Just Imagine....

Take a look at these three kids. What do you think they might accomplish in life? Let me help you by pointing out that the two in blue are girls, not young Bee Gees. Focus, however on their little brother in the middle. Does he look familiar?

Maybe a later picture will help.

Yep, that tall, skinny kid with the dumbo ears and funny lisp is Michael Phelps. No, he did not BECOME Michael Phelps--he always was. With the right combination of genetics, a coach that believed he was special, a missing dad, and an encouraging mom he forged the determination and belief that led to massive training and astonishing results. It is fun to watch as his gold medals pile up and the world records tumble. He makes it seem effortless--and fun! In a few weeks he can retire as a very wealthy man. Most of us would love to trade places with him--now. I would love to be able to eat all that he eats and be that lean. But....I am not willing to swim 50 miles per week--fast--in order to arrive where he is. It takes work. More work than anybody else is willing to do. For a long time. With no guarantees.

But how inspiring is it to look at that normal, everyday kid and see what he has already accomplished. Just imagine what you and I might be able to accomplish with hard work and a little encouragement.

This sad note from today's headlines; Michael Phelps appeared to be headed for yet another gold medal and world record when his swim cap slipped up on one side. After his ear popped out, he swam in circles until everyone in the field had finished the race.

Couldn't resist.

To Do List

One of many tools we use as counselors in the Pre Trial Diversion program with the District Attorney's office is a 5-year poster. Clients are given an assignment to make a type of collage on posterboard. They are to affix pictures from magazines or other sources that represent goals they hope to accomplish in the next 5 years. It is fine to include a few lifetime goals that will take more than 5 years, but the idea is to make it feel attainable. Yes, it sounds like a simple idea--but it really works! It is amazing to realize the energizing effect of seeing a visual representation of your dream and sharing it with others. This is an important step in moving an accomplishment from "a daydream" to a plan. I have completed this assignment along with clients and have already seen several of my lifetime "to do" items accomplished.

One that remains is to drive a NASCAR race car at Talledega Superspeedway for a few laps at around 180 mph. This opportunity is available for a small sum. O.K., small is a relative term. I had to pass on an opportunity to grab this dream October 13 for a couple of reasons. My friend, Joel, had purchased the driving experience at a charity auction and was going on that date. I really, really, wanted to go along. Unfortunately, October 13 was a date very much in demand in my life. I also missed a retreat to Florida for counselors working at Pre Trial. But I began teaching a college class which fulfilled another of my goals. I still can not express how much I missed the driving experience, especially with Joel because we have become very good friends and doing it together would have added much to the experience. I boldly asked to borrow his pictures from the weekend to share so I can live vicariously through his time on the track. Enjoy;

Time to "mount up."

Gentlemen start your engines!

Joel is passing everybody in sight! He will soon be lapping the field.

WHOA, JOEL! TOO FAST IN TURN TWO!!!

O.K., the last one is Elliot Sadler flipping at Talledega in 2004. I was there in the infield when that happened, by the way. All the rest really are of Joel.