ancestors in continuing to make this country one of the most generous on earth. Some of us would make personal sacrifices to help Detroit ... if we were given the choice and we were given options.
This rule of thumb applies to other areas or subject matters. The principle is this: as a leader, there are moments when telling an order solicits a response of obedience. But when responses are dependent on us giving of our personal resources, to simply tell us to do something will solicit an attitude of resistance.
Tell us and we might be bitter. Ask us and we might give more than you even expected. And as a disclaimer, I really do want Detroit to succeed.
On my drive in to the office, I heard on the radio that the Michigan state school Superintendent Mike Flanagan is telling Michigan citizens that we need to pay for Detroit's educational deficit.
Why is cleaning up their mess our responsibility? And what does that form of "assistance" look like in his mind?
Those of us who do not live in Detroit did not create the mess, so why should we have our taxes increased (assuming this is the way Mr. Flanagan sees to resolve this situation)? This is similar to a little sibling making a mess and the older sibling getting blamed and then told to clean up after the little one who did the mis-behaving in the first place.
What if Mr. Flanagan asked Michigan citizens to help? Now that could be a totally different story! Citizens from all other 82 counties are aware that Wayne County and Detroit are hurting. Goodness, the whole country knows! And whether people acknowledge it, those of us living in the other 82 counties care. Some of us more than others. If the leadership were to ask us in tangible ways to help the Detroit schools, help Detroit leadership, help the Detroit students ... that is something we might want to participate with!
This is America! We want to see each other succeed. We don't mind following in the footsteps of our ancestors in continuing to make this country one of the most generous on earth. Some of us would make personal sacrifices to help Detroit ... if we were given the choice and we were given options.
This rule of thumb applies to other areas or subject matters. The principle is this: as a leader, there are moments when telling an order solicits a response of obedience. But when responses are dependent on us giving of our personal resources, to simply tell us to do something will solicit an attitude of resistance.
Tell us and we might be bitter. Ask us and we might give more than you even expected. And as a disclaimer, I really do want Detroit to succeed.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Same Issue, Different Approach
We really do have things in common you know. Probably more than you even realize. Who do I mean? The younger generation vs the Baby Boomers and Greatest Generation that's who.
The Millennials care about: people, causes and finances. Sure, there are other things as well but these are three dominant categories to start with. Did you ever realize that you, the older generation, care about the same things? People, causes and finances. Same issue but different approach and different focus.
Take people for instance: The millennials want to make sure the less fortunate have food, housing and tools to succeed. They see the government as the salvation; they see the corporations and the sweatshops as the gangrene; and they see someas antiquated and stingy.
You on the other hand care about these people too but instead of handouts you want to ensure they are able to succeed and thrive on their own without the involvement of government. You believe the local community should help meet their needs, feed their family, over clothing and housing until they can get back on their feet again. You understand that dignity is important and that someone who works with their own hands to meet the needs of their family will thrive towards even greater possibilities and provision!
Have you ever told them your take on this subject? Perhaps why you look at it this way? Have you ever brain stormed together on how you come share a common ground?
Try this approach: "You know, I understand making sure the children in Africa have clean running water is important to you. And I want you to know I am grateful for your aspirations and hard work to care for this community. Did you know I care about the underprivileged too? I want to make sure children are not starving, that they are provided for when attending school and that their parents can find work.
"I'd like to financially contribute to the ministry you are helping reach the children in Africa. But I also wondered, what about if we work together to help people in our own city. There is a soup kitchen that needs volunteers we could visit together or we could do a clothing drive for needy families but ...
"I'd like to share my perspective with you: giving through the government seems like a great intention. But it comes with many strings attached. Did you know that for all the money that went to Haiti victims, a large part of it stayed in the pockets of their government leaders?
"I am excited to help people help themselves. We can give people hand outs and help them for a moment, make ourselves feel good and walk away. OR we can give to people, help them to know their loved and then assist them in thriving on their own. When they succeed, they can help others. Not only does this help one person, but it helps a multitude! What do you think about this?"
Try it. If you want to get your child or young adults attention, try shocking them with this type of approach; acknowledge that you have observed what issue they care about, applaud them for what they are doing, share the similarities you have on the same issue, provide clarity on what you both have in common, and suggest in conversation format alternatives that you could both work together on ensuring those who need help are free from government restrictions but are able to thrive, change and be successful. And always provide facts that substantiate your perspective.
Email me with what happened after you talked! And always share tips for how other "older adults" can do things better with their own Millennials.
The Millennials care about: people, causes and finances. Sure, there are other things as well but these are three dominant categories to start with. Did you ever realize that you, the older generation, care about the same things? People, causes and finances. Same issue but different approach and different focus.
Take people for instance: The millennials want to make sure the less fortunate have food, housing and tools to succeed. They see the government as the salvation; they see the corporations and the sweatshops as the gangrene; and they see someas antiquated and stingy.
You on the other hand care about these people too but instead of handouts you want to ensure they are able to succeed and thrive on their own without the involvement of government. You believe the local community should help meet their needs, feed their family, over clothing and housing until they can get back on their feet again. You understand that dignity is important and that someone who works with their own hands to meet the needs of their family will thrive towards even greater possibilities and provision!
Have you ever told them your take on this subject? Perhaps why you look at it this way? Have you ever brain stormed together on how you come share a common ground?
Try this approach: "You know, I understand making sure the children in Africa have clean running water is important to you. And I want you to know I am grateful for your aspirations and hard work to care for this community. Did you know I care about the underprivileged too? I want to make sure children are not starving, that they are provided for when attending school and that their parents can find work.
"I'd like to financially contribute to the ministry you are helping reach the children in Africa. But I also wondered, what about if we work together to help people in our own city. There is a soup kitchen that needs volunteers we could visit together or we could do a clothing drive for needy families but ...
"I'd like to share my perspective with you: giving through the government seems like a great intention. But it comes with many strings attached. Did you know that for all the money that went to Haiti victims, a large part of it stayed in the pockets of their government leaders?
"I am excited to help people help themselves. We can give people hand outs and help them for a moment, make ourselves feel good and walk away. OR we can give to people, help them to know their loved and then assist them in thriving on their own. When they succeed, they can help others. Not only does this help one person, but it helps a multitude! What do you think about this?"
Try it. If you want to get your child or young adults attention, try shocking them with this type of approach; acknowledge that you have observed what issue they care about, applaud them for what they are doing, share the similarities you have on the same issue, provide clarity on what you both have in common, and suggest in conversation format alternatives that you could both work together on ensuring those who need help are free from government restrictions but are able to thrive, change and be successful. And always provide facts that substantiate your perspective.
Email me with what happened after you talked! And always share tips for how other "older adults" can do things better with their own Millennials.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Give me a New Message
I started writing this at the beginning of 2011 but perhaps it's still applicable?
Two and a half years ago, at that point in our country's history, the messages pleading for salvation for, education of, and engagement in the longevity of our country's freedoms seemed to be right on point. For months I have found myself acknowledging those same messages as, while still very much true and needed for some audiences, bland. We need something new, something fresh, something that goes deep into our spirit and pulls a new jewell forth to offer a suggestion for the next phase of this journey of transformation.
I've found from my experience in politics that the cultural world works in sound bites. And if politicians, grassroots leaders, passionate citizens, even pastors! find a sound bite that works to garner the attention or action sought after, the soundbite stays! Of course it is slightly tweaked at times. Based on the conversation, presentation or interview the terminology or idea is included from a different angle. But the ultimate goal is to connect with the consumer and with their attention get them to follow, regardless of method of response.
This is actually effective communication. And the communication that has been happening for the last two and a half years among conservative citizens, for example, has resonated among fellow Americans. "Less government." "Defeat Obamacare." "Protect our country!" "Live by the constitution!" "Do in Congress what we sent you there to do!" These only mention a few. This message has been intentional from the message sender and vision caster; it has hit the mark on the consumer so to spur them into action; by responding into action they are building their community as they identify others around them responding to the same battle cry; and the entity of government is starting to change.
The charge to get involved and put a stop to socialist control has been embraced, engaged, and sustained for two years. But what next? What is the new vision we as patriots should renew our hearts and minds with? If we are going to be long lasting, history making, heritage building, citizens we need to think beyond just issues but the root cause of the dilemma we've been in. And the big picture for how we are going to plan ahead that something like this does not happen again.
In order to be effective grassroots leaders we need to always be refreshing ourselves and casting encouragement to those who look to us for direction. But as leaders, it is important that we be good stewards of the leadership positions we have been given. Dutiful grassroots commanders keep their eye a few steps ahead of the army, trying to determine what might come next and how to best direct them.
So I ask the question: what are the conversations we should be having now that we weren't having even three years ago? What worked yesterday can never be assumed as being sufficient for today. The liberals are always thinking pro-actively, cutting edge, and offensive. What's our fresh and passionate message moving us forward?
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Do we have the Will?
Do we have the WILL to fight for our freedoms as Americans?
To go to war, you draw up a plan, you make sure everyone is on the same page, prepare, train, get to know the territory, go to battle, retreat, recover, go onto the next battle, re-assess and on and on and on.
To win a war is not something that happens in a moment it is something that is a longterm process. It takes persistence, perseverance, tenacity and ... a will to continue.
If we are going to win the battle for ideas in the market place, we need to set our sights on the right goal. We must be engaged for a lifetime, not just for a campaign.
A WILL to fight that lasts long term is something that is created, refreshed and stoked by God and His Holy Spirit. A Will that will produce effective productivity and win the war is not something that can be created through humanism.
Monday, August 1, 2011
What's Your Source of Information?
Thanks to a couple tough research professors in college, I quickly learned one must be thoughtful, intentional and careful of one's resources when presenting statements. Do I have this skill mastered you ask? Absolutely not! But I would like to be better.
Questions like the following must be asked, in order to identify whether the information is accurate and trustworthy:
If we handle truth accurately, we would regard it in the same way our grandparents and great grandparents treated it: our word is our bond. So before I go tell my family that the world is about to end, or a riot is coming to the streets of Michigan or John Smith is going to run for President, I must be certain I have my facts straight.
This challenge applies to both liberals, conservatives, libertarians, non-party, citizen, leader, me! And to be honest I'm still working on it, in a big way.
But in this day and age, out of any generation since time, we have easy access to endless information at our finger tips. We therefore have no excuse for not knowing our sources, researching both sides of the story or at least being willing to correction.
After all, the validity of our research, resources and information will define the narrative we create (in word or writing), could sway others opinions and in the end change the world. We better be asking the right questions!
Questions like the following must be asked, in order to identify whether the information is accurate and trustworthy:
- Who wrote this piece? Do they have the experience and background to make them credible?
- Who published this piece? Are they respected in their field of expertise?
- Where does the author's facts come from?
- Is the information presented objectively?
- Do several sources reflect the same facts? (If so, this gives credibility and confirmation.)
- Is it clear on what the author is saying?
- What is the slant of the person presenting the information?
- and have I looked at opposing arguments to balance my perspective?
If we handle truth accurately, we would regard it in the same way our grandparents and great grandparents treated it: our word is our bond. So before I go tell my family that the world is about to end, or a riot is coming to the streets of Michigan or John Smith is going to run for President, I must be certain I have my facts straight.
This challenge applies to both liberals, conservatives, libertarians, non-party, citizen, leader, me! And to be honest I'm still working on it, in a big way.
But in this day and age, out of any generation since time, we have easy access to endless information at our finger tips. We therefore have no excuse for not knowing our sources, researching both sides of the story or at least being willing to correction.
After all, the validity of our research, resources and information will define the narrative we create (in word or writing), could sway others opinions and in the end change the world. We better be asking the right questions!
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