Category Archives: Inspiration

‘Road to Character’ is thought provoking book

Gratitude is rightly the virtue we think of during Thanksgiving week, and of course there is much for which to be grateful. I want to write about two people for whom I am grateful: Augustine, the fourth century Bishop, and … Continue reading

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Posted in Inspiration | 4,436 Comments

Open Window Theatre’s Lilies of the Field is an Inspiration

If you’ve ever wondered what a miracle looks like, go see The Lilies of the Field playing at the Open Window Theatre and you’ll see the answer: it looks like Homer Smith. The downtown Minneapolis theater is presenting a stage … Continue reading

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Posted in Inspiration, review | 29 Comments

Dad shows one person can make a big difference

2012 was a year of many blessings but I will remember is as the year my father passed away on June 7. In December, television typically offers “It’s a Wonderful Life,” a film that means a little bit more to … Continue reading

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Posted in Inspiration, memories, reflection | 17 Comments

Speaker shares leadership message: engage those around you

My professional colleague and friend Rich Chapman delivered an excellent leadership message to a group of managers I recently brought together. Rich is a consultant with an investment banking firm that does a lot of work with churches and non-profit … Continue reading

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Posted in business, Inspiration | 6 Comments

Better business results at beginning of trust continuum

Business is ultimately about relationships – the interaction you share with your employees, colleagues, shareholders and customers. Trust is the natural product of a good relationship. When there is a high degree of trust, people become willing to take risks. … Continue reading

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Posted in business, Inspiration | 22 Comments

Change starts with you

The only person’s behavior you can change is your own. Bryan Dodge, a Texas-based inspirational speaker who addressed a meeting I attended recently, encouraged the audience to think about this familiar maxim. Are you unhappy? You have a much better chance … Continue reading

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Posted in business, Inspiration | 16 Comments

Lessons from 1776

One of my favorite books is “1776” by the popular historian David McCullough. While I learned a lot about the Revolutionary War by reading this book, I also picked up at least four lessons that I think any small business … Continue reading

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Posted in business, Inspiration, reflection | 27 Comments

Forgiveness mends tragic hurt in Parkersburg, Iowa

I had the privilege of listening to Aaron Thomas speak at a meeting I attended last week. Aaron is the son of Ed Thomas, who coached the football team at Parkersburg High School in Iowa for three decades. In spring of … Continue reading

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Posted in Inspiration | 26 Comments