Years ago I heard a story about a man named Bernard. For many months he saved his money to purchase a ticket on a passenger ship traveling from Europe to America. The price of the ticket was so expensive it left little money for him to buy food for his journey across the ocean. So instead of packing clothes to begin his new life in America, Bernard filled his suitcase with sardines and crackers. While the other passengers enjoyed hearty meals in the beautiful dining room he ate his sardines and crackers all alone in a corner of the ship….
Living His Promises
It was a typical fall day in Michigan. The sun’s beautiful rays didn’t even try to peak from their perch behind the gray overcast sky. The chilly air hinted of old man winter’s approach and the season’s first snowflakes. My family and I had just moved 1100 miles from Oklahoma to an area where I grew up. I was riding a cloud called nine. I was home. We pulled into the street side parking that paralleled the front of the run-down house we’d had just enough money to rent. Closing the door of my husband’s business in Oklahoma also meant…
Royal
The twins seemed as surprised as their older sister who was about 7 years old. A gentleman had opened the door at the post office in a rather regal way and allowed us entrance. I watched the girls postures lengthen as they walked a little taller. There was a hint of elegance in their step and wonderment flashing in their eyes. They enjoyed the splendor of the moment. They felt special. So did I. “I wonder how he knew we were royalty,” Jaidyn asked, starring up into my eyes. Her awe lit me up on the inside as a smile…
Permanent Potential
My broker was on a rant. He expected his real estate team to top the charts. We fell short of his expectations and he let each of us know where we needed improvement. He pointed at several agents as he spoke, and then he pointed his finger at me. “And then there’s Toni, permanent potential . . .” What? What did he call me? It’s a good thing I wasn’t prone to getting my feelings hurt. I was accustomed to being kicked around. My feelings were seared. It’d take more than a proverbial slap in the face to rile me….